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

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1. Why is deciphering the Indus script important?

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

Topic: Indian History – Ancient History

Context

• The Indian State of Tamil Nadu’s chief minister M.K Stalin has put a bounty of almost Rs 1 million on the process of decoding the IVC civilizational script.
• This award announcing this date coincided with the 100th anniversary of the IVCs unveiling that took place in 1924 on the 19th of September as reported by John Marshall who served as the Director General of ASI at the time.

Overview of the Indus Valley Civilisation

• The IVC also acknowledged as the Harappan society existed between 3000 to 1500 BCE during the bronze age.
• It included modern states like Pakistan, Afghanistan and India and spanned up over 1.5 million square kilometers.
• This was larger than the combined geographical area of Egypt and Mesopotamia.
• Noted archaeologist Ahmad Hasan Dani made a point to state that the IVC was located around ancient routes that were commonly used for migration from central and western Asia to the region of India.
• Indus Valley Script The Indus Valley script is an undeciphered writing system used by the Indus Valley Civilization, that existed around 3000-1500 BCE.
• Just like the modern day seals, pottery, crafts, the IVC also used symbols on a variety of different items, artifacts and areas spread throughout India, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• Because IVC is still yet to be decoded after a lot of research was conducted, the script is often associated with the term ‘Mystery Script’.
• It is thought that the script represented the commuting languages from the region, while some have suggested that it may have been linked to the Dravidian language.
• It likely encoded the language of the region, with some scholars suggesting a possible Dravidian connection.
• The script features no prefixes or infixes, consistent with the structure of Dravidian languages.
• Studies indicate the script might have evolved into later forms, as seen in some south Indian graffiti marks.
• Its decipherment is crucial for understanding the culture and communication of the Harappan people.

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The Dravidian Hypothesis: Connecting the Indus Script to Proto-Dravidian Language

Renowned scholars such as Iravatham Mahadevan and Asko Parpola have proposed that the ancient Indus script may be linked to the proto-Dravidian language. Mahadevan pointed out key linguistic evidence supporting this hypothesis, including the presence of Dravidian loanwords in the Rigveda and the continued use of the Dravidian language Brahui in the Indus Valley region. Despite these findings, Mahadevan emphasized that further research is necessary to validate the Dravidian theory conclusively.

Key Findings from Tamil Nadu’s Archaeological Research

Tamil Nadu’s State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) conducted an in-depth study to compare ancient graffiti symbols discovered in Tamil Nadu with the Indus script. Intriguingly, nearly 90% of the graffiti marks found in Tamil Nadu bore similarities to the Indus symbols.

Researchers clarified the distinction between "graffiti"—marks found on pottery—and "script"—marks inscribed on seals and metal artifacts, though both forms are believed to share common origins.

Extensive Documentation and Digitisation Project

In 2022-23, TNSDA launched a major project to document and study ancient pottery graffiti and inscriptions. The team collected 15,184 pottery pieces featuring graffiti from 140 archaeological sites across Tamil Nadu. This study identified 2,107 distinct symbols, comprising:

• 42 basic signs
• 544 variations
• 1,521 combinations

Notably, around 60% of the symbols closely resembled or matched those of the Indus script, suggesting a potential cultural connection between ancient Tamil Nadu and the Indus Valley Civilization.

• By uncovering these remarkable similarities, researchers have strengthened the hypothesis of a historical link between the Dravidian language and the Indus script. Further studies could provide deeper insights into the shared heritage of these ancient civilizations.

Exploring Cultural Connections

• The monograph suggests possible cultural exchanges between the IVC and South India during the Copper and Iron Ages.
• Evidence includes the discovery of carnelian beads, agate beads, and high-tin bronze objects in South Indian Iron Age graves, which indicate northern connections.
• Further research, including excavations and linguistic analysis, is needed to substantiate these cultural links. 

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2. Union govt. yet to wake up from its slumber on Dam Safety Act, says SC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Topic: Disaster and disaster management

Context: SC Criticizes Delay in Implementing Dam Safety Act

The Supreme Court has sharply criticized the Union government for its failure to implement the Dam Safety Act, 2021, which was enacted to ensure dam safety and prevent potential disasters. Despite being passed nearly five years ago, key provisions of the Act remain unimplemented, raising serious concerns about national disaster preparedness.

Key Highlights and Analysis

1. Non-Formation of National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS)
2. The Supreme Court highlighted that the National Committee on Dam Safety, mandated under Section 5 of the Act to be formed within 60 days of its commencement, has not yet been constituted.
3. Concerns Raised by Kerala
4. Kerala expressed concerns regarding the 129-year-old Mullaperiyar dam, urging for a reduction in the permissible water level to prevent potential disasters.
5. Tamil Nadu’s Submission
6. Tamil Nadu informed the court that the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) had been established. However, the court questioned the legal validity of forming the NDSA without first constituting the NCDS, as required by the Act.

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Key Provisions of the Dam Safety Act, 2021

1. National Committee on Dam Safety (NCDS):
2. The Act mandates the formation of the NCDS to advise on policy matters, dam safety standards, and protocols.
3. National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA):
4. The NDSA is responsible for implementing the NCDS’s policies and resolving disputes between states or dam owners.
5. State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSOs):
6. Each state must establish an SDSO to inspect dams, monitor their safety, and maintain records.
7. Surveillance and Inspection:
8. Regular inspections and surveillance are mandated to assess dam conditions and identify risks.
9. Emergency Action Plans:
10. Dam owners are required to prepare and implement emergency action plans to mitigate risks in case of dam failures.
11. Penalties for Violations:
12. The Act prescribes strict penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violations of its provisions. It also emphasizes proper maintenance, data collection on dam safety, and training of dam personnel.

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3. India Deepens Engagement with Taliban: High-Level Meeting Highlights Security, Aid, and Strategic Interests

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Cover Page – Page No. – 01)

Topic: International Relations

CContext: India’s High-Level Dialogue with Taliban Leadership

In a significant diplomatic move, India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Afghanistan’s acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai, marking a notable upgrade in India’s engagement with the Taliban regime. This meeting signals India’s strategic intent to maintain a foothold in Afghanistan amid evolving regional dynamics.

Key Issues Discussed

1. Security Concerns:
2. India reiterated its primary concern that Afghan territory should not serve as a base for anti-India terror groups. The Taliban acknowledged these concerns and assured India of cooperation in maintaining regional security.
3. Humanitarian and Development Aid:
4. India has consistently provided humanitarian assistance, including food supplies, medical aid, and earthquake relief. Discussions explored India’s expanded role in future development projects, particularly in healthcare and refugee rehabilitation.
5. Trade and Connectivity:
6. Both nations examined the potential of utilizing Iran’s Chabahar Port to enhance trade and facilitate humanitarian support. Strengthening trade ties is part of India’s long-term strategy to sustain its influence in Afghanistan despite regional challenges.
7. Sports Diplomacy:
8. Cricket emerged as a key soft power initiative, with India offering training facilities for Afghan players, fostering goodwill and cultural ties.

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Geopolitical Context

India’s renewed engagement with the Taliban comes amidst shifting regional dynamics:

• China’s Expanding Role:
• China’s active involvement in Afghanistan, including infrastructure projects and diplomatic exchanges, has prompted India to reinforce its strategic presence.
• Pakistan-Taliban Tensions:
• The strained relationship between Pakistan and the Taliban has diminished Islamabad’s influence, creating opportunities for India to deepen its ties.
• Weakened Regional Players:
• With Iran preoccupied by internal issues and Russia focusing on the Ukraine conflict, India aims to fill the geopolitical vacuum and safeguard its investments in Afghanistan.

Strategic Implications

India’s carefully calibrated approach balances engagement with the Taliban while refraining from granting official recognition. Key strategic goals include:

1. Securing Investments:
2. Protecting India’s $3 billion investments in Afghan infrastructure, including the Salma Dam and Parliament Building.
3. Countering Chinese Influence:
4. By strengthening its engagement, India aims to counter China’s growing foothold in Afghanistan.
5. Promoting Regional Stability:
6. India’s focus on humanitarian aid and development positions it as a reliable partner in Afghanistan’s future, fostering long-term stability.

Roadblocks in India-Afghanistan Relations

Despite efforts to deepen ties, several challenges hinder India-Afghanistan relations:

1. Pakistan’s Role:
2. Pakistan views India’s presence in Afghanistan as a threat and continues to block India’s initiatives through various means.
3. Terrorism Threat:
4. The presence of terror groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS in Afghanistan poses a persistent security risk for India.
5. Economic and Infrastructure Challenges:
6. Afghanistan’s underdeveloped economy and widespread corruption hamper India’s infrastructure and development projects.
7. China’s Growing Influence:
8. China’s increasing engagement with the Taliban adds a layer of competition for India in the region.
9. Drug Trafficking:
10. Afghanistan’s status as the world’s largest opium producer fuels violence and instability, directly affecting regional security.

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Facts

1. A.P. set to hold 3-day Flamingo Festival

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Context

• The Flamingo Festival 2025 will be held at Sullurpeta, Andhra Pradesh, showcasing birdwatching, eco-tourism, and cultural activities to promote biodiversity and local development.

About Flamingo:

• Known for their distinctive pink or reddish coloration, flamingos acquire this from the carotenoid pigments in their diet, mainly from algae and small invertebrates.
• Habitat: Found in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, often in shallow saline or alkaline lakes and mudflats.
• Behavior: Flamingos are social birds, known for living in large colonies, sometimes numbering in the thousands.
• Flamingos migrate to India during the winter season, primarily to coastal wetlands and estuaries for feeding and breeding.

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• Feeding: They have specialized beaks designed for filter-feeding, allowing them to consume small organisms from water.
• Ecological Significance: Flamingos help in maintaining ecosystem balance by controlling algae and small invertebrate populations.
• IUCN Red List Status:
• Greater Flamingo: Least Concern
• Lesser Flamingo: Near Threatened

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2. Severe Winter Storm in the US: Polar Vortex Disruption Leads to Fatalities and Widespread Chaos

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained- Page No. – 15)

Context

• The article examines the severe winter storm in the US caused by polar vortex disruption, its impacts, and the potential influence of climate change.

Analysis of the news:

Impact of the Winter Storm in the United States

• A severe winter storm has caused widespread disruptions across the United States, leading to the loss of at least five lives, mass school closures, hazardous road conditions, and power outages. 
• Approximately 60 million people across 30 states are under weather alerts, with seven states declaring emergencies: Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Arkansas. 

What is the Polar Vortex ?

The polar vortex is a large, low-pressure system of cold air swirling around the Earth’s polar regions. It exists in two forms:

1. Tropospheric Polar Vortex: Found in the lowest layer of the atmosphere (up to 15 km), where most weather phenomena occur.
2. Stratospheric Polar Vortex: Located 15–50 km above the surface, strongest in autumn and disappears in summer.

Extreme cold occurs when the polar vortex weakens, allowing arctic air to travel southward, disrupting weather patterns and leading to cold spells even in regions as far south as Florida.

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Role of the Jet Stream in Weather Disruptions

• The jet stream, a strong wind band in the upper atmosphere, typically keeps cold air confined to the poles. 
• When the polar vortex weakens, the jet stream becomes wavy and unstable, enabling cold air to spill southward. 
• This interaction is a key factor in creating extreme weather conditions during polar vortex disruptions.

Climate Change and the Polar Vortex

• Research is ongoing to determine the exact link between climate change and the polar vortex. 
• However, some scientists argue that the accelerated warming of the poles weakens the polar vortex and jet stream, making them more prone to disruptions. 
• As global temperatures rise unevenly, the imbalance further destabilizes the system, leading to more frequent and intense cold spells in mid-latitude regions.

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