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Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 October 2024

CONTENTS G20 Pandemic Fund G20 Pandemic Fund Context: The Central Government will implement the G20 Pandemic Fund, which is aimed at enhancing the country’s “animal health security”. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: G20 Pandemic Fund Understanding Zoonotic Diseases Global Health Security Index (GHSI) G20 Pandemic Fund Purpose and Creation: The G20 Pandemic Fund was established by the G20 countries to improve the global ability to prepare for and respond to health crises, focusing on pandemics and diseases that transfer from animals to humans. Primary Goals: Enhancing healthcare infrastructures globally to manage pandemics efficiently. Targeting zoonotic diseases by investing in better animal health monitoring and surveillance systems. Providing necessary resources to help strengthen health systems in less developed regions. Operational Framework: Administration: The World Bank manages the fund, working in collaboration with entities like the WHO, FAO, and various regional development banks. Financial Structure: Launched with an initial funding of over $1.4 billion, the fund utilizes grants and low-interest loans to support projects in eligible countries. Understanding Zoonotic Diseases Definition: Zoonotic diseases are infections passed between animals and humans, caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. Modes of Transmission: Direct interaction with infected animals. Contact with environments contaminated by pathogens. Through vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes. Consuming tainted food products. Breathing in airborne pathogens from animal waste. Examples: Rabies- The rabies disease is usually spread by an infected mammal through bites, most commonly dogs and bats. Lyme Disease- Lyme disease is a disease caused by bacteria. These bacteria are usually spread by the bites of infected ticks. Salmonellosis- This is a type of foodborne disease, which is spread through handling reptiles and poultry, or consuming contaminated food and water. West Nile Virus- West Nile Virus is a disease spread by mosquitoes, which are infected after feeding on infected birds. Hantavirus is spread by contact with excrements, urine or saliva of rodents. Ebola is spread through the direct contact with the infected person or animal’s body fluids. Zika virus is transmitted mainly through mosquito bite, however, it also can be sexually transmitted or passed from mother to baby. Influenza A (H1N1, H5N1) are viral diseases that are transmitted among birds and pigs before being passed to humans. Anthrax – Bacterial cause and spread through contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated animal products. Brucellosis – Cause by bacteria and is spread through direct contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated animal products. Global Health Security Index (GHSI) Insights The GHSI acts as a comprehensive tool to evaluate and compare the readiness of nations to handle global health threats like pandemics.  Developed in 2019 by the Nuclear Threat Initiative, the Johns Hopkins Centre for Health Security, and The Economist Intelligence Unit. Scoring and Evaluation: Countries are scored on a scale from 0 to 100, where higher scores denote better preparedness. Assessment Criteria: Prevention: Evaluates efforts to prevent the emergence of new pathogens. Detection and Reporting: Measures effectiveness in monitoring and alerting outbreaks. Rapid Response: Gauges the speed and efficiency in responding to health crises. Health System Capacity: Assesses the robustness of national healthcare systems to deal with large-scale health emergencies. Adherence to International Norms: Looks at compliance with global health regulations. Risk Environment: Considers socio-political and environmental factors that could impact national health security.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 October 2024

Contents : Sustainability Science for FMCGs in India The private sector holds the key to India’s e-bus push Beyond intoxication Sustainability Science for FMCGs in India: Context: Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) policy highlights a commitment to encourage academia-industry partnerships aimed at developing sustainable, bio-based alternatives. especially within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector. Relevance: GS 3 ( Environment ) Practice question: Examine the impact of palm oil production on biodiversity. What measures can be taken to mitigate these effects, and what steps has India implemented to address these challenges? (250 words) What are FMCG? FMCG stands for Fast-Moving Consumer Goods. These are products that are sold quickly and at relatively low cost. FMCG items are typically those which are essential or frequently purchased by consumers due to their high demand and shorter shelf life. Its market projected to reach around $220 billion by 2025 Example: Food and beverage, Household products, etc India’s Bio-Economy Focus: ANRF and BioE3 Policy: These initiatives aim to transition from chemical-based industries to bio-based models. The goal is to integrate sustainable development into economic progress by emphasising research and innovation. Academia-industry partnership: It’s important to address sustainability challenges and gaps in adoption through utilising biotechnologies and promoting self-reliance by focusing on research and development. Palm Oil in FMCGs: Palm oil is commonly used in FMCGs due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. It’s found in products like snacks, baked goods, soaps, shampoos, and detergents.  Environmental Concerns: Palm oil, widely used in soap production, is linked to deforestation and biodiversity loss, with plantations often replacing ecologically forests. For instance: According to a study published in PLOS ONE, 45% of sampled oil palm plantations in Southeast Asia originated from areas that were forests in 1989. Yield Efficiency and Demand: High yield and low cost make palm oil attractive, meeting roughly 40% of global vegetable oil demand. Technological Alternatives to Palm Oil: Synthetic Biotechnology Solutions: Advanced biotechnologies could be utilised to replicate the structural aspect of palm oil. e.g. Utilising engineering microbes to produce oils with characteristics of palm oil. Local Bio-based Alternatives: Potential substitutes include plant-based polysaccharides and antimicrobial peptides, which could replace palm oil-derived components while enhancing soap benefits (e.g., boosting skin immunity). Value Chain Support and Government Role: Policy-backed Innovation: ANRF and BioE3 could support innovations that integrate plastic-free packaging. Need for Civil Society Involvement: Industry players, researchers, and consumers all play a role in promoting a shift toward sustainable FMCG solutions. Cost Implications: Sustainable practices can raise production costs, which are passed to consumers, affecting the product’s market competitiveness. Sustainability Ratings: Product labelling based on sustainable sourcing and production can encourage consumers to make informed choices aligned with environmental values. Domestic Palm Oil Production: National Mission on Edible Oils-Oil Palm: India’s 2021 initiative seeks to increase palm oil production while adhering to sustainable standards (e.g., ‘No Deforestation, No Peat’). Mission aims to increase the oil palm production area to 10 lakh ha. and boost crude palm oil production to 11.20 lakh tonnes by 2025-26. Conclusion: The integration of ANRF and BioE3 policies sets a foundation for a bio-based economy that respects ecological limits and emphasises innovation. Innovation and research will make the transition smoother. The Private Sector Holds The Key To India’s E-Bus Push Context: The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme has been approved by the Union Cabinet, allocating ₹4,391 crore for electric vehicle (EV) incentives, particularly focusing on the procurement of 14,028 electric buses across nine cities. Relevance: GS3 (Environment ) Practice question: How can the private sector contribute to India’s electric bus adoption? Suggest steps the government can take to support private operators in this transition. (150 words ) Current scenario : Public Sector Dominance: The deployment of electric buses has primarily been driven by public sector initiatives, particularly through the FAME India scheme. Under FAME I (2015-2019), 425 buses were subsidised, which increased significantly to 7,120 buses under FAME II (2019-2024). However, public transport buses constitute only 7% of the total 24 lakh registered buses in India, highlighting the limited scope of public sector efforts. Exclusion of Private Sector: The majority of buses (93%) in India are privately owned, yet these operators are excluded from major national schemes or incentives. Financing Hurdles: Factors such as high upfront costs, perceived risks, and low resale value of electric buses complicate access to loans. Market Potential for Inter-city Electric Buses : The inter-city bus sector serves 22.8 crore passengers daily, accounting for 57% of total ridership and 64% of vehicle kilometres. Notably, 40% of intercity trips are within the 250 km to 300 km range, which aligns well with the range capabilities of current electric bus models. Recommendations for Policy Support : To facilitate the transition to electric buses, the ICCT report suggests offering favourable financing options, such as credit guarantees, interest subsidies and extended loan tenures, to mitigate financial risks. Infrastructure Challenges : Charging Infrastructure: Limited access to charging facilities hinders electric bus adoption. Current FAME-funded facilities cater primarily to state transport units, neglecting the needs of private operators. Given that 90% of private bus operators manage fleets of fewer than five buses, the high costs associated with establishing charging infrastructure pose significant challenges.  Emerging Business Models : The Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model, which separates battery ownership from vehicle ownership, could significantly lower the initial investment required for electric buses. Battery swapping and usage-linked leasing models, already successfully implemented in countries like China and Kenya, present viable solutions for accelerating private electric bus adoption. Conclusion The PM E-DRIVE scheme offers great opportunities for policymakers to address financing barriers, enhance charging infrastructure, and explore innovative business models that encourage private investment in electric buses. Beyond Intoxication Context: Recently Supreme Court clarified the term ‘intoxicating liquors’ under State List Entry 8 includes all types of alcohol (potable and industrial). Relevance: GS2 ( Indian Polity ) Practice Question: How does the recent Supreme Court ruling on alcohol regulation strengthen the federal structure in India? Explain its impact on state and central powers. (250 words ) Federal Balance and State Powers: State Authority: Judgment reinforces state authority to regulate both potable and industrial alcohol. Limitation on Union Control: Prevents the Union from regulating the ‘intoxicating liquor’ industry under the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act (IDRA), 1951. Legislative Competence: The Supreme Court held that Parliament lacks authority over the entire alcohol industry, safeguarding states’ rights. Federal Principle: Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s opinion emphasised maintaining the federal balance, preventing Union overreach into state matters. Supporting State Autonomy: Aligns with recent judgment allowing states to tax mineral resources, signalling support for state autonomy. Economic Perspective: Justice Nagarathna viewed ‘intoxicating liquors’ as referring only to potable alcohol, allowing the Centre control over industrial alcohol. Economic Importance: Highlights industrial alcohol’s significance in chemicals and energy, arguing for a cautious approach to constitutional interpretation. Impacts and Implications: Federal Autonomy Reinforced: The decision highlights the Supreme Court’s role in protecting state powers and upholding the Constitution’s federal structure. Balancing Growth with Federalism: Reflects a nuanced balance between economic priorities and constitutional boundaries. Precedent for State Rights: Establishes a precedent for similar disputes where state regulatory powers intersect with central frameworks. Potential Impact on Other Sectors: This may influence federal debates in minerals, agriculture, and other areas where economic interests and state autonomy converge. Conclusion: This judgment reaffirms state jurisdiction over alcohol regulation, upholds federal principles, and demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to protecting state legislative authority against central overreach.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 October 2024

CONTENTS Microfinance Institutions India – Germany Relations Israel Conducts Targeted Airstrikes on Iran 21st Livestock Census National Mission for Manuscript Cybersquatting Centre Aims to Complete Bhu-Aadhaar Registration for Rural Land Parcels by 2026 Microfinance Institutions Context: Recently, the Financial Services Secretary, while highlighting the crucial role of microfinance institutions (MFIs) in fostering financial inclusion, emphasised that they must avoid reckless lending despite their role in promoting financial inclusion.  Relevance: GS-III: Indian Economy (Growth and Development of Indian Economy, Banking Sector) Dimensions of the Article: What are Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs)? Microfinance in India Micro Finance Associated Challenges What are Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs)? Micro finance Institutions, also known as MFIs, a microfinance institution is an organisation that offers financial services to low-income populations. Usually, their area of operations of extending small loans are rural areas and among low-income people in urban areas. MFIs provide the much-needed aid to the economically underprivileged who would have otherwise been at the mercy of the local moneylender and high interest rates. The model had its genesis as a poverty alleviation tool, focused on economic and social upliftment of the marginalised sections through lending of small amounts of money without any collateral to women for income-generating activities. Some of the MFIs, that qualify certain criteria and are non-deposit taking entities, come under RBI wings for Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) Regulation and supervision. These “Last Mile Financiers” are known as NBFC MFI. The objective of covering them under RBI was to make these NBFC MFIs healthy and accountable. History of Microfinance The term “microfinancing” was first used in the 1970s during the development of Grameen Bank of Bangladesh, which was founded by the microfinance pioneer, Muhammad Yunus. Since, in the developing countries, a large number of people still depends largely on subsistence farming or basic food trade for their livelihood, therefore, smallholder agriculture in these developing countries has been supported by the significant resources. Microfinance in India SEWA Cooperative Bank was initiated in 1974 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, by Ela Bhatt which is now one of the first modern-day microfinance institutions of the country. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) offered financial services to the unbanked people, especially women and later decided to experiment with a very different model, which is now popularly known as Self-help Groups (SHGs). The SHG-Bank linkage programme in India has savings accounts with 7.9 million SHGs and involves the participation of regional rural banks (RRBs), commercial banks and cooperative banks in its operations. The origin of SHGs in India can be traced back to the establishment of the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in 1972. In 2013, a loan of $144 million was provided by Grameen Capital India to the microfinance groups. Apart from the Grameen Bank, another microfinance organization named Equitas was developed in Tamil Nadu. The Southern and Western states of India are the ones attracting the greatest number of microfinance loans. Micro Finance Associated Challenges Inadequate Data: While overall loan accounts have been increasing the actual impact of these loans on the poverty-level of clients is sketchy as data on the relative poverty-level improvement of MFI clients is fragmented. Impact of COVID-19: It has impacted the MFI sector, with collections having taken an initial hit and disbursals yet to observe any meaningful thrust. Social Objective Overlooked: In their quest for growth and profitability, the social objective of MFIs—to bring in improvement in the lives of the marginalized sections of the society—seems to have been gradually eroding. Loans for Conspicuous Consumption: The proportion of loans utilized for non-income generating purposes could be much higher than what is stipulated by RBI. These loans are short-tenured and given the economic profile of the customers, it is likely that they soon find themselves in the vicious debt trap of having to take another loan to pay off the first. -Source: The Hindu India – Germany Relations Context: On his three-day visit to India, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met the Indian PM, focusing on strategic partnerships, visas for skilled workers, and mutual cooperation. Modi and Scholz also co-chaired the seventh round of India-Germany Intergovernmental Consultations. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Key Highlights of the German Chancellor’s Visit to India India-Germany Relationship Conclusion Key Highlights of the German Chancellor’s Visit to India Bilateral Discussions on Global Concerns Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s advocacy for peaceful resolution and commitment to global peace. Chancellor Scholz commended India’s role in South Asia and called for India’s support in finding a political resolution to the Ukraine crisis. West Asia Issues: Both leaders agreed on the need to prevent further escalations and supported a ceasefire and a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Indo-Pacific Security and China’s Influence: Emphasis was placed on maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring maritime freedom. The commitment was made to strengthen defense ties and address regional security challenges together. Reforms in Global Governance: Modi and Scholz discussed the necessity of reforming institutions like the UN Security Council to better tackle current global issues. They promoted moving from a “whole of government” to a “whole of nation” approach, deepening their collaborative efforts. Significant Announcements and Agreements Visa Policy Enhancement: Germany announced an increase in the annual visa quota for skilled Indians from 20,000 to 90,000, recognizing the vital role of India’s skilled professionals in German economic development. Strategic Partnerships: Introduction of the ‘Focus on India’ strategy document, reinforcing Germany’s commitment to India’s workforce and strategic collaboration. Chancellor Scholz emphasized the importance of avoiding one-sided dependencies, especially in obtaining critical raw materials, aiming to diversify supply chains with India as a key partner. Trade and Investment Encouragements: Prime Minister Modi encouraged German businesses to invest in India, positioning it as a promising hub for trade and manufacturing under the “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative. Collaborative Ventures and Treaties Defense and Security Cooperation: The signing of an agreement on the exchange and protection of classified information marked a significant step in deepening mutual trust in defense and security. Legal and Security Treaty: The Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) in criminal matters is set to enhance cooperation on legal issues and improve the joint capability to tackle security challenges. Renewable Energy and Technology: The Green Hydrogen Roadmap reflects a major commitment to renewable energy collaboration aimed at achieving climate objectives. A Joint Declaration of Intent on R&D in advanced materials highlights the shared focus on technological innovation and development. India-Germany Relationship Strategic Cooperation and Collaboration Developed Alliance: India and Germany have a ‘Strategic Alliance’ since the year 2000. The two countries have nurtured and collaborated on numerous lines of development and technological initiatives. Growing Synergy: Over the recent years, the bilateral relationship of both nations has been undergoing change with increased cooperation mainly in the state-of-the-art fields like AI, cyber security, circular economy and smart farming, sustainable growth. Trade Relationship: Germany still remains the biggest trading partner of India in the European Union, and bilateral trade has reached $26 billion for fiscal 2022-23. The nature of the trade is also robust, with exports from India to Germany having reached $10.1 billion and imports from Germany $14.9 billion. Free Trade Negotiations: Although there is no direct Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Germany and India, Germany prefers the negotiations already under way for an EU-India FTA, that will further strengthen economic links. Inter-governmental Consultations (IGC) High-Level Dialogues Since 2011, the IGC allows a comprehensive review of cooperation and explores new dimensions of engagement between the two countries. India is in the list of few nations with which Germany holds the high-level dialogues. Geopolitical Alignments Indo-Pacific Focus: Recent geopolitical strains in the Indo-Pacific region have made India an important partner for furthering economic and strategic stability in the region for Germany and other wider European entities . Conclusion: Recent Developments: The Modi-Scholz meeting marked a new chapter for India-Germany relations, based on a series of agreements from trade to defense and even environmental cooperation. Mutual Growth and Global Influence: These interactions served as a solid foundation for both growth together and serious impact in the world at large, establishing that the two nations were crucially important to the international arena. -Source: Indian Express Israel Conducts Targeted Airstrikes on Iran Context: Israel was said on October 26 to launch precise and targeted airstrikes that reportedly hit key targets at Iran in the aftermath of an earlier attack by that country on Israel during the month. The reported steps marked a clear escalation between the two countries. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Why did Israel attack Iran? Hostility Between Israel and Iran: Historical and Current Dynamics Implications of the Israel-Iran Conflict for India Why did Israel attack Iran? The hostilities between the two countries are as a result of a long-standing history of mutual animosity and the geopolitical tensions that come along with it. The events that triggered this latest episode of violence are several massive incidents: Iranian and Israeli long-term cold war relationship turned sour even further after the Hamas’ attacks on 7 October. Support of Hostile Groups: One aspect quite prominent in this conflict is Iran’s support to the Hamas and Hezbollah groups, which have been involved in direct clashes with Israel. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are classified as terrorist groups by the countries of Israel, United States, and many others. Strikes and Retaliation: April 1 Raid: Israel attacked an Iranian embassy in Syria using missiles, killing 16 people, including the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps. April 13 Retaliatory Strike: Iran attacked Israeli sovereign territory directly using missile and drone attacks; the response was a hit on Iranian missile defense in Isfahan Targeted Killings: July 31: The murder of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which has been attributed to Israeli intelligence. ­September 27: Israel had assassinated Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut, while Iranian Brigadier General Abbas Nilforoushan was also killed there. Ballistic Missile Attack: ­October 1: Iran fired 200 ballistic missiles against Israel, which caused allegedly minimal damage but marked an important escalation in the war. Continued Hostility: Such acts have continued the pattern of strike and counter-strike that has led to the latest attacks by Israel as a continuation of its pledge to retaliate against Iranian aggressions. Hostility Between Israel and Iran: Historical and Current Dynamics Historical Shift from Allies to Adversaries: The relationship between Israel and Iran took a drastic turn after the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran, which ushered in a regime ideologically opposed to Israel. Prior to this, the two nations shared a cordial relationship. Non-recognition and Hostile Rhetoric: Post-revolution, Iran has consistently refused to recognize Israel’s right to exist. Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have often expressed hostile sentiments, referring to Israel as a “cancerous tumor” meant to be eradicated. Engagement in Covert Conflicts: The countries have been involved in a covert “shadow war,” where they target each other’s assets indirectly, avoiding open warfare but maintaining a state of hidden conflict. Escalation Due to Proxy Support: Tensions have been exacerbated by Iran’s support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, which Israel views as terrorist organizations. This support is seen by Israel as a direct threat to its security. Implications of the Israel-Iran Conflict for India Disruption of Red Sea Trade Routes: Any direct conflict between Israel and Iran risks prolonging disruptions in the Red Sea, impacting India’s trade with Europe, the US, Africa, and West Asia, which heavily relies on this critical maritime route. Impact on Indian Petroleum Exports: Conflicts in shipping routes to the Red Sea have led to a rise in freight costs to Indian exporters and reduced the profitability of exports in this trade area, particularly petroleum. Problems in Europe Increased freight costs are a result of regional conflicts that impact the profit margins of India’s export to Europe, which includes machinery and petroleum products. Opportunities in Trade with West Asia: In fact, despite the war, the growth of bilateral trade between India and the GCC has been going up. This would see a shift in the pattern of trade flows, with a potential shift towards regional players, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Crisis to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) The war is likely to delay the full establishment of a more efficient route for trading with India, the Gulf, and Europe. The result would be a reduction in the dependence on the Suez Canal. -Source: Indian Express 21st Livestock Census Context: Recently, the Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying launched the 21st Livestock Census in New Delhi. Relevance: GS III: Agriculture 21st Livestock Census Conducted every five years, the Livestock Census systematically counts domesticated animals, poultry, and stray animals across the country. Information gathered includes details about species, breed, age, sex, and ownership of the animals. Since its inception in 1919, there have been 20 censuses, with the latest conducted in 2019. The 21st census is scheduled from October 2024 to February 2025. Focus Areas of the 21st Livestock Census The upcoming census, directed by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, will cover sixteen animal species including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs, camels, and more exotic animals like yaks, rabbits, and elephants. Data will be collected on 219 indigenous breeds recognized by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR). Extends to various types of poultry such as chickens, ducks, turkeys, and even less common birds like ostriches and emus. Technological Advancements in Data Collection Digital Implementation: Continuing the digital approach from 2019, the census will utilize online data collection through a dedicated mobile application and digital dashboards for monitoring. Geolocation Features: Data collection sites will be geo-tagged to enhance the accuracy and verifiability of the information gathered. Report Generation: Livestock census reports will be generated using specialized software, ensuring efficiency and accessibility. New Data Points in the 21st Census For the first time, the census will explore the contributions of pastoralists to the livestock industry, examining their socio-economic conditions and livestock holdings. The census aims to provide a more detailed understanding of the economic impact of livestock on households and will include data on the gender distribution of stray cattle, offering deeper insights into the sector. -Source: Indian Express National Mission for Manuscript Context: Recently the Ministry of Culture and Tourism shed light on the achievements made in the National Mission for Manuscripts and National Culture Fund. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: National Mission for Manuscripts National Culture Fund (NCF) National Mission for Manuscripts Establishment: 2003, by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India. Objectives: Documentation Conservation Digitization Online dissemination of India’s manuscript heritage. Infrastructure: Over 100 Manuscripts Resource Centres and Manuscripts Conservation Centres across India. Collection: Approximately ten million manuscripts, the largest in the world, covering various themes, textures, scripts, languages, calligraphies, illuminations, and illustrations. Definition of a Manuscript: A handwritten document on materials like paper, bark, cloth, metal, or palm leaf, at least seventy-five years old, with significant scientific, historical, or aesthetic value. Distinction: Manuscripts differ from historical records like epigraphs and firmans, as they primarily convey knowledge content rather than direct historical facts. Diversity: Manuscripts exist in hundreds of different languages and scripts. National Culture Fund (NCF) Establishment: 1996, under the Charitable Endowment Act, 1890. Purpose: To mobilize additional resources through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for promoting, protecting, and preserving India’s cultural heritage. Functions: Financing mechanism for donor/sponsor institutions to support the protection, restoration, conservation, and development of India’s cultural and heritage sites, including monuments and cultural traditions. Training and development of specialists and cultural administrators. Expanding space in existing museums and constructing new museums for special galleries. Documenting cultural expressions and forms that are losing relevance or facing extinction. Management: Managed by a Council chaired by the Minister of Culture and an Executive Committee chaired by the Secretary. Projects are overseen by a Project Implementation Committee (PIC) with representatives from donors, implementers, and NCF. The Comptroller and Auditor General of India annually audit the accounts of NCF. Platform: NCF offers a reliable and innovative platform for partnerships in heritage, culture, and the arts. What is a Manuscript? Manuscript is a composition done in handwriting on paper, bark, cloth, metal, palm leaf, and other materials that have come to be at least seventy-five years old, or they are of outstanding significance to science, history, or aesthetics. Lithographs and printed volumes are not manuscripts. Manuscripts appear in hundreds of different languages and scripts. Many scripts are used to write the same language. For instance, Sanskrit is written in Oriya script, Grantha script, Devanagari script, etc. Manuscripts are different from other historical inscriptions like epigraphs on rocks, firmans, and revenue records as they directly relate to happenings or procedures in historical times. Manuscripts carry knowledge. -Source: The Hindu Cybersquatting Context: Recently, a Delhi based developer registered the domain, ‘JioHotstar,’ which ignited a debate on cybersquatting. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Cybersquatting Cybersquatting involves the registration or use of domain names with the intent to profit from the trademark belonging to someone else, typically a known brand or individual’s name. Often viewed as a form of extortion, cybersquatting can also be seen as a tactic to siphon business from competitors or disrupt their operations. Types of Cybersquatting Typosquatting: This involves purchasing domain names that contain common typographical errors of well-known brands (e.g., “yajoo.com” instead of “yahoo.com”) to capture traffic from users who mistype URLs. Identity Theft: Cybersquatters may duplicate the website of a legitimate brand to deceive consumers by creating a convincing but fraudulent site. Name Jacking: This form targets celebrities or public figures by impersonating them online through fake websites or social media profiles. Reverse Cybersquatting: Here, individuals falsely claim ownership of a trademark and accuse the actual domain owner of cybersquatting, effectively reversing the roles. Legal Landscape in India India lacks specific legislation that directly addresses cybersquatting. Under the Trademark Act of 1999, domain names are treated as trademarks. Therefore, unauthorized use of domain names that are identical or confusingly similar to registered trademarks constitutes trademark infringement, actionable under Section 29 of the Act. -Source: Indian Express Centre Aims to Complete Bhu-Aadhaar Registration for Rural Land Parcels by 2026 Context: Three years into the initiative, only 30% of rural land parcels have been registered with Bhu-Aadhaar. In response, the central government is intensifying efforts to ensure complete registration by 2026. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions About Bhu-Aadhaar: Bhu-Aadhaaris or Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN). ULPIN was launched in 2021 under the Central government’s Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP). It is going to systematize and bring uniformity to the process that is being followed by the states while providing unique identification numbers to the land parcels. It is granted to a piece of land as a measure of the longitude and latitude coordinates of the piece of land and is contingent on detailed surveys and geo-referenced cadastral maps. Under this system an alpha-numeric identity consisting of 14 digits is granted to every piece of land. It comprises State code, District code, Sub-district code, Village code and a Unique plot ID number. The ULPIN or Bhu-Aadhaar, once generated is stamped on the actual land record document in possession of the owner. The same ULPIN will be permanently attached to the plot of land. Even if the land is transferred, sub-divided, or undergoes any change, the ULPIN will remain the same for that geographic boundary. Important goals of ULPIN/Bhu-Aadhaar are Unique ID to each piece of land for easy identification and retrieval of records. Digital creation of land records that have details about the land owners, boundaries of plots, area, usage, etc. Linkage of land records with property registration processes Online delivery of land record services -Source: The Print

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 25 October 2024

CONTENTS Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) Malabar 2024   Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) Context: The Indian Government recently announced an extension of the regional air connectivity scheme UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) for another 10 years. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions About Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN): Nodal:  Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) It is a regional airport development and “Regional Connectivity Scheme” (RCS) of the Union Government of India. The scheme envisages providing connectivity to un-served and under-served airports of the country through the revival of existing airstrips and airports. Objective: To create affordable yet economically viable and profitable flights on regional routes so that flying becomes affordable to the common man even in small towns. To stimulate regional air connectivity and making air travel affordable to the masses. The scheme envisages providing connectivity to un-served and underserved airports of the country through the revival of existing air-strips and airports. The scheme is operational for a period of 10 years. UDAN is a market driven ongoing scheme where bidding rounds are conducted periodically for covering more destinations/stations and routes under the scheme. Interested airlines assess the demand on particular routes connecting these airports and submit their proposals at the time of bidding. UDAN 1.0 Under this phase, 5 airlines companies were awarded 128 flight routes to 70 airports (including 36 newly made operational airports)   UDAN 2.0 In 2018, the Ministry of Civil Aviation announced 73 underserved and unserved airports. For the first time, helipads were also connected under phase 2 of UDAN scheme.   UDAN 3.0 Key Features of UDAN 3 included: Inclusion of Tourism Routes under UDAN 3 in coordination with the Ministry of Tourism. Inclusion of Seaplanes for connecting Water Aerodromes. Bringing in a number of routes in the North-East Region under the ambit of UDAN.   UDAN 4.0: The 4th round of UDAN was launched in December 2019 with a special focus on North-Eastern Regions, Hilly States, and Islands. The airports that had already been developed by Airports Authority of India (AAI) are given higher priority for the award of VGF (Viability Gap Funding) under the Scheme. Under UDAN 4, the operation of helicopter and seaplanes is also been incorporated. UDAN 5.1 Scheme The UDAN 5.1 scheme is an extension of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) called Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN), initiated by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India. It aims to enhance connectivity to remote areas and achieve last-mile connectivity through helicopters. Here are the main features of the UDAN 5.1 scheme: Expanded Operations: The scheme allows operators to fly routes where one of the origin or destination locations is in a priority area, increasing the scope of operations. Previously, both points had to be in priority areas. Reduced Airfare Caps: Airfare caps for helicopter flights have been reduced by up to 25%, making flying in helicopters more affordable for passengers. Increased Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Caps: VGF caps for operators of both single and twin-engine helicopters have been substantially increased. This increase aims to enhance the financial viability of operating the awarded routes. Existing Helicopter Routes: Previous rounds of the UDAN scheme have already made 46 helicopter routes operational, benefiting hilly and North-East states. The current round aims to cover an even larger number of routes, expanding the reach of air connectivity. Malabar 2024  Context: Recently, the sea Phase of Malabar 2024 concluded at Visakhapatnam.  Relevance: GS III: Security Challenges About Malabar 2024 This edition of MALABAR, witnessed participation of warships with their integral helicopters, long range maritime patrol aircraft and submarine. Units participated in complex and advanced exercises in the domains of surface, sub-surface and air warfare. Major exercises included surface weapon firings, anti-air shoots, air defence exercises, anti-submarine warfare exercises, extensive operations of ship borne helicopters, seamanship evolutions including fueling from tankers and maritime interdiction operations. MALABAR 2024 Sea Phase serves as a testament to the commitment of participating nations towards enhancing understanding, collaboration and engagement in the maritime domain as the world grapples with increasingly complex maritime security challenges.     The sea phase culminated with a Closing Ceremony that included a review of operational aspects of the Sea Phase and enabled all participating navies to interact and exchange views by sharing experiences and best practices.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 25 October 2024

Content : The Gaza war and the Global South’s ‘interventions’ Building blocks The Gaza war and the Global South’s ‘interventions’ Context: The killing of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar by Israeli forces on October 16, 2024, marked a significant moment in Israel’s military objectives, but the future political landscape in Gaza and Lebanon remains uncertain with rising civilian casualties. Relevance: GS 2 (International Relations) Practice question: Discuss the role of the global South amid geopolitical conflicts with special reference to the Gaza crisis of 2024 Highlight the challenges faced by India and China in shaping the unified response. (250 words) Fragmented Global South: The Global South’s response to the Gaza conflict has been fragmented, reflecting differing national interests. South Africa took a legal approach, referring Israel to the ICJ, while India and China have diverged in their strategies. China’s Approach: Focused on aligning with the Arab world and Palestinian sovereignty through a decolonisation lens. Invited 14 Palestinian factions, including Hamas, to Beijing in 2024 to discuss unity. Avoided condemning Hamas by name to maintain a mediator role in West Asia. Relations with Israel weakened as China prioritised Arab-Iranian alliances. India’s Position: Balances support for a two-state solution with counterterrorism efforts aligned with Israel. Has strong counterterrorism partnerships with Israel due to shared experiences with terrorism (e.g., 1999 India’s plane IC814 hijacking and releasing of  Jaish-e-Muhammad’s Masood Azhar parallel to Israel’s 2011 release of Sinwar). Continues to support Palestinian statehood, maintaining diplomatic balance despite perceptions of pro-Israel leanings. BRICS and Divergence: China and India’s divergent approaches reflect broader issues in the Global South’s coherence. China pushes for influence through BRICS and has supported its expansion, including potential Palestinian membership, but India’s interest in BRICS remains more cautious. Erosion of U.S. Influence: The diminishing role of U.S.-led Pax Americana is evident as the U.S. struggles with domestic constraints and lacks effective mediation in Gaza. Global South alternatives remain distant realities, unable to project political or military power in West Asia. Global South’s Limitations: Despite the aspirations of the Global South, its inability to unify and project meaningful influence in international conflicts is clear. Mediation in West Asia requires power and leverage that no Global South country possesses individually or collectively. Conclusion: The Gaza war reveals both the limitations of U.S. influence and the fragmented nature of the Global South, which is unable to act as a unified force. Individual national interests, especially those of China and India, take precedence, preventing cohesive interventions. Building Blocks Context: The 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan was the largest international summit held in Russia since the Ukraine war began in 2022. Russia used the summit to illustrate that it is not diplomatically isolated, despite Western sanctions and pressure. Relevance: Internation Relations Practice question: Discuss the outcomes of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, highlighting its significance for global governance. How does the expansion of BRICS reflect the changing dynamics of the Global South?” (250 words) Participation and Outreach: Leaders from 9 BRICS nations and partners, including Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, and around 30 Global South leaders, attended. This wide participation signalled that many non-Western countries do not endorse the isolation of Russia, reflecting the evolving global order. Economic Cooperation and Alternatives: The Kazan Declaration pushed for alternatives to Western-dominated global systems, highlighting: Interbank Cooperation Mechanism: Aimed at reducing reliance on Western financial systems. Cross-border Payment Systems: An alternative to the U.S.-dominated SWIFT system. BRICS Grain Exchange: For food security. BRICS New Development Bank (NDB): Expansion to counterbalance existing financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. These initiatives suggest BRICS’ intent to create self-reliant systems. BRICS Expansion: New members included Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Strategic Importance: Countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran bring energy influence, while Egypt and Ethiopia strengthen BRICS’ presence in Africa. The expansion underscores the bloc’s effort to challenge Western-centric global governance, signalling the rise of the Global South. India’s Position: Prime Minister Modi balanced India’s role, emphasising BRICS’ inclusivity, stating it is not a divisive organisation. India’s alignment with both BRICS and U.S.-led frameworks (Quad, Indo-Pacific Economic Framework) highlights its diplomatic balancing act. Key Stances: Advocacy for dialogue and diplomacy over conflict. Support for the Palestine issue reflects India’s nuanced foreign policy. Geopolitical Implications: Challenge to Western Dominance: The summit reaffirmed BRICS’ intent to reform global governance and challenge Western-led structures. Bilateral Diplomacy Platform: The BRICS platform facilitated meetings like the one between India and China, addressing bilateral issues such as the LAC standoff. Limitations of BRICS: Internal political differences (e.g., India-China tensions) may limit cohesion. Despite its economic growth, BRICS lacks the military and economic power to fully replace Western-led institutions. Conclusion : BRICS’ success will depend on managing internal contradictions and presenting a united front. The expansion may lead to greater friction with the West, particularly regarding sanctions and global governance reforms. BRICS overview : BRICS: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa. Represents 41% of the world’s population, 24% global GDP, and 16% of world trade. Formation & Evolution: 2001: Coined by economist Jim O’Neill as BRIC. 2006: Formalized; 2010: South Africa joined, forming BRICS. Objectives: Peace & Security: Promote a multipolar world. Development & Cooperation: Sustainable growth, trade, investment. Global Governance Reform: Seek UN, IMF, World Bank reforms. Security Cooperation: Combat terrorism. Cultural Exchange: Science, tech, education. Key Institutions: New Development Bank (NDB): Infrastructure financing. Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA): Liquidity support in crises.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 25 October 2024

CONTENTS Cyclone Dana Supreme Court Expands State Tax Powers Over Alcohol Forest Fires International Snow Leopard Day World Economic Outlook Korowai Tribe Cyclone Dana Context: According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Dana is expected to make landfall as a severe cyclone (wind speed: 89 to 117 kmph) along the Odisha coast near Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port.  Relevance: GS-I: Geography (Physical geography – Climatology, Important Geophysical phenomena), GS-III: Disaster Management Dimensions of the Article: What are Tropical Cyclones? Conditions for cyclone formation How are Tropical Cyclones Formed? Why tropical cyclones don’t form in the eastern tropical oceans? Names of Tropical Cyclones Structure of the tropical cyclone Landfall, what happens when a Cyclone reaches land from the ocean? Cyclone Management in India Cyclone Dana Overview Cyclone Dana marks the third cyclonic event in the North Indian Ocean region for the year 2024 and is notably the second to impact the Indian coast, following Cyclone Remal. It is recognized as the inaugural cyclone of the post-monsoon season. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reveals that the cyclone was named ‘Dana’ by Qatar, which in Arabic translates to ‘generosity’ and is also synonymous with ‘the most perfectly sized, valuable, and beautiful pearl.’ What are Tropical Cyclones? The Tropical Cyclones are violent storms that originate over oceans in tropical areas and move over to coastal areas bringing about large-scale destruction caused by violent winds, very heavy rainfall and storm surges. These are low pressure weather systems in which winds equal or exceed speeds of 62kmph. Winds circulate around in anti-clockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere and in clockwise direction in the Southern Hemisphere. “Tropical” refers to the geographical origin of these systems, which form almost exclusively over tropical seas. “Cyclone” refers to their winds moving in a circle, whirling round their central clear eye, with their winds blowing counter clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. The opposite direction of circulation is due to the Coriolis effect. Tropical Cyclones in India Tropical cyclones striking India generally originate in the eastern side of India. Bay of Bengal is more prone to cyclone than Arabian Sea because it gets high sea surface temperature, low vertical shear winds and has enough moisture in middle layers of its atmosphere. The frequency of cyclones in this region is bi-modal, i.e., Cyclones occur in the months of May–June and October–November. Conditions for cyclone formation: A warm sea surface (temperature in excess of 26o –27o C) and associated warming extending up to a depth of 60m with abundant water vapour. High relative humidity in the atmosphere up to a height of about 5,000 metres. Atmospheric instability that encourages the formation of cumulus clouds. Low vertical wind between the lower and higher levels of the atmosphere that do not allow the heat generated and released by the clouds to get transported from the area. The presence of cyclonic vorticity (rate of rotation of air) that initiates and favours rotation of the air cyclonically. Location over the ocean, at least 4–5 o latitude away from the equator. How are Tropical Cyclones Formed? Tropical cyclones typically form over large bodies of relatively warm water. Warm water > Evaporation > Rising up of air > Low Pressure area. They derive their energy through the evaporation of water from the ocean surface, which ultimately re-condenses into clouds and rain when moist air rises and cools to saturation. Water takes up heat from the atmosphere to change into vapour. When water vapour changes back to liquid form as raindrops, this heat is released to the atmosphere. The heat released to the atmosphere warms the air around. The air tends to rise and causes a drop in the pressure. More air rushes to the centre of the storm. This cycle is repeated. Why tropical cyclones don’t form in the eastern tropical oceans? The depth of warm water (26-27°C) should extend for 60-70 m from surface of the ocean/sea, so that deep convection currents within the water do not churn and mix the cooler water below with the warmer water near the surface. The above condition occurs only in western tropical oceans because of warm ocean currents (easterly trade winds pushes ocean waters towards west) that flow from east towards west forming a thick layer of water with temperatures greater than 27°C. This supplies enough moisture to the storm. The cold currents lower the surface temperatures of the eastern parts of the tropical oceans making them unfit for the breeding of cyclonic storms. ONE EXCEPTION: During strong El Nino years, strong hurricanes occur in the eastern Pacific. This is due to the accumulation of warm waters in the eastern Pacific due to weak Walker Cell. Names of Tropical Cyclones Depending on its location and strength, a tropical cyclone is referred to by different names: Cyclones in the Indian Ocean Hurricanes in the Atlantic Typhoons in the Western Pacific and the South China Sea Willy-willies in Western Australia Structure of the tropical cyclone Tropical cyclones are compact, circular storms, generally some 320 km (200 miles) in diameter, whose winds swirl around a central region of low atmospheric pressure. The winds are driven by this low-pressure core and by the rotation of Earth, which deflects the path of the wind through a phenomenon known as the Coriolis force. As a result, tropical cyclones rotate in a counter clockwise (or cyclonic) direction in the Northern Hemisphere and in a clockwise (or anticyclonic) direction in the Southern Hemisphere. The Eye: A characteristic feature of tropical cyclones is the eye, a central region of clear skies, warm temperatures, and low atmospheric pressure. Typically, atmospheric pressure at the surface of Earth is about 1,000 millibars. The Eyewall: The most dangerous and destructive part of a tropical cyclone is the eyewall. Here winds are strongest, rainfall is heaviest, and deep convective clouds rise from close to Earth’s surface to a height of 15,000 metres. Rainbands: These bands, commonly called rainbands, spiral into the centre of the storm. In some cases the rainbands are stationary relative to the centre of the moving storm, and in other cases they seem to rotate around the centre. Landfall, what happens when a Cyclone reaches land from the ocean? Tropical cyclones dissipate when they can no longer extract sufficient energy from warm ocean water. A storm that moves over land will abruptly lose its fuel source and quickly lose intensity. A tropical cyclone can contribute to its own demise by stirring up deeper, cooler ocean waters. tropical cyclone can contribute to its own demise by stirring up deeper, cooler ocean waters. Cyclone Management in India India is highly vulnerable to natural disasters especially cyclones, earthquakes, floods, landslides, and drought. Natural disasters cause a loss of 2% of GDP every year in India. According to the Home ministry, 8% of total area in India is prone to cyclones. India has a coastline of 7,516 km, of which 5,700 km are prone to cyclones of various degrees. Loss due to cyclones: Loss of lives, livelihood opportunities, damage to public and private property and severe damage to infrastructure are the resultant consequences, which can disrupt the process of development Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is the nodal agency for early warning of cyclones and floods. Natural Disaster Management Authority is mandated to deal with the disaster management in India. It has prepared National Guidelines on Management of Cyclone. National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) was launched by Home ministry to upgrade the forecasting, tracking and warning about cyclones in states. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has done a commendable performance in rescuing and managing relief work. National Disaster Response Reserve (NDRR)– a fund of 250 crores operated by NDRF for maintaining inventory for an emergency situation. In 2016, a blueprint of National Disaster Management Plan was unveiled to tackle disaster. It provides a framework to deal with prevention, mitigation, response and recovery during a disaster. According to the plan, Ministry of earth science will be responsible for disaster management of cyclone. By this plan, India joined the list of countries which follow the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. Due to increased awareness and tracking of Cyclone, the death toll has been reduced substantially. For example, Very severe cyclone Hudhud and Phailin claimed lives of around 138 and 45 people respectively, which might have been more. It was reduced due to the early warning and relocation of the population from the cyclone-hit areas. Very severe cyclone Ockhi claimed many lives of people in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. This was due to the unprecedented change in the direction of the cyclone. But the destruction of infrastructure due to cyclonic hit is not been reduced which leads to increase in poverty due to the economic weakening of the affected population. -Source: Indian Express Supreme Court Expands State Tax Powers Over Alcohol Context: A nine-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India has made a significant ruling in an 8:1 decision, allowing states the authority to tax not only alcoholic beverages but also ‘industrial’ alcohol. This decision broadens the fiscal powers of states, marking a considerable shift in both taxation practices and the principles of federalism in India. Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: Taxation Dispute on Industrial Alcohol SC’s Holding on Taxing Industrial Alcohol SC’s Judgment on Industrial Alcohol Taxation Taxation Dispute on Industrial Alcohol: A Constitutional Conundrum Why is Industrial Alcohol Taxation Controversial? Overlapping Constitutional Authorities: Constitutional Entries Involved: The heart of the dispute lies in the overlapping constitutional entries within the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. This schedule divides legislative authority between the State and the Union. State List (Entry 8): States have the authority to legislate and tax intoxicating liquors. Union List (Entry 52): Grants the Union the power to regulate industries deemed vital to the national economy. Concurrent List (Entry 33): Both the Centre and states can legislate on industries declared by Parliament to be of national importance. Claims of Jurisdiction by the Centre: Central Government’s Stance: The Centre asserts jurisdiction over industrial alcohol citing its broader implication in the industrial sector. Legal Foundation: This assertion is backed by the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act of 1951, which was legislated under the Union and Concurrent Lists, emphasizing the national importance of regulating such industries for economic coordination and development. SC’s Holding on Taxing Industrial Alcohol: Core question in this case: Whether “intoxicating liquor” could include “industrial alcohol” Actually the court was concerned with whether “industrial alcohol” could also include “intoxicating liquor”. Because of the potential for misdirection of its use in the illegal manufacture of intoxicating drinking liquor, the states thought they had an interest in industrial alcohol. Majority opinion: The majority, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud, along with eight other justices, ruled in favour of the states. They reasoned that the term “intoxicating liquor” under Entry 8 of List II (State List) should be interpreted broadly, covering everything from the production of raw materials to consumption. The court affirmed that states have the power to tax both alcoholic beverages and industrial alcohol, which can produce intoxication or pose health risks. The court disagreed with the Centre’s argument that industrial alcohol falls under its jurisdiction due to its inclusion in the 1951 Act. Dissent Justice B V Nagarathna dissented by holding that the Centre’s control over industrial alcohol has to be preserved. Industrial alcohol’s very nature, she argued should prevent it from being considered an intoxicating liquor despite all the abuse that can be given to the term. She thought that the Centre’s overall control of industries under the 1951 Act should prevent the states from regulating industrial alcohol. SC’s Judgment on Industrial Alcohol Taxation: The Altered Lawmaking Power Decision Overturned Reversal of Existing Judgment: The Supreme Court has overturned the 1990 judgment in Synthetics & Chemicals Ltd vs State of Uttar Pradesh, which had earlier banned the states from taxing industrial alcohol. State Powers Affirmation: The judgment affirms that states have the legal power to tax and control industrial alcohol, which again says that such alcohol is not fit to be consumed and hence is not similar to beverage alcohol. State Revenue and Implications Betterment of State Financial Resources The judgment has a very deep impact on state revenues since such revenues are highly dependent on the tax collected on alcohol. Karnataka Case Study: In this respect, Karnataka increased its Additional Excise Duty on Indian-made liquor by a whopping 20% within the year 2023, which reflects the monetary effects for all state economies involved. Federal Forces and Center-State Relations No Balancing Federal Powers: This judgment helps establish the differential powers of the state versus the central government and reiterates the concept of the federal balance. Consistency in Constitution: The Supreme Court would be on the side of the states and would stand by a construction of the Constitution that rejects redundancy as well as supports a balanced approach toward co-governance. Preferment of Federal Decisions: This is accompanied by other decisions of late, including the July 2024 judgment in which it ruled in favor of the right of the states to collect royalties from mineral extraction, thus cementing the role of states in managing and realizing income from their resources. -Source: Indian Express Forest Fires Context: Recently, a study by the Centre for Wildfire Research has found that global CO2 emissions from forest fires have surged by 60% since 2001. Emissions from boreal forests in Eurasia and North America have nearly tripled, with climate change being identified as a major driver behind this increase. Relevance: GS III: Environment Dimensions of the Article: Key Findings from the Pyrome Study on Global Forest Fires About Forest Fires Advantages of forest fires Disadvantages of forest fires Forest Fire Vulnerability in India Ways to mitigate the risk of forest fires Key Findings from the Pyrome Study on Global Forest Fires Understanding Pyromes Definition of Pyromes: The study introduces the term “pyromes, which groups global forest ecoregions into 12 specific zones. All of these zones share similar fire behaviors that depend on a combination of climatic conditions, sorts of vegetation, and human activities. Role of Pyromes: The taxonomic classification of the regions helps in understanding the fire dynamics, predicting the changes due to shifts in climatic conditions or alteration in land use and improving fire management and risk assessment. Pattern and Effect Trend of Forest Fire Extratropical Carbon Emissions: This study indicates a sharp increase in carbon release by forest fires within the extratropical regions. Most such increase is attributed to the consequence of climate change. Global Rise in Carbon Combustion: The global rate of carbon combustion is rising by a 47% rate through global forest fires, whose emissions are now stronger for forests than those of savannahs and grasslands. Severity and Fuel Consumption: Fire severity has increased by the per square meter fuel consumption rate, increasing fire intensities. Climatic Influences and Fire Weather Conditions Anthropogenic climate change has been implicated as favoring more frequent and intense droughts, which create an optimal “fire weather,” namely, lower fuel moisture, together with highly flammable dry vegetation. Lightning and Fire Incidence: Increasing lightning activity, especially at high elevations, has been associated with the trend of forest fires. Implications to Carbon Stocks and Climate Policy Destabilization of Carbon Stocks: The ranges of variation include temperate coniferous, boreal, Mediterranean to subtropical forests that show destabilized carbon stocks because of heightened fire severity. Difficulty in Carbon Accounting: There are significant challenges in carbon accounting practices and the credibility of the GHG inventory submitted to the international bodies, for example, the United Nations, in the face of surging carbon emissions through forest fires. Case Study – Canada’s Wildfires: The 2023 Canadian wildfires allegedly cancelled out most of the carbon sequestration gains achieved during the past decade in its forests, directly demonstrating the above-proposed mechanism of increased fire activity affecting national carbon balances. About Forest Fires A forest fire is an uncontrolled fire that occurs in areas with a significant amount of combustible vegetation, such as forests, grasslands, or shrublands. Causes of Forest Fires Forest fires are caused by Natural causes as well as Man-made or anthropogenic causes. Natural causes such as lightning which set trees on fire. High atmospheric temperatures and low humidity offer favourable circumstance for a fire to start. Man-made causes like flame, cigarette, electric spark or any source of ignition will also cause forest fires. Traditionally Indian forests have been affected by fires. The problem has been aggravated with rising human and cattle population and the increase in demand for grazing, shifting cultivation and Forest products by individuals and communities. High temperature, wind speed and direction, level of moisture in soil and atmosphere and duration of dry spells can intensify the forest fires. Advantages of forest fires: Some species of trees and plants have adapted to thrive in the aftermath of fires. For example, some pine trees rely on fires to open their cones and release seeds. Forest fires can help to clear out dead wood, brush, and other debris, reducing the risk of future fires. Fires can help to promote new growth and biodiversity by creating openings in the forest canopy that allow sunlight to reach the forest floor, stimulating the growth of new vegetation. Disadvantages of forest fires: Forest fires can destroy habitats and negatively impact biodiversity by killing animals and plants that are unable to escape the flames. Smoke from fires can cause respiratory problems and other health issues for humans and animals. Forest fires can damage or destroy homes, buildings, and other infrastructure, and can pose a significant threat to human safety. The release of large amounts of greenhouse gases during forest fires can contribute to climate change. India’s Initiatives to Tackle Forest Fires National Action Plan on Forest Fires (NAPFF) was launched in 2018 to minimise forest fires by informing, enabling and empowering forest fringe communities and incentivising them to work with the State Forest Departments. The Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FPM) is the only centrally funded program specifically dedicated to assist the states in dealing with forest fires. Forest Fire Vulnerability in India Forest fire season in India is from November to June Council of Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) report notes a tenfold increase in forest fires over the past two decades in India More than 62% of Indian states are prone to high-intensity forest fires according to CEEW report Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Telangana, and Northeastern states are most prone to forest fires Mizoram has the highest incidence of forest fires over the last two decades with 95% of its districts as forest fire hotspots ISFR 2021 estimates over 36% of the country’s forest cover is prone to frequent forest fires, 6% is ‘very highly’ fire-prone, and almost 4% is ‘extremely’ prone An FSI study found nearly 10.66% area under forests in India is ‘extremely’ to ‘very highly’ fire-prone. Ways to mitigate the risk of forest fires: Prevention: One of the most effective ways to mitigate forest fires is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be done by creating fire breaks, clearing debris, and reducing the amount of flammable material in the forest. Early Detection: Early detection of forest fires can help prevent them from spreading and causing more damage. This can be done by installing fire detection systems, using drones or satellite imagery, and training local communities to report fires quickly. Fire Suppression: Fire suppression is a critical component of forest fire mitigation. This involves using firefighting equipment such as helicopters, water tanks, and fire retardants to put out fires. Forest Management: Proper forest management practices can also help mitigate the risk of forest fires. This includes thinning out dense forests, creating fire-resistant vegetation, and reducing the amount of deadwood and other flammable materials in the forest. Community Education: Educating local communities on the risks of forest fires and how to prevent them can also be effective in mitigating the risk of forest fires. This includes providing information on safe campfire practices, prohibiting the use of fireworks in fire-prone areas, and encouraging the use of fire-resistant building materials in areas at high risk of forest fires. -Source: The Hindu International Snow Leopard Day Context: International Snow Leopard Day is every year celebrated on 23rd October, 2024. Relevance: GS III- Environment and Ecology Dimensions of the Article: International Snow Leopard Day About the Snow leopard Snow Leopards in India and their conservation International Snow Leopard Day International Snow Leopard Day was inaugurated in 2013, spurred by the Bishkek Declaration in Kyrgyzstan, where twelve countries united for a common cause. Bishkek Declaration: This pivotal agreement set the stage for collaborative conservation efforts, focusing on the preservation of the snow leopard and its habitat. Participating Countries The snow leopard is native to a range spanning across twelve countries, which include Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. These countries have committed to safeguarding this vulnerable species, which faces threats from habitat loss and poaching, by implementing strategies aimed at their effective conservation. About the Snow leopard The snow leopard is a large cat native to the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The snow leopard, like all big cats, is listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES), which makes trading of animal body parts (i.e., fur, bones and meat) illegal in CITES signatory countries. Global population is estimated to number less than 10,000 mature Snow Leopards. It inhabits alpine and subalpine zones at elevations from 3,000 to 4,500 m. It is threatened by poaching and habitat destruction following infrastructural developments. Snow Leopards in India and their conservation In India, their geographical range encompasses a large part of the western Himalayas including the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh in the eastern Himalayas. The last three states form part of the Eastern Himalayas – a priority global region of WWF and the Living Himalayas Network Initiative. Project Snow Leopard (PSL): It promotes an inclusive and participatory approach to conservation that fully involves local communities. SECURE Himalaya: Global Environment Facility (GEF)-United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) funded the project on conservation of high-altitude biodiversity and reducing the dependency of local communities on the natural ecosystem. This project is now operational in four snow leopard range states, namely, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim. -Source: Down To Earth World Economic Outlook Context: In its January update of the World Economic Outlook (WEO) report, the IMF has marginally improved the forecast for global growth in 2023 — a relief, given the fears of a global recession in 2023. The turnaround reflects “positive surprises and greater-than-expected resilience in numerous economies”. Relevance: GS III: Indian Economy Dimensions of the Article: Highlights of the latest report World Economic Outlook About International Monetary Fund (IMF) Highlights of the latest report: The growth is likely to continue being weak, but stable, at 3.2% both in the next two years, that is, 2024 and 2025. For India, the IMF kept its estimate of gross domestic product growth at 7% for 2024, followed by 6.5 percent next year. However, it attributed the moderation in growth from last year to the exhaustion of “pent-up demand accumulated during the pandemic.”. The world’s largest economy, the United States is already indicated to grow at 2.8% in 2024 and 2.2% in 2025. The IMF expects China’s economy, the world’s second-largest economy, to grow at 4.8% in 2024 and 4.5% in 2025. The overall forecast of the International Monetary Fund on emerging markets and developing economies remained stable in the most recent outlook for the next two years, staying within 4.2 percent, steadying at 3.9 percent by 2029. World Economic Outlook It is a survey by the IMF that is usually published twice a year in the months of April and October. It analyzes and predicts global economic developments during the near and medium term. The IMF releases the WEO twice every year, in April and October, apart from updating it twice — in January and July. About International Monetary Fund (IMF) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. It consists of 189 countries working to foster global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world. It periodically depends on the World Bank for its resources. Through the fund and other activities such as the gathering of statistics and analysis, surveillance of its members’ economies, and the demand for particular policies, the IMF works to improve the economies of its member countries. Functions of the IMF To provide financial assistance to member countries with balance of payments problems, the IMF lends money to replenish international reserves, stabilize currencies and strengthen conditions for economic growth. Countries must embark on structural adjustment policies monitored by the IMF. It oversees the international monetary system and monitors the economic and financial policies of its 189 member countries. As part of this process, which takes place both at the global level and in individual countries, the IMF highlights possible risks to stability and advises on needed policy adjustments. It provides technical assistance and training to central banks, finance ministries, tax authorities, and other economic institutions. This helps countries raise public revenues, modernize banking systems, develop strong legal frameworks, improve governance, and enhance the reporting of macroeconomic and financial data. It also helps countries to make progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). -Source: The Hindu Korowai Tribe Context: An Indian travel vlogger recently travelled deep into the jungles of Indonesia to meet the Korowai tribe, often referred to as a ‘human-eating’ tribe, and documented his experience on social media. Relevance: Facts for Prelims About Korowai Tribe: The Korowai is an indigenous tribe dwelling in the southeastern Papuan region of Indonesia. They have a close affinity with the forest, from which they sources all their means of living through hunting and gathering wild animals and plants. Until about 1975, there were virtually no contacts between Korowai and the outside world. The Korowai people are popularly known for their treehouses. Built 8-15 meters off the ground. This is despite some houses having been up to 45 meters in a tall tree.  The Korowai people do not have a special kind of hierarchy system because they regard equalityand harmony among themselves. They sensationalized in present media for their connection with cannibalism, an act of consuming human meat. Cannibalism is said to have been practiced traditionally by the tribe as a part of spiritual and social belief systems, but it has largely disappeared with time. -Source: The Hindu

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 24 October 2024

CONTENTS LISA Mission PM-YASASVI Scheme LISA Mission Context: Recently, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) revealed the first look of the prototype for six telescopes that will help LISA’s three spacecraft detect gravitational waves in space. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology LISA Mission  LISA, or the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna, is a joint mission by NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA). The mission is scheduled for launch in the mid-2030s, marking a significant step forward in space-based observational capabilities. Mission Objectives and Configuration: The central aim of the LISA mission is to detect and study gravitational waves in space. This involves observing and measuring the ripples in spacetime caused by massive celestial events and objects, such as black holes and binary star systems. The mission will utilize three spacecraft arranged in a nearly equilateral triangle, each side spanning approximately 1.6 million miles (about 2.5 million kilometers). These spacecraft will be positioned in a heliocentric orbit, trailing Earth in its journey around the Sun, maintaining a consistent distance of about 50 million kilometers from our planet. Technological Innovations and Scientific Goals: Detection Method: LISA will employ laser interferometry to measure the minute changes in the distance between free-floating test masses—gold-platinum cubes—housed within each of the spacecraft. Gravitational Wave Detection: By precisely tracking the distances between these cubes, LISA will detect the subtle spacetime distortions caused by gravitational waves. Deep Space Observations: As the first gravitational wave detector placed in space, LISA aims to explore fundamental questions about the nature of gravity, the behavior of black holes, and the expansion rate of the Universe. Impact on Science and Understanding of the Universe: The mission will provide unprecedented insights into the fabric of spacetime and the dynamics of massive objects, enhancing our understanding of gravitational physics. By studying gravitational waves, LISA will also contribute to cosmology, offering new ways to probe the early universe and its subsequent evolution. LISA will complement Earth-based gravitational wave observatories, like LIGO and Virgo, by detecting waves at lower frequencies that cannot be picked up by these facilities. PM-YASASVI Scheme Context: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has implemented the PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI). Relevance: GS II: Government Policies and Interventions About PM-YASASVI Scheme: It is an integrated umbrella scheme for the promotion of students belonging to Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Backward Classes (EBC), and Denotified Tribes (DNT) through providing quality education in their crucial formative years. Consolidation and enhancement of the various earlier schemes, such as the Dr. Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for EBCs and the Dr. Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for DNTs, merged into this scheme from 2021-22. All these schemes will now merge to form PM YASASVI, which will benefit the students in a more integrated and effective manner. Objective: The Scheme aims to educationally empower these sections who are economically challenged, thus enabling them to cross the barriers of finance and complete their education. Under this Scheme, students can avail Pre-Matric Scholarship from Class 9 to 10 and Post Matric Scholarship for their higher studies at post-matriculation or post-secondary stage. Eligibility: Basically, the scheme of Pre-Matric Scholarship is prepared for students studying in classes IX and X in government schools. Less than Rs. 2.5 lakh family income. Implementing Agency: Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 24 October 2024

Content: The Manipur crisis, the issue of managing diversity The shifting sands within global supply chains The Manipur Crisis, the Issue of Managing Diversity Context: The recent violence in Manipur demands greater efforts towards the restoration of peace and stability. Amid growing violence, there is a significant call for the invocation of Article 355, which allows the Union government to intervene to protect states from internal disturbances. Article 355: It shall be the duty of the Union to protect every State against external aggression and internal disturbance and to ensure that the Government of every State is carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Relevance: GS 2 (Polity and Governance ), GS3 (Internal Security ) Practice question: What are the constitutional provisions for managing internal disturbances in India? Discuss the role of Article 355 in maintaining law and order, with a special focus on the recent situation in Manipur. (250 words)  Manipur crisis : Began in May 2023, an ethnic conflict between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zo community. The conflict arose over the Meitei demand for Scheduled Tribe status, which the Kuki-Zo community opposed. The violence has led to over 221 deaths and displaced 60,000 people as of May 2024. Federalism and Special Provisions Federalism plays a key role in managing India’s cultural, social and political diversities. Several states, including Manipur, have special provisions under the Constitution. In Manipur’s case, Article 371C creates a Hill Area Committee, but it lacks strong enforcement mechanisms compared to the Sixth Schedule. Case Study: Sikkim (Article 371F) When Sikkim acceded to India in 1975, Article 371F was introduced to provide “special provisions” aimed at protecting the rights and interests of different sections of the population such as the Bhutia-Lepcha community Article 371F(g) granted the Governor special responsibilities to ensure equitable socio-economic advancement for different sections of Sikkim’s population, thereby institutionalising power-sharing and cultural autonomy. This provision was challenged in R.C. Poudyal’s (1993) case, where the Supreme Court upheld Article 371F, highlighting the historical context and unique needs of the Bhutia-Lepcha community and justified their increased representation in the state legislature. Case Study: Tripura (Sixth Schedule and Tripura Accord 1988) Tripura’s tribal areas are governed by the Sixth Schedule, which devolves power to District and Regional councils for autonomy over land, education, and customs. The Tripura Accord of 1988 was signed between the Union government, the state government, and the Tripura National Volunteers (TNV)—a militant group that sought secession. The Accord reserved one-third of the State Assembly seats for Scheduled Tribes, even beyond their proportional share. The Supreme Court, in Subrata Acharjee (2002), upheld this reservation under Article 332(3B). It was a justified measure to provide tribal communities a “greater share” in governance. Representation and Governance (Article 332(3) and Article 170) Article 332(3B), inserted as part of the Tripura Accord, allowed for reserved seats in the State Assembly beyond proportional representation and it is compatible with Article 332(3) (which outlines seat reservations for Scheduled Castes and Tribes) and Article 170 (which deals with the composition of Legislative Assemblies). Challenges in Manipur (Manipur Hill Areas Autonomous District Council Act, 2000) Unlike Tripura, Manipur is not governed by the Sixth Schedule, but by Article 371C and the Manipur Hill Areas Autonomous District Council Act, 2000. This Act mandates the creation of District Councils, with membership based on Scheduled Tribe classifications. However, unlike the Sixth Schedule states, these District Councils lack the veto power held by tribal groups in states like Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. This lack of legislative safeguards worsens tensions over representation, resource allocation, and governance in Manipur.  Role of the Judiciary in Reconciling Differences Through cases like R.C. Poudyal (1993) and Subrata Acharjee (2002), The courts have acknowledged that historical considerations justify deviations from strict constitutional norms, reiterating that accommodations and adjustments are necessary for maintaining political stability in regions like the northeast. Conclusion While the Indian Constitution has shown adaptability in highlighting diversities, Manipur’s current constitutional provisions are insufficient for addressing identity-based conflicts. A  more nuanced approach like Sikkim and Tripura, is needed to achieve lasting peace and inclusive governance. The Shifting Sands Within Global Supply Chains Context: The pandemic and Israel’s pager attacks on Hezbollah have again exposed security gaps in the supply chain. Countries are exploring resilient strategies to shift their supply chain dependencies, aiming for enhanced security in volatile geo-political scenarios. Relevance: GS 3 (Internal Security) Practice question: Explain the need for diversification of the supply chain considering India’s security. Suggest strategic measures to achieve supply chain resilience with a special focus on the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme. (250 words ) Shifting strategies : Just in Time (Efficiency): Cost efficiency was the key focus, and supplies were sourced across the globe. Just in Case (Resilience): The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities of the Just in Time strategy. The strategy shifted to Just in Case to build the resilience of the supply chain. Current demand, Shift to “Just to Be Secure”: The recent geopolitical tensions have triggered a new focus on security within supply chains, moving beyond mere resilience to proactive measures against threats. Recent Developments Indicating Shift to Security U.S. Proposed Rules on Connected Vehicles: In September 2024, the U.S . proposed regulations to prohibit imports and sales of connected vehicle systems linked to China or Russia. Because these systems were capable of being used for espionage. Israeli Pager Attack: Communication devices (pagers and walkie-talkies) used by Hezbollah were used by Israel to attack, resulting in casualties of over 30, exposing the system’s vulnerabilities. Supply Chain Security Concerns Previous Concerns: The U.S. and its allies previously banned Huawei and other Chinese companies from participating in 5G infrastructure due to fears of espionage and sabotage through backdoor installations. Initial security concerns have expanded from telecommunications to other critical industries, including semiconductors and automobiles. Implications of the Shift from Resilience to Security Increased Scrutiny of Supply Chains: supply chains were reassessed by governments and companies for potential threats. Shift in Global Production Strategies: countries are changing their production strategies from depending on a single source to relying on multiple credible sources. Recommendations for India Two-Pronged Approach: Just to Be Secure: Implement “trust but verify” practices, including: Periodic Audits: Regular inspections and compliance checks for high-risk technologies. On-site Evaluations: Ensuring suppliers adhere to national and international security standards. Zero Trust Policy: For the most critical technologies (e.g., military and intelligence applications), adopt a zero-trust approach: Strict Procurement Procedures: Assume all technologies could be compromised and apply rigorous scrutiny before acquisition. Continuous Monitoring: stringent monitoring of technologies post-deployment to ensure security compliance. Diversification of Supply Sources: For less critical technologies, promote “just in case” strategies: Vendor Diversification: Reduce dependency on any single supplier by sourcing from multiple vendors. Friendshoring: Strengthen supply chain resilience by prioritising partnerships with allied nations. Conclusion India should focus on comprehensive strategies to integrate supply chain and security. India must emphasise supply chain resilience while giving a boost to self-dependency through schemes like Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 24 October 2024

CONTENTS 16th Century Copper Plate Inscriptions Discovered in Tamil Nadu Google Enters First Corporate Agreement for Nuclear Energy from Small Modular Reactors Mission Mausam Kala-Azar Space Docking Experiment Han River  16th Century Copper Plate Inscriptions Discovered in Tamil Nadu Context: A remarkable discovery was made at the Sri Singeeswarar temple in Mappedu village, Tiruvallur district, with the unearthing of copper plate inscriptions dating back to the 16th century. These inscriptions narrate a village donation by the Raja of Chandragiri to Brahmins. The inscriptions, engraved in the year 1513, during the time of King Krishnadevaraya, are in Sanskrit and the Nandinagari script and thus tell us much about the administrative and cultural practices of the period. Relevance: GS I: History Dimensions of the Article: Vijayanagara Empire Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529 A.D.) About Sri Singeeswarar Temple Vijayanagara Empire Foundation and Dynastic Rule The Vijayanagara Empire was founded in 1336 by Harihara I (Hakka) and Bukka Raya I in the Deccan region of Southern India. Hampi, known for its architectural grandeur and strategic location, served as the capital and was later recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986. The empire was governed by four major dynasties: Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu, each contributing to its development and expansion. Cultural and Economic Flourishing The empire reached its cultural and political zenith during the reign of Krishna Deva Raya from the Tuluva Dynasty, expanding its territories and enhancing its architectural landscape. Vijayanagara is famed for its monumental temples like the Virupaksha and Vittala temples, which showcase intricate carvings and expansive courtyards, reflecting the empire’s architectural innovation. The empire engaged in significant trade with the Portuguese, exchanging spices, cotton, and other goods for military technology like guns and Arabian horses. Military and Political Dominance For over two centuries, the Vijayanagara Empire was a dominant force in Southern India, acting as a bulwark against invasions from the north and maintaining stability in the region. The empire was frequently in conflict with the Deccan Sultanates and later the Mughals, often over strategic territories like the Raichur Doab, an area rich in resources. Relations with the Portuguese he Portuguese capture of Goa in 1510 facilitated an alliance with Vijayanagara, bolstering the empire’s military capabilities and enhancing its maritime trade routes. Decline and Aftermath Battle of Talikota: The empire faced a severe setback in 1565 at the Battle of Talikota, where it was decisively defeated by a coalition of Deccan Sultanates, leading to the sacking and abandonment of Hampi. Gradual Decline: After the Battle of Talikota, the empire continued in a diminished state until about 1660, with its political and military influence waning significantly. Legacy The legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire is preserved in its ruins at Hampi and its contributions to South Indian architecture, religion, and the arts, which continue to be studied and admired for their historical significance and artistic value. Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529 A.D.) Krishnadevaraya of the Tuluva dynasty was the most famous king of the Vijayanagar Empire According to Domingo Paes, a Portuguese traveler “Krishnadevaraya was the most feared and perfect king there could possibly be”. He conquered Sivasamudram in 1510 A.D and Raichur in 1512A.D In 1523 A.D. he captured Orissa and Warangal His empire extended from the river Krishna in the north to River Cauvery in the south; the Arabian Sea in the west to Bay of Bengal in the East. Krishnadevaraya‘s Contributions Krishnadevaraya was an able administrator, and it was during his period the Vijayanagar Empire reached its zenith of glory. He built large tanks and canals for irrigation and he also developed the naval power understanding the vital role of overseas trade. He maintained friendly relations with the Portuguese and Arab traders. He patronized art and architecture and was a great scholar himself. He was an eminent scholar and authored works such as Madalasa Charita, Satyavedu Parinaya, Rasamanjari, Jambavati Kalyana, and Amuktamalkyada. Fluent in multiple languages, he supported poets writing in Sanskrit, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada.  Ashtadiggajas is the collective title given to the eight Telugu scholars and poets in the court of Krishnadevaraya, and they are: Allasani Peddanna – the author of Manucharitram, he was also known as Andhra Kavitapitamaha Nandi Thimmana – the author of Parijathapaharanam Madayagari Mallana Dhurjati Ayyalaraju Ramabhadra Kavi Pingali Surana Ramaraja Bhushana Tenali Ramakrishna About Sri Singeeswarar Temple: It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is at Mappedu village near Perambakkam in Thiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu. The temple was built by the great Aditya Karikalan II in 976 AD He is the father of the great Chola emperor Rajaraja Cholan, who built the Thanjavur Big Temple. In the later period, under Krishnadevaraya, his viceroy Dalavai Ariyanadha Mudaliar, exercised influence and built the Rajagopuram-Main Tower, compound wall, and 16-pillar Mandap in the year 1501. The Temple is constructed in the style of Dravidian architecture, and the Rajagopuram has 5 tiers. The chief deity is called Singeeswarar. Singeeswarar is found in the form of a slightly big Shiva Lingam in the sanctum. -Source: The Hindu Google Enters First Corporate Agreement for Nuclear Energy from Small Modular Reactors Context: Recently, Google announced the “first corporate agreement” to buy nuclear energy from multiple small modular reactors (SMR). These SMRs will be developed by Kairos Power. The initial phase of work will bring up the first SMR by 2030, and subsequent deployments will continue through 2035. Per Google, this deal will provide 500 MW of carbon-free power to U.S. electricity grid. The search giant said this agreement will help in the development of AI technologies to power major scientific advances. Relevance: GS III: Nuclear Technology Dimensions of the Article: Google Interest in Nuclear Energy Broader Tech Industry Engagement Some Controversy and Challenges with Nuclear Energy Nuclear Energy Today with the U.S. Government Google Interest in Nuclear Energy Energy requirements of AI: All the AI-related technologies and data centers consume a lot of energy. And with its increasing applications, similarly the power needs will grow to power the system continuously. Sustainability Goals: Google would also like to decrease its greenhouse gas emissions even though the company is growing from its operations. Assuming that nuclear energy was a non-carbon option without a variability problem, this seems to fit with its clean energy plan. Next Generation Nuclear Technologies: Next-generation nuclear reactors are of special interest to Google because of their smaller footprint and quicker deployment capabilities due to its more modular design. Broader Tech Industry Engagement Microsoft: In collaboration with Constellation, will tap nuclear power from the Crane Clean Energy Center as part of its aim to decarbonize the grid. Amazon: Entered multiple deals to further nuclear energy projects, including investment in SMRs (Small Modular Reactors) and partnerships that will directly power its data centers by nuclear energy. OpenAI and Sam Altman: This investment in oklo and Helion nuclear startups suggests the direction for technological leaders who believe that nuclear energy is a future- viable option for further technological developments. Some Controversy and Challenges with Nuclear Energy Safety Concerns: Despite many countries considering nuclear energy to be an ideal solution, the background of nuclear energy has always been controversial with most severe accidents being associated with Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters leaving permanent environmental impacts and public fears. Environmental Opposition: Groups, like Friends of the Earth, oppose nuclear power because of its perceived hazards, particularly in earthquake-prone areas, and past challenges with both waste and accidents. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): One of the new bright promises for nuclear futures is that SMRs potentially offer reduced cost, greater safety designs, and a higher probability of deployment in different sites because they are much smaller in size. Nuclear Energy Today with the U.S. Government Strategic Energy Planning: The U.S. Department of Energy views nuclear power as a core component of the national clean energy strategy, reducing carbon emissions and maintaining energy independence. Global Leadership: There is strategic focus on regaining U.S. leadership in nuclear technology primarily because more and more nations worldwide are entering nuclear energy, and America cannot afford to play a losing game with countries like Russia and China. Small Modular Reactors Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors designed to have a smaller power capacity compared to traditional nuclear power reactors. Here are the key characteristics, advantages, safety features, and disadvantages of SMRs: Characteristics: Small: SMRs have a power capacity of up to 300 MW per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of conventional nuclear reactors. Modular: SMRs are designed to be modular and portable. Components can be factory-assembled and transported as units to installation sites. Reactors: SMRs use nuclear fission to generate heat for electricity production. Advantages: Efficiency: SMRs are designed for high capacity factors (exceeding 90%) and can produce a significant amount of low-carbon electricity. Hybrid Energy Systems: SMRs can complement renewable energy sources by providing consistent power, enhancing overall system efficiency. Off-Site Manufacturing: Factory assembly of components saves construction time and reduces costs. Lower Costs: SMRs are designed for cost-effectiveness, requiring less fuel and fewer staff for assembly, maintenance, and operation. Flexibility: SMRs can adjust electricity generation based on demand, making them suitable for remote locations. Site Repurposing: SMRs can be installed in existing thermal power plant sites by repurposing infrastructure. Safety Features: Reduced Risk: SMRs are designed with lower core damage frequency and radioactive contamination compared to conventional nuclear power plants (NPPs). Enhanced Seismic Isolation: SMRs incorporate advanced seismic isolation techniques for improved safety during earthquakes. Passive Safety: SMRs feature passive safety systems, minimizing the potential release of radioactive materials. -Source: The Hindu Mission Mausam Context: Mission Mausam, launched by the government last month, aims to not just improve weather forecasting in the country but also ‘manage’ certain weather events, and on demand, enhance or suppress rainfall, hail, fog and, later, lightning strikes. For effective weather modification, one of the most important areas is cloud physics, in which India will have to strengthen research. Towards this end, India is establishing a first-of-its-kind cloud chamber at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune. Relevance: GS: Government Policies and Interventions Dimensions of the Article: What is a cloud chamber? Using the Cloud Chamber for Atmospheric Research India’s Experience with Cloud Seeding Mission Mausam What is a cloud chamber? A cloud chamber resembles a closed cylindrical or tubular drum, inside which water vapour, aerosols, etc. are injected. Under the desired humidity and temperature inside this chamber, a cloud can develop. The Pune facility will allow scientists to study the seed particles that form cloud droplets or ice particles in a sustained manner. Many countries have basic cloud chambers, which have limited functionalities and scope to perform specific studies. With Mission Mausam, however, India is building a cloud chamber with convection properties, as required to study Indian monsoon clouds. Globally, there are only a handful of convective cloud chambers. Why is India building a convective cloud chamber? Cloud physics basically involves the study of cloud behaviour during normal and extreme conditions; intra-particle interactions inside a cloud; the formation of rain droplets and ice particles; the influence of moisture added into the atmosphere due to cyclones or low pressure systems; and interactions between different cloud layers, among others. The objective of establishing a convective cloud chamber is to gain a better understanding of cloud physics under conditions commonly affecting Indian weather systems. Thereafter, this knowledge can be used for strategic planning of weather modification. Using the Cloud Chamber for Atmospheric Research Scientists are planning to utilize the cloud chamber as an innovative tool to simulate and study various atmospheric conditions that affect Indian weather and climate, particularly monsoon behavior. Here’s how they intend to use this technology: Tailoring Environmental Conditions: The convective cloud chamber will allow scientists to manipulate physical and atmospheric parameters such as temperature, humidity, and convective conditions. This flexibility is crucial for creating controlled environments that mimic natural weather patterns, especially those influencing monsoons. Testing and Validation of New Theories: According to Thara Prabhakaran, a senior scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the chamber will be used to test new ideas and theories in cloud physics. The goal is to gain a deeper understanding of monsoon cloud dynamics and improve predictive meteorological models. Development of Advanced Instrumentation: Over the next 18-24 months, the focus will be on developing sophisticated instruments and probes. These tools are essential for precisely measuring and analyzing the minute properties of clouds within the chamber. The instrumentation will support experiments like seed particle injection, which helps simulate and study different environmental conditions within the controlled setup of the chamber. Civil Construction and Future Experiments: The civil construction of the cloud chamber is scheduled for the coming months, setting the stage for future experiments and research activities. India’s Experience with Cloud Seeding India’s engagement with cloud seeding has been explored through the Cloud Aerosol Interaction and Precipitation Enhancement Experiment (CAIPEEX) program, conducted in multiple phases over a decade: Efficacy of Cloud Seeding: The final phase of CAIPEEX involved targeted experiments in the rain-shadow regions of Maharashtra’s Solapur district between 2016 and 2018. Results from these experiments indicated that cloud seeding could significantly enhance rainfall, with increases up to 46 percent under optimal conditions. Geographical Impact: The impact of cloud seeding was particularly noted in a 100 square kilometer area downwind of the seeding location, where rainfall increases averaged about 18 percent. Limitations Recognized: Despite some success, it is widely acknowledged that cloud seeding cannot singularly solve rainfall inadequacy issues. It is not considered a “silver bullet” solution but rather one of several potential methods to augment water resources under specific conditions. Mission Mausam: Mission Mausam would be a truly transformative and far-reaching initiative to significantly improve India’s capabilities in meteorology and climate science. The mission focuses its efforts on increased research, development, and operational capability in atmospheric sciences. The mission seeks to improve the height of weather surveillance, modeling, and forecasting and general management of meteorological services with advanced observation systems, high-performance computing, and modern technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). The mission aims to provide much-enhanced accuracy and timeliness of weather and climate information for a wide range of applications from monsoon forecasting to alert the public about air quality and other severe weather conditions such as cyclones, fog, hail, and rainfall. Capacity building and raising public awareness about climate phenomena are also targeted. Mission Mausam will implement state-of-the-art radars, satellite systems with advanced sensors, high-performance supercomputers, and sophisticated Earth system models. It will also apply a GIS-based automated Decision Support System for disseminating data in real-time and to devise improved response strategies . Implementation Framework : The three institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences will lead the project: India Meteorological Department (IMD) Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) These institutes will join forces with various institutions, based in this country as well as abroad, be it an academic or an industry partner, and would accelerate innovation and the transfer of knowledge among meteorological global communities. Mission Mausam will benefit thousands of stakeholders across sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, defense, environment, aviation, water resources, power generation, tourism, transportation, energy, and healthcare. It would also enhance the decision-making process in urban planning, transportation infrastructures, offshore operations, and environmental monitoring. -Source: Indian Express Kala-Azar Context: India is close to achieving the elimination of Kala-azar as a public health problem, meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) certification criteria.   Relevance: GS III- Health, Prelims About Kala Azar Kala-azar is a slow progressing indigenous disease caused by a protozoan parasite of genus Leishmania. In India Leishmania donovani is the only parasite causing this disease. The Kala-azar is endemic to the Indian subcontinent in 119 districts in four countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal). This disease is the second-largest parasitic killer in the world. Elimination is defined as reducing the annual incidence of Kala Azar (KA) to less than 1 case per 10,000 people at the sub-district level. It is a neglected tropical disease affecting almost 100 countries. Neglected tropical diseases are a diverse group of communicable diseases that prevail in tropical and subtropical conditions in 149 countries. There are three types of leishmaniasis Visceral leishmaniasis, which affects multiple organs and is the most serious form of the disease. Cutaneous leishmaniasis, which causes skin sores and is the most common form. Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, which causes skin and mucosal lesions. The Visceral leishmaniasis, which is commonly known as Kala-azar in India, is fatal in over 95% of the cases, if left untreated. Symptoms of Kala azar It is associated with fever, loss of appetite (anorexia), fatigue, enlargement of the liver, spleen and nodes and suppression of the bone marrow. It also increases the risk of other secondary infections. Diagnosing Kala azar The first oral drug found to be effective for treating kala-azar is miltefosine. The most common method of diagnosing kala azar is by dipstick testing. However, this method is highly problematic. Where has kala-azar been detected in India? In West Bengal, the districts where the maximum number of cases were registered include Darjeeling, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur and Kalimpong. The districts of Birbhum, Bankura, Purulia, and Murshidabad have also reported a few cases, while none have been detected in Kolkata yet. The disease is endemic in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. An estimated 165.4 million people are at risk, according to data from the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NCVBDC). In the country as a whole, there has been a significant decline in cases over the years. In 2014, around 9,200 cases were reported while in 2021 the number fell to 1,276 cases. What does the treatment include? Anti-leishmanial medicines are available for treatment. Vector control is also recommended by the WHO, which means reducing or interrupting the transmission of disease by decreasing the number of sandflies in surroundings through insecticide spray, use of insecticide-treated nets, etc. The government aimed to eliminate the disease in India by 2015, but that deadline was missed. However, the number of cases has been brought down significantly through the National Kala-Azar Elimination Programme. Medicines, insecticides and technical support were given by the central government, while state governments provided for costs involved in implementation. The program was implemented through State/District Malaria Control Offices and the primary health care system. -Source: Indian Express Space Docking Experiment Context: Recently, Hyderabad-based company handed over two 400 kg class satellites to ISRO, which will be part of the Space Docking Experiment planned by the space agency later this year. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology About Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) One of the ISRO’s significant steps toward developing autonomous docking technology. The mission involves two vehicles—‘Chaser’ and the ‘Target’—coming together and connecting in space. Docking systems enable two spacecraft to be connected in orbit. This opens up critical operations like assembling a space station, refueling, or the transfer of astronauts and cargo. It also will showcase the capability of the integrated spacecraft for stability as well as control after docking, for smooth forthcoming missions India’s SPADEX experiment contains a unique objective in itself, and this lies in the aspect of the development of native scalable and low-cost docking technology As part of this experiment, two orbiting spacecraft will automatically dock with each other demonstrating accuracy of navigation and control of great relevance to future space missions. SPADEX is designed to serve a wide range of spacecraft sizes and mission objectives, including potential collaborations for building space stations or deep space exploration,” (END. October 30, 1967: the Soviets successfully executed the historic docking of Kosmos 186 and *Kosmos 188-the first fully automated docking between two unmanned spacecraft. ­Established a precedent for extended space exploratory endeavors later, such as staying on orbiting space stations. ­Significance: It will be an integral aspect in attaining India’s long-term space exploration objectives, including manned space flight, satellites servicing, and construction of the space station later. -Source: Business Standards Han River Context: With an aim to exploit the Musi banks for commercial use, the Telangana government is looking at the Great Hangang (Han River) project in South Korea as a model for attracting private firms to develop riverfronts. Relevance: GS I: Geography About Han River: It is one of the most important rivers in South Korea and stands as the fourth longest river in the Korean peninsula. Course: It originates from the confluence of Namhan (South Han) and Bukhan (North Han) rivers on the eastern side of South Korea. The river passes through the country’s capital, Seoul, and further flows into the Yellow Sea. The 319 miles of its length are navigable for 200 miles and it has been an invaluable river route since ancient times. Several ancient kingdoms of Korea-including Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla-continued to vie for control over the strategic river at various points. The river was highly polluted for decades, due to industrial wastes, but appropriate and serious efforts made in the 1980s and 1990s brought back the earlier qualities of the waters. There are islands on the Han River: Seonyudo has been developed into an attractive ecological park. Banpo Bridge: Known for the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain on the Banpo Bridge in the city of Seoul, over the Han River. Its bridge fountain is the world’s longest. -Source: Times of India

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 23 October 2024

CONTENT India-Bhutan Ties India-Bhutan Ties Context: Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay’s recent visit to India highlighted the strong diplomatic relations and cooperation between Bhutan and India. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Key Highlights of the Bilateral Meeting between India and Bhutan India-Bhutan Ties Challenges in India-Bhutan Relations Key Highlights of the Bilateral Meeting between India and Bhutan Showcasing Green Hydrogen Initiatives India’s Innovation: India displayed a hydrogen-fueled bus, demonstrating significant strides in sustainable mobility and green hydrogen technology. Sustainable Mobility Promotion: This showcase underlines India’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and positions the nation as a pioneer in green hydrogen production. Bilateral Cooperation in Energy Expanding Partnerships: Discussions aimed to deepen bilateral relations, especially in the energy sector, were a focal point of the meeting. Bhutan’s Interest: Bhutan expressed enthusiasm for adopting green hydrogen mobility solutions, reinforcing its dedication to environmental sustainability and clean energy transition. Mutual Commitment to Sustainability Collaborative Prospects: Both nations expressed a willingness to collaborate on promoting cleaner and greener energy alternatives. Shared Vision for Sustainability: The meeting underscored a shared commitment to sustainable development, with Bhutan poised as an integral partner in India’s green energy transition initiatives. India-Bhutan Ties: They have come to understand that size alone does not determine the strength of relations between two independent nations. Consequently, India has consistently honored Bhutanese identity, respected its distinct religious practices, and supported its economic aspirations while preserving its unique way of life. In return, Bhutan has recognized that its sovereignty and identity are not threatened from its southern border and has looked to India for support in its growth and development. India has met these expectations, fostering a deep level of trust between the leadership of both nations over the decades, a trust that has been evident in recent times. Significance of Bhutan for India: Strategic Buffer State: Bhutan’s location between India and China serves as a strategic buffer state, enhancing India’s security interests. Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity: India’s assistance in defense, infrastructure, and communication has contributed to maintaining Bhutan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Border Infrastructure Development: India’s support in building border infrastructure, including roads and bridges, has strengthened Bhutan’s defense capabilities and ensured territorial integrity. Doklam Standoff Support: During the Doklam standoff with China in 2017, Bhutan played a crucial role by allowing Indian troops to enter its territory to resist Chinese incursions. Trading Partner: India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner and primary export destination. Hydropower Development: Bhutan’s hydropower potential is a significant revenue source, with India’s assistance in developing hydropower projects. Financial Assistance: India provides financial assistance for Bhutan’s development projects. Cultural Ties: Strong cultural ties exist due to shared Buddhist traditions, with India helping preserve Bhutan’s cultural heritage, and Bhutanese students studying in India. Environmental Stewardship: Bhutan’s commitment to being carbon-neutral aligns with India’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability. India supports Bhutan in renewable energy, forest conservation, and sustainable tourism, contributing to Bhutan’s carbon-neutral goals. Challenges in India-Bhutan Relations: China’s Increasing Presence: China’s growing economic and military influence in Bhutan, particularly along the disputed border, poses a challenge to India’s strategic interests in Bhutan. Border Incursions: Incidents of border incursions by Chinese forces along the India-Bhutan border have raised concerns. The Doklam standoff in 2017 was a significant flashpoint that could strain India-Bhutan relations if similar disputes escalate. Hydropower Projects Concerns: While India has been a major partner in Bhutan’s hydropower sector, there have been concerns in Bhutan regarding the terms of some hydropower projects, seen as too favorable to India. Public opposition in Bhutan to Indian involvement in the sector has arisen. Trade Imbalance: India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner, but Bhutan faces a trade imbalance, importing more from India than it exports. Bhutan seeks greater access to the Indian market to reduce the trade deficit.