Current Affairs – January 23, 2025

{GS1 – A&C – Martial art} Kalaripayattu *

• Context (IE): Kerala’s traditional martial art Kalaripayattu is in the spotlight ahead of the 38^th National Games, where it has been relegated to a demonstration event, leading to controversies.

What is Kalaripayattu?

• Originated in Kerala, rooted in ancient warfare and training techniques.
• One of the oldest martial arts in the world, emphasising mind and body coordination.
• Kalaris are also important centres of religious worship.
• The primary aim is the ultimate coordination between mind and body.
• It involves physical conditioning, weapon training, strikes, kicks, grappling, and healing techniques.
• Includes two main styles: Northern (more weapons, straight line movements) and Southern (flexible movement in all directions).
• Another focus of Kalaripayattu is the specialisation in indigenous medicinal practices.
• Involves techniques based on movements of eight animals: elephant, lion, wild boar, horse, snake, fighter cock, cat, and fish.

Stages of Kalaripayattu Training

• Maippayattu: Body conditioning to prepare for combat.
• Kolthari: Training with wooden weapons (short and long sticks) for attack and defence.
• Angathari: Transition to fighting with metal weapons after mastering wooden ones.
• Verumkai: Bare-hand combat focused on body anatomy for precise strikes.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Mythologically linked to Parasurama, who is said to have established Kalaripayattu in Kerala.
• Introduced to China in the 5th century AD by Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk from India, influencing martial arts like Shaolin Kung Fu.
• Different ethnic styles exist in Northern Kerala: Vattenthirippu, Arappukkai, and Pillathangi.

{GS1 – A&C – Religion} Ratnagiri Excavations in Odisha

• Context (IE): ASI has resumed excavations at Ratnagiri, Odisha, underscoring its historical significance as a key Buddhist center linked to the spread of Buddhism across Asia during Emperor Ashoka’s reign.

Ratnagiri Excavations Discoveries

• Colossal Buddha Sculptures: A 3-4 feet tall Buddha head and a 5-feet palm sculpture showcasing artistic and religious heritage.
• Monolithic Elephant: A 5-foot-long & 3.5-foot-high elephant statue, adding to the site’s cultural value.
• Votive Stupas and Inscribed Relics: Numerous votive stupas, inscribed stones, pottery, beads, and stone pillars from the 8^th -9^th centuries CE.
• Ancient Brick Wall: Remains of a brick wall believed to be part of a Buddhist monastery complex from the 8^th CE.
• Evidence of Maritime Links: The findings emphasise the trade and cultural exchanges between Kalinga (modern Odisha) and Southeast Asia.

Unique Aspects

• Distinct Buddha Sculptures: Unique hairstyles in Buddha statues discovered here are unparalleled in India.
• Baliyatra Festival: Celebrates Odisha’s 2,000-year-old maritime ties with Southeast Asia, especially Bali and Java.

Historical Significance

• Buddhist Learning Center: Ratnagiri was a prominent Mahavihara under the Bhaumakara dynasty (8th-11th CE), rivaling Nalanda.
• Diamond Triangle: Part of Odisha’s Buddhist triangle, including Lalitgiri (oldest monastery) & Udayagiri.
• Role in Buddhism: Played a key role in Mahayana and Tantrayana Buddhism’s development; referenced in Tibetan texts.

Odisha’s Buddhist Legacy

• Ashokan Influence: Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism after the Kalinga War (261 BCE) and promoted its spread to Sri Lanka, Central, and Southeast Asia.
• Maritime Trade Links: Historical trade of spices, silk, and gold between Kalinga and Southeast Asia enhanced cultural exchanges.
• Hiuen Tsang’s Visit: The renowned Chinese monk likely visited Ratnagiri during his 638-639 AD travels.

{GS2 – Governance – Laws} Enemy Property *

• Context (IE): MP High Court directed actor Saif Ali Khan to approach the appellate authority regarding the classification of ancestral properties as “enemy property.”

Enemy Property

• In India, these properties belong to people who moved to Pakistan/China after in 1947, 1965, 1971 wars.
• Managed by the Custodian of Enemy Property for India (CEPI) under Enemy Property Act, 1968.
• Properties are permanently vested with the Custodian, prohibiting inheritance or transfer. Expanded scope under Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2017.
• Rule of Custodianship: CEPI, under Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for administering over 9,400 enemy properties in India.

Current Status in India

• State-wise Distribution: Most properties are in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Delhi.
• Enemy Properties: 9,280 linked to Pakistani nationals; 126 linked to Chinese nationals.
• Financial Estimates: Properties valued at over ₹1 lakh crore (as of 2020).

Legal Provisions Governing Enemy Property

• Enemy Property Act, 1968: Empowers the Custodian of Enemy Property for India (CEPI) to manage enemy properties; declares that enemy property cannot be transferred, sold, or claimed by heirs.
• Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2017: Bars inheritance claims, applies retrospectively, and permanently vests enemy properties with the Custodian.

Judicial Precedents

• Raja Mohammad Amir Ahmad Khan v. Union of India (1981): SC upheld the Custodian’s powers over enemy property, emphasizing that heirs of enemy nationals cannot claim ownership.
• Union of India v. Raja Mohd. Amir Mohammad Khan (2005): SC reiterated that enemy properties are vested permanently with the Custodian and are immune to inheritance claims.
• Adnan Sami Case (2016): Mumbai HC ruled that the govt must be cautious about labeling properties as enemy property; Expanded definitions of “enemy subjects” to include heirs and successors.
• Enemy Property Disposal Guidelines 2018:
  • Monetization Process: Properties are sold/leased by CEPI under MHA, with approvals from an inter-ministerial committee chaired by the Union Home Secretary.
  • Valuation and Auction: Valuation is done by district-level committees using circle rates; vacant properties are auctioned, while occupied ones are offered to current occupants.
  • Movable Assets: Items like shares are disposed of via public auctions or tenders.
  • Revenue Deposit: Proceeds from disposals are deposited into the Consolidated Fund of India.

{GS2 – IR – Issues} Trump’s Shock and Awe Approach

• Context (IE): As American President Trump assumes his second term, he is set to implement swift and decisive policies across multiple domains, focusing on reshaping America’s internal and external stance.

Key Areas of Focus

• Immigration Reform: Trump aims to target illegal immigrants and criminal gangs.
• Trade and Tariffs: Trump shifts towards imposing wide-ranging tariffs, especially on China, to reduce trade deficits, boost US manufacturing, and secure greater defence spending from allies.
• Energy Sector Revitalization: Reversing Biden’s green agenda to boost US energy production, including hydrocarbons and nuclear energy, in order to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
• Deconstructing the Administrative State: Plans to reduce US govt size by cutting spending, personnel & regulations, with a focus on deregulation to foster innovation, especially in Silicon Valley.
• Global Approach: Trump’s foreign policy will focus on prioritizing American interests, with a more transactional approach toward international relations.
• Military Strength and Foreign Policy: Trump rejects traditional globalism, focusing on stronger US military deterrence while negotiating with adversaries like Russia, China, and North Korea.

Challenges and Implications

• Political Resistance: Trump’s bold executive actions may face significant opposition both domestically and internationally, with legal battles likely over his immigration policies.
• Economic Repercussions: While tariffs may yield short-term results, they could provoke trade wars and disrupt global markets.
• Geopolitical Risks: Trump’s foreign policy approach could strain traditional alliances and provoke global unrest as countries adjust to his “America First” stance.

{GS2 – MoC – Schemes} Diamond Imprest Authorisation (DIA) Scheme

• Context (TH): Ministry of Commerce launched Diamond Imprest Authorisation (DIA) Scheme to revive India’s diamond exports, address job losses, and enhance competitiveness.

Key Features of the DIA Scheme

• Duty-Free Import: Applies to natural cut and polished diamonds below ¼ carat (25 cents).
• Export Obligation: Mandatory 10% value addition on exported diamonds.
• Eligibility Criteria: Exporters with Two Star Export House status or higher; Minimum annual export turnover of USD 15 million.
• Implementation Timeline: Effective from April 1, 2025.

Objectives of DIA Scheme

• Counter Beneficiation Policies: Addresses policies in diamond-mining countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola, which require local value addition.
• Support MSMEs: Levels the playing field for small and medium enterprises against larger exporters.
• Retain Global Leadership: Secures India’s dominant position in the diamond value chain by preventing investment flight to mining countries.

Expected Benefits

• Revitalized Exports: Boosts diamond exports and strengthens foreign trade.
• Job Creation: Generates employment in diamond assorting and processing.
• Enhanced Competitiveness: Aligns with global standards, improving ease of doing business.
• Global Trade Leadership: Reinforces India’s position as a diamond trade hub.
• Economic Stability: Supports resilience amid economic uncertainties.
• Policy Alignment: Advances Atmanirbhar Bharat through export growth and job creation.
• Domestic Industry Protection: Safeguards India’s diamond processing ecosystem from foreign competition.

{GS2 – MoCI – Initiatives} National Turmeric Board

• Context (TH): The National Turmeric Board’s inauguration in Nizamabad, Telangana, fulfils a two-decade demand, boosting turmeric farming, research, and exports in India.

What is Turmeric?

• A rhizomatous herbaceous plant scientifically known as Curcuma longa.
• Contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Uses of Turmeric

• Culinary: Adds flavour, colour, and aroma to dishes globally.
• Medicinal: Known for treating inflammation, boosting immunity, and aiding digestion.
• Cosmetic: Incorporated in skincare for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
• Industrial: Used in textile dyeing and natural health products.

Turmeric in India

• India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric.
• Cultivates 30 varieties across 20 states, accounting for over 70% of global production.
• Varieties in India: Lakadong (Meghalaya), Himalaya (Himalayan Region), Black (Curcuma caesia), Alleppey Finger (Kerala), Rajapore (Maharashtra), Erode (Tamil Nadu), Nizamabad Bulb (Telangana).
• Production: 10.74 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, with over 62% share in world trade.
• Climate: Thrives in warm, humid tropical conditions (20–35°C) with 1,500 mm annual rainfall.
• Soil: Prefers sandy or clay loam, rich in organic matter, with a pH of 4.5–7.5.
• Exports: 1.62 lakh tonnes valued at 226.5 million USD in 2023-24.

National Turmeric Board

• Headquarters: Nizamabad, Telangana.
• Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Aim: Enhance turmeric production, support farmers, improve livelihoods, and boost global exports of turmeric and value-added products.
• Functions: Focus on increasing yield, improving logistics, boosting supply chains, and creating awareness about turmeric’s essential and medicinal properties.

Challenges Faced by Turmeric Farmers

• Price Volatility: Market fluctuations leading to unstable income (₹10,000–18,000/quintal in 2023).
• Infrastructure Deficits: Lack of godowns, cold storage, and marketing systems.
• Limited MSP: Absence of assured Minimum Support Price for turmeric.
• Climate Sensitivity: Susceptibility to weather conditions like rainfall and temperature changes.

{GS2 – Polity – IC – Elections} One Nation, One Election Bill

• Context (Scroll | IE): The “One Nation, One Election” Bills were referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed examination and scrutiny.

Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)

• A JPC is a special committee of Parliament constituted for in-depth examination of legislative proposals or issues requiring detailed investigation.
• Established when one House passes a motion and the other agrees to it.
• Composition: Comprises members from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, including representatives from the ruling party and the opposition.
• Current JPC: The JPC for the “One Nation, One Election” Bills has 31 members (21 from Lok Sabha and 10 from Rajya Sabha).

Functions and Powers of a JPC

• Primary Functions:
  • Investigates legislative proposals, financial irregularities, or public-interest matters.
  • Summons individuals and examines documents for evidence.
  • Submits reports with recommendations to Parliament.
• Confidentiality: Proceedings and findings are confidential, except in cases of public interest.
• Limitations: Recommendations are advisory and not binding on the government.
• Follow-up: Government submits an ‘Action Taken Report’ to Parliament based on JPC findings.

‘One Nation, One Election’ Proposal

• Seeks to hold simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and local bodies across India.
• Phased Implementation:
  • Phase 1: Lok Sabha and State elections together.
  • Phase 2: Local body elections (municipalities and panchayats) within 100 days of the general elections.

Historical Context

• Simultaneous elections were conducted in 1951-52, 1957, 1962, and 1967.
• Discontinued after the premature dissolution of some State Assemblies and the Lok Sabha in 1970.
• Revived in recent years to streamline the electoral process.

Constitutional Amendments Required

• Article 83: Amend to synchronise Lok Sabha tenure with state assemblies.
• Article 85: Create clear guidelines on prorogation and dissolution of Parliament.
• Article 172 & 174: Amend to standardise the tenure and dissolution of State Legislative Assemblies.

Also refer to ONOE.

{GS2 – Social Sector – Health} Awareness on Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis

• Context (TH): Amitabh Bachchan inaugurated Mumbai’s first NASH clinic, aiming to raise awareness about non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a growing liver disease.

About NASH

• A severe liver condition causing fat buildup, inflammation, and damage, potentially leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, or cancer, even without alcohol abuse.
• Causes & Risk Factors: Obesity, insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome are key causes and risk factors for liver fat accumulation and damage.
• Symptoms: Fatigue, unexplained weight loss, upper right abdominal pain, and general weakness.
• Diagnosis: Liver function and imaging tests detect liver damage and assess fat accumulation.
• Treatment: Lifestyle changes like 3-10% weight loss and medications for cholesterol, blood sugar, and obesity manage NASH.

Technological and Medical Advances

• Rezdiffra: The first FDA-approved drug to treat NASH.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Offered by clinics like the one at KEM Hospital, with expert gastroenterologists evaluating and managing liver conditions.

{GS3 – Envi – CC} Impact of US Withdrawal from Paris Agreement

• Context (IE | R): US President Trump has decided to withdraw from the Paris Agreement again, halting climate action and reversing climate-friendly policies.
• Faster Withdrawal Process: This time, the withdrawal will take effect in a year, much quicker than the 3.5 years in 2017.

Impacts of US Withdrawal from Paris Agreement

• Hindered Climate Goals: The Paris Agreement’s targets are unachievable without the involvement of the US, the second-largest greenhouse gas emitter.
• Reduced Climate Finance: Halting US contributions to climate finance harms developing nations’ climate adaptation efforts.
• Shift in Investments: Green investments may shift to stricter climate policy regions like Europe.
• Global Warming Risks: Withdrawal increases the likelihood of global temperatures exceeding 1.5°C, potentially reaching 2.7°C by the century’s end.
• Missed Emissions Targets: The US will likely fail its 2030 emissions reduction target of 50-52% from 2005 levels.
• Global Commitment Weakening: Other countries may reduce their climate efforts, weakening global cooperation.
• Slower Energy Transition: Rollbacks in US policies could slow renewable energy adoption domestically and globally.
• Carbon Market Losses: US businesses may lose revenue opportunities in the carbon credit market.
• Advantages for US Energy Independence: Trump’s policies focus on boosting domestic energy production, particularly oil, gas, and coal, reducing reliance on foreign sources.

Way Forward

• International Support: Other countries and US states could continue climate action despite the federal government’s stance.
• Private Sector Role: US businesses, including tech giants and renewable energy companies, may continue pushing for green energy, regardless of government policies.
• Global Collaboration: To meet the Paris Agreement’s goals, countries must ramp up climate efforts while providing financial and technical support to developing nations for mitigation.

{Prelims – In News} ILO Report on International Migrant Workers

• Context (TH): The International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) 2025 “Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers” highlights labour market trends and migrant contributions to the global economy.

Key Findings

International Migrant Workers in the Global Labour Force

• International migrants (IMs) represented 4.7% of the global labour force in 2022, totalling 167.7 million workers. This is an increase of 30 million compared to 2013.
• IM men constituted 4.7% of male employment, and IM women 4.4% of female employment globally.
• Unemployed IMs: 12.1 million.
• Growth rate of IMs dipped to less than 1% annually between 2019-2022, largely due to the pandemic.

Age and Gender Distribution

• 74.9% of IMs were prime-age adults (25-54 years), totalling 125.6 million.
• 9.3% were young workers (15-24 years), numbering 15.5 million.
• IM women’s participation in the labor force is increasing, although they face higher unemployment (8.7%) than men (6.2%).

Economic Sectors with High IM Representation

• 68.4% of IMs worked in the services sector, particularly in the care economy.
• Women made up 80.7% of IMs in services, compared to 60.8% of men.
• 24.3% of IMs worked in industry, and 7.4% were in agriculture.

Top Host Countries for International Migrants

• High-income countries absorbed 68.4% (114 million) of IMs, mainly in services.
• Upper-middle-income countries hosted 17.4% (29.2 million).
• Major regions: Northern, Southern, Western Europe (23.3%), and North America (22.6%).
• Arab states hosted 13.3% of IM workers.

Also refer to ILO.