UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February 2025 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 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February (2025)
• Live-in Relationship
Live-in Relationship
GS Paper 2 & 4:
• Code of Ethics on OTT Platform
Code of Ethics on OTT Platform
Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):
• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
Facts for Prelims (FFP):
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
• Remission
Remission
• Technology Adoption Fund (TAF)
Technology Adoption Fund (TAF)
• Electronic Personnel License (EPL)
Electronic Personnel License (EPL)
• Article 101(4)
Article 101(4)
• Northern White Rhino
Northern White Rhino
Mapping:
• Andaman Sea
Andaman Sea
UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February 2025
#### GS Paper 2 :
Live-in Relationship
Syllabus: Society
Source: IE
Context: The Nainital High Court recently ruled on the mandatory registration of live-in relationships under the UCC, questioning the infringement of privacy in consensual cohabitation.
What is a Live-In Relationship?
• A live-in relationship is an arrangement where two adults cohabit and share their lives together without formalizing their bond through marriage.
• It is based on the concept of “Mitru Sambhandh,” where partners maintain a marital-like relationship without legal marital ties.
Issues Regarding Live-In Relationships:
• Privacy vs. Regulation: The central issue is whether mandating the registration of live-in relationships infringes on individual privacy. Critics argue that compulsory registration amounts to undue state interference in personal matters, while proponents claim it provides necessary legal protections.
• The central issue is whether mandating the registration of live-in relationships infringes on individual privacy.
• Critics argue that compulsory registration amounts to undue state interference in personal matters, while proponents claim it provides necessary legal protections.
• Cultural and Social Norms: Deep-rooted societal beliefs about marriage and sanctity challenge the acceptance of cohabitation outside of marriage, leading to resistance and controversy.
• Deep-rooted societal beliefs about marriage and sanctity challenge the acceptance of cohabitation outside of marriage, leading to resistance and controversy.
Various Judgements on Live-In Relationships:
• Badri Prasad v. Dy. Director of Consolidation (1978): Held that prolonged cohabitation creates a strong presumption of marriage, placing the onus on disproving its legitimacy.
• Lata Singh v. State of U.P. (2006): Emphasized the right of an inter-caste couple to cohabit without harassment, underlining societal acceptance.
• S. Khushboo v. Kanniammal (2010): Confirmed that live-in relationships between consenting adults are not illegal.
• Shafin Jahan v. Asokan K.M. (2018): Reinforced the right to autonomy in choosing one’s partner, irrespective of marital status.
• Kiran Rawat v. State of U.P. (2023): Highlighted challenges under Islamic law, questioning how live-in relationships are perceived in inter-religious contexts.
Arguments Supporting Live-In Relationships:
• Protection of Individual Autonomy: Upholds the right to personal choice and freedom in matters of intimacy and partnership.
• Legal Safeguards: When registered, live-in relationships can provide rights related to property, maintenance, and inheritance similar to those in marriage.
• Social Modernity: Recognizes evolving societal norms where marriage is not the only acceptable form of partnership.
• Reduction of Stigma: Registration can help destigmatize non-marital cohabitation and offer legal recognition.
• Inclusive Policies: Can serve as a protective mechanism for couples, especially in cases of domestic abuse, by ensuring access to legal recourse.
Arguments Against Live-In Relationships:
• Cultural Opposition: Traditional views hold marriage as a sacred institution, making non-marital cohabitation socially controversial.
• Privacy Concerns: Mandatory registration may be seen as state intrusion into private life, undermining personal freedoms.
• Potential for Exploitation: Critics worry that without the formalities of marriage, individuals may face challenges in legal protection and social security.
• Ambiguity in Definition: Difficulty in defining and distinguishing live-in relationships from other forms of cohabitation can lead to legal and administrative complications.
• Moral and Ethical Debates: Some argue that the lack of a formal commitment undermines the institution of marriage and traditional family values.
Way Ahead:
• Policy Reforms: Re-examine the registration requirements under the UCC to ensure they protect rights without compromising privacy.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public on the legal rights and responsibilities in live-in relationships to reduce stigma.
• Legal Clarity: Formulate clear legal definitions and safeguards that extend to all consenting couples, regardless of marital status.
• Judicial Oversight: Encourage judicial review of the registration process to balance state interests and individual freedoms.
• Inclusive Legislation: Engage with diverse stakeholders to draft policies that respect both cultural values and modern social realities.
Conclusion:
The debate over live-in relationships reflects the evolving social fabric of India, balancing privacy with legal regulation. Judicial precedents have increasingly recognized the legitimacy of consensual cohabitation, yet societal resistance remains. A thoughtful, inclusive legal framework can protect individual rights while addressing cultural sensitivities, ensuring equitable treatment for all.
• Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizen a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (UPSC-2015)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February 2025 GS Paper 2 & 4:
Code of Ethics on OTT Platform
Syllabus: Governance & Ethics
Source: NDTV
Context: The government has issued an advisory mandating OTT platforms to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics under IT Rules, 2021 to curb the spread of obscene and vulgar content.
• This measure follows recent controversies, such as the ‘India’s Got Latent’ row involving Ranveer Allahbadia, highlighting the need for stricter online content regulation.
What is the Code of Ethics for OTT Platforms?
• A set of self-regulatory guidelines aimed at ensuring responsible content dissemination on digital platforms.
• It mandates age-based content classification, access control for ‘A’ rated content, and adherence to applicable laws to prevent the transmission of prohibited material.
Relevant Laws in India:
• Indian Laws: IT Rules, 2021: Prescribes obligations for online publishers, including content classification and self-regulation under a Code of Ethics. Information Technology Act, 2000: Governs the transmission of digital content and prescribes penalties for prohibited content. Guidelines from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting: Enforce standards for acceptable content on OTT platforms.
• IT Rules, 2021: Prescribes obligations for online publishers, including content classification and self-regulation under a Code of Ethics.
• Information Technology Act, 2000: Governs the transmission of digital content and prescribes penalties for prohibited content.
• Guidelines from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting: Enforce standards for acceptable content on OTT platforms.
• Best Practices Worldwide: Ofcom Guidelines (UK): Emphasize content classification, age restrictions, and proactive monitoring to protect minors. European Audiovisual Observatory’s Framework: Advocates for transparency, self-regulation, and regular audits of content to maintain high ethical standards.
• Ofcom Guidelines (UK): Emphasize content classification, age restrictions, and proactive monitoring to protect minors.
• European Audiovisual Observatory’s Framework: Advocates for transparency, self-regulation, and regular audits of content to maintain high ethical standards.
Need for a Code of Ethics in OTT:
• Protecting Minors: Ensures that children are shielded from harmful, explicit, or inappropriate content.
• Maintaining Public Decency: Upholds societal standards by preventing the spread of obscene and pornographic material.
• Enhancing Trust: Builds consumer confidence in digital platforms by fostering transparency and accountability in content curation.
Challenges to Effective Implementation:
• Enforcement Gaps: Despite clear regulations, inconsistent enforcement and lack of uniform standards across platforms hinder compliance.
• Ambiguous Definitions: Vague terminologies in the rules can lead to varied interpretations, making it difficult to uniformly apply the Code of Ethics.
• Rapid Content Evolution: The fast-paced nature of digital content creation often outstrips regulatory updates, complicating oversight.
• Resistance from Platforms: Some OTT services may view strict regulation as an impediment to creative freedom and business growth.
• Technological Limitations: Inadequate age verification and content filtering mechanisms can make it challenging to enforce guidelines effectively.
Way Ahead:
• Strengthening Oversight: Establish independent regulatory bodies for continuous monitoring and transparent reporting of content standards.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Foster stronger partnerships between the government, industry stakeholders, and international bodies to share best practices and update guidelines.
• Regular Audits and Reviews: Implement periodic audits of OTT platforms to ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and revise regulations in line with technological advancements.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate consumers about content ratings and their rights, thereby promoting informed viewing habits.
• Incentivize Compliance: Introduce incentives for platforms that consistently meet high ethical standards, such as certification or public endorsements.
Conclusion:
With controversies like the Ranveer Allahbadia remark row, enforcing a robust Code of Ethics is essential to safeguard minors and uphold societal values. A balanced approach combining strict oversight with industry self-regulation will pave the way for a safer, more responsible digital ecosystem.
• “The ‘Code of Conduct’ and ‘Code of Ethics’ are the sources of guidance in public administration. There is code of conduct already in operation, whereas code of ethics is not yet put in place. Suggest a suitable model for code of ethics to maintain integrity, probity and transparency in governance. (2024)
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)
Context: The Union Health Ministry launched a nationwide campaign to screen individuals aged 30 and above for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and common cancers like oral, breast, and cervical cancer.
About Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs):
• What are NCDs?
• Chronic medical conditions that are not transmitted from person to person. Often caused by lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, or environmental influences.
• Chronic medical conditions that are not transmitted from person to person.
• Often caused by lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, or environmental influences.
• Types of NCDs:
• Impacts of NCDs:
• Health Burden: Account for 63% of all deaths in India (WHO, 2018). Economic Burden: High healthcare costs and productivity losses. Quality of Life: Reduced life expectancy and increased disability.
• Health Burden: Account for 63% of all deaths in India (WHO, 2018).
• Economic Burden: High healthcare costs and productivity losses.
• Quality of Life: Reduced life expectancy and increased disability.
• Campaign Features:
• Coverage: Targets 100% screening of individuals aged 30+ across 1.6 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs). Methods: Door-to-door outreach by ASHAs, ANMs, and frontline workers. Tools: BP monitors, glucometers, and essential medications. Monitoring: Real-time data upload on the NP-NCD portal for transparency. Focus: Early detection, treatment, and follow-up for diabetes, hypertension, and cancers.
• Coverage: Targets 100% screening of individuals aged 30+ across 1.6 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs).
• Methods: Door-to-door outreach by ASHAs, ANMs, and frontline workers.
• Tools: BP monitors, glucometers, and essential medications.
• Monitoring: Real-time data upload on the NP-NCD portal for transparency.
• Focus: Early detection, treatment, and follow-up for diabetes, hypertension, and cancers.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
• GS Paper II (Health): Government policies and interventions for health, NCD burden, and preventive healthcare.
• GS Paper III (Economy): Economic impact of NCDs and healthcare costs.
• GS Paper II (Governance): Role of ASHAs, ANMs, and digital monitoring in public health campaigns.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 21 February 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Source: News on Air
Context: The nation commemorates the 395th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on February 19, 2025.
About Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:
• Birth and Early Life:
• Born: February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra. Parents: Shahaji Bhonsle (Maratha general) and Jijabai (influential mentor). Teachers: Dadoji Kondadev (military & administration), Jijabai (ethics & governance).
• Born: February 19, 1630, at Shivneri Fort, Pune, Maharashtra.
• Parents: Shahaji Bhonsle (Maratha general) and Jijabai (influential mentor).
• Teachers: Dadoji Kondadev (military & administration), Jijabai (ethics & governance).
• Coronation and Maratha Empire:
• Crowned as Chhatrapati: June 6, 1674, at Raigad Fort. Established Hindavi Swarajya, declaring independence from Mughal and Deccan Sultanates.
• Crowned as Chhatrapati: June 6, 1674, at Raigad Fort.
• Established Hindavi Swarajya, declaring independence from Mughal and Deccan Sultanates.
• Achievements & Administrative Policies: Military Innovations:
• Military Innovations:
• Developed Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa) tactics, outmanoeuvring the Mughals & Deccan rulers. Founded the Indian Navy, securing Konkan & western coast from foreign invasions.
• Developed Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa) tactics, outmanoeuvring the Mughals & Deccan rulers. Founded the Indian Navy, securing Konkan & western coast from foreign invasions.
• Developed Guerrilla Warfare (Ganimi Kawa) tactics, outmanoeuvring the Mughals & Deccan rulers.
• Founded the Indian Navy, securing Konkan & western coast from foreign invasions.
• Fortifications & Defense:
• Captured and built over 370 forts, including Torna, Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sinhagad. Introduced Naval forts such as Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg for coastal security.
• Captured and built over 370 forts, including Torna, Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sinhagad. Introduced Naval forts such as Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg for coastal security.
• Captured and built over 370 forts, including Torna, Raigad, Pratapgad, and Sinhagad.
• Introduced Naval forts such as Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg for coastal security.
• Administrative Reforms:
• Introduced Ashta Pradhan Mandal (Council of Eight Ministers) for governance. Established progressive revenue policies (Kathi & Chauth system) ensuring stable economy. Promoted religious tolerance and included Muslims, Europeans, and people from all castes in administration.
• Introduced Ashta Pradhan Mandal (Council of Eight Ministers) for governance. Established progressive revenue policies (Kathi & Chauth system) ensuring stable economy. Promoted religious tolerance and included Muslims, Europeans, and people from all castes in administration.
• Introduced Ashta Pradhan Mandal (Council of Eight Ministers) for governance.
• Established progressive revenue policies (Kathi & Chauth system) ensuring stable economy.
• Promoted religious tolerance and included Muslims, Europeans, and people from all castes in administration.
• Major Battles & Military Expeditions: Battle of Pratapgad (1659): Defeated Afzal Khan (Bijapur Sultanate). Battle of Pavan Khind (1660): Defended against Adilshahi forces, legendary sacrifice of Baji Prabhu Deshpande. Battle of Purandar (1665): Signed treaty with Mirza Jai Singh (Mughal commander). Escape from Agra (1666): Outwitted Aurangzeb’s imprisonment, returning to Swarajya. Battle of Sinhagad (1670): Recaptured Sinhagad Fort, valor of Tanaji Malusare. Southern Conquests (1677–80): Expanded into Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, defeating Adilshah & Golconda.
• Battle of Pratapgad (1659): Defeated Afzal Khan (Bijapur Sultanate).
• Battle of Pavan Khind (1660): Defended against Adilshahi forces, legendary sacrifice of Baji Prabhu Deshpande.
• Battle of Purandar (1665): Signed treaty with Mirza Jai Singh (Mughal commander).
• Escape from Agra (1666): Outwitted Aurangzeb’s imprisonment, returning to Swarajya.
• Battle of Sinhagad (1670): Recaptured Sinhagad Fort, valor of Tanaji Malusare.
• Southern Conquests (1677–80): Expanded into Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, defeating Adilshah & Golconda.
Remission
Source: IE
Context: The Supreme Court directed states to consider the premature release of eligible prisoners without requiring an application.
About Remission:
• What is Remission?
• Remission is the reduction of a convict’s sentence before the completion of the full term. It does not erase the conviction but shortens the duration of imprisonment.
• Remission is the reduction of a convict’s sentence before the completion of the full term.
• It does not erase the conviction but shortens the duration of imprisonment.
• Laws Governing Remission:
• Section 473 of BNSS, 2023 & Section 432 of CrPC, 1973 empower state governments to grant remission. Articles 72 & 161 of the Constitution allow the President & Governor to remit sentences. Section 475 of BNSS & Section 433A of CrPC impose a 14-year minimum term for life convicts.
• Section 473 of BNSS, 2023 & Section 432 of CrPC, 1973 empower state governments to grant remission.
• Articles 72 & 161 of the Constitution allow the President & Governor to remit sentences.
• Section 475 of BNSS & Section 433A of CrPC impose a 14-year minimum term for life convicts.
• Procedure for Granting Remission:
• Prison authorities review cases and recommend eligible convicts. State governments consider applications and grant remission based on predefined policies. If conditions are violated, remission can be revoked, and the convict can be re-arrested.
• Prison authorities review cases and recommend eligible convicts.
• State governments consider applications and grant remission based on predefined policies.
• If conditions are violated, remission can be revoked, and the convict can be re-arrested.
• Past SC Judgments on Remission: Sangeet & Anr. v State of Haryana (2013): SC ruled that remission cannot be suo motu, requiring an application from the convict. Mohinder Singh v State of Punjab (2013): Reaffirmed that remission must be initiated through an application, not by courts or the government automatically. Mafabhai Motibhai Sagar v. State of Gujarat (2024): Held that remission conditions must be reasonable and cannot be arbitrarily stringent or vague.
• Sangeet & Anr. v State of Haryana (2013): SC ruled that remission cannot be suo motu, requiring an application from the convict.
• Mohinder Singh v State of Punjab (2013): Reaffirmed that remission must be initiated through an application, not by courts or the government automatically.
• Mafabhai Motibhai Sagar v. State of Gujarat (2024): Held that remission conditions must be reasonable and cannot be arbitrarily stringent or vague.
• Supreme Court’s 2025 Judgment & Guidelines Suo motu remission allowed: If a remission policy exists, states must proactively consider eligible convicts without waiting for applications. Mandatory remission policy: States without a remission policy must formulate one within two months. Conditions for remission: Must be based on crime motive, criminal record, and public safety, ensuring rehabilitation. Protection against arbitrary cancellation: Remission cannot be revoked for minor breaches, and convicts must get a notice and a chance to respond before cancellation. Transparency in remission decisions: Legal aid authorities must track remission cases and maintain real-time data on a digital portal.
• Suo motu remission allowed: If a remission policy exists, states must proactively consider eligible convicts without waiting for applications.
• Mandatory remission policy: States without a remission policy must formulate one within two months.
• Conditions for remission: Must be based on crime motive, criminal record, and public safety, ensuring rehabilitation.
• Protection against arbitrary cancellation: Remission cannot be revoked for minor breaches, and convicts must get a notice and a chance to respond before cancellation.
• Transparency in remission decisions: Legal aid authorities must track remission cases and maintain real-time data on a digital portal.
Technology Adoption Fund (TAF)
Source: TOI
Context: IN-SPACe, India’s space regulator, launched the Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) to accelerate the growth of space startups and MSMEs by providing financial support for the commercialization of early-stage space technologies.
About Technology Adoption Fund (TAF):
• What is TAF?
• A financial initiative by IN-SPACe to support the transition of early-stage space technologies into market-ready products. Aims to reduce India’s reliance on imported space solutions and boost domestic innovation.
• A financial initiative by IN-SPACe to support the transition of early-stage space technologies into market-ready products.
• Aims to reduce India’s reliance on imported space solutions and boost domestic innovation.
• Department: Operated under the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), an autonomous body under the Department of Space (DOS).
• To nurture and commercialize innovative space technologies developed by Indian startups, MSMEs, and larger industries. To strengthen India’s position as a global leader in the space sector.
• To nurture and commercialize innovative space technologies developed by Indian startups, MSMEs, and larger industries.
• To strengthen India’s position as a global leader in the space sector.
• Key Features:
• Funding: Up to 60% of project costs for startups/MSMEs and 40% for larger industries, capped at Rs 25 crore per project. Eligibility: Open to all non-government entities (NGEs) with commercially viable space technologies. Focus Areas: Supports a wide range of space technologies, including launch vehicles, satellites, and space-based services. Outcomes: Development of new products, intellectual property creation, and enhanced production processes.
• Funding: Up to 60% of project costs for startups/MSMEs and 40% for larger industries, capped at Rs 25 crore per project.
• Eligibility: Open to all non-government entities (NGEs) with commercially viable space technologies.
• Focus Areas: Supports a wide range of space technologies, including launch vehicles, satellites, and space-based services.
• Outcomes: Development of new products, intellectual property creation, and enhanced production processes.
About IN-SPACe:
• Established in: 2020, as part of India’s space sector reforms.
• Ministry: Department of Space (DOS), Government of India.
• Headquarters: Bopal, Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• To promote, authorize, and supervise private sector participation in India’s space activities. To act as a single-window interface between ISRO and non-governmental entities (NGEs).
• To promote, authorize, and supervise private sector participation in India’s space activities.
• To act as a single-window interface between ISRO and non-governmental entities (NGEs).
• Functions:
• Facilitates private players in building launch vehicles, satellites, and space-based services. Enables sharing of ISRO’s infrastructure and premises with private entities. Assesses and accommodates the needs of private players, educational institutions, and research organizations. Collaborates with ISRO, academia, and industry to maximize the impact of space initiatives.
• Facilitates private players in building launch vehicles, satellites, and space-based services.
• Enables sharing of ISRO’s infrastructure and premises with private entities.
• Assesses and accommodates the needs of private players, educational institutions, and research organizations.
• Collaborates with ISRO, academia, and industry to maximize the impact of space initiatives.
Electronic Personnel License (EPL)
Source: ET
Context: India launched the Electronic Personnel License (EPL) for pilots, becoming the second country after China to implement digital pilot licenses.
• This initiative aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and supports India’s Digital India and Ease of Doing Business initiatives.
About Electronic Personnel License (EPL):
• What is EPL?
• A digital license for pilots, replacing traditional physical licenses, accessible via the eGCA Mobile Application.
• A digital license for pilots, replacing traditional physical licenses, accessible via the eGCA Mobile Application.
• Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India.
• Global Record: India is the second country globally, after China, to implement digital pilot licenses.
• License Issuing Authority: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
• To modernize the civil aviation sector by enhancing safety, security, and efficiency. To align with ICAO’s Amendment 178 to Annex 1, promoting electronic licensing for global standardization.
• To modernize the civil aviation sector by enhancing safety, security, and efficiency.
• To align with ICAO’s Amendment 178 to Annex 1, promoting electronic licensing for global standardization.
• Key Features:
• Digital Format: Replaces physical smart card licenses, reducing delays and environmental impact. Accessibility: Available on the eGCA Mobile Application for real-time access. Security: Enhances transparency and security in licensing processes. Global Employability: Improves pilots’ global employability by ensuring real-time credential verification. Sustainability: Reduces plastic and paper usage, contributing to environmental goals.
• Digital Format: Replaces physical smart card licenses, reducing delays and environmental impact.
• Accessibility: Available on the eGCA Mobile Application for real-time access.
• Security: Enhances transparency and security in licensing processes.
• Global Employability: Improves pilots’ global employability by ensuring real-time credential verification.
• Sustainability: Reduces plastic and paper usage, contributing to environmental goals.
Article 101(4)
Source: IE
Context:
About: Amritpal Singh, an Independent MP, moved the Punjab & Haryana HC over concerns of losing his Lok Sabha seat due to prolonged absence.
• As per Article 101(4) of the Constitution, an MP’s seat can be vacated if absent for 60 consecutive sittings without permission.
About Article 101(4):
• What is Article 101(4)?
• States that an MP’s seat may be declared vacant if absent for 60 consecutive sittings without permission. The House must formally declare the seat vacant; it is not an automatic process.
• States that an MP’s seat may be declared vacant if absent for 60 consecutive sittings without permission.
• The House must formally declare the seat vacant; it is not an automatic process.
• Constitutional Provisions & Governing Law:
• Article 101 of the Indian Constitution deals with vacation of seats, disqualifications, and dual membership. Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Parliament regulate MP attendance. Committee on Members’ Absence reviews requests and recommends action.
• Article 101 of the Indian Constitution deals with vacation of seats, disqualifications, and dual membership.
• Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Parliament regulate MP attendance.
• Committee on Members’ Absence reviews requests and recommends action.
• Procedure for Seeking Leave:
• MPs must write to the Committee on Members’ Absence requesting permission. The committee evaluates reasons (illness, detention, emergencies) and sends a report to the House. The House votes to approve or reject the request based on the report.
• MPs must write to the Committee on Members’ Absence requesting permission.
• The committee evaluates reasons (illness, detention, emergencies) and sends a report to the House.
• The House votes to approve or reject the request based on the report.
• Limitations on Leave Approval:
• The committee grants leave for a maximum of 59 days at a time. If an MP needs additional leave, they must submit a fresh request.
• The committee grants leave for a maximum of 59 days at a time.
• If an MP needs additional leave, they must submit a fresh request.
• Power to Expel MPs for Absence:
• If an MP fails to seek permission or is denied leave, the House may declare the seat vacant. The decision must be approved by a majority vote in the House.
• If an MP fails to seek permission or is denied leave, the House may declare the seat vacant.
• The decision must be approved by a majority vote in the House.
Northern White Rhino
Source: TH
Context: The northern white rhino, with only two individuals left, is on the brink of extinction. However, a breakthrough in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) offers hope for the subspecies’ survival, with 36 embryos ready for implantation.
About Northern White Rhino:
• What is a White Rhino?
• The white rhino, also known as the square-lipped rhinoceros, is one of the five rhino species. Its name originates from the Afrikaans word “weit,” meaning “wide,” referring to its broad muzzle.
• The white rhino, also known as the square-lipped rhinoceros, is one of the five rhino species.
• Its name originates from the Afrikaans word “weit,” meaning “wide,” referring to its broad muzzle.
• Habitat:
• Found in long and short grass savannahs. Southern white rhinos are primarily located in South Africa, with smaller populations in Kenya, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Northern white rhinos are critically endangered, with only two individuals remaining at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.
• Found in long and short grass savannahs.
• Southern white rhinos are primarily located in South Africa, with smaller populations in Kenya, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
• Northern white rhinos are critically endangered, with only two individuals remaining at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.
• Types:
• Southern White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum simum): Near Threatened. Northern White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum cottoni): Critically Endangered.
• Southern White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum simum): Near Threatened.
• Northern White Rhino (Ceratotherium simum cottoni): Critically Endangered.
• Features:
• Food Habits: Exclusive grazers, feeding almost entirely on short grasses. Biological: Second-largest land mammal after elephants. Two horns on the nose, with the front horn being significantly larger. Physical: Square upper lip adapted for grazing. No difference in skin color between white and black rhinos.
• Food Habits: Exclusive grazers, feeding almost entirely on short grasses.
• Biological: Second-largest land mammal after elephants. Two horns on the nose, with the front horn being significantly larger.
• Second-largest land mammal after elephants.
• Two horns on the nose, with the front horn being significantly larger.
• Physical: Square upper lip adapted for grazing. No difference in skin color between white and black rhinos.
• Square upper lip adapted for grazing.
• No difference in skin color between white and black rhinos.
#### UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS –21 February 2025 Mapping:
Andaman Sea
Source: TOI
Context: An earthquake of magnitude 5.2 struck the Andaman Sea near Malaysia, as reported by the National Centre for Seismology.
About Andaman Sea:
• Location and Neighbouring Nations
• Located in the northeastern Indian Ocean, between latitudes 4°N to 20°N and longitudes 92°E to 100°E. Bordered by Myanmar to the north and east, Thailand and Malaysia to the east, and Indonesia’s Sumatra to the south. Separated from the Bay of Bengal by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (India) to the west.
• Located in the northeastern Indian Ocean, between latitudes 4°N to 20°N and longitudes 92°E to 100°E.
• Bordered by Myanmar to the north and east, Thailand and Malaysia to the east, and Indonesia’s Sumatra to the south.
• Separated from the Bay of Bengal by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (India) to the west.
• Rivers Flowing into the Andaman Sea:
• The Irrawaddy River (Myanmar) is the major river, depositing vast amounts of silt into the sea.
• The Irrawaddy River (Myanmar) is the major river, depositing vast amounts of silt into the sea.
• Key Features:
• Major Islands: Andaman and Nicobar Islands (India), Breueh Island (north of Sumatra). Trench: Andaman-Nicobar Trench, with depths exceeding 14,500 feet (4,400 metres). Volcanic Activity: Barren Island, India’s only active volcano, is located here. Coral Reefs: Rich biodiversity with extensive coral reefs, popular for tourism.
• Major Islands: Andaman and Nicobar Islands (India), Breueh Island (north of Sumatra).
• Trench: Andaman-Nicobar Trench, with depths exceeding 14,500 feet (4,400 metres).
• Volcanic Activity: Barren Island, India’s only active volcano, is located here.
• Coral Reefs: Rich biodiversity with extensive coral reefs, popular for tourism.
• Strategic Importance:
• Major shipping route between India and China via the Strait of Malacca. Key sea link for Myanmar through ports like Yangon, Bassein, and Mergui.
• Major shipping route between India and China via the Strait of Malacca.
• Key sea link for Myanmar through ports like Yangon, Bassein, and Mergui.
Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 21 Feb 2025
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