Weekly Current Affairs: Quizzes, 14 to 19 August, 2023

EXPLANATION:

The Vishwakarma Yojana is a comprehensive scheme designed to cater to the needs of artisans and craftsmen, particularly those from Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Thus, statement 1 is not correct.

• Holistic Support: The scheme is aimed at providing a holistic approach to support artisans and craftsmen, encompassing skill development, financial aid, market connections, social security, and empowerment. 
• Diverse Artisan Categories: Artisans and craftsmen from a wide range of sectors including textiles, leather, metal, wood, clay, stone, bamboo, cane, paper, and glass will be covered under the scheme.
• Customized Skill Training: The scheme focuses on offering skill development based on artisans' existing proficiency and market demand. This training will be delivered through various modes including online courses, mobile apps, workshops, and seminars.
• Financial Assistance: Artisans will receive financial aid in the form of loans, grants, subsidies, and interest waivers. This support will be utilized for diverse purposes such as procuring raw materials, acquiring tools, enhancing product quality, and fostering product development. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• Market Integration: The Vishwakarma Yojana facilitates artisans' access to markets through different platforms like e-commerce portals, exhibitions, fairs, and festivals. Additionally, the scheme assists in branding and packaging to enhance market presence.
• Empowerment and Social Security: Apart from skill and financial assistance, the scheme also places emphasis on empowering artisans and providing them with social security measures to improve their overall livelihoods.

EXPLANATION:

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is an international organization that presents itself as the collective representation of the global Muslim community. It was founded in response to the perceived desecration of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and was established during a summit held in Rabat, Morocco, in 1969. Thus, statement 1 is correct.

Key Points about OIC:

Purpose and Membership:

• The OIC is composed of 57 member countries, primarily those with a Muslim majority population. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
• Its primary objectives include fostering unity among member states, upholding the sovereignty of occupied territories, and defending Islam from defamation.

Headquarters and Aspirations:

• The organization's headquarters is located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.
• The OIC aims to relocate its headquarters to East Jerusalem upon the city's liberation.
• It seeks to hold Israel accountable for alleged war crimes and violations of international law.

Decision Making and Consensus:

• Decision-making within the OIC requires consensus among member states.
• If consensus cannot be achieved, decisions are made by a two-thirds majority of present and voting members.
• The Council of Foreign Ministers is a significant decision-making body that convenes annually to determine the execution of the organization's policies.

Financial Structure:

• Member states contribute financially based on their national incomes.
• Voting rights can be suspended if a member's arrears exceed their contributions from the previous two years.
• A member can regain voting rights if non-payment is deemed beyond their control by the Council of Foreign Ministers.

OIC Charter and Principles:

• The OIC adheres to a charter that outlines its objectives, principles, and operating mechanisms.
• The charter underscores the commitment of member states to Islamic teachings, values, and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

EXPLANATION:

The Delimitation Commission is a prominent entity established by an act of the Parliament to undertake significant tasks related to constituency delineation and representation. Thus, statement 1 is correct.

Appointment and Coordination:

• Presidential Appointment: The Delimitation Commission is constituted by the President of the country. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
• Coordination with Election Commission: It collaborates closely with the Election Commission of India to ensure proper constituency demarcation.

Composition of Members:

• The Commission comprises a retired judge of the Supreme Court, the Chief Election Commissioner, and the State Election Commissioners from respective states.

Functions and Powers:

• Force of Law: The decisions of the Delimitation Commission hold legal authority, and they cannot be legally challenged. Thus, statement 3 is correct.
• Equal Population Distribution: The primary role is to determine the boundaries and number of constituencies while striving for an equitable distribution of population among these constituencies.
• Reserved Seats Identification: The Commission identifies constituencies to be reserved for scheduled castes and tribes in areas with significant population.
• Majority Decision: In case of differing opinions among members, the decision of the majority prevails.
• Public Engagement: The Commission releases draft proposals through official gazettes and newspapers, conducting public sittings to consider public input through written and oral representations.
• Final Order and Publication: After revisions, the final order is published in the official gazettes and becomes effective as per the President's directive.

Duties and Mandate: The primary duty of the Delimitation Commission is to realign the representation of territorial constituencies in the House of the People and Legislative Assemblies based on the latest population census figures.

Historical Context:

• Initiation: The first delimitation exercise took place in 1950-51 under the guidance of the Indian President and the Election Commission.
• Enactment: The Delimitation Commission Act was enacted in 1952 to provide a legal framework for this process.
• Past Commissions: There have been four Delimitation Commissions: 1952, 1963, 1972, and 2002, aimed at ensuring fair representation.
• Gaps: Notable gaps in the commission's activity occurred after the census in 1981 and 1991.

EXPLANATION:

The "PM-eBus Sewa" Initiative

The "PM-eBus Sewa" initiative is a transformative scheme with the goal of revolutionizing urban transportation in India by introducing 10,000 electric buses through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This scheme is strategically designed to address various challenges in urban mobility and promote sustainable, eco-friendly transportation solutions. Thus, option (b) is correct.

Key Objectives:

• Electrifying City Bus Operations: The primary objective of the "PM-eBus Sewa" initiative is to electrify city bus operations, thereby reducing dependence on fossil fuels and minimizing air pollution. By introducing electric buses, the scheme aims to make urban transportation more environmentally sustainable.
• Boosting Public Transport: The scheme intends to enhance the quality and efficiency of public transportation in cities with a population of three lakh and above, in line with the 2011 census. By introducing electric buses, the initiative aims to provide citizens with a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to private vehicles.
• Promoting Employment: The scheme has the potential to generate a substantial number of direct employment opportunities. With the deployment of around 10,000 electric buses, an estimated 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs are anticipated, contributing to economic growth and livelihood enhancement.

Components of the Scheme:

• Segment A - Augmenting City Bus Services (169 Cities): This segment focuses on expanding city bus operations by introducing 10,000 electric buses on a PPP model. Additionally, it emphasizes the improvement of depot infrastructure and the creation of power infrastructure required for the efficient functioning of electric buses.
• Segment B - Green Urban Mobility Initiatives (181 Cities): The initiative's holistic approach includes the implementation of green urban mobility initiatives. These initiatives encompass the development of bus priority infrastructure, multimodal interchange facilities, adoption of Automated Fare Collection Systems based on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), and the establishment of charging infrastructure.

Sustainability and Impact:

The "PM-eBus Sewa" scheme aligns with India's commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. The transition to electric buses is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, contribute to cleaner air quality, and mitigate noise pollution in urban areas. By promoting electric mobility, the scheme plays a crucial role in achieving India's sustainable development goals and fulfilling international environmental commitments.

EXPLANATION:

The Aditya L1 Mission is an ambitious space exploration initiative undertaken by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) with the primary objective of studying the Sun, our nearest star. This mission aims to unravel the mysteries surrounding the Sun's dynamic behavior, its impact on space weather, and its influence on Earth's environment.  Thus, statement 1 is not correct.

Mission Overview: 

The Aditya L1 Mission is named after the Sanskrit word "Aditya," which translates to "Sun" in English. The "L1" refers to the Lagrange point L1, a gravitationally stable location situated between the Sun and Earth, where the spacecraft will be positioned to obtain continuous and unobstructed observations of the Sun. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.

Scientific Objectives: 

• Studying the Solar Corona: The mission aims to examine the Sun's outermost layer, the corona, which exhibits complex phenomena like solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Understanding these phenomena is crucial for predicting space weather events that can impact Earth's communication systems, power grids, and satellites.
• Investigating Solar Winds: The mission seeks to analyze the characteristics of solar winds, which are streams of charged particles emitted by the Sun. These solar winds interact with Earth's magnetosphere and have implications for space weather forecasting.
• Measuring Solar Magnetic Fields: Aditya L1 intends to measure the strength and direction of the Sun's magnetic fields. This data will contribute to a better understanding of the Sun's magnetic activity cycles and their influence on Earth's climate.
• Unraveling the Mechanism of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs): The mission aims to investigate the processes underlying CMEs, powerful eruptions of solar material into space. These events can disrupt satellite operations and power grids on Earth.

Key Components: The Aditya L1 Mission will include:

• Aditya-1 Satellite: The primary spacecraft equipped with advanced instruments to observe the Sun in various wavelengths, enabling detailed studies of its atmosphere and surface.
• Payloads: The mission will carry a suite of instruments, including visible, ultraviolet, and X-ray telescopes, to capture images and data of the Sun's diverse layers and phenomena.

Potential Benefits: 

• Enhancing our understanding of the Sun's behavior and its implications for Earth's space environment.
• Advancing space weather prediction capabilities, which are critical for safeguarding technological infrastructure on Earth.
• Contributing to global scientific knowledge and space exploration endeavors.

EXPLANATION:

The Luna-25 lunar mission stands as a significant endeavor by the Russian space agency, Roscosmos, with the primary objective of exploring the moon's south pole region and conducting vital scientific investigations.  Thus, statement 1 is correct.

Mission Overview:

• Luna-25 is a lunar lander spacecraft developed by Russia, designed to explore the moon's surface and conduct a range of scientific experiments.
• The spacecraft is scheduled for launch from the Vostochny cosmodrome.
• Its primary focus area is the moon's south pole, where valuable resources, including frozen water ice, are anticipated. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• Following its launch, the spacecraft will first enter lunar orbit before descending to one of three potential landing sites near the moon's south pole.

Scientific Objectives:

• The core mission objective of Luna-25 is to gather rock and soil samples from the moon's surface, specifically targeting depths of up to 15 cm.
• The samples collected will undergo analysis to ascertain the presence of water ice and other essential minerals or compounds that could hold significance for future lunar exploration and potential human habitation.
• The investigation of the moon's south pole region is of particular interest due to its areas of perpetual shadow, which could harbor well-preserved water ice in shaded craters.

Equipment and Payload:

• Luna-25 is outfitted with advanced scientific instruments and equipment tailored to fulfill its mission objectives.
• The spacecraft will carry approximately 31 kg of scientific instruments, facilitating a variety of experiments and assessments on the moon's surface.
• It will also include tools for sample collection and measurements of the lunar environment.

Historical Significance:

• The Luna-25 mission holds notable historical significance, rejuvenating Russia's space program after a considerable hiatus in lunar exploration.
• It underscores Russia's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and contributing to our understanding of the moon.
• The success of this mission could potentially lay the groundwork for future lunar endeavors and collaboration opportunities with other space agencies keen on lunar exploration.

Challenges and Setbacks:

• The Luna-25 mission encountered delays and obstacles, leading to adjustments in its launch schedule.
• Geopolitical circumstances in Russia led to the withdrawal of the European Space Agency's Pilot-D navigation camera from the project, impacting certain aspects of the mission's original plans.

EXPLANATION:

Parliamentary privileges encompass special rights, immunities, and exemptions that are afforded to the two Houses of Parliament, their committees, and their members. These privileges are defined within Article 105 of the Indian Constitution. They grant certain protections to members of Parliament, such as exemption from civil liability (though not criminal liability) for statements made or actions taken during their official duties. It's important to note that these privileges are applicable only when the individual is an active member of the respective house. They cease to apply once the person's membership ends.  Thus, statement 2 is not correct.

The framework for these privileges is not laid out in a singular comprehensive law, but rather they draw from several sources:

• Constitutional Provisions: The Indian Constitution itself outlines certain privileges in Article 105. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• Parliamentary Laws: Various laws passed by Parliament contribute to the codification of these privileges.
• House Rules: The rules established by both Houses of Parliament also play a role in defining these privileges.
• Parliamentary Conventions: Long-standing practices and customs followed by the Parliament contribute to the understanding and exercise of these privileges.
• Judicial Interpretations: Court rulings and interpretations of relevant laws contribute to shaping the scope and limitations of parliamentary privileges.

Privileges and Their Specifics:

Freedom of Speech in Parliament:

• Article 105(1) of the Indian Constitution grants members the freedom of speech and expression within Parliament.
• However, this freedom is subject to the regulations and procedures set by the parliamentary authorities.

Limitations on Freedom of Speech:

• Freedom of speech within Parliament should adhere to constitutional provisions and parliamentary rules, as highlighted in Article 118 of the Constitution.
• Article 121 restricts discussions about the conduct of judges of the Supreme Court and High Court. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.

Freedom from Arrest:

• Members enjoy immunity from arrest in civil cases 40 days before and after a session's adjournment or during an ongoing session.
• Arrest within the precincts of Parliament requires the house's permission to prevent hindrance in carrying out parliamentary duties.
• Detention outside the precincts of Parliament can occur under specific criminal charges or acts like the Preventive Detention Act, Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), or National Security Act (NSA).

Right to Prohibit Publication of Proceedings:

• Article 105(2) protects individuals from liability for publishing reports or discussions from the house, authorized by a member of that house.
• This ensures that parliamentary proceedings can be communicated to the public for transparency and awareness.

Right to Exclude Strangers:

• Members of the house have the authority to exclude non-members from participating in proceedings.
• This privilege is essential for maintaining a conducive environment for free and fair discussions within the house.

EXPLANATION:

The Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) is a groundbreaking satellite-based initiative aimed at detecting and addressing methane emissions to combat climate change. Introduced as part of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) strategy, MARS serves to provide policy-relevant data for effective emissions mitigation.

Key Points about MARS:

Introduction and Purpose:

• MARS was launched within the framework of the 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
• Its primary goal is to detect methane emissions and respond promptly to address them, thus contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change. Thus, option C is correct.

Transparency and Accessibility:

• MARS is unique as the world's first publicly accessible system to transparently connect methane detection with notification processes.
• The system employs advanced satellite data to identify significant methane emission events.

Functionality:

• Once a significant methane emission event is detected, MARS notifies relevant stakeholders.
• The system supports ongoing monitoring and tracking of mitigation progress.

Partnerships and Services:

• Collaborative partners in the MARS initiative provide technical and advisory services.
• This includes aiding in the assessment of opportunities for reducing methane emissions.

Data Dissemination:

• The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) oversees the monitoring of event locations.
• Data and analyses are made available to the public within a specified timeframe after detection.

Methane's Significance:

• Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to global warming.
• Addressing methane emissions is crucial in the broader effort to mitigate climate change impacts.

EXPLANATION:

The Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) is an intergovernmental entity established through the Amazon Cooperation Treaty, signed by the eight Amazonian countries. The treaty's inception occurred on July 3, 1978, with the subsequent creation of ACTO in 1995, aimed at strengthening and realizing the treaty's objectives. The member nations encompass Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. Thus, statement 1 is correct.

Key Points about Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO):

Formation and Purpose:

• ACTO was founded to advance the preservation of the Amazon basin and regulate sustainable development in the region through international collaboration.
• It stands as the sole socio-environmental coalition in Latin America, focusing on fostering cooperative efforts among Amazonian countries. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.

Multidimensional Approach:

• ACTO operates in various dimensions, encompassing political-diplomatic, strategic, and technical aspects.
• The organization seeks to create synergies between governments and coordinate activities in line with the Amazon Cooperation Treaty.

Official Languages:

• ACTO recognizes four official languages: Dutch, English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Operational Structure:

• The Permanent Secretariat's Directorate and project coordination collaboratively plan and execute activities.
• Consultations with member countries guide the execution of projects and initiatives.

Key Facts about the Amazon Rainforest:

Geographical Extent:

• The Amazon Rainforest spans a vast tropical expanse, covering the drainage basin of the Amazon River and its tributaries in northern South America.
• It is bordered by the Guiana Highlands to the north, the Andes Mountains to the west, the Brazilian central plateau to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

The Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental preservation and sustainable development within the Amazon basin, facilitated through collaboration among the eight member countries.

EXPLANATION:

Key Facts about Devika River:

Origin:

• The Devika River originates from the Suddha Mahadev temple in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir.
• It flows down towards western Punjab (now in Pakistan) and merges with the Ravi River.

Cultural Significance:

• Devika River holds immense religious importance as it is considered the sister of the Ganga River in Hindu tradition.
• According to beliefs, the Devika River is a manifestation of Goddess Parwati herself, meant to benefit the people residing between the Ravi and Chenab rivers.

The River Devika Rejuvenation Project

The River Devika Rejuvenation Project is an initiative aimed at revitalizing the Devika River and implementing effective waste management practices. 

Comprehensive Waste Management:

• The project focuses on Liquid Waste Management.
• It involves the establishment of a network of pipes and manholes connecting households to efficiently manage liquid waste.
• The primary objective is to ensure the proper disposal of liquid waste, thus preventing pollution and maintaining the river's purity.

Complementary Solid Waste Management:

• In addition to liquid waste, the project addresses Solid Waste Management.
• This includes responsible collection, disposal, and management of solid waste generated by local communities.
• Effective solid waste management is vital to prevent environmental deterioration and safeguard the river's health and surroundings.

Financial Allocation Breakdown:

• The project receives an investment of over Rs 190 crores.
• Funding is divided between the Central government and the Union Territory (UT) at a ratio of 90:10.

Empowering Communities through PRIs:

• Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the project at the grassroots level.
• Involving PRIs enhances community participation, fosters a sense of ownership, and encourages sustainable development practices.

EXPLANATION:

Starlink Project Overview: 

The Starlink Project is a groundbreaking initiative by SpaceX aimed at providing global internet coverage through a vast satellite constellation in low-Earth orbit. With its deployment beginning in 2019, the project has garnered significant attention for its potential to reshape internet connectivity across the world.

Satellite Constellation:

• Starlink involves the deployment of thousands of small satellites into low-Earth orbit, forming a satellite constellation. Thus, option B is correct
• These satellites work in conjunction to provide internet signals to designated ground receivers.

Infrastructure and Accessibility:

• A distinguishing feature of Starlink is its lack of traditional ground infrastructure. Users require only a small satellite dish or receiver device to access high-speed internet, similar to satellite TV setups.
• To aid customers in optimal placement of their receivers, SpaceX offers a mobile application for both Android and iOS platforms. This app employs augmented reality to assist users in selecting the best location and orientation for their receivers.

Expansion Plans:

• SpaceX has ambitious expansion plans for Starlink. A report from DW highlights their intention to expand the satellite network to potentially include up to 12,000 satellites, and this could even extend to a staggering 42,000 satellites.
• Such an extensive network aims to achieve global coverage and bridge the digital divide, offering internet access to remote and underserved areas.

Space Debris Concerns:

• A notable concern associated with Starlink and similar satellite constellations is the issue of space debris.
• The operational lifespan of Starlink satellites is limited, around five years, after which they become non-functional and remain in space, contributing to the growing problem of space debris.

EXPLANATION:

Palm manuscripts from the 18th Century, titled "Gnanamuyarchi," have been unearthed in an Armenian monastery situated in Northern Italy.

Understanding Manuscripts:

A manuscript refers to a handwritten or typewritten document that predates the era of printing. It often holds historical or literary significance. Notable examples include ancient religious Sanskrit texts meticulously inscribed on palm or birch leaves.

• These manuscripts could potentially contain a copy of the inaugural translation of Ignatius' Spiritual Exercise into Tamil. Notably, this translation might have been executed by Michele Bertoldi, also known as Gnanaprakasasamy.
• Initially, these manuscripts were mistakenly labeled as 'Indian Papyrus Lamulic Language–XIII Century,' consequently not being recognized as Tamil texts. The significance of these writings remained hidden due to the misclassification.
• It is surmised that Armenians hailing from Chennai might have transported these invaluable manuscripts to Italy, resulting in their eventual discovery within the Armenian monastery.
• Thus, option (a) is correct.