24th FEBRUARY, 2025 A.) 27th Meeting of the Western Zonal Council Why in News Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 27th meeting of the Western Zonal Council in Pune, focusing on regional cooperation and development among member states. Background The concept of Zonal Councils in India was introduced by the first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1956. During discussions on the States Reorganisation Commission's report, he suggested that states be grouped into four or five zones with an Advisory Council to foster cooperative working among them. Key Takeaways 1. Zonal Councils Overview: o Zonal Councils are statutory bodies established under the States Reorganisation Act of 1956. They aim to promote cooperation and coordination among states in various areas, including economic planning, infrastructure development, and social welfare. o The North-Eastern Council (NEC), created under a separate Act in 1971, serves the northeastern states and operates differently from the Zonal Councils. 2. Composition of Zonal Councils: o Northern Zonal Council: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, National Capital Territory of Delhi, and Union Territory of Chandigarh. o Central Zonal Council: Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. o Eastern Zonal Council: Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal. o Western Zonal Council: Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and the Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. o Southern Zonal Council: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territory of Puducherry. o North Eastern Council: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Nagaland. The state of Sikkim was added to this council in 2002. 3. Structure and Functions: o Each Zonal Council has a Standing Committee consisting of Chief Secretaries from the member states. These committees meet periodically to address issues and prepare for Zonal Council meetings. o The Union Home Minister serves as the chairman of each Zonal Council. The Chief Ministers of the states within each zone rotate as Vice-Chairman for one-year terms. 4. Recent Developments: o In 2018, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, designated the Union Home Minister as the ex-officio chairman of the North Eastern Council. The Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) was appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Council. The Zonal Councils play a vital role in fostering collaboration among states, addressing regional issues, and promoting economic and social development across India.   B.) National Critical Mineral Mission and Reclassification of Minerals Why in News The Union Cabinet recently approved the National Critical Mineral Mission, leading to the reclassification of certain minerals based on recommendations from an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by Dr. V. K. Saraswat. Background A mineral is defined as a natural substance of organic or inorganic origin, possessing specific chemical and physical properties. The reclassification aims to enhance the exploration and extraction of critical minerals that play a vital role in various industries and technologies. Key Takeaways 1. Reason for Reclassification: o Mineral Sources: Quartz, feldspar, and mica, which are found in pegmatite rocks, serve as important sources for many critical minerals. o Previous Limitations: When these minerals were classified as minor minerals, associated critical minerals were not reported or extracted. Reclassification allows for better tracking and extraction of these vital resources. o Industry Significance: The minerals have essential applications in emerging technologies, energy transitions, space industries, and the healthcare sector. 2. Baryte's Importance: o Occurrence: Baryte often appears as concretions and vein fillings in limestone and dolostone and is associated with ores of antimony, cobalt, copper, lead, manganese, and silver. o Industrial Applications: Baryte is utilized in oil and gas drilling, electronics, television screens, rubber, glass, ceramics, paint, radiation shielding, and medical applications. o Impact of Reclassification: Once categorized as a major mineral, baryte will see increased exploration and scientific mining, emphasizing its role as a critical mineral source. 3. Major and Minor Minerals: o Major Minerals: These are specified in the schedule appended to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act, 1957. o Minor Minerals: Defined by the MMDR Act, minor minerals include building stones, gravel, clay, sand, and other minerals notified by the Central Government. o Regulatory Authority: The administration and regulation of minor minerals fall under the jurisdiction of state governments. Conclusion The reclassification of minerals under the National Critical Mineral Mission is a strategic move to bolster the exploration and extraction of essential minerals. This initiative aligns with India's goals of advancing technological development and supporting key industries through improved access to critical resources. C.) Plurilateralism in Global Governance Why in News During the G20 session on the 'Global Geopolitical Situation,' External Affairs Minister (EAM) criticized dysfunctional multilateralism and highlighted the need for plurilateralism to foster inclusive and transparent global cooperation to address trust deficits. Background Plurilateralism represents a shift in international governance where a subset of countries collaborates within a larger multilateral framework. This approach contrasts with traditional multilateralism, aiming to make global cooperation more efficient and effective. Key Takeaways 1. Definition of Plurilateralism: o Plurilateralism is a governance strategy where a smaller group of countries negotiates agreements on specific issues within a broader multilateral context. 2. Plurilateralism vs. Multilateralism: o Multilateralism: Involves agreements among all or most members of the international community (e.g., World Trade Organization (WTO), United Nations treaties). It aims for inclusivity but often faces gridlock due to the need for consensus among numerous countries. o Plurilateralism: More agile and targeted than multilateralism, allowing countries to move forward on specific issues without being held back by the need for universal agreement. 3. Causal Factors for the Rise of Plurilateralism: o Faster Decision-Making: Plurilateralism facilitates quicker negotiations, avoiding delays associated with broader multilateral discussions. For example, the Multi-party Interim Appeal Arrangement (MPIA) was established to address the dysfunction of the WTO’s Appellate Body. o Focus on Specific Issues: Plurilateral agreements enable targeted collaboration in critical areas. The Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) is an example of a U.S.-led initiative aimed at securing critical mineral supply chains and reducing reliance on China. o Bypassing Multilateral Stalemates: Plurilateralism helps circumvent deadlocks in global institutions, such as the Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) formed following the failure of the WTO Doha Round. o Strategic Alliances and Geopolitical Shifts: Countries are increasingly forming strategic alliances through plurilateral agreements to enhance cooperation in trade, technology, and security, as exemplified by the AUKUS agreement. Conclusion The emphasis on plurilateralism represents a pragmatic approach to overcoming the challenges of dysfunctional multilateralism. By enabling targeted collaboration among select nations, plurilateral agreements can effectively address pressing global issues, facilitate quicker decision-making, and adapt to the changing geopolitical landscape. This shift is essential for fostering trust and cooperation in an increasingly complex world. D.) The Darien Gap: Migration Route and Its Implications Why in News Migrants seeking entry into the United States are increasingly resorting to the Darien Gap, a treacherous jungle expanse between Panama and Colombia, often guided by human traffickers exploiting their aspirations for a better life. Background The Darien Gap has become a significant route for migrants, particularly from Latin America, who are fleeing poverty, economic instability, and political turmoil. Recently, there has been a notable increase in migrants from Asian countries, such as India, navigating this perilous path, often at great financial cost. Key Takeaways 1. Location and Physical Features: o The Darien Gap is a dense, roadless jungle region located on the border of Panama and Colombia. o It consists of swamps, rainforests, and rugged mountains, making it one of the most inaccessible areas in the world. 2. Significance in the Pan-American Highway: o The Darien Gap represents the only missing section (approximately 106 km) of the otherwise continuous Pan-American Highway, which stretches from Alaska to Argentina. 3. Strategic & Geopolitical Importance: o Migration Route: The region has emerged as a major passage for migrants from South America, Africa, and Asia attempting to reach North America. o Security Issues: The Darien Gap is notorious for drug trafficking, organized crime, and the presence of armed groups, creating a dangerous environment for migrants and locals alike. o Environmental Conservation vs. Development: Proposals for road construction through the Darien Gap are met with opposition due to concerns over deforestation, indigenous rights, and biodiversity loss. Environmental & Ecological Concerns 1. Biodiversity Hotspot: o The Darien Gap is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, housing endangered species and serving as a crucial part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. o Parts of the region are protected as national parks and reserves, including Darién National Park in Panama, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 2. Threats from Climate Change & Deforestation: o The unique ecosystem is under threat from logging, illegal settlements, and infrastructure development. 3. Indigenous Communities: o The region is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Emberá and Wounaan, who rely on traditional means for their survival and face challenges from external pressures on their lands. Conclusion The Darien Gap represents a complex intersection of migration, environmental conservation, and geopolitical issues. As more migrants traverse this perilous route in pursuit of a better future, the region's ecological integrity and the rights of indigenous communities remain under threat. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that balances the needs of migrants with the imperative of protecting one of the world's most biodiverse areas.   E.) Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0: Enhancing Ease of Doing Business Why in News Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the government's efforts through the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0, aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and regulatory burdens to enhance the ease of doing business in India. Overview of the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 • Announcement: Introduced in the Union Budget 2025-26. • Objective: To decriminalize over 100 outdated legal provisions to simplify regulations and improve the business environment. About Deregulation • Definition: Deregulation refers to the reduction or elimination of government oversight and control over an industry, aiming to foster a more competitive market environment. Global Deregulation Initiatives • United States: Establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (DoGE). • United Kingdom: Implementation of the Better Regulation Framework. • New Zealand: Formation of the Ministry of Regulation to streamline regulations. Significance of Deregulation in Fueling Economic Activity 1. Boosts Economic Growth: o For India to achieve a target of 8% GDP growth, it needs to increase investment from 31% to 35% of GDP. o Deregulation is a key factor in attracting investments, as demonstrated by the rapid growth experienced by Japan and China through similar initiatives. 2. Enhances Economic Freedom: o By removing bureaucratic hurdles, deregulation fosters competition and innovation within industries. o For instance, the Jan Vishwas Act 2023 decriminalized 183 provisions across 42 central Acts, significantly easing business compliance requirements. 3. Reduces Compliance Costs for MSMEs: o Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) often lack the resources to navigate complex regulations. o Deregulation can lower compliance costs and simplify processes, benefiting these enterprises. For example, Haryana and Tamil Nadu have amended building regulations to facilitate compliance for small businesses. 4. Enhances Competitive Federalism: o States can learn from each other's deregulation efforts, leading to improved industrial activity across the country. o An example includes Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Haryana, which have relaxed prohibitions on women working night shifts, creating more employment opportunities. Conclusion The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 represents a significant step towards reducing regulatory burdens and enhancing the ease of doing business in India. By focusing on deregulation, the government aims to boost investment, economic growth, and competitiveness while supporting MSMEs and fostering a collaborative environment among states. These efforts are crucial for achieving the country's economic objectives and ensuring sustainable development.   F.) Contribution of the Soliga Community to Tiger Conservation Why in News Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced the Soliga community during the 119th edition of Mann Ki Baat, commending their significant contributions to tiger conservation in the Biligirirangana Tiger Reserve (BRT). Background • The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) report highlighted a tiger population in the BRT Tiger Reserve of 69 tigers in 2014, which increased to 86 tigers in 2018. • However, the 2022 NTCA report noted a decline in the tiger population, attributing it to human encroachment and habitat degradation. Key Takeaways 1. The Soliga Community • Location: Primarily reside in the Biligirirangana Hills (BR Hills) and Male Mahadeshwara Hills of Karnataka, with some populations in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu. • Name Origin: The term "Soliga" translates to "children of bamboo," reflecting their close relationship with nature. 2. Language and Livelihood • Language: The Soliga speak Sholaga, a Dravidian language closely related to Kannada and Tamil. • Traditional Practices: Historically engaged in shifting cultivation and reliant on forests for their livelihood, they collect non-timber forest products (NTFP) such as: o Honey o Gooseberries o Bamboo o Medicinal plants • Herbal Knowledge: The community possesses extensive knowledge of over 300 herbs used for treating various ailments. 3. Cultural and Religious Practices • Spiritual Beliefs: The Soliga follow a blend of naturism, animism, and Hinduism. • Sacred Sites: Sites like Dodda Sampige, a large Michelia champaka tree, hold significant spiritual importance to the community. 4. Legal Recognition and Conservation Efforts • Tiger Reserve Declaration: In 2011, the BR Hills region was declared a tiger reserve, leading to restrictions on traditional practices. • Forest Rights Recognition: The Soliga community legally contested these limitations, becoming the first tribal group in India to have their forest rights recognized within a core area of a tiger reserve. • Conservation Collaboration: They have collaborated in conservation efforts, significantly contributing to the doubling of the tiger population between 2011 and 2015. Conclusion The Soliga community's deep-rooted connection with nature and their traditional knowledge have been pivotal in the efforts to conserve the tiger population in the BRT Tiger Reserve. Their legal recognition and active participation in conservation highlight the importance of integrating indigenous communities in environmental efforts, showcasing a model of coexistence and sustainable practices. This collaboration is crucial for the future of tiger conservation and biodiversity in India.