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Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 13 November 2024

Content: A mixed report card for the IMEC Stop the free fall Debating the ‘healthy longevity initiative’ A mixed report card for the IMEC Background Of India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC)  : Event: IMEC announced in September 2023 during the G20 summit in New Delhi. Objective: Reduce transit time by 40% and costs by 30% compared to the Suez Canal route. Relevance: GS 2 (International Relations ) Practice Question:Highlight the challenges faced by the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC). How India can maximise its benefits from the corridor? (250 words) Progress and Challenges : Initial Optimism: The announcement was met with optimism. Conflict Implications: The escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict on October 7, 2023, halted progress. Key Stakeholders: Saudi Arabia and Jordan faced delays, impacting the northern part of the corridor. Geopolitics: Arab countries’ relations with Israel affect the project’s optics and progress. Eastern Part Progress: UAE-India relations have strengthened, leading to significant progress. Trade Implications : Bilateral Trade Growth: Post-CEPA, bilateral trade between India and the UAE increased by 93%, from $43.30 billion in 2020-21 to $83.64 billion in 2023-24. Non-Oil Trade: Significant growth in non-oil trade, indicating diversification of the trade basket. Facilitation : Virtual Trade Corridor: Launched by India and the UAE to streamline administrative processes, reduce costs, and ease trade. Model for IMEC: This initiative provides a framework for other IMEC countries to follow for cross-border trade facilitation. Uncertain Western Part vs. Committed Eastern Part Western Challenges: Uncertainty due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Eastern Progress: Continued development of economic linkages and infrastructure. Other Elements : Clean energy export, undersea fibre-optic cables, energy grid linkages, and telecommunication lines are on hold until the situation normalises. Recommendations for India Port Preparation: Develop ports and specific economic zones along connectivity nodes. Improve Domestic Logistics: Enhance digital footprint to reduce logistics time and costs. Global Supply Chain Integration: Strengthen manufacturing competitiveness to position India as a global supply chain alternative. IMEC Secretariat: Establish a secretariat to organise and streamline the corridor’s structure and operations. Conclusion The IMEC, with significant progress in the eastern part and halted progress in the western part, needs to be implemented effectively. Strengthening bilateral relations is the key. Stop the free fall Background : Trigger Event: The diplomatic tension began with Canada’s public allegations that Indian officials were involved in the 2023 murder of Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Escalation: USA allegations regarding a plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun further complicated matters. Recent Incidents: On November 3, a camp organised by the Indian mission in Brampton was disrupted by Khalistan activists, followed by a protest by a Hindu group. Relevance: GS 2 ( International Relations ) Practice Question: Analyse the effect of the India-Canada diplomatic tension on the Indian diaspora in Canada. What measures can be taken to ensure their safety? (250 words) Impact on People Indian Diaspora: Approximately 19 lakh people of Indian origin in Canada maintain close ties with India and require consular services. Security Concerns: The Canadian government must ensure the security of Indian diplomats. Economic Relations Trade Impact: Bilateral trade in goods and services is around $19 billion. Negotiations on a bilateral trade treaty are stalled. Visa Issues: Disruptions in visa issuance on both sides can impact economic relations. Broader Context People-to-People Contacts: Sustained contacts have been beneficial, but current turmoil results in disrupted relations among people. Canada’s Border Policy: New restrictions on student visas will affect Indian aspirants. Nearly two-thirds of the Canadian population feels there are too many immigrants. Conclusion There is a growing need to ensure the safety of both diasporas because the normalisation of relations between the countries is not happening any soon. Debating the ‘Healthy Longevity Initiative’ Context: World Bank published a reportcalled‘Unlocking the Power of Healthy Longevity: Demographic Change, Non-communicable Diseases, and Human Capital’ in September 2024. Focus: Impact of demographic changes and the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Relevance: GS 1 (Society ), GS 2 ( Social Justice ) Practice Question: Discuss the challenges for addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), with a special focus on India. Suggest key measures (250 words) Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic conditions that are not transmissible directly from one person to another. NCDs are primarily caused by a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioural factors. Examples:Cardiovascular Diseases, Cancers, Chronic Respiratory Diseases, Diabetes. Global Data: Mortality: NCDs are responsible for 71% of all deaths globally, accounting for 41 million deaths each year. High-Burden Regions: Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) bear the brunt, with 85% of premature deaths (those occurring between ages 30-69) due to NCDs. Projections: The number of deaths due to NCDs is expected to rise from 61 million in 2023 to 92 million by 2050. India: NCDs currently account for approximately 60% of all deaths in India. Important Findings Ageing Population: A significant demographic shift towards an ageing population. Rise of NCDs: NCDs are becoming the leading cause of death in LMICs. Projections: Global deaths are expected to rise from 61 million in 2023 to 92 million in 2050. Health Care Needs: Increased need for NCD-related hospitalization and long-term care. Proposed Initiative Healthy Longevity Initiative (HLI): A life course approach to sharply reduce avoidable deaths and disabilities. Goals: Increase levels of physical, mental, and social functioning through middle and older ages, reduce serious disabilities, and ensure a short period before inevitable death. LMICs Challenges Healthcare Accessibility: Lack of accessible healthcare, competent medical staff, and well-equipped hospitals. Inadequate Funding: Insufficient state funding for healthcare leading to catastrophic health expenses and impoverishment. Modest and Feasible Objectives Modest Strategy: Strategies for reducing the surge in NCDs need to be realistic and achievable. India’s Situation: India’s elderly population (140 million) faces a high growth rate and increased susceptibility to NCDs. Social Security Schemes Utilizing social security schemes to handle Diabetes and Heart Diseases Pensions help cover healthcare expenses, thus reducing NCDs. High costs of travel, fees, and medicines impose a financial burden, leading to out-of-pocket expenditure and indebtedness. Lifestyle Factors Dietary Risks: High intake of refined grains, red meats, and fat-dense foods increases the risk of diabetes and heart diseases. Age-related Risks: Sedentary lifestyles, high-calorie diets, and genetic predispositions increase the risk of diabetes and heart diseases with age. Ayushman Bharat Scheme Objective: Provide health insurance coverage to the bottom 40% of households. Challenges: Inadequate funding, stringent eligibility requirements, and corruption issues hamper its effectiveness. Hospital Expenses and Supreme Court Intervention Inflated Prices: Private hospitals are notorious for inflated healthcare prices. Regulation: The Supreme Court directed the central government to regulate hospital procedure rates with informed pricing decisions. Behavioural and Policy Changes Lifestyle Changes: Importance of physical activity and balanced diets to prevent obesity and related NCDs. Tobacco Consumption: Limiting tobacco use can reduce NCD prevalence. Taxation: Taxing unhealthy products to reduce multi-morbidity prevalence. Conclusion The World Bank report on healthy longevity and NCDs sheds light on the rising burden of NCDs in LMICs. There is a growing need for realistic and feasible strategies.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 13 November 2024

CONTENTS State of Food and Agriculture 2024 51st Chief Justice of India Nano Fertilisers Ransomware Snakebite Envenoming Caterpillar fungus State of Food and Agriculture 2024 Context: India’s total hidden costs of agrifood systems were around $1.3 trillion annually, largely driven by unhealthy dietary patterns and dietary risks associated with non-communicable diseases, found the State of Food and Agriculture 2024 report by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Relevance: GS II: Agriculture Dimensions of the Article: Key Highlights of the State of Food and Agriculture 2024 Annual Hidden Costs in Agrifood Systems: The global hidden costs in agrifood systems are estimated at around USD 12 trillion each year. Main Contributors to Hidden Costs: Unhealthy dietary patterns are responsible for 70% of these costs, totaling USD 8.1 trillion, primarily due to non-communicable diseases like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. India’s Position: India ranks third globally with hidden costs amounting to USD 1.3 trillion, following China (USD 1.8 trillion) and the United States (USD 1.4 trillion). These costs are indicative of significant health, social, and environmental challenges within India’s agrifood system. Dietary risks, particularly the high consumption of processed foods and low intake of plant-based foods, account for over 73% of these hidden costs in India. The excessive intake of processed foods and additives incurs an annual cost of USD 128 billion, mainly due to associated diseases. Insufficient consumption of plant-based foods and beneficial fatty acids contribute an additional USD 846 billion to India’s hidden costs, placing a strain on healthcare systems. Labor Issues: Low wages and productivity among agrifood workers, exacerbated by distributional failures, contribute to poverty within the sector. Classification of Agrifood Systems: The report identifies six agrifood system types: protracted crisis, traditional, expanding, diversifying, formalising, and industrial, each with unique hidden cost profiles. Dietary Risks Across Different Systems: In most systems, the primary dietary risk is the low intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. In protracted crisis and traditional systems, low fruit and vegetable consumption is a major concern. High sodium intake is more prevalent from traditional to formalising systems, peaking in formalising systems and reducing in industrial systems. Consumption of processed and red meats increases in more industrialised systems. Environmental and Social Costs: Significant environmental costs, including greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen runoff, totaling USD 720 billion, are noted especially in diversifying agrifood systems. Countries in prolonged crises face considerable relative environmental costs, amounting to up to 20% of their GDP. Traditional and protracted crisis systems experience the highest social costs, such as poverty and undernourishment, accounting for 8% to 18% of GDP in these areas. Some key recommendations from the report included: Providing financial and regulatory incentives to advance the adoption of sustainable practices along the food supply chain and to limit power imbalances between agrifood systems stakeholders Promoting healthier diets by enacting policies that make nutritious food more affordable and accessible and reduce health related hidden costs Incentivising reductions in greenhouse gas and nitrogen emissions, harmful land-use change and biodiversity loss through labelling and certification, voluntary standards and industry-wide due diligence initiatives Empowering consumers with clear, accessible information about the environmental, social and health impacts of food choices, while ensuring even vulnerable households can benefit from change India’s Efforts Towards Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) FAO’s Definition of SFS: According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), a sustainable food system effectively balances economic profitability, social equity, and environmental protection, which collectively support long-term food security. Legislative Support: The National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013 showcases India’s dedication by providing food entitlements to over 800 million citizens. Key Initiatives for SFS: National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Focuses on enhancing agricultural sustainability through various innovative practices. Fortified Rice Distribution (2024-2028): Aims to improve nutritional standards by fortifying rice, a staple in the Indian diet. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY): Encourages states to draft and execute their own agriculture development plans. Eat Right Initiative: Promotes healthy eating practices among the Indian population. Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM): Integrates digital technology into agriculture to boost efficiency and transparency. Challenges India Faces in Implementing SFS Environmental and Climate Challenges: Changing weather patterns, erratic rainfall, and extreme climate events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves negatively impact crop yields and threaten food security. Agricultural Practices: The excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides contributes to soil degradation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss. Declining yields, reduced soil fertility, lower soil organic carbon (SOC) levels, and water scarcity are pressing concerns. Regulatory and Health Issues: Discrepancies in the Indian standards for sugar and salt in processed foods compared to those set by the World Health Organization (WHO) complicate regulatory efforts and impact the nutritional quality of processed foods. Trade and Economic Challenges: Occasional rejections of India’s agricultural exports in key markets due to quality issues underline the necessity for enhanced standards. Small landholdings among farmers restrict productivity and income, while reliance on outdated farming methods leads to inefficient resource use and low yields. India’s trade agreements rarely focus on SFS, limiting opportunities to leverage mutual standards for growth. A lack of product-specific export strategies and comprehensive data hampers SFS-aligned trade planning. -Source: Down To Earth 51st Chief Justice of India Context: Recently, the President of India administered the oath of office to Justice Sanjiv Khanna as the Chief Justice of India (CJI). He succeeded Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, becoming the 51st CJI. Relevance: GS II- Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Appointment of the CJI Administrative Powers of CJI (Master of Roster) Removal Appointment of the CJI: The Chief Justice of India and the Judges of the Supreme Court (SC) are appointed by the President under clause (2) of Article 124 of the Constitution. As far as the CJI is concerned, the outgoing CJI recommends his successor. The Union Law Minister forwards the recommendation to the Prime Minister who, in turn, advises the President. SC in the Second Judges Case (1993), ruled that the senior most judge of the Supreme Court should alone be appointed to the office of the CJI. The Supreme Court collegium is headed by the Chief Justice of India and comprises four other senior most judges of the court. The collegium system is the system of appointment and transfer of judges that has evolved through judgments of the Supreme Court (Judges Cases), and not by an Act of Parliament or by a provision of the Constitution. In 2019, the SC ruled that the office of Chief Justice of India (CJI) comes under the purview of the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. Qualifications The Indian Constitution says in Article 124 (3) that in order to be appointed as a judge in the Supreme Court of India, the person has to fit in the following criteria: He/She is a citizen of India Has been for at least five years a Judge of a High Court or of two or more such Courts in succession; Has been for at least ten years an advocate of a High Court or of two or more such Courts in succession; or is, in the opinion of the President, a distinguished jurist Administrative Powers of CJI (Master of Roster): It is common to refer to the office as primus inter pares – first amongst equals. Besides his adjudicatory role, the CJI also plays the role of the administrative head of the Court. In his administrative capacity, the Chief Justice exercises the prerogative of allocating cases to particular benches. The Chief Justice also decides the number of judges that will hear a case. Thus, he can influence the result by simply choosing judges that he thinks may favour a particular outcome. Such administrative powers can be exercised without collegial consensus, and without any stated reasons. Removal: He/She can be removed by an order of the President only after an address by Parliament has been presented to President. This should be supported by a special majority of each House of Parliament (i.e., by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting). Grounds of Removal: Proved misbehaviour or Incapacity (Article 124(4)). -Source: the Hindu Nano Fertilisers  Context: Recently, Indian scientists have developed nano coated muriate of potash (nano fertilisers) which can enhance the nutrient use efficiency (NUE) of fertilisers.  Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: About Nano Fertilisers Significance of Nano Fertilisers in Agriculture Challenges Associated with Nano Fertilizers About Nano Fertilisers: Nano fertilisers are highly efficient fertilisers that provide nutrients like nitrogen to crops through fine granules. These fertilisers have a smaller particle size, which makes them more effective than traditional fertilisers. Nano Urea Liquid: Nano urea liquid is a type of nano fertiliser that was developed in 2022 by the Indian Farmers and Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO). The liquid is made up of urea and other micronutrients, which are encapsulated in nano-sized polymer coatings. The coating helps in the controlled release of the nutrients, ensuring that the crops receive a steady supply of nutrients over time. The primary benefit of using nano urea liquid is that it can replace conventional urea and reduce its requirement by 50%. This is because nano urea liquid is more efficient, and the crops require a smaller quantity of it to meet their nutrient requirements. Significance of Nano Fertilisers in Agriculture: Nano fertilisers have the potential to revolutionize the agriculture industry with their numerous benefits, some of which are listed below: Reduce Losses: Nano fertilisers use nanoscale porous domains on plant surfaces to deliver nutrients, which improves the effectiveness of nitrogen delivery and reduces losses to the environment. This leads to a more efficient use of fertilisers and helps in reducing environmental pollution. Increase Farmers’ Income: Nano fertilisers are cost-effective and easy on the pocket of farmers, which can significantly increase their income. It can also reduce the cost of logistics and warehousing. For example, a small bottle of 500 millilitres of nano urea spray is said to be a substitute for a full bag of 45 kilogrammes of conventional urea. Making Crops Stronger: Nano fertilisers reduce the excess use of conventional fertilisers and make crops stronger and healthier. They also protect crops from the lodging effect, which is the bending over of the stems near ground level of grain crops, making them very difficult to harvest and can dramatically reduce yield. Challenges Associated with Nano Fertilizers: High Cost: The advanced technology and production methods used for producing nano-fertilizers make them expensive compared to conventional fertilizers. As a result, small farmers may find it unaffordable, limiting their access to this technology. Quality Control: Strict quality control measures are necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of nano-fertilizers. However, the absence of standardized regulations for their production and distribution has resulted in poor quality control and inconsistent outcomes. Environmental Concerns: The long-term effects of nano-fertilizers on soil health, water quality, and ecosystem balance raise environmental concerns. Proper testing and regulation are essential to ensure the sustainable use of these fertilizers. Regulatory Framework: The development and usage of nano-fertilizers require a comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure their safe and sustainable use. The lack of a robust regulatory framework has led to confusion and uncertainty among farmers and policymakers. Limited Research: The research on the long-term effects of nano-fertilizers is limited. More research is necessary to fully understand the impact of these fertilizers on the environment and human health. -Source: Down To Earth Ransomware Context: According to the 2023-24 annual report of the Department of Personnel Training (DoPT), a crucial defence unit was affected by a ransomware attack in 2023.  The CBI investigated multiple cybercrimes with national security implications, including ransomware, a massive DDOS attack on critical infrastructure, and a malware breach within a Ministry. Relevance: GS III: Security Challenges Dimensions of the Article: What is ransomware? What is Cyber Attack and Cyber Security? What are other similar types of Cyber Attacks? Which agencies in India deal with cyber-attacks? Impact of Ransomware Attack on Banking Operations Target of the Attack: C-Edge Technologies Ltd. was hit by a ransomware attack, impairing its service delivery to cooperative banks and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). Disruption in Payment Systems: Customers at affected banks faced difficulties accessing critical payment channels such as the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Aadhaar-enabled payment systems (AePS). Operational Continuity in Some RRBs: Certain RRBs remained operational, relying on alternative technology service providers backed by their sponsor banks. Wider Effects on the Payment Ecosystem Exposure of Vulnerabilities: The incident exposed the susceptibility of tech providers integral to sustaining the payment infrastructure. Demand for Enhanced Cybersecurity: It emphasizes the essential need for strengthened cybersecurity defenses to prevent future occurrences. Importance of Collaborative Efforts: Enhanced collaboration among the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), banks, and tech firms is vital to quickly counteract and alleviate the consequences of such disturbances. What is ransomware? Ransomware is a type of malicious software, used by cyber criminals, to infect a computer system by blocking access to the stored data by encrypting the files. A ransom is then demanded from the owner in exchange for the decryption key. While it is not yet clear as to how exactly the AIIMS computer systems were targeted, the malware may usually be injected remotely by tricking the user into downloading it upon clicking an ostensibly safe web link sent via email or other means, including hacking. It can spread throughout the network by exploiting existing vulnerabilities. Ransomware attacks can also be accompanied by theft of sensitive data for other sinister motives. What is Cyber Attack and Cyber Security? Cyber attack is an assault launched by cybercriminals using one or more computers against a single or multiple computers or networks. A Cyber Attack can maliciously disable computers, steal data, or use a breached computer as a launch point for other attacks. Cybercriminals use a variety of methods to launch a Cyber Attack, including malware, phishing, ransomware, denial of service, among other methods. Cybersecurity means securing the cyberspace from attack, damage, misuse and economic espionage. Cyberspace is a global domain within the information environment consisting of interdependent IT infrastructure such as Internet, Telecom networks, computer systems etc. What are other similar types of Cyber Attacks? Viruses which are the most commonly-known form of malware and potentially the most destructive. They can do anything from erasing the data on your computer to hijacking your computer to attack other systems, send spam, or host and share illegal content. Worm is a type of malware that spreads copies of itself from computer to computer which can replicate itself without any human interaction, and it does not need to attach itself to a software program in order to cause damage. Trojan is a type of malware that is often disguised as legitimate software which can be employed by cyber-thieves and hackers trying to gain access to users’ systems. Spyware collects your personal information and passes it on to interested third parties without your knowledge or consent. Spyware is also known for installing Trojan viruses. Adware displays pop-up advertisements when you are online. Fake security software poses as legitimate software to trick you into opening your system to further infection, providing personal information, or paying for unnecessary or even damaging “clean ups”. Browser hijacking software changes your browser settings (such as your home page and toolbars), displays pop-up ads and creates new desktop shortcuts. It can also relay your personal preferences to interested third parties. Which agencies in India deal with cyber-attacks? Set up in 2004, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is the national nodal agency that collects, analyses and circulates inputs on cyber-attacks; issues guidelines, advisories for preventive measures, forecasts and issues alerts; and takes measures to handle any significant cyber security event. It also imparts training to computer system managers. The National Cyber Security Coordinator, under the National Security Council Secretariat, coordinates with different agencies at the national level on cybersecurity issues, while the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre has been set up for the protection of national critical information infrastructure. According to the government, the Cyber Swachhta Kendra (Botnet Cleaning and Malware Analysis Centre) has been launched for detection of malicious software programmes and to provide free tools to remove the same, while the National Cyber Coordination Centre works on creating awareness about existing and potential threats. -Source: Indian Express Snakebite Envenoming Context: Recently, the Tamil Nadu government has officially declared snakebite envenomation as a notifiable disease under the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act, 1939. Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: Snakebite Envenoming (SE) Snakebite Envenoming (SE) SE is a grave disease often caused by venom injection from snakebites or venom spray into the eyes. It’s a daily health hazard in rural areas of Africa, Middle East, Asia, Oceania, and Latin America, affecting those dependent on agriculture. Impact of SE Long-term health issues in survivors, predominantly in developing nations, include physical deformities, kidney issues, and mental health effects. Mortality Data The WHO reports an annual global mortality of 81,410 to 137,880 due to snakebites. WHO’s Strategy Against SE In 2019, WHO aimed to reduce snakebite-induced mortality and morbidity by half by 2030. There’s a target for a 25% rise in qualified antivenom producers by 2030. A proposed global antivenom reserve is in the works. National health strategies are being adapted to include snakebite management and community education. Indian Efforts Preceding WHO’s plans, ICMR initiated community awareness and health infrastructure development in 2013. Aligning with global strategies, India implemented a National Action Plan in 2015 for tackling snakebite hazards. -Source: Indian Express Caterpillar fungus Context: New research into a chemical produced by a caterpillar fungus that has shown promise as a possible cancer treatment has revealed how it interacts with genes to interrupt cell growth signals. Relevance: GS III: Species in News Caterpillar Fungus (Ophiocordyceps Sinensis) Biological Classification and Habitat: Caterpillar fungus is a fungal parasite that targets larvae of the ghost moth. It naturally occurs on the Tibetan Plateau and adjacent high Himalayan regions, at altitudes between 3,200 and 4,500 meters above sea level. Local Names and Cultural Significance: Known regionally by various names: Kira Jari in India, Yartsagunbu in Tibet, Yarso Gumbub in Bhutan, Dong Chong Xia Cao in China, and Yarsagumba in Nepal. Habitats in India: In India, it is found in alpine meadows within several protected areas including: Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve Askot Wildlife Sanctuary Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve Dehan-Debang Biosphere Reserve Conservation Status: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies it as Vulnerable, highlighting its risk of extinction in the wild due to overharvesting and habitat loss. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 12 November 2024

CONTENTS National Legal Services Day Konark Sun Temple National Legal Services Day Context: The National Legal Services Day (NLSD) is celebrated on 9th November every year to spread awareness for ensuring reasonable fair and justice procedure for all citizens. Relevance: GS II- Polity About National Legal Services Day: NLSD was first started by the Supreme Court of India in 1995 to provide help and support to poor and weaker sections of the society. Free legal services are provided in matters before Civil, Criminal and Revenue Courts, Tribunals or any other authority exercising judicial or quasi judicial functions. It is observed to make the citizens of the country aware of the various provisions under the Legal Services Authorities Act and the rights of the litigants. On this day, each jurisdiction organizes legal aid camps, Lok adalats, and legal aid programmes. Objectives of Legal Services Authorities: Provide free legal aid and advice. Spread legal awareness. Organise lok adalats. Promote settlements of disputes through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanisms. Various kinds of ADR mechanisms are Arbitration, Conciliation, Judicial settlement including settlement through Lok Adalat, or Mediation. Provide compensation to victims of crime. Legal Services Institutions for providing Free Legal Services: National Level: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). It was constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. The Chief Justice of India is the Patron-in-Chief. State Level: State Legal Services Authority. It is headed by the Chief Justice of the State High Court who is its Patron-in-Chief. District Level District Legal Services Authority. The District Judge of the District is its ex-officio Chairman. Persons Eligible for Getting Free Legal Services: Women and children Members of SC/ST Industrial workmen Victims of mass disaster, violence, flood, drought, earthquake, industrial disaster. Disabled persons Persons in custody Those persons who have annual income of less than the amount prescribed by the respective State Government, if the case is before any court other than the Supreme Court, and less than Rs. 5 Lakhs, if the case is before the Supreme Court. Victims of Trafficking in Human beings or begar. Konark Sun Temple Context: Recently, four sandstone replicas of the iconic Konark wheels from the Konark Temple have been installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan. This initiative is among various efforts to incorporate traditional cultural and historical elements into Rashtrapati Bhavan.  Relevance: GS I: History Dimensions of the Article: Key Facts About Konark Sun Temple Key Facts About Konark Sun Temple: Location and Attribution: The Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century CE Sun temple located in Konark, along the coastline in the Puri district of Odisha, India. It is attributed to King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty and was built around 1250 CE. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Sun God Surya. Architectural Marvel: The temple complex is renowned for its distinctive appearance, resembling a 100-foot-high chariot with massive stone wheels and horses. This architectural masterpiece is carved entirely from stone. It is considered the pinnacle of Kalinga temple architecture. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and historical significance. It is also a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and is featured on the reverse side of the Indian currency note of 10 rupees. Colorful Nickname: European sailors referred to the temple as the “Black Pagoda” as early as 1676 due to its resemblance to a tiered tower that appeared black. In contrast, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the “White Pagoda.” Key Features: The temple symbolizes the chariot of the Sun God, drawn by seven horses and with twelve pairs of wheels, representing the Sun’s movement across the heavens. Each wheel has 24 spokes, signifying the 24 hours in a day. These wheels also functioned as sundials, with shadows indicating the time of day. The temple complex consists of well-organized spatial units, including the vimana (principal sanctuary), jahamogana (audience hall), and natmandir (dance hall). The vimana once had a high tower with a shikhara (crowning cap), known as Rekha deul, which was destroyed in the 19th century. Architectural Significance: The Konark Sun Temple stands as a testament to the architectural and artistic brilliance of the Kalinga dynasty. It combines religious symbolism with astronomical and timekeeping elements, making it a remarkable historical and cultural treasure.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 12 November 2024

Contents : The LAC agreement, the détentes and the questions Giving shape to India’s carbon credit mechanism Ending discrimination in prisons The LAC Agreement, the détentes and the questions Context Announcement: Two weeks ago, India and China announced they are easing tensions at the line of actual control. Summit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan on October 23, 2024. Relevance: GS 2 (International relations) Practice Question:Discuss the recent India-China détente. What steps have been taken to ease tensions, and what challenges remain to achieve lasting peace and stability at the border? (250 words) De-escalation Completed Work: Disengagement at Depsang and Demchok declared complete. Pending Work: Troop de-escalation and de-induction along the LAC still need agreement and verification. Lack of Clarity: No template or detailed explanation of new “patrolling arrangements” provided by the government. Historical Context Initial Clashes: Violent clashes at Pangong Tso in May 2020. Galwan Clashes: Brutal combat in June 2020, resulting in many Indian soldiers’ martyrdom. Current Status Buffer Zones: The creation of buffer zones makes a full return to the status quo ante 2020 virtually impossible. Patrolling Arrangements: Need to clarify if new arrangements will update past protocols and agreements. Chinese Action Theories Territorial Control: Part of a larger Chinese policy to control “every inch of territory” belonging to China. Strategic Reminder: Reminder of India’s continental realities despite its maritime partnership with the U.S. Infrastructure Pushback: Reaction to India’s increased infrastructure construction near the LAC. Recent De-escalation J&K Elections: Holding of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, with potential rollback to Statehood status. Ladakhi Protests: Agreement with Ladakhi protesters on discussing demands for Statehood and other guarantees. Pakistan Opening: Visit by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Islamabad for the SCO conference, signalling potential openings. Need for Government Transparency Restoring Transparency: New Delhi must restore transparency in its plans for the northern peripheries. Thorough Enquiry: Conduct a thorough enquiry of events at the LAC and lessons learned. Citizen Confidence: A democratically elected government should take citizens into confidence about significant moves.   Conclusion The recent India-China détente marks a significant step towards restoring peace and stability at the border. However, clarity on new patrolling arrangements, transparency in government plans, and addressing the underlying causes of past tensions are crucial for sustainable peace and cooperation. Giving shape to India’s carbon credit mechanism Context Event: Conference of Parties-29 (COP-29) in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22, 2024. Focus: Climate finance discussions, particularly the carbon credits framework and disagreements between developed and developing countries. India’s Update: Updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in 2023 to include a domestic carbon market as part of its climate strategy. Legislation:Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) is mandated by the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act of 2022. Relevance: GS 3 (Environment ) Practice Question:Discuss the key challenges for establishing a robust carbon credit market in India. Suggest key measures for the same (250 words) Carbon Credits At the global level,Inadequate accountability in credit generation leads to greenwashing, especially in the voluntary carbon market (VCM). Similar risks are feared under India’s Green Credit Programme (GCP) and CCTS. Proposed Solutions: National Registry: To track carbon credits and prevent double-counting. Third-Party Verification: Independent verifiers to assess additionally and permanence of carbon reduction projects. Best Practices: Emulate practices from entities like IETA and Gold Standard to ensure high-integrity carbon credits. Alignment with Global Standards International Mechanisms: Aligning with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which facilitates Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs). Article 6 Rulebook: Finalized at COP26, outlines engagement in carbon trading while maintaining environmental integrity. Key Requirements: Prevent Double Counting: Mechanisms to prevent double counting of credits to maintain credibility Transparent Systems: For accounting emissions reductions and carbon credit transfers. Ensuring Environmental Integrity: Emphasis on robust governance, verification, and accountability standards to avoid low-quality credits. Focus on Disclosure Transparency: Comprehensive disclosure of project details, including techniques, benchmarks, and third-party verification reports. Stringent Additionality Criteria: Ensuring projects reflect real, additional emissions reductions. Regular Audits: Essential for verifying sustainability, with oversight by independent auditors approved by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). Real-time Tracking: Tracking credit transactions to boost accountability and understand environmental impacts. VCMI Framework: Introduces a tiered system for assessing carbon credit claims to enhance market transparency. Challenges: High costs of monitoring, reporting, and verification systems could deter smaller projects. Recommendations for India’s Carbon Market Stringent Enforcement: Necessary for the nascent carbon market to be effective. Alignment with International and Domestic Realities: To ensure a mature carbon market and stimulate climate finance aspirations. Focus on Transparency and Integrity: To pave the way for practical, sustainable development. Conclusion India’s carbon credit mechanism, though nascent, has the potential to become robust if stringent protocols for transparency and integrity are enforced. Ending discrimination in prisons Context : Case: Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India (2024). Issue: Segregation of prisoners based on caste in jail manuals. Supreme Court Ruling: Struck down caste-based segregation as unconstitutional, violating Articles 14 and 15. Relevance: GS 2 ( Governance ) Practice Question:Discuss the significance of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India (2024) in eliminating caste-based segregation in prisons. Mention its impacts on prisoners (250 words) No Arbitrary Segregation Prem Shankar Shukla v. Delhi Administration (1980): Issue: Classification of prisoners based on economic and social status for handcuffing. Ruling: Unconstitutional to assume poor prisoners are more dangerous than affluent ones. Inacio Manuel Miranda v. State (1988): Issue: Discriminatory rules for writing letters in prison based on prisoner class. For example,  ‘Class-I prisoners’ could write four letters per month, but ‘Class-II prisoners’ could only write two. Ruling: Unreasonable and discriminatory, violating freedom of expression. Madhukar Bhagwan Jambhale v. State of Maharashtra (1984): Issue: Prohibition on writing letters to co-prisoners. Ruling: No logical basis, unduly inhibiting constitutional rights. Principle of Non-Discrimination Core Principle: Prisons cannot strip prisoners of rights they are otherwise entitled to. Caste-based Classification: Issue: Classification for labour based on caste hierarchy (cleaning for marginalised castes, cooking for others). Ruling: No connection with ability or reformation, perpetuates caste identity, violates equal opportunity. Outcome: State Prison Rules and similar decisions are set aside as discriminatory. Calcutta High Court Case (2012) Case: Gaur Narayan Chakraborty and Others. Issue: Classification of Maoists as political prisoners under the West Bengal Correctional Services (WBCS) Act, 1992. High Court Ruling: Political Prisoners: Believers of any political movement should be acknowledged as political prisoners. Amenities: Political prisoners are entitled to amenities such as chairs, tables, mattresses, pillows, and more. Significance: Highlighted the right of prisoners to dignified treatment. Way Forward Supreme Court Ruling: Recent judgment eliminated caste discrimination in prisons. Recommendation: Incorporate basic amenities in prisons by amending the Model Prison Manual 2016 to ensure a dignified life for all prisoners. Goal: Blur distinctions among prisoners and uphold basic human rights. Conclusion The Supreme Court’s decision in Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India (2024) reinforces the principle of non-discrimination in Indian prisons. By striking down caste-based segregation and ensuring equal treatment, the ruling paves the way for a more just and humane prison system.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 12 November 2024

CONTENTS Tamil Nadu Wind Energy Generators Challenge State Policy in Court Supreme Court Upholds Need for Government Sanction in PMLA Cases Involving Public Servants Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 Arrow-3 Missile Defence System Kayakalp Scheme Toto Tribe Tamil Nadu Wind Energy Generators Challenge State Policy in Court Context: In Tamil Nadu, known for pioneering wind mill installations, many turbines have surpassed 30 years of operation. In response to aging infrastructure, the Tamil Nadu government introduced the “Tamil Nadu Repowering, Refurbishment and Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects – 2024” in August. However, this policy has met with resistance from wind energy generators, who have successfully secured a stay from the Madras High Court. The generators are advocating for a policy that more actively promotes wind energy generation, highlighting a significant contention between industry stakeholders and state regulations. Relevance: GS III: Energy Dimensions of the Article: What is the wind energy capacity and potential in India? How are wind turbines maintained? Repowering and Refurbishing in Wind Energy Way forward What is the wind energy capacity and potential in India? The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) says that India has wind power potential for 1,163.86 GW at 150 metres above ground level, and is ranked fourth in the world for installed wind energy capacity. At 120 metres above ground level, which is the normal height of wind turbines now, the potential is 695.51 GW, including the 68.75 GW from Tamil Nadu. Only about 6.5% of this wind potential is used at the national level and nearly 15% in Tamil Nadu. Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh are the leading States for installed wind energy capacity, collectively contributing 93.37% of the country’s wind power capacity installation. Tamil Nadu has seen the installation of wind turbines since the 1980s, and today it has the second largest installed wind energy capacity with 10,603.5 MW, according to data available with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Of the 20,000 wind turbines in the State, nearly 10,000 are of small capacities, that is less than one MW. How are wind turbines maintained? Wind turbines that are more than 15 years old or have less than 2 MW capacity, can be completely replaced with new turbines, which is known as repowering. They can also be refurbished by increasing the height of the turbine, changing the blades, installing a higher capacity gear box, etc., to improve the energy generated. These can be done for standalone wind mills, or a group of wind mills owned by multiple generators. When wind energy generators take up safety measures in the old turbines and extend its life, its called life extension. The MNRE first came out with a “Policy for Repowering of the Wind Power Projects” in 2016 and based on consultations with stakeholders, released the “National Repowering & Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects -2023”. The NIWE estimates the repowering potential to be 25.4 GW if wind turbines of less than 2 MW capacity are taken into consideration. Repowering and Refurbishing in Wind Energy Repowering and refurbishing in the context of wind energy involve upgrading older wind turbines with newer, more efficient models or enhancing their components to improve performance and extend their operational life. This process is crucial as technology advances and the physical landscape and regulatory environments evolve. What Does Repowering Entail? Upgrading Turbine Capacity: Repowering typically means replacing older, less efficient wind turbines with modern, higher-capacity units. For example, replacing sub-one MW turbines from the 1980s with newer models that can generate more electricity—such as 2 MW or 2.5 MW turbines which not only produce more power but also operate more efficiently. Increased Physical Requirements: Newer turbines are generally larger and require more land. A 2 MW turbine might need 3.5 acres, whereas a 2.5 MW turbine could require up to five acres. This increased size translates to higher power generation capabilities. Infrastructure Enhancements: Alongside turbine upgrades, infrastructure improvements are necessary, particularly regarding wind energy evacuation and transmission systems. These systems must be upgraded to handle increased power output and ensure efficient energy transfer from wind farms to the power grid. What Does Refurbishing Entail? Component Upgrades: Refurbishing involves replacing or upgrading specific components of an existing turbine without a complete replacement. This might include newer blades, more efficient generators, or updated control systems. Extending Turbine Life: By refurbishing parts, the operational life of a turbine can be extended, making it more economically viable over a longer period, especially when complete repowering isn’t feasible due to space or regulatory constraints. Challenges and Considerations Land and Regulatory Issues: As newer turbines require more space, repowering can sometimes be hindered by increased habitation around wind sites and stricter land use regulations. Additionally, the installation of larger turbines might require navigating more complex zoning laws or environmental impact assessments. Financial Implications: In regions like Tamil Nadu, regulatory changes such as the lack of a banking facility for new installations post-2018 affect the financial dynamics. Banking facility allows generators to store energy in the grid and use it later, offsetting times when generation exceeds immediate grid demand. Infrastructure Delays: Projects such as the development of sub-stations, crucial for supporting increased capacity at sites like Aralvaimozhi, often face delays due to financial, bureaucratic, or logistical challenges, impacting the overall feasibility of repowering projects. Way forward Among the wind energy generating States, the repowering potential is the highest in Tamil Nadu with over 7,000 MW of installed capacity that can be replaced or refurbished. If the small turbines are repowered or refurbished, the contribution of wind energy to total energy consumed during the peak windy seasons can go up easily by 25%. While there have been generators which have replaced turbines in the past without government support, the policy itself does not promote wind energy generation, claim the generators. It should look at challenges on the field and consider how the wind energy potential can be harnessed fully by the generators. -Source: The Hindu Supreme Court Upholds Need for Government Sanction in PMLA Cases Involving Public Servants Context: The Supreme Court of India has affirmed a Telangana High Court ruling that requires prior government sanction for prosecuting public servants under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. This decision clarifies that Section 197(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 — now replaced by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 — which mandates such government sanction, extends to cases under the PMLA as well. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: Section 197(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 Recent Changes Made Under the PMLA Section 197(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) Section 197(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in India plays a crucial role in the legal framework that governs the prosecution of public servants. Here’s an overview of its key aspects: Purpose and Function Protection of Public Servants: Section 197(1) requires that any prosecution of public servants (including judges and magistrates) for actions conducted in their official capacity must receive prior sanction from a government authority. This is to ensure that officials can perform their duties without fear of malicious or frivolous litigation. Sanction Authority: The authority to grant such sanctions varies depending on the public servant’s administrative alignment: Central Government: Sanction for prosecuting union-affiliated public servants. State Government: Sanction for those involved in state government affairs. Aims and Implications Prevention of Malicious Prosecution: The requirement for prior government sanction serves to filter out cases where the charges might be driven by ulterior motives rather than genuine grievances. Good Faith Decision-making: It protects the ability of public servants to make decisions in good faith without undue worry about potential legal repercussions from those decisions. Exceptions to the Rule Crimes Exempt from Sanction: Not all actions by public servants are protected under this section. Crimes that involve gender-based violence and sexual offences, as outlined in the Indian Penal Code, 1860, are exempt from the requirement of prior sanction. This exemption ensures that serious offences do not go unpunished under the guise of official duty. Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 According to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) 2002, Money laundering is concealing or disguising the identity of illegally obtained proceeds so that they appear to have originated from legitimate sources.  It is frequently a component of other, much more serious, crimes such as drug trafficking, robbery or extortion. Money laundering is punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 7 years and Fine under the PMLA. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is responsible for investigating offences under the PMLA. The Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND) is the national agency that receives, processes, analyses and disseminates information related to suspect financial transactions. After hearing the application, a special court (designated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA, 2002) may declare an individual as a fugitive economic offender and also confiscate properties which are proceeds of crime, Benami properties and any other property, in India or abroad. The authorities under the PMLA, 2002 will exercise powers given to them under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act. These powers will be similar to those of a civil court, including the search of persons in possession of records or proceeds of crime, the search of premises on the belief that a person is an FEO and seizure of documents. Recent Changes Made Under the PMLA The Indian government has made several changes to the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act (PMLA) to plug loopholes and comply with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) regulations. Some of the key changes are: More disclosures for non-governmental organizations by reporting entities like financial institutions, banking companies, or intermediaries. Definition of “politically exposed persons” (PEPs) as individuals who have been entrusted with prominent public functions by a foreign country, which brings uniformity with a 2008 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) circular for Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and anti-money laundering standards for banks and financial institutions. Inclusion of practicing chartered accountants, company secretaries, and cost and works accountants carrying out financial transactions on behalf of their clients under the ambit of the money laundering law. Widening the list of non-banking reporting entities to allow 22 financial entities like Amazon Pay (India) Pvt. Ltd, Aditya Birla Housing Finance Ltd, and IIFL Finance Ltd. to verify the identity of their customers via Aadhaar under the ambit of the money laundering law. The financial transactions covered under the money laundering law include buying and selling of any immovable property, managing client money, securities, or other assets, management of bank, savings, or securities accounts, organization of contributions for the creation, operation, or management of companies, creation, operation, or management of companies, limited liability partnerships, or trusts, and buying and selling of business entities. -Source: The Hindu Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 Context: According to WHO Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 India has achieved a notable 17.7% decline in tuberculosis (TB) incidence from 2015 to 2023. This decline, exceeding the global average of 8.3%, underscores India’s unwavering commitment to eliminating TB by 2025, under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP).  Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: Key Findings of the Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 About Tuberculosis India’s TB Elimination Target: Goals and Challenges Key Findings of the Global Tuberculosis Report 2024 Increasing Global TB Incidence Rise in Cases: There were 8.2 million new tuberculosis (TB) cases reported globally in 2023, an increase from 7.5 million in 2022. This is the highest number recorded by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 1995. Slight Decrease in Deaths: TB-related deaths were slightly lower in 2023, with an estimated 1.25 million, compared to 1.32 million in 2022. Geographic and Demographic Distribution High Burden in LMICs: Low- and middle-income countries account for 87% of the global TB burden. Major Contributing Countries: Five countries—India (26%), Indonesia (10%), China (6.8%), the Philippines (6.8%), and Pakistan (6.3%)—alone contribute to 56% of the global TB burden. Affected Populations: 55% of TB cases occurred in men, 33% in women, and 12% in children and young adolescents. Progress Towards End TB Strategy Goals 2025 Targets: The WHO’s End TB Strategy aims for a 75% reduction in TB deaths and a 50% reduction in incidence rates by 2025. Challenges in Meeting Targets: The WHO Global TB Report 2024 and the India TB Report 2024 indicate that India, among other countries, is unlikely to meet these milestones or eliminate TB by 2025. Specifics of India’s TB Scenario Case Numbers: In 2023, India recorded an estimated 27 lakh TB cases, with 25.1 lakh individuals diagnosed and beginning treatment. Incidence Rate: TB incidence in India dropped from 237 cases per lakh population in 2015 to 195 per lakh in 2023, marking a 17.7% decline. Improved Treatment Coverage: Treatment coverage in India increased to 89% in 2023, up from 72% in 2015, significantly narrowing the gap of undiagnosed or untreated cases. About Tuberculosis TB remains the world’s deadliest infectious killer. Each day, over 4000 people lose their lives to TB and close to 30,000 people fall ill with this preventable and curable disease TB is caused by bacteria (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) that most often affect the lungs. Transmission: TB is spread from person to person through the air. When people with TB cough, sneeze or spit, they propel the TB germs into the air. Symptoms: Cough with sputum and blood at times, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever and night sweats. Treatment: TB is a treatable and curable disease. It is treated with a standard 6 month course of 4 antimicrobial drugs that are provided with information, supervision and support to the patient by a health worker or trained volunteer. Anti-TB medicines have been used for decades and strains that are resistant to 1 or more of the medicines have been documented in every country surveyed. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a form of TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, the 2 most powerful, first-line anti-TB drugs. MDR-TB is treatable and curable by using second-line drugs. Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) is a more serious form of MDR-TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to the most effective second-line anti-TB drugs, often leaving patients without any further treatment options India’s TB Elimination Target: Goals and Challenges India has set an ambitious target of eliminating tuberculosis by 2025, five years ahead of the global sustainable development target of 2030. Here are the goals and challenges in achieving this target: Target Goals: India’s national strategic plan 2017-2025 aims to report no more than 44 new TB cases or 65 total cases per lakh population by 2025. The plan also aims to reduce TB mortality to 3 deaths per lakh population by 2025 and eliminate catastrophic costs for affected families. Current Incidence: The estimated TB incidence for 2021 stood at 210 per lakh population. However, achieving the target is a big task as the plan had envisaged an incidence of only 77 cases per lakh population by 2023. Mortality: The estimated TB mortality for the year 2020 stood at 37 per lakh population, which is higher than the 2025 target of 3 deaths per lakh population. Catastrophic Costs: The plan aims to reduce catastrophic costs for the affected family to zero. However, the report states that 7 to 32 per cent of those with drug-sensitive TB, and 68 per cent with drug-resistant TB experienced catastrophic costs. Challenges: India faces several challenges in achieving the TB elimination target, including inadequate funding, weak health infrastructure, low awareness, and poor treatment adherence. End TB Strategy: The goals are in line with the World Health Organisation’s End TB strategy that calls for an 80% reduction in the number of new cases, a 90% reduction in mortality, and zero catastrophic cost by 2030. Efforts to Achieve TB Elimination Target of 2025 in India Active Case Finding: The government is actively looking for TB cases among vulnerable and co-morbid populations and screening for it at health and wellness centers. Notification System: A Ni-kshay portal has been established to track notified TB cases, and the private sector has been called upon to notify all TB cases. Improved Diagnostic Tests: The pandemic has led to improved access to more accurate molecular diagnostic tests like CB-NAAT and TureNat, with 4,760 molecular diagnostic machines covering all districts of the country. Additionally, 79 line probe assay laboratories and 96 liquid culture testing laboratories have been set up for the diagnosis of multi and extremely drug-resistant TB. Universal Drug Susceptibility Test: The government has implemented a universal drug susceptibility test, which determines antibiotic susceptibility for all newly diagnosed cases, ensuring patients are given effective treatment from the outset. Community Engagement Program: The government launched a community engagement program in which Ni-kshay mitras adopt TB patients and provide them with monthly nutritional support. So far, 71,460 Ni-kshay Mitras have adopted about 10 lakh TB patients under the program. -Source: The Hindu Arrow-3 Missile Defence System Context: Israel’s Defence Ministry has begun coordinating joint preparations with the German Federal Ministry of Defence for the initial deployment of Israel’s Arrow-3 missile interception system on German soil in 2025. Relevance: GS III: Defence Arrow-3 Missile Defense System The Arrow-3 is an advanced exo-atmospheric anti-ballistic missile defense system designed to intercept long-range threats outside the Earth’s atmosphere. It represents the upper echelon of Israel’s multi-layered air defense network, which includes various other systems like the Arrow 2, David’s Sling, and the Iron Dome. Development and Deployment Joint Venture: Arrow-3 was developed collaboratively by Israel Aerospace Industries and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. Operational Since: The system was initially deployed in 2017 and serves as the top layer of Israel’s integrated air defense system. System Components and Capabilities Interceptor and Propulsion: Arrow-3 utilizes a two-stage solid-fueled interceptor capable of engaging short- and medium-range ballistic missiles. Speed and Range: The system is hypersonic, capable of traveling at five times the speed of sound, with an operational range of approximately 2,400 km. Altitude: It can intercept incoming threats at altitudes up to 100 km, effectively outside of the Earth’s atmosphere. Support Systems: The Arrow-3 system includes a sophisticated launcher, radar, battle management, and fire control capabilities. Radar Capabilities: It features early warning and fire control radar that supports extended-range acquisition, multi-target acquisition, and tracking. Operational Mechanism Hit-to-Kill Technology: Arrow-3 employs hit-to-kill technology, which ensures that the interceptor destroys the incoming missile by colliding with it directly, rather than using an explosive warhead. Launch and Interception Process: The missile is initially launched vertically upwards. It then maneuvers towards the calculated interception point based on real-time tracking. A high-resolution electro-optical sensor is used to acquire and track the target accurately. The kill vehicle then executes the final interception, destroying the warhead of the incoming missile through direct impact. Significance of Arrow-3 Arrow-3 is a critical component of Israel’s defensive strategy against ballistic missile threats. Its ability to engage threats at high altitudes allows it to neutralize potential dangers before they enter the atmosphere, providing a strategic defense advantage. This system is part of a broader effort to safeguard the nation’s airspace against increasingly sophisticated threats, ensuring a robust defense posture that can handle multiple incoming targets simultaneously. In summary, the Arrow-3 missile defense system enhances Israel’s capability to defend against long-range ballistic missile threats with precision and reliability, significantly contributing to regional stability and security. -Source: The Hindu Kayakalp Scheme Context: The Rajasthan College Education Commissionerate has directed 20 government colleges to get the front facade of their buildings and entry halls painted orange under the Kayakalp Scheme. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions About Kayakalp Scheme: Launched by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on 15 May 2015 under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan with the view of promoting cleanliness to further improve the quality of health-care facilities in India. Aims/ Objectives: Promote Cleanliness, Hygiene, Infection Control, and Environment-friendly practices in PHFs. To motivate and recognize PHFs that do well in adhering to standard cleanliness and infection control practices. To adopt a culture of constant assessment and peer review of performance in terms of hygiene, cleanliness, and sanitation. To develop and promulgate sustainable practices related to improved cleanliness in PHFs associated with good health outcomes. The Kayakalp assessment is a three-tier process of internal, peer and external assessment. The pre-defined assessment tool is deployed at the beginning of each financial year for assessing, scoring and documenting a health facility. The criteria wherein the performance of the facility would be graded are as follows: Hospital/Facility Upkeep Sanitation and Hygiene Waste Management Infection Control Support Services Hygiene Promotion This scheme awards the five following prizes to recognize the strenuous efforts that healthcare centers make with such commitment: Two best district hospitals. Two best community health centers or sub-district hospitals One primary health center for each district. Cash prizes along with citations are given by the scheme to the winners based on a specific set of selection criteria. -Source: The Hindu Toto Tribe Context: Totos, one of the smallest tribes in the world, lives in Totopara off West Bengal but are fighting for identity and suffering from infrastructure woes. Relevance: GS II: Tribes About the Toto Tribe: It is an aboriginal Indo-Bhutanese tribe which specifically dwells in the Totopara village of Alipurduar district in West Bengal. The Totopara village lies within the vicinity of Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary. It lies just to the south of the border between Bhutan and West Bengal, on the bank of the Torsa River. The Toto tribe anthropologically comes under the Tibetan-Mongoloid ethnicity. The most threatened tribe is the one whose number of over 1600 members survive. The Toto tribe has often been described as ‘a dying tribe’ facing extinction. Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). Toto Language: It is a Sino-Tibetan language spoken by the Toto and has Bengali script. Totos are exogamous and are divided into 13 exogamous clans; among them, they choose their wife. This is a belief special to their tradition; they believe a man should have only one wife, and they work very hard for the anti-dowry system-a dissident notion from other tribal customs prevailing in their neighboring areas. Their houses are only bamboo huts with attap roof structures. Religion: Toto people practice the form of Hinduism but, unlike the people of other traditions, they do believe in nature worship. Economy: In the past, Totos were primarily food gatherers and followed slash and burn types of cultivation. Along with this, the Toto families earn a good amount of money by working as porters for carrying oranges from the different gardens of Bhutan to Totopara With the passage of time, occupational diversification has taken place. At present, they became settled agriculturists. -Source: Indian Express

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 11 November 2024

CONTENTS Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana Namo Drone Didi Scheme Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana Context: The Department of Fisheries organised a meeting to discuss the recently implemented Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY), a sub-scheme of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Relevance: GS II- Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana: The Union Cabinet has approved Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana, a Central Sector sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada for the fisheries sector. The scheme will be implemented for 4  years from FY 2023-24 to FY 2026-27 across all the States and UTs. Aim: The scheme will help to formalize the fisheries sector and enhance access to institutional credit. Fund Allocated: A total of 6000 crore rupees have been earmarked for the scheme over the next 4 years. Finance: About 3,000 crore rupees will come from public finance including the World Bank and the AFD external financing, and the remaining 50 percent will be contributed by the beneficiaries from the private sector. Significance: The initiative will support 6.4 lakh micro-enterprises and 5,500 fisheries cooperatives, providing access to institutional credit.      This sub-scheme will help to create a National Fisheries Digital Platform to provide 40 lakh small and micro-enterprises work-based identities.         About Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) was launched in 2020 to bring about Blue Revolution through the sustainable development of the fisheries sector over a period of five years (2020-2025). It is an umbrella scheme to develop the fisheries sector with a total outlay of Rs. 20050 crores. It has two components The Central Sector Scheme (CS) component with a non-beneficiary-oriented scheme and a Beneficiary oriented scheme (Central Assistance for General Category – 40%; SC/ST/Women – 60%). A Central Sponsored Scheme (CSS) component also with a non-beneficiary-oriented scheme and Beneficiary oriented scheme. The different break-ups of funding are: Central Assistance for Northeastern States – 90%, Other States – 60%; and UTs – 100%. The areas expected to be covered by the PMMSY are: Fish production Fisheries productivity Quality of fisheries and aquaculture sectors Post-harvest infrastructure and management Modernization of value chain Welfare of the fishers and fish farmers Fisheries management framework Insurance coverage: The insurance coverage provided under the PMMSY includes Rs.5,00,000/- against accidental death or permanent total disability, Rs.2,50,000/- for permanent partial disability Hospitalization expenses in the event of accident for a sum of Rs. 25,000/-. The objectives of the PMMSY are: Develop fisheries and aquaculture sectors. Harness the potential of fisheries sector in a sustainable, responsible, inclusive and equitable manner Efficient use of land and water resources to enhance fish production and productivity. Modernize value chain considering post-harvest management and quality improvement. Double fishers and fish farmers’ incomes Generate employment in the fisheries sector. Enhance fisheries sector’s contribution to overall agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA) and exports. Provide social, economic and physical security to fish farmers and fishermen. Develop a robust fisheries management and regulatory framework. -Source: PIB Namo Drone Didi Scheme Context: Recently, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DoA&FW) launched the Namo Drone Didi Scheme, aiming to empower 14,500 Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM) initiative through drone technology for agriculture services.  Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Overview of the Namo Drone Didi Scheme The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is an innovative government initiative aimed at empowering Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through technology. The scheme facilitates the use of drones to apply fertilizers and pesticides, enhancing crop yields and reducing operational costs for agricultural practices. Key Features of the Scheme Financial Assistance: The scheme offers substantial central financial assistance, covering 80% of the drone cost, up to Rs. 8 lakhs. Additional Funding: Further funding is available through the Agriculture Infrastructure Financing Facility (AIF), providing ample financial support for participants. Equipment and Warranty: Beneficiaries receive a comprehensive package that includes a drone equipped with essential accessories such as batteries, spray equipment, tools, and a one-year warranty. Training Programs: A mandatory 15-day training session is provided to one member of each participating women’s SHG to become certified drone pilots. Additional training on the agricultural application of drones for nutrient and pesticide dissemination is also provided. Governing Agencies Central Level: An Empowered Committee of Secretaries oversees the program, involving multiple departments: Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Wildlife (DoA&FW) Department of Rural Development Department of Fertilizers Ministry of Civil Aviation Ministry of Women and Child Development State-Level Implementation: At the state level, Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) play a pivotal role. They coordinate with state departments and SHGs to ensure effective drone distribution and utilization. Impact and Implementation This scheme not only promotes the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies among women-led groups but also aims to foster gender empowerment in rural areas. By equipping women with modern tools and skills, the Namo Drone Didi Scheme sets a precedent for integrating technology with traditional farming practices, potentially revolutionizing the agricultural landscape and empowering women economically and technologically across India.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 11 November 2024

Content : States and the Centre’s fetter of ‘net borrowing ceiling’ Calling out exploitative labour dynamics on platforms National Minority Can India get rich before growing old? States and the Centre’s Fetter of ‘Net Borrowing Ceiling’ Context: Net Borrowing Ceiling (NBC): Imposed by the central government in 2023 on Kerala, restricting borrowing to 3% of the projected GSDP for FY 2023-24. Scope: Encompasses all borrowing avenues, including open market loans, financial institution loans, and liabilities from the public account. Also covers certain borrowings by State-owned enterprises to prevent circumvention. Relevance: GS 2 (Indian Polity ) Practice Question: What is the Net Borrowing Ceiling (NBC) and how does it impact the financial autonomy of states like Kerala? (150 words) Financial Impact on Kerala: Restrained Expenditure: Kerala faces difficulties in meeting its expenditure and investing in developmental and welfare activities. Political and Legal Controversies: This led to conflicts between the Centre and the State, with Kerala approaching the Supreme Court, alleging encroachment on its fiscal autonomy under Article 293 of the Constitution. This is the first case in the Court’s history where Article 293 has just come up for interpretation. Constitutional Provisions and Borrowing Powers : Article 292: Grants the central government the power to borrow upon the security of the Consolidated Fund of India. Article 293: Empowers State governments to borrow within India upon the security of the consolidated fund of the State, with conditions possibly imposed by the Centre if the State owes repayment of loans or guarantees provided by the central government. Historical Context : Adoption from Government of India Act, 1935: Article 293 mirrors Section 163 of the 1935 Act. Constituent Assembly Debate: Emphasised the need for scrutiny in borrowing, suggesting a commission akin to the Finance Commission to oversee borrowings and loans. Revenue Shortfall and Fiscal Deficit : FRBM Act, 2003: Implemented to maintain financial restraint, setting a fiscal deficit target of 3% of GDP. Amendments and Targets: The FRBM Amendment Act of 2018 set targets for the central government and States to control fiscal deficit and public debt. The central government aimed to bring the fiscal deficit below 4.5% of GDP by 2025-26. Central vs. State Borrowing Autonomy Centre’s Restrictions: Imposing borrowing limits on States to achieve fiscal consolidation without considering individual State financial positions. Encroachment Allegations: Kerala argues that this impinges on State autonomy and budget-balancing capabilities. Legal Challenge and Interpretation Supreme Court Case: Kerala’s challenge on the interpretation of Article 293, focusing on fiscal decentralisation and State autonomy. Referral to Constitutional Bench: The case highlights the need to reassess the balance of borrowing powers between the Centre and States. Revisiting Article 293 Need for Strengthening: Considering modern economic, political, and fiscal realities, Article 293 may need revisiting. Historical Warning: Section 163(4) of the Government of India Act, 1935, warned against arbitrary refusal or delay in granting loans, suggesting similar safeguards in the Constitution. Recommendations for Strengthening Article 293 Commission Proposal: As suggested by Ananthasayanam Ayyangar, creating a commission similar to the Finance Commission to resolve borrowing disputes. Guidelines for Centre’s Powers: Transparency: Clear procedures and standards for borrowing decisions. Consultative Process: Engaging State governments in the decision-making process. Equitable Treatment: Uniform borrowing terms for all States to prevent bias. Fiscal Autonomy: Ensuring restrictions do not unduly hamper State financial management. Conclusion Kerala’s legal challenge underscores the need to revisit Article 293, ensuring it supports a balanced and cooperative fiscal framework between the Centre and the States. Calling Out Exploitative labour dynamics on platforms Context: The evolving gig economy in India witnessed a significant event recently—a nationwide digital strike during Deepavali, organized by women gig workers through the Gig and Platform Services Workers Union (GIPSWU), the country’s first union dedicated to women gig workers. This strike aimed to highlight exploitative and abusive labour practices in the gig economy. Relevance. : GS 1 (Society ), GS 2 (Social Justice ) Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the nationwide digital strike by women gig workers in India. Highlight the issues and suggest measures to address these challenges. (250 words) Exploitation: Discounted Offers: Platform companies offer discounts at the expense of gig workers’ wages, resulting in exploitative conditions. Employment Narrative: The focus on startup success often overshadows the exploitation of gig workers. Public and Government Response: Awareness: The strike aimed to raise awareness about the exploitation faced by gig workers, gaining media coverage and public support. Government Inaction: There is a perceived lack of adequate response from the government to protect gig workers’ rights. Social Security: Inadequate Measures: Existing social security measures for gig workers are insufficient and often appear as repackaged charity rather than constitutional entitlements. Gender-Specific Issues: Patriarchal Job Roles: Digital platforms reinforce traditional job roles for women, such as beauticians and housekeepers. Job Insecurity: Women’s job security is tied to ratings and acceptance of assigned jobs, with refusals leading to termination. Vulnerable Demographics: Many women gig workers are single mothers, divorcees, or domestic violence survivors, making them more susceptible to exploitation. Economic Exploitation: False Promises: Platforms promise flexible hours and independence but impose unrealistic targets and financial burdens. Lack of Returns: Gig workers bear significant costs without adequate earnings or social security benefits. Systemic Failures: Regulatory Gaps: The absence of stringent anti-labour practice regulations and data privacy laws enables exploitation. Digital Patriarchy: Combines conventional and digital exploitation, deepening economic and social challenges for women. Way Forward: Regulation of Platform Companies: Implement stricter regulations to ensure fair treatment and compensation. Enhanced Social Security: Provide meaningful social security measures to gig workers as constitutional entitlements. Consumer Responsibility: Educate consumers on the exploitation behind discounted services and encourage ethical consumption. Support for Vulnerable Workers: Special provisions for single mothers, divorcees, and domestic violence survivors in the gig economy. Conclusion: The digital strike by women gig workers in India is a crucial step towards addressing exploitation in the gig economy. It underscores the need for collective action and regulatory reforms. National Minority Context: Issue: Determining the ‘minority character’ of educational institutions in India. Ruling: The seven-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court of India laid down criteria for identifying minority institutions. Focus: Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and its minority status. Relevance: GS 2 (Indian Polity ) Practice question: What criteria did the Supreme Court of India establish for determining the minority status of educational institutions, and how does this ruling impact the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)? (250 words) Key Points: Historical Background of AMU: Establishment: Founded by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan in 1875 as a college for Muslim students. University Status: Recognised by an Act of the Central Legislature in 1920. Constitutional Importance: Referred to as an institution of national importance in the Constitution. Legal Precedents: 1967 Supreme Court Judgment: Held that AMU was not a minority institution as it was established by legislation, not by the Muslim community. 1981 Amendments: Changes to the AMU Act to challenge the 1967 verdict.  Criteria for Determining Minority Status of Educational Institutions The Supreme Court of India laid down specific criteria, also referred to as ‘indicia,’ including: Founding Entity: Who founded the institution? Efforts to Establish: Who made efforts to bring the institution into being? Purpose: Was the institution aimed at promoting the interests of a particular minority? Administrative Structure: Does the administrative structure affirm the institution’s minority character? Historical Context: The historical context and circumstances under which the institution was established. Legal Incorporation: Whether a statute was enacted to confer university status and if such incorporation was necessary before the University Grants Commission Act, 1956. Recent Supreme Court Ruling: Criteria for Minority Status: Based on the founder, efforts to establish the institution, promotion of minority interests, and administrative structure. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s Judgment: Statutes conferring university status do not negate minority character if the institution was pre-existing. Dissenting Opinion: Justice Dipankar Datta held that AMU was not a minority institution. Implications of Minority Status: Reservation Policies: If AMU loses its minority status, it may come under reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes. Cultural and Educational Ethos: Preserving the original character of institutions with distinctive educational and cultural significance. Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s ruling highlights the importance of preserving the minority character of educational institutions like AMU, recognising their contributions to cultural and educational diversity. Can India Get Rich before growing old? Concept of Demographic Dividend Definition: Economic growth advantages when most of the population is in the working-age bracket. Current Perception: Seen as a perpetual assurance of economic growth, often taken for granted. Relevance: GS 1 (Society ), GS 2 (Social Justice ) Practice Question: Discuss the concept of India’s demographic dividend. What challenges does India face in leveraging this demographic advantage, and what measures can be implemented to overcome these challenges? (250 words) Reality Check on Demographic Dividend Population Statistics: Three-fourths of India’s population is aged 15-64. Declining Fertility Rate: Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is declining faster than anticipated. Projections: Within 10 years, the working-age population proportion will begin to fall. State Trends: Most states are below the replacement-level fertility rate of 2.1 children per woman. Challenges to Conventional Wisdom Education and Income: Lower birth rates are not solely linked to improvements in education and income. TFR Decline: Dropped from 2.6 in 2010 to 1.99 today. Middle-Income Status: As India approaches middle-income status, the decline in TFR is expected to accelerate. Wasted Demographic Dividend Low-Productivity Jobs: Many people remain in low-productivity agricultural jobs or are unemployed. Labour Force Participation: Urban labour force participation rate remains at a dismal 50%. Middle-Income Trap: Risk of falling into a middle-income trap, similar to other countries. Focus on Manufacturing Economic Growth Path: Movement from low-productivity sectors to higher-productivity jobs in manufacturing and services. Manufacturing vs. Services: Manufacturing, especially in labour-intensive industries, creates more jobs than services. Textile Industry Example: Worth $150 billion and employs 45 million people compared to 5.5 million in the $250 billion IT-BPM sector. Challenges for Manufacturers Business Constraints: Licensing, permits, access to land, and customs regulations are major hurdles. For example, according to World Bank surveys, one in six manufacturers cites business licensing and permits as major constraints. Policy Recommendations Lower Tariffs: To make inputs cheaper and boost exports. Free Trade Agreements: Finalize agreements with the U.K. and EU to expand market access. Labour Reforms: Allow flexible work arrangements and address land and building regulations. Investment Climate: Improve to enable large-scale job creation. Leveraging the Demographic Dividend Historical Example: China transitioned millions from agriculture to manufacturing with a similar per capita income in the 1980s. Action Plan: India must capitalise on its demographic dividend by focusing on manufacturing and improving the business environment. Conclusion With the working-age population set to decline, it is crucial to leverage this demographic advantage before it is too late. By addressing challenges in the manufacturing sector, implementing policy reforms, and improving the business environment, India can avoid the middle-income trap and achieve sustainable economic growth.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 11 November 2024

CONTENTS COP27: New Loss and Damage Fund Established, Wealthy Nations Lag in Commitments Determining Minority Educational Institution (MEI) Status NSCN (I-M) Seeks Third-Party Mediation in Naga Political Issue PyPIM Platform Digital Population Clock Exercise AUSTRAHIND COP27: New Loss and Damage Fund Established, Wealthy Nations Lag in Commitments Context: At the UNFCCC COP27 in 2022, held in Sharm El Sheikh, a significant development was the creation of a loss and damage fund aimed at assisting climate-vulnerable nations, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Despite this progress, wealthier nations, which are the largest carbon emitters, have not fulfilled their financial commitments to the fund. This lack of support leaves many vulnerable countries without the necessary resources to tackle the impacts of climate change, highlighting a gap between agreed actions and actual financial contributions. Relevance: GS III: Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Direct and Indirect impacts Developed Countries Need to Pay Up Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is a unique group of countries that shares similar challenges as far as the dimension of sustainable development is concerned. Despite the scenic beauties and wonderful cultures of these beautiful countries, SIDS suffers from vulnerability in social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Characteristics of SIDS Geographical Distribution SIDS are spread in three major regions of the world: the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea (AIS) regions. This wide spread to the waters underlines the global nature of the group and the diversified challenges they face. At Global Forums: The peculiar condition of SIDS was globally acknowledged through the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in 1992. Their specific environmental and developmental needs have called the world’s attention due to their distinction among the rest of the developing states. Some of the Countries that fall in this Category of SIDS They include the following nations who are categorized under the rubric of SIDS. Caribbean: Countries including Jamaica and Barbados; whose cultures are very strong and tourism-based. Pacific: Countries including Fiji and Samoa; known for best marine biodiversity and culture. AIS: Countries include Maldives and Seychelles, like beauty but the highest to be threatened by sea level rise. Developmental Challenges Environmental Vulnerabilities: Hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunamis might affect many SIDS. Once more, the threat of climatic changes like sea-level rise poses an impassable threat to the SIDS as they are lowland countries. Economic Vulnerabilities: The lack of wider natural and economic resources, coupled with a reliance on single sectors of economies such as tourism and fisheries, places SIDS at higher risks from international economic fluctuations. Social Challenges: High population density, limited land, and remote locations form complex social issues, among which is mostly limited access to good healthcare and education. Direct and Indirect impacts The changes are not felt immediately, but rather as the economy stalls, tourism dries up, and expensive recovery plans inhibit spending in other areas. In all, from 2000 to 2020, these direct and indirect impacts may have cost small island states a total of US$141 billion. That works out to around US$2,000 per person on average, although this figure underplays just how bad things can get in some places. Hurricane Maria in 2017 caused damage to the Caribbean island of Dominica worth more than double its entire GDP. That amounted to around US$20,000 per person, overnight. Almost a decade later, the country is still struggling with one of the largest debt burdens on earth at over 150% of GDP. Of these huge aggregate losses across all the small island development states, around 38% are attributable to climate change. Small island economies are among the worst affected by severe weather. These island states have three to five times more climate-related loss and damage than other states, as a percentage of government revenues. That’s true even for wealthier small island states, like the Bahamas and Barbados, where loss and damage is four times greater than other high-income countries. For all small island nations, the economic impacts will increase, with “attributable” losses from extreme weather reaching US$75 billion by 2050 if global temperatures hit 2°C above pre-industrial levels. Developed Countries Need to Pay Up One of the key discussions at the forthcoming COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, will be the “new collective quantified goal”. This is the technical name to describe how much money wealthy countries will need to contribute to help vulnerable nations to mitigate and adapt to climate change. That overall goal must also include a target to finance small islands and other vulnerable countries, with billions more needed per year in the new loss and damage fund. Given the extent of actual and likely losses, nothing less than ambition on the scale of a “modern Marshall Plan” for these states will do. In addition to this extra financing, the fund will need to work effectively to support the most climate vulnerable nations and populations when severe weather occurs. The fund could create a budget support mechanism that can help small island states and other vulnerable countries deal with loss of income and the negative effects on growth. It could make sure loss and damage funds can be released quickly, and ensure support is channelled to those who need it the most. It could also make more concessional finance available for recovery, especially for the most adversely affected sectors like agriculture and tourism. -Source: Down To Earth Determining Minority Educational Institution (MEI) Status Context: In a significant ruling, a 7-judge bench of the Supreme Court, without deciding whether Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) qualifies as a minority institution, overruled a 1967 judgment by a 5-judge bench in the Azeez Basha case. The majority opinion established elaborate parameters for assessing the minority character of an institution. The court has tasked a regular bench with adjudicating the 57-year-old controversy surrounding AMU’s status, using these newly defined parameters to guide their decision. This development opens a new chapter in the legal examination of minority rights in educational institutions in India. Relevance: GS II: Education Dimensions of the Article: Historical and Legal Context of AMU’s Minority Status Case Constitutional Protections and Benefits for Minority Educational Institutions (MEIs) Supreme Court Criteria for Determining Minority Educational Institution (MEI) Status Implications of the Supreme Court’s Test for MEI Status Historical and Legal Context of AMU’s Minority Status Case Transformation from MAO College to AMU Origin as MAO College: The Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, established in 1877, was transformed into Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) in 1920 through an act passed by the central legislature. Change in Status: The government contended that this transformation altered the original minority status of the institution, sparking significant legal debates on its status as a minority educational institution. Key Legal Milestones Azeez Basha Case (1967): In this pivotal case, the Supreme Court of India ruled that AMU was not established by the Muslim community but was instead created by an act of the central legislature in 1920. This judgment stated that AMU did not qualify as a minority institution under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution. Legislative Amendments and Challenges (1981-2006): 1981 Amendment: An amendment to the AMU Act asserted that the university was established by the Muslim community, aiming to reclaim its status as a minority institution. 2005 Reservation Policy: AMU implemented a 50% reservation for Muslim students in postgraduate medical courses, furthering its assertion as a minority institution. 2006 Allahabad High Court Ruling: The court struck down the 1981 amendment and the reservation policy, ruling that AMU did not have minority status. Supreme Court Referral (2019) In 2019, the controversy surrounding the minority status of AMU was escalated to the Supreme Court of India, which then referred the issue to a seven-judge bench for a more comprehensive evaluation. Constitutional Protections and Benefits for Minority Educational Institutions (MEIs) Article 30 of the Indian Constitution Rights of Minorities: Article 30(1) grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, ensuring their ability to preserve and develop their culture and language. Article 15(5) Special Privileges for MEIs: This provision exempts minority educational institutions from implementing reservations in admissions for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), allowing them to maintain control over admissions and staff recruitment. Advantages of Minority Status Reservation of Seats: Minority institutions can reserve up to 50% of their seats for students from their community, promoting educational advancement within the group. Autonomy in Administration: These institutions enjoy considerable autonomy, allowing them to tailor their administrative and educational strategies to better serve their community’s unique cultural and educational needs. Supreme Court Criteria for Determining Minority Educational Institution (MEI) Status The Supreme Court of India has set forth specific criteria and tests to ascertain whether an educational institution qualifies as a Minority Educational Institution (MEI). These guidelines aim to ensure that institutions claiming minority status genuinely serve the interests of a minority community, in accordance with constitutional protections. Key Criteria for MEI Status Purpose of the Institution: The institution must primarily serve to preserve the language, culture, or religion of a minority community. Admission Practices: Admitting non-minority students does not strip an institution of its minority status, as long as the institution’s primary purpose is maintained. Nature of Education: Providing secular education does not negate an institution’s minority character. Religious Instruction in Government-Aided Institutions: Institutions receiving state funds are prohibited from mandating religious instruction, aligning with secular principles. Two-Fold Test to Establish Minority Status Establishment Historical Context: The origin and initial purpose of the institution are scrutinized to confirm a clear intent to benefit a minority community. Documentary Evidence: Foundational documents such as charters, funding records, and founding members’ communications are examined to establish the minority-focused intent. Administration Diversity in Leadership: While not restricted to minority members, the administrative structure must reflect and prioritize minority interests. Historical Affirmation for Older Institutions: For institutions established before India’s constitution came into effect in 1950, there must be evidence that the administration was committed to minority interests as of the commencement of the Constitution. Implications of the Supreme Court’s Test for MEI Status Administrative Autonomy Case Example: The ruling provides crucial support for institutions like St Stephen’s College in its autonomy dispute with Delhi University regarding the appointment processes for principal positions. Wider Impact on Minority Status Debates Parallel Legal Cases: The criteria and tests are particularly relevant to ongoing cases such as that of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), where the institution’s claim to minority status hinges on similar factors to those in the AMU case. Legal Precedents: Decisions made based on these criteria not only affect the institutions directly involved but also set precedents that influence other minority institutions across India, potentially leading to a reevaluation of their status and governance structures. -Source: Indian Express NSCN (I-M) Seeks Third-Party Mediation in Naga Political Issue Context: The Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN I-M) has called for third-party intervention to resolve its protracted political conflict with the Indian government. Citing betrayal over the 2015 Framework Agreement, the group has threatened to resume armed resistance if their demand for mediation is rejected. NSCN (I-M) accuses the Centre of failing to fulfill commitments, notably the recognition of a separate Naga flag and constitution, which they argue are crucial for acknowledging the Naga people’s distinct history and “shared sovereignty.” Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Who are the Nagas and what is the Naga Issue? Peace Initiatives with the Naga Issues NSCN-IM NSCN-IM stand and the deadlock Who are the Nagas and what is the Naga Issue? The Nagas are not a single tribe, but an ethnic community, belonging to Indo-Mongoloid Family, that comprises several tribes who live in the state of Nagaland and its neighbourhood. There are nineteen major Naga tribes, namely, Aos, Angamis, Changs, Chakesang, Kabuis, Kacharis, Khain-Mangas, Konyaks, Kukis, Lothas (Lothas), Maos, Mikirs, Phoms, Rengmas, Sangtams, Semas, Tankhuls, Yamchumgar and Zeeliang. The key demand of Naga groups has been a Greater Nagalim (sovereign statehood) i.e., redrawing of boundaries to bring all Naga-inhabited areas in the Northeast under one administrative umbrella. The Naga inhabited areas include various parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Assam and Myanmar. The demand also includes the separate Naga Yezabo (Constitution) and Naga national flag. Peace Initiatives with the Naga Shillong Accord (1975): A peace accord was signed in Shillong in which the NNC leadership agreed to give up arms. However, several leaders refused to accept the agreement, which led to the split of NNC. Ceasefire Agreement (1997): The NSCN-IM signed a ceasefire agreement with the government to stop attacks on Indian armed forces. In return, the government would stop all counter-insurgency offensive operations. Framework Agreement (2015): In this agreement, the Government of India recognised the unique history, culture and position of the Nagas and their sentiments and aspirations. The NSCN also appreciated the Indian political system and governance. However, the details of the agreement are yet to be released by the government. Recently, the State government decided to prepare the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland but later due to pressure from various fractions, the decision was put on hold. Issues: The 2015 agreement apparently made the peace process inclusive but it created suspicion about the central government exploiting divisions within the Nagas on tribal and geopolitical lines. The issue of integration of contiguous Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in view of the demand for territorial unification of ‘Greater Nagalim’ will trigger violent clashes in the different affected states. Another major hindrance to the peace process in Nagaland is the existence of more than one organisation, each claiming to be representative of the Nagas. NSCN-IM The Isaak Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (IM), one of the largest Naga groups fighting for an independent Naga homeland. They have been engaged in guerrilla warfare against successive Indian administrations since the 1950s. One of the main demands of NSCN-IM has been the creation of a sovereign Naga territory that includes Naga-inhabited parts of neighbouring states like Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh as well as a portion of Burma across the international border, and leaders from those states have long been wary of any accord that would allow the annexation of parts of their land. Lack of infrastructure development in the region is one of the perceived reasons for the decades’ long insurgency. In 2015, NSCN-IM had entered into an historic Peace Accord (Framework Agreement) with Union government to bring lasting peace in Nagaland. NSCN-IM stand and the deadlock The Naga talks have hit the deadlock since early 2020 as the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-(Isak Muivah) (NSCN-IM) leader has refused to hold any dialogue with interlocutor and Nagaland Governor R.N Ravi. The Governor’s letter to the Nagaland Chief Minister saying “over half a dozen organized armed gangs were brazenly running their respective ‘so called governments’ challenging the legitimacy of the State government” had caused the situation to worsen. There was also an order asking government officials to declare if their family members or relatives are members of any “underground organisation.” NSCN-IM signed a ceasefire agreement with the Centre in 2001, hence they took offense with the “organized armed gangs” view. And also given that in a tribal set-up most people are related to each other, asking government officials to declare regarding their family members was seen as insensitive. Following the failure of the breakdown of communication between the NSCN-IM and the Nagaland Governor, the Union Home Minister deputed a team of Intelligence Bureau officials to continue the discussions with the NSCN-IM. -Source: Indian Express PyPIM Platform Context: Israeli researchers have developed PyPIM that enables computers to process data directly in memory, bypassing the need for the central processing unit (CPU). Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions PyPIM Platform The PyPIM platform merges the Python programming language with innovative digital processing-in-memory (PIM) technology. New instructions introduced on the platform enable direct processing within memory, bypassing traditional data transfer methods. PyPIM allows software developers to use well-known programming languages like Python to create applications for PIM-enabled computers. Addressing the Memory Wall Challenge  Researchers focus on overcoming the “memory wall” issue, characterized by the faster growth of processor speeds and memory capacity compared to data transfer rates. The platform targets the inefficiencies of energy and time consumption in data transfers between memory and the CPU, a common bottleneck in contemporary computing systems. By facilitating computations directly within memory, PyPIM lessens the reliance on the CPU, which can result in substantial reductions in both processing time and energy consumption. Technical Advancements and Computing Efficiency PyPIM supports in-memory computing, which allows data processing to occur right where data is stored, enhancing the speed and efficiency of computing tasks. Unlike conventional computing models that require separate components for memory and processing, PyPIM integrates these functions, reducing the need for data to travel between memory and the CPU for processing. -Source: The Hindu Digital Population Clock Context: Recently, Bengaluru’s first digital population clock was inaugurated at the Institute for Social Economic Change (ISEC). Relevance: Facts for Prelims Digital Population Clock The Digital Population Clock is an innovative project designed to provide real-time population estimates for Karnataka and India. This initiative was developed through a collaboration between the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Key Features of the Digital Population Clock Real-Time Updates: The clock updates the population figures for Karnataka every 1.10 minutes and for India every two seconds, ensuring up-to-date data availability. Technology Integration: Equipped with a satellite connection for precise timekeeping, the clock operates autonomously with an integrated system that includes all necessary components. Advanced Software: The system uses state-of-the-art software and tools, enhancing its capability for detailed demographic studies. Objectives and Significance Awareness and Research: The primary aim is to raise awareness about population dynamics and provide reliable data that can be used for academic research and policy analysis. National Rollout: The MoHFW plans to install similar clocks in 18 Population Research Centres across India, standardizing the method of population estimation nationwide. Support for Demographic Studies: The clocks are part of a broader effort to advance the understanding of population trends and support demographic research. Impact on Population Studies Alongside the clocks, the introduction of a new census data research workstation will bolster academic research, offering robust tools for policy analysis and capacity building in population studies. Accurate and timely population data are crucial for effective policy-making and planning, particularly in sectors like health, education, and urban development. -Source: The Hindu Exercise AUSTRAHIND Context: The 3rd edition of joint military Exercise AUSTRAHIND commenced at Foreign Training Node, Pune in Maharashtra. The exercise will be conducted from 8th to 21st November 2024. Relevance: GS III: Security Challenges About Exercise AUSTRAHIND: Exercise AUSTRAHIND is a collaborative military exercise between India and Australia. This annual exercise alternates between India and Australia, with the last session held in Australia in December 2023. The Indian team, primarily consisting of 140 personnel from the DOGRA Regiment along with 14 Indian Air Force members, will participate. The objective of Exercise AUSTRAHIND is to foster military collaboration between the two nations by improving interoperability during joint sub-conventional operations in a semi-urban, semi-desert environment under Chapter VII of the UN mandate. The exercise comprises two main phases: the combat conditioning and tactical training phase, and the validation phase. During the exercise, participants will practice various drills, including responding to terrorist territorial claims, establishing a Joint Operations Centre, conducting joint counter-terrorism operations such as Raids, Search and Destroy Missions, securing helipads, utilizing drones along with counter-drone strategies, and executing Special Heli Borne Operations. Importance: The exercise is crucial for both sides to exchange best practices regarding tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting tactical operations. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 09 November 2024

CONTENTS Adoptions in India Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Adoptions in India Context: Recently, Central adoption resource authority(CARA) celebrated November as National Adoption Awareness Month to promote legal adoptions.  Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Understanding Adoption: Legal and Practical Aspects in India About the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) Benefits of Adoption for Children and Society Challenges Related to Adoption in India Understanding Adoption: Legal and Practical Aspects in India Definition of Adoption Legal Perspective: Adoption involves the legal process where a child is permanently separated from their biological parents and legally integrated into the adoptive family, receiving all associated rights and responsibilities. Legal Framework for Adoption in India Governing Laws: The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA) The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 Accompanied by Juvenile Justice Model Rules, 2016 and Adoption Regulations, 2017. Core Principles: Child’s best interests are paramount. Adoption placements should consider socio-cultural congruity, aiming for assimilation into similar cultural settings as far as possible. Centralized Agency: Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) oversees all adoptions, maintaining a centralized database for children and prospective parents through the Child Adoption Resource Information and Guidance System (CARINGS). Eligibility for Adoption Who Can Be Adopted: Orphans, abandoned, or surrendered children declared legally free for adoption. Children from a relative or children of a spouse from a prior marriage can be adopted, including those surrendered by biological parents. Adopter Criteria: Any individual, regardless of marital status, can adopt, provided they are physically, mentally, and financially stable without life-threatening medical conditions. Couples need a stable marital relationship of two years with mutual consent. Single women can adopt children of any gender; however, single men cannot adopt girl children. The age difference between the child and the adoptive parent(s) should be at least 25 years. Families with three or more biological children can adopt only if they opt for children with special needs or those who are hard to place. About the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA): CARA is a statutory body under the Ministry of Women & Child Development, Government of India. Role as Central Authority: Designated as the Central Authority for handling inter-country adoptions in line with the Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption, 1993, ratified by India in 2003. Functions: Nodal body regulating the adoption of “orphaned, surrendered, and abandoned children” in India. Monitors and regulates entities such as State Adoption Resource Agencies (SARAs), Specialized Adoption Agencies (SAAs), Authorized Foreign Adoption Agencies (AFAAs), Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), and District Child Protective Units (DPUs). Legal Framework in India: Child placement with a family is governed by the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956; the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890; and the Juvenile Justice Act, 2000. Mandatory registration of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) and linking to CARA is outlined in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. Hague Convention on Inter-country Adoption: The Convention establishes safeguards for children and families involved in inter-country adoptions. Aims to prevent the illegal abduction, sale, or trafficking of children during adoptions. Objectives: Protect children and families from illegal or ill-prepared inter-country adoptions. Prevent abduction, sale, or trafficking of children. Establish minimum standards while recognizing that it does not serve as a uniform law of adoption. Benefits of Adoption for Children and Society Loving and Stable Family Environment: Adoption provides children deprived of parental care with a loving and stable family environment. Holistic Development and Well-being: Ensures the holistic development and well-being of adopted children, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, social, and educational needs. Social and Economic Contribution: Contributes to the social and economic development of the country by: Reducing the burden on the state and society in caring for orphaned, abandoned, or surrendered children. Empowering adopted children to become productive and responsible citizens. Positive Adoption Culture: Cultivates a positive adoption culture in society by: Breaking down social stigmas associated with adoption. Raising awareness about the numerous benefits of adoption. Empowerment of Children: Empowers children through adoption, providing them with opportunities for growth, education, and a brighter future. Family and Community Support: Strengthens the fabric of families and communities by fostering support networks around adopted children. Diversity and Inclusion: Promotes diversity and inclusion by creating families that embrace children from different backgrounds, cultures, and communities. Fulfillment of Parental Desires: Allows prospective adoptive parents to fulfill their desires of parenthood, creating a positive impact on their lives. Humanitarian and Compassionate Act: Reflects a humanitarian and compassionate act, demonstrating the potential for positive change through acts of care and kindness. Lifetime Bonds and Relationships: Builds lifetime bonds and relationships between adoptive parents and children, fostering love, support, and a sense of belonging. Challenges in Adoption Process in India Low Adoption Rates: Despite many orphaned and abandoned children in Child Care Institutions (CCIs), actual adoptions are few due to the limited number of children legally cleared for adoption. Procedural Challenges: Prospective parents often face lengthy waits and emotional drain with minimal communication from CARA, leading to frustration. Numerous legal steps and procedural delays often prevent children in CCIs from entering the adoption pool. Societal and Cultural Hurdles: Traditional resistance based on caste, class, or genetics is waning, but still presents a barrier to adoption acceptance. Special Needs and Older Children: There’s significant resistance to adopting older children, siblings, or those with disabilities within India, although these groups find more acceptance among foreign adoptive parents. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Context: In a departure from the government’s stated position, the top official from the Niti Aayog on said India should be part of the China-backed Regional Economic partnership (RCEP) trade bloc. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) represents a significant step forward in regional economic integration among nations in the Asia-Pacific region. Initiated by the member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and their six Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners, RCEP has been crafted to streamline commerce and foster economic unity among its participants. Member Composition ASEAN Countries: The partnership includes all ten ASEAN member states, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos, and Vietnam. FTA Partners: Extending beyond ASEAN, the agreement also encompasses six additional countries that have existing free trade agreements with ASEAN: China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. Objectives and Scope of RCEP Integrated Market Goals: One of the primary objectives of RCEP is to establish an integrated market among the 16 participating countries, which aims to simplify the accessibility of products and services across these nations, enhancing economic ties and cooperation. Key Negotiation Areas: Trade in Goods and Services: RCEP covers extensive provisions to enhance trade in goods and services among the member countries, aiming to reduce barriers and streamline operations. Investment: Facilitating investment and improving transparency in investment regulations are pivotal components of the agreement. Intellectual Property: The agreement seeks to foster an innovative and creative economic environment through enhanced standards of intellectual property protection and enforcement. Dispute Settlement: Establishing effective, transparent mechanisms for resolving trade disputes is another crucial aspect of RCEP. E-commerce: RCEP recognizes the growing significance of digital trade and includes provisions to promote and safeguard online commercial activities. Support for SMEs: The agreement includes measures to assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in navigating the integrated economic region, ensuring they benefit from broader market access. Economic Cooperation: RCEP encourages cooperation on broader economic issues, including technical assistance and capacity building, which are vital for the less developed member nations. Significance Scale of Impact: As of its launch, RCEP is the largest trading bloc in history, covering nearly a third of the world’s population and about 30% of global GDP, highlighting its significant impact on global trade dynamics. Enforcement: Officially coming into force on January 1, 2022, RCEP has begun to reshape trade flows and economic policies among its member countries, promising to enhance regional stability and prosperity through increased economic interdependence.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 09 November 2024

Contents : The BRICS journey — gaining heft while in transition Staying cool, but with clean tech, global collaborations The BRICS journey — gaining heft while in transition BRICS: Started in 2009 with four members: Brazil, Russia, India, and China. Joined by South Africa: In 2011. Objective: To promote cooperation among emerging economies. Relevance: GS 2 ( International Relations ) Practice Question: Discuss the significance of BRICS expansion in representing the Global South’s interests. Highlights its significance for the current global governance structure. (250 words) Survival and Rejuvenation Kazan Summit (October 22-24, 2024): 16th summit since 2009. Challenges: COVID-19, India-China border tensions, Russia’s Ukraine conflict. Expansion: New members (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia) were added at the 15th summit. Growing Interest: 34 nations expressed interest in joining BRICS, indicating its rising global stature. BRICS Spirit and Objectives Reformist Approach: Seeks to reform, not replace, the global order. Core Characteristics: Mutual respect, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration, and consensus. Three Cooperation Verticals: Political and security, economic and financial, cultural and people-to-people. Global Role and Influence United Nations Reform: Advocacy for greater roles for countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America in the UN, including the Security Council. Economic Sanctions: Call for the elimination of unilateral sanctions, highlighting their violation of international law and human rights impact. Focus Areas at Kazan Summit Peace and Security West Asia Conflict: Focused on ceasefire and establishing an independent State of Palestine. Ukraine Conflict: Maintained a neutral tone, emphasized dialogue and diplomacy, and addressed root causes. Economic and Financial Cooperation Local Currencies: Increased use in financial transactions among BRICS countries. New Development Bank (NDB): Limited new capital due to Saudi Arabia’s hesitancy; focus on improving existing structures. Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges Promoting Cooperation: Focus on sports, culture, parliaments, civil society, business, and think tanks for long-term benefits. Expansion and New Partnerships New Partner States: 13 new partner states from Latin America, Africa, Eurasia, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia were invited. Future Influence: Expansion to increase BRICS’s share in world population, trade, and GDP. India’s Perspective Strategic Importance: Top Plurilateral Groupings: BRICS, G-20, Quad, BIMSTEC, G-7 (guest status), SCO. Multipolarity and Autonomy: Enhances India’s strategic autonomy and multipolarity advocacy. India-China Relations: The recent Modi-Xi meeting aimed at improving bilateral ties and strategic space for India. India’s Contributions and Views on Expansion: International Cooperation: India values BRICS’s role in global cooperation. Pragmatic Approach: Initially cautious, now supportive of expansion for enhanced influence. Geopolitical Role: Acts as a bridge between West and East, North and South, making India a pivotal player in global politics. Conclusion : BRICS is set to become a more significant player in global governance. Its ability to maintain cohesion amidst diversity will determine its impact on world affairs. Staying cool, but with clean tech, global collaborations Context: As the world warms, cooling solutions become essential, particularly for vulnerable populations. The Quad’s Wilmington Declaration and global collaborations, emphasise clean energy and efficient cooling technologies. Relevance: GS 3 (Environment ) Practice Question: How does international collaboration on clean cooling technologies help address climate challenges? Illustrate with examples from recent initiatives. (150 words ) Necessity of Cooling : In a rapidly warming world cooling is no longer a luxury but a necessity for vulnerable populations. International Cooperation is essential for developing and deploying clean energy and cooling solutions to mitigate climate impacts. Wilmington Declaration and Quad’s Commitment : Wilmington Declaration (September 21, 2024): Issued by Quad nations (Australia, India, Japan, and the United States) to underline their commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Focus: Emphasises high-efficiency cooling systems. India-U.S. Collaboration: A joint road map for resilient and secure global clean energy supply chains, with a special focus on clean cooling technologies. India’s Leadership : Significant Investments: India is leading efforts with investments in solar and cooling infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific region. India and the U.S. plan to increase manufacturing potential for high-efficiency air-conditioners and fans. Cooling-Related Emissions Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment (2016): Set a precedent for global action on reducing cooling-related emissions. HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons): Potent greenhouse gases used in cooling appliances, targeted for phase-down by 2047. HFC phase-down with energy efficiency improvements can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Challenges: Indirect and Direct Emissions: Inefficient cooling systems powered by fossil fuels and harmful refrigerants contribute to climate change. Lack of Standards: Many countries lack integrated energy efficiency and refrigerant standards, which may lead to the market dominance of outdated, inefficient models. India’s Climate Vulnerability and Response Extreme Temperatures: Parts of India experienced temperatures over 50°C in 2024, highlighting the urgent need for cooling solutions. Future Demand: By 2050, India may have the world’s highest cooling demand with over 1.14 billion air conditioners. Kigali Amendment Ratification (2021) India committed to reducing HFCs by 85% by 2047. India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP): Targets significant reductions in cooling demand, energy consumption, and a shift to low-GWP refrigerants. Mission-Mode Approach National Mission for Sustainable Cooling: Calls for focused leadership, cross-sectoral collaboration, and coordinated efforts. Inter-Ministerial Working Group: Essential for planning, budgeting, and capacity-building initiatives. Global Commitments and COP29 COP28 Achievements: 63 countries pledged to reduce cooling emissions by 68% by 2050. Global Cooling Pledge: Aims to provide cooling access to 3.5 billion people and save $17 trillion in energy costs. COP29 Goals: Build on COP28 momentum, expand cooling commitments, and enhance international partnerships. Conclusion : Collaboration should happen at the international level to develop sustainable solutions for climate change. India’s leadership is vital in global efforts against the climate change crisis.

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