Current Affairs for UPSC Civil Services Exam – September 26, 2024

{GS1 – A&C – Sites} Paigah tombs of Hyderabad

• Context (IE): The 200-year-old Hyderabad’s Paigah tombs are now undergoing restoration.

Source: Telegraph_India

Who Were the Paigahs?

• Historical Background: The Paigahs were a noble family who accompanied Emperor Aurangzeb during his conquest of the Deccan region.
• Founder: Shams-ul-Umra I, known as Nawaz Abul Fatah Khan Tegh, established the House of Paigah.
• Matrimonial Alliances: Their ties with the Nizams were strengthened through strategic marriages.
• Wealth and Influence: The Paigahs were reputed to be wealthier than the average Maharajah in India.
• Palaces: The Paigahs constructed several notable palaces in Hyderabad, Such as Falaknuma Palace, Asman Garh Palace, Khursheed Jah Devdi, Vicar-ul-Umarahi Palace.

Historical Importance The Paigahs, who married the daughters of the Nizams, were the highest-ranking nobles in the princely state of Hyderabad, second only to the Nizams. They were the only noble family permitted by the Sultan to maintain a private army.

About the Paigah Tombs Complex

• Also known as Maqhbara Shams al-Umara. They are the final resting places of the Paigah nobility.
• The tombs are a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Asaf Jah and Rajputani styles.
• Built of white marble, the tombs feature intricately designed interiors. The structures are decorated with stucco work, representing Mughal, Greek, Persian, Asaf Jahi, Rajasthani, and Deccani styles.
• The famous ‘Jali’ work adds to the tombs’ allure. Each tomb is uniquely designed with a distinct style.
• Stucco, a construction material made of aggregates, a binder, and water, is used as a decorative coating for walls and ceilings and a sculptural and artistic material in architecture.

The Department of Heritage Telangana and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) are handling the project to restore the necropolis of one of Hyderabad’s most powerful noble families. The US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation is helping to conserve six of the 14 monuments.

{GS1 – Geo – EG – Mineral Resources} China’s Monopoly in Strategic Minerals

• Context (TH): China restricted the export of antimony in the name of ‘national security’.

Antimony Antimony is a semi-metal. In its elemental form, it is a silvery white, brittle, fusible, crystalline solid that exhibits poor electrical and heat conductivity properties and vaporises at low temperatures. Antimony is not an abundant element but is found in small quantities in over 100 mineral species. China produces 88% of the world’s antimony. Uses of Antimony Antimony is used in the electronics industry to make semiconductor devices, such as infrared detectors and diodes and in plastic production as a heat stabiliser in PVC. It is used in solar panels to improve the stability of the solar performance of the glass upon exposure to UV radiations. A lead-antimony alloy is used in batteries. Other uses of antimony alloys include type metal (in printing presses), bullets and cable sheathing. Antimony compounds are used to make flame-retardant materials, paints, enamels, glass & pottery.

China’s Monopoly in Strategic Minerals

• China controls 60% of rare earth production, 60% of critical minerals production and 80% of the processing worldwide.
• It is the top source for five out of 12 critical minerals and the second or third top source for an additional three: Fluorspar, Galium, and Scandium.
• It dominates every supply chain segment — upstream, midstream, and downstream, covering mining, extraction, refining and processing. Thus, China’s decision has profound implications for global security.
• India, too, remains vulnerable due to its strategic dependence on China. It is heavily dependent on the imports of critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt and copper, which resulted in an import cost of around ₹34,000 crore in FY23.

Use of monopoly to weaponise the critical mineral supply chain

• Critical minerals export controls have become a part of China’s foreign policy objectives. It has been using mineral resources as a political tool to leverage its status as a mineral power.
• Some instances of export controls by China:
  • It has increased restrictions on its critical minerals exports nine times between 2009 and 2020.
  • In 2023, it announced curbs on the export of gallium and germanium (used in solar cells and computer chips) to the Netherlands due to the latter’s restriction on supply of semiconductor equipment.
  • In 2023, it curbed the export of synthetic graphite material and natural flake graphite (used in EV batteries, fuel cells, and nuclear reactors), following the US export curb on advanced computing and semiconductor products to China.
  • It restricted the export of rare earth processing technologies in making rare earth magnets used in EVs and technologies used to extract and separate critical minerals.

Implications of China’s monopoly

• Impacts green energy transition: China’s near monopoly in minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earths, crucial for EVs and solar panels, slows down the global energy transition. Any disruption to China’s supply could delay the production of clean energy technologies.
• Economic and security dependencies: A targeted supply-chain disruption could cripple the production of consumer products and weapons systems (fighter jets, missile systems, and satellites).
• Global price volatility: China’s control over strategic mineral supply allows it to influence global prices, leading to price volatility, especially during geopolitical tensions or supply chain disruptions. E.g. Production slowdowns and export delays during covid-19 pandemic led to spikes in prices of rare earth metals.
• Resource diplomacy: China’s mineral monopoly forces countries to form strategic alliances and engage in resource diplomacy to secure access to alternative supplies.

Way ahead

• Diversification of mineral sourcing by developing mining projects in other regions and implementing new mineral mining technologies.
• Technological innovation and recycling of critical minerals could reduce demand by 20% to 40%, while material substitution could alleviate strains on supply and reduce costs.
• Strategic stockpiling could act as a buffer against sudden supply chain disruptions.

Read in detail about Critical Minerals.

{GS2 – IR – India-China} India-China Relations

• Context (TH|IE): China’s rising influence and assertive stance on territorial and geopolitical matters can be observed in multiple regions, including the South China Sea and the Himalayan border with India.

• Beijing’s strategic manoeuvres, often framed under the guise of economic or military necessity, are shaping new geopolitical dynamics.

Recent Developments

• Diplomatic Engagements: Recent high-level talks between India and China, including meetings between foreign ministers, aim to ease tensions and address border disputes.
• Military Talks: Ongoing military discussions under established protocols have focused on disengagement in sensitive areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
• Indian External Affairs Minister emphasised that peace along the LAC is vital for stable bilateral relations and highlighted that dialogue is crucial for resolving outstanding issues.
• G20 and BRICS Participation: Both nations participated in the G20 summit and BRICS meetings, showcasing efforts to engage on global platforms despite bilateral tensions.
• Economic Partnerships: India is exploring opportunities to diversify economic ties and reduce reliance on Chinese imports, focusing on self-reliance initiatives.

Historical Ties

• Ancient Contacts: Written records of contact between India and China date back to at least the 2nd century B.C., marking a long history of cultural exchange.
• Silk Road: The Silk Road was a crucial trade route that facilitated economic and cultural exchanges, with Buddhism spreading from India to East Asia along these paths.
• Fa Xian’s Visit: In AD 402, Chinese monk Fa Xian visited India, stayed for a decade, and translated many Sanskrit Buddhist texts into Chinese, enriching both cultures.
• Bodhidharma’s Influence: In the 5th century AD, Bodhidharma, a South Indian monk, became the first patriarch of the Shaolin Monastery in China, influencing Chinese martial arts and philosophy.
• Xuan Zang’s Journey: Xuan Zang (Hiuen Tsang) travelled to India during Harsha Vardhana’s reign in the 7th century AD to acquire Buddhist scriptures, strengthening the cultural ties.

Significance of India-China Relations

• Geopolitical Neighbour: China shares a 3,488 km border with India, affecting regional stability.
• Balancing Power: India views China as a balancing force, prompting it to enhance its capabilities and forge strategic alliances.
• Economic Relations: China is India’s second-largest trading partner, making bilateral trade and investment crucial for mutual growth.
• Border Disputes: Ongoing border issues generate tensions, necessitating effective regional peace and stability management.
• Indian Ocean Dynamics: China’s naval expansion poses significant challenges to India’s traditional dominance in the Indian Ocean region as it seeks to establish a stronger maritime presence.

Challenges

• Territorial Disputes: Ongoing conflicts over borders in the South China Sea and the Himalayas create persistent tension and distrust.
• Debt Trap Diplomacy: China’s strategy of extending loans to developing nations leads to economic dependence, potentially compromising their sovereignty.
• Five Fingers of Tibet: China’s strategy aims to influence five regions surrounding Tibet—Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Arunachal Pradesh—threatening India’s territorial integrity and regional security.
• Strategic Encirclement: The “String of Pearls” initiative increases China’s military presence in the Indian Ocean, posing direct challenges to India’s maritime security.
• China’s Salami Slicing Strategy: In military terms, Salami Slicing refers to a divide-and-conquer strategy involving incremental threats and alliances to overcome opposition and acquire new territories.
• Water Security: China’s control over major rivers like the Brahmaputra threatens India’s water security, requiring careful management.
• Cybersecurity Challenges: India faces significant cybersecurity threats from China, emphasizing the need for robust defences.
• Trade Imbalance: India’s substantial trade deficit with China, especially in Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, highlights the need for fair trade practices.

India’s Response

• Global Alliances: India is forming strategic partnerships with like-minded nations, including QUAD (with the US, Australia, and Japan) and I2U2 (with Israel, the USA, and the UAE) to counter China’s influence.
• India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): This corridor aims to enhance trade connectivity and strengthen India’s presence in the Arabian Sea and the Middle East, countering BRI.
• International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC): This multi-modal transport network connects India with the Persian Gulf and Caspian Sea, providing a strategic alternative to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and monitoring China’s activities.
• Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA): Engaging in economic cooperation and sustainable development initiatives among Indian Ocean nations to strengthen regional ties.
• Necklace of Diamonds Strategy: A counter-strategy to China’s String of Pearls, focusing on enhancing naval presence, expanding military bases, and strengthening diplomatic relations with regional nations.
• Vibrant Villages Programme: An initiative to develop villages along the border to enhance infrastructure and connectivity, thereby improving local economies and security.

Way Forward

• Strengthened Regional Diplomacy: India’s participation in the QUAD dialogue with the U.S., Australia, and Japan exemplifies efforts to foster regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
• Investment in Defence: The increase in defence spending and the acquisition of advanced weaponry, such as the Rafale fighter jets, enhance India’s military capabilities along the borders.
• Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening defence ties with countries like Australia and Japan through military exercises, such as the Malabar Naval Exercise.
• Infrastructure Development: Initiatives like the Bharatmala Project aim to enhance domestic connectivity, bolstering economic resilience against external influences and fostering regional trade links.
• People-to-People Connections: Expanding cultural exchange programs, such as increased scholarships for Indian students in China and vice versa.
• Joint Initiatives in Global Governance: Collaborating on global issues like climate change, public health, and counter-terrorism through platforms like BRICS or the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
• Enhanced Diplomatic Dialogue: Establishing regular diplomatic channels and dialogues to address border disputes can prevent misunderstandings. The India-China Strategic Economic Dialogue could be revived to comprehensively discuss economic and strategic issues.
• Cooperative Framework for Border Management can help reduce tensions. E.g. 1993 Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquillity along the LAC.

{GS2 – IR – UN} Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)

• Context (TH): September 26 is the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons by UN. This year’s agenda includes a Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) session.

About Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)

• Adopted in July 2017 by the UN. It entered into force in January 2021 after the 50th ratification.
• It adopted the Vienna Action Plan (First Meeting in Vienna, Austria) to implement the treaty.

Key Provisions

Prohibitions

• Development, testing, production, acquisition, possession, stockpiling, use, and threat of use of nuclear weapons, Deployment of nuclear weapons on national territory & Assistance in any prohibited activities.

Obligations

• Environmental Remediation: Addressing contamination from nuclear weapon use or testing.
• Victim Assistance: Providing support to individuals affected by nuclear weapons.

Treaties Related to Nuclear Disarmament Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) Outer Space Treaty Entered into Force in 1967 Ban the placement of weapons of mass destruction in space. Prohibits the testing of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction in space.

Arguments Supporting Nuclear Disarmament

• Non-Proliferation and Arms Control: Commitment to disarmament by nuclear states encourages non-nuclear states to adhere to non-proliferation agreements.
• Moral Duty: Eliminating nuclear weapons is a moral duty and a step towards a more peaceful world.
• Environmental Impact: Nuclear testing & its potential use can lead to environmental contamination.
• Humanitarian Issues: Nuclear weapons cause massive loss of life, widespread destruction, and long-term environmental harm.
• Global Safety: Spread of nuclear weapons increases risk of their use, leading to catastrophic outcomes.

Arguments Opposing Nuclear Disarmament

• National Safety: Nuclear arsenals provide security against threats and protect national interests.
• Strategic Stability: Nuclear weapons help maintain stability between rival nuclear-armed states.
• Deterrence: Nuclear weapons are a strong deterrent against potential adversaries, preventing conflicts.
• Geopolitical Realities: Mistrust and strategic competition make it difficult for all countries to disarm simultaneously.
• Verification: Without effective verification, countries might exploit disarmament agreements.

India’s Stance on Nuclear Disarmament

• National Security: India maintains its nuclear program as a legitimate expression of sovereignty and self-defence.
• Complex Policy: India’s policy balances its security needs and its commitment to global disarmament.
• Non-Signatory to NPT: India views the NPT as discriminatory and does not support its two-tier system.
• Global Security Threat: India believes that nuclear weapons pose a global security threat and advocates for their total elimination.

{GS2 – Social Sector – Health – Diseases} Surge in Dengue Cases in 2024

• Context (IE): 2024 has witnessed an alarming rise in dengue cases globally.

What is Dengue?

• Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
• Symptoms: Fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, pain behind the eyes, and rashes. Severe cases can lead to internal bleeding and death.

Reasons for the Surge

Climate Change

• Warmer Temperatures: Increased mosquito breeding and longer transmission seasons.
• Unpredictable Weather Patterns: Heavy rains and dry spells create ideal breeding conditions.

Urbanisation

• Population Density: High population density in urban areas facilitates faster spread.
• Water stagnation: Improper water storage in urban areas provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Inadequate Public Health Measures:

• Surveillance and Reporting: Inconsistent reporting and lack of robust surveillance systems.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: Overburdened healthcare systems struggle to manage outbreaks effectively.

Progress of Dengue Vaccine in India

• Currently, there is no antiviral treatment or licensed vaccine against dengue in India. ICMR & Panacea Biotec initiated the First Phase 3 Clinical Trial in India with the indigenous dengue vaccine, DengiAll.
• Dengue vaccine development is complex due to the need to achieve good efficacy for all four serotypes.

{GS2 – Social Sector – Health} Body Roundness Index (BRI)

• Context (TH): BMI (Body Mass Index) might not be the best way to measure health risks anymore.

• Instead, the Body Roundness Index (BRI) is proving to be better at predicting health conditions. This change has led healthcare professionals to consider BRI as a possible replacement for BMI.

About BRI

• It was developed by U.S. mathematician Diana Thomas in 2013.
• It measures body roundness to assess health risks more accurately than the Body Mass Index (BMI).
• It incorporates waist circumference and height to estimate body fat percentage.

• Scores range from 1 to 15. Scores above 6.9 or below 3.41 indicate higher health risks.
• BRI provides a visual, egg-shaped outline with a green zone indicating the healthy range.

Source: WileyOnlineLibrary

Why BRI is Gaining Importance?

• Ethnic Variability: BMI was based on 19th-century European populations and is inadequate for certain ethnic groups. BRI accommodates differences in fat distribution across populations, especially Asians, who tend to accumulate more abdominal fat at lower BMIs.
• Accuracy of Fat Distribution: BRI aligns with body fat percentage and visceral fat levels, providing a more accurate picture of health risks than BMI.
• Limitations of BMI: BMI only measures weight relative to height and does not differentiate between muscle, fat, or water. It also does not show where fat is distributed in the body.
• Visceral Fat Indication: BRI includes waist circumference, offering a better indication of visceral fat (fat around internal organs) associated with cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndromes.

Health Risks Associated with BRI Scores

• Higher BRI Scores: Elevated scores suggest higher body fat, especially visceral fat, associated with diseases like Type 2 diabetes, Cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic syndromes (MetS).
• Low BRI Scores: Extremely low scores also carry risks, including malnutrition and related health issues.

Difference Between BRI and BMI

Aspect	Body Roundness Index (BRI)	Body Mass Index (BMI)
Definition	Measures body roundness to assess health risks	Estimates body fat based on weight and height
Developed By	Diana Thomas (2013)	Adolphe Quetelet (1830s)
Components	Waist circumference and height	Weight and height
Scoring Range	1 to 15	Varies (underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese)
Health Risk Indicators	Scores above 6.9 or below 3.41 indicate higher risks	A higher BMI indicates higher health risks
Visual Representation	Egg-shaped outline with a green healthy range	No visual representation
Fat Distribution	Accounts for visceral fat around internal organs	Does not indicate fat distribution
Accuracy	Better indication of body fat percentage and visceral fat	Less accurate as it does not differentiate between fat, muscle, or water
Associated Health Risks	Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndromes	Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, but less specific
Calculation	Uses waist circumference and height	Weight (kg) / Height (m²)

{GS2 – Social Sector – Health} Kerala Tops FSSAI State Food Safety Index 2024

• Context (IE): Kerala has again secured the top position in the State Food Safety Index (SFSI) 2024.

Kerala’s Food Safety Model

• Comprehensive Food Safety Policies: Kerala has implemented rigorous quality checks and increased the frequency of inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Specialised Food Safety Squads: Teams monitor high-risk areas like street food vendors & restaurants.
• Public Health Initiatives: Projects like the Safe Kerala initiative ensure food vendors meet hygiene.
• Community Engagement: Engages with the food business community to train and certify food handlers.
• Digitalisation Efforts: Online systems for license issuance and food testing reports.

How will the Kerala Model be Implemented Across India?

• Adopting Rigorous Inspection Protocols: States can increase the frequency and thoroughness of food safety inspections.
• Establishing Specialised Squads: Creating dedicated teams to monitor high-risk food areas can help maintain high safety standards.
• Launching Public Health Campaigns: Initiatives similar to Safe Kerala can be introduced to educate and enforce hygiene standards among food vendors.
• Engaging with Communities: Training and certifying food handlers can ensure widespread compliance with safety norms.
• Leveraging Technology: Implementing digital systems for licensing and testing can enhance efficiency and transparency.

Other good-performing states Tamil Nadu: Ranked second in the SFSI 2024, Tamil Nadu has made significant strides in food safety by adopting measures similar to those of Kerala. Jammu & Kashmir: Ranked third, this region has also improved its food safety standards through rigorous inspections and public health initiatives.

{GS3 – Envi – CC} Antarctic Ice Loss and Its Impact on Global Sea Levels

• Context (DTE): A study predicts that Antarctic ice loss will become rapid and irreversible from 2100, significantly impacting global sea levels and could contribute to a global sea level rise of up to 5 meters.

Historical Context and Comparisons

• Past Ice Ages: During the last ice age, sea levels were significantly lower due to the large ice sheets covering much of the Earth’s surface.
• Current Trends: Ice losses from Antarctica have tripled since 2012, contributing to a faster rise in sea levels than in the past 25 years.

Factors Contributing to Antarctic Ice Loss

• Global Warming: Rising global temperatures are causing the ice sheets to melt at an accelerated rate.
• Oceanic Changes: Warmer ocean currents erode the ice from below, destabilising ice shelves.
• Ice Shelf Collapse: The collapse of ice shelves, such as the Thwaites Glacier, also known as the “Doomsday Glacier,” is a significant factor.

Implications for Global Sea Levels

• Sea Level Rise: The complete melting of the Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS) could raise global sea levels by approximately 58 meters.
• Coastal Flooding: Rising sea levels will lead to increased coastal flooding, affecting millions of people living in coastal regions.
• Ecosystem Disruption: Changes in sea levels can disrupt marine ecosystems, affecting biodiversity.

Way Forward

• Reducing Emissions: To slow down the rate of ice loss, it is crucial to reduce global carbon emissions.
• Coastal Defences: Building and strengthening coastal defences can help protect vulnerable regions from the impacts of rising sea levels.
• International Cooperation: Global cooperation is essential to address the challenges of climate change and implement effective mitigation strategies.

{GS3 – Envi – CC} Importance of NDCs

• Context (TH): Importance of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in Global climate talks.

What are NDCs?

• NDC is a non-binding climate action plan to cut emissions and adapt to climate impacts. It describes a country’s national policies or decisions toward reaching net-zero emissions.
• They represent short- to medium-term plans and are required to be updated every five years with increasingly higher ambition based on each country’s capabilities and capacities.
• Pledges made within an NDC are considered voluntary, with countries facing no legal penalty if they fail to meet their goals. However, they are obligated under the Paris Agreement to monitor progress and report on any failures.
  • Some countries like Britain and Chile have incorporated their NDCs into national law, making their climate commitments legally binding at the national level.
• They can help identify if the world is on track with its climate goals. More than 170 countries met the last NDC deadline ahead of COP26 in early 2021.

Components of strong NDCs

• An NDC should be detailed, ambitious, and credible. Countries with more developed NDCs that outline projects, policies, and financing needs can help attract funding.

Credits: wri.org

• It should set emissions reduction targets for key polluting sectors, such as energy and transportation, while reconciling national policies that might frustrate progress in transitioning to clean energy, such as fossil fuel subsidies.
• It should state how a country will monitor progress toward its NDC pledges.
• It should provide details of the projects to be launched or plans for creating jobs in clean technology industries. It could include plans for public health measures amid increasing temperatures.

Importance of NDCs

• They translate international climate agreements into concrete targets and measures that countries will work toward over the upcoming years.
• They reinforce the global goals agreed upon under the Paris Agreement and show exactly what each country commits to reaching them.
• They represent politically supported plans for investing in crucial areas that have the potential not only to meet climate goals but also to power sustainable development.
• They can help governments prioritise actions across all sectors and align their policies and legislation with climate objectives.

What Support Do Developing Countries Need to Implement Their NDCs?

• Financial investments: Many developing country NDCs include “conditional” climate pledges, which they intend to achieve only with international support.
• Technical assistance: It involves connecting developing countries with experts and resources to help them develop and implement their NDCs.
• Technology transfer: It involves developed countries sharing clean technologies and relevant know-how with developing nations to support their low-carbon transitions; e.g., by helping them obtain licenses to use patented technologies.

{GS3 – Envi – Conservation} Ensuring Earth System Justice

• Context (IE): A study published in The Lancet showed that the over-consumption of finite resources by a minority of the world’s population is shrinking the ‘Safe and Just Space’.

• It stated that ensuring equitable distribution of resources would be less harmful to the planet than the present situation in which the wealthy minority consumes more than its fair share.

Findings of the study

• Previous analyses have shown that globally defined Safe and Just Earth-system boundaries (ESBs) are transgressed for four critical Earth-system domains (biosphere, climate, nutrient cycles and freshwater).
• ‘Safe ESBs’ are levels beyond which tipping points may be triggered, making Earth unstable. However, they are not necessarily just. ‘Just ESBs’ prevent significant harm to humans, communities and countries.
• The report finds that the safe and just space for humanity is shrinking due to inequalities and overconsumption of resources by a minority.
  • About 15% of emissions were by the top 1% of the world, while the world’s poorest 50% were responsible for just 7% and were the ones suffering the effects of the climate crisis the most.
  • The richest 10% of the global population consumes as much energy as the poorest 80% and is responsible for more emissions than the other 90%.
• It focuses on ensuring justice, i.e. 3I’s of justice:
  • Interspecies Justice: Justice between humans and other species.
  • Intergenerational justice between past & present generations and present & future generations.
  • Intragenerational justice among individuals, communities and nations through meeting minimum needs or reducing suffering.

Ways to Ensure Earth System Justice

• Earth system justice can be achieved by shifting society towards the Safe and Just Corridor. This must be at local and global levels, and actors from all sections of society must take their fair responsibility.
• It suggested three major shifts:
  1. Economic and political changes to address inequality and reduce pressure on the planet.
     • Compensation rules for harm caused to people and nature.
     • Eliminating monopolies over critical common resources.
     • Legislation to protect the global commons and embed corporate responsibility for pressure on Earth systems.
  2. Better management, sharing and usage of resources at every level of society.
     • Increase equality while reducing over-consumption.
     • Promote technologies that increase efficiency and incorporate environmental costs in prices.
     • Promote values of conservation & social justice & address vulnerabilities of marginalised people.
  3. Investment in sustainable and affordable technologies.
     • Encourage circular economy models in technology development.
     • Develop standards and regulations to promote sustainable technologies.
     • Redesign cities to be more accessible through cycling and mass public transport.

Safe and just corridor: A clearly defined space in which pathways of future human development are both safe and just over time, and that acknowledges that the Earth’s natural resources are finite and have to be justly shared between people and nature.

{GS3 – Envi – RE} European Renewable Giants Fleeing Vietnam

• Context (IE): Vietnam’s ambitious renewable energy goals have faced significant challenges, leading major European investors to reconsider their plans.

Background

• Vietnam’s Renewable Energy Goals: Vietnam aims to nearly double its installed electricity capacity from 80 GW to 150 GW by 2030, with renewable sources like wind and solar expected to account for at least 31% of the energy mix.
• European Investors’ Withdrawal: Major European companies like Enel, Equinor, and Orsted have withdrawn from Vietnam, citing regulatory and infrastructural challenges.

Key Challenges

Regulatory Hurdles

• Lack of Framework: Delays in setting up guidelines for project approvals, sea area allocations, and pricing mechanisms have frustrated investors.
• Regulatory Uncertainty: Companies like Equinor paused their projects due to unclear regulations.

Infrastructure Issues

• Grid Connectivity: Vietnam’s existing infrastructure struggles to connect new renewable energy projects to the national grid.
• Coal Dependency: Despite renewable goals, a significant portion of Vietnam’s energy comes from coal-fired power stations.

Funding and Investment

• Financial Requirements: The Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8) requires an estimated $134 billion for new power plants and grid improvements by 2030.
• Foreign Investment: Lack of financial incentives and rising tax burdens have led firms like Intel to move their projects elsewhere.

Vietnam’s Energy Policies Vietnam’s Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8): Approved in May 2023, PDP8 outlines the country’s strategy to double its power generation capacity by 2030, focusing on renewable energy. Global Commitments: Vietnam has committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, aligning with international climate goals. G7 Support: G7 nations pledged $15.5 billion to support Vietnam’s transition away from coal.

Future Prospects

• Opportunities for Vietnam: Despite challenges, Vietnam can still position itself as a preferred manufacturing centre in Southeast Asia by targeting key industrial zones with built-in renewable power sources.
• Regional Competition: Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia are already diversifying their energy sources, posing competition to Vietnam.

{GS3 – IE – Exports} “Make in India” Initiative

• Context (DTE|TP): It was launched in 2014, set out to boost India’s manufacturing sector, aiming to increase its GDP contribution from 16-25% by 2025 and create 100 million new jobs by 2022.

• However, a decade later, the program has yielded mixed results.

Achievements

• Ease of Doing Business: India’s rank improved from 134 in 2014 to 63 in 2020, reflecting regulatory improvements and streamlining of processes.
• Foreign Investment: The initiative made India a top destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), surpassing countries like the U.S. and China.
• Rise in Mobile Phone Manufacturing: India has become the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer globally, with 22% of the world’s smartphones being made in India in 2021.
• Automobile Sector Growth: India’s automobile industry became the fourth-largest in the world by 2021, producing 26.3 million vehicles and establishing itself as a global hub.
• Defence Production and Exports: India’s defence manufacturing sector saw a significant boost, with defence exports rising from ₹1,521 crore in 2016-17 to ₹15,920 crore in 2021-22.
• Boost in Renewable Energy Manufacturing: India is now the third-largest renewable energy producer in the world, particularly excelling in solar manufacturing.
• Growth of MSMEs in the Manufacturing Ecosystem: The number of MSMEs registered grew by 18% annually. MSMEs contribute 30% to India’s GDP.

Shortcomings of the Make in India Initiative

• Stagnant Manufacturing Growth: The manufacturing sector’s GDP contribution remains around 17.7% as of 2023, far from the 25% target.
• Employment has similarly fallen short, with job numbers decreasing from 51.3 million in 2017 to 35.7 million in 2023.
• Job Creation: The ambitious goal of creating 100 million new jobs has not been met, especially in labour-intensive industries like textiles and footwear, which are underfunded
• Export Performance: India’s share in global exports has barely increased, and its exports-to-GDP ratio fell from 25.2% in 2013 to 21.8% in 2024.
• High Import Tariffs: Import tariffs on key manufacturing inputs have hurt India’s competitiveness in international markets, making export-driven growth more challenging.

Way Forward

• Focus on Labor-Intensive Sectors: India should focus on labour-intensive industries like textiles, footwear, and agriculture-based industries to generate significant employment. E.g. The textile sector in Bangladesh has generated millions of jobs through focused government policies and investments.
• Increased Budget for Key Sectors: Allocation of higher budgets for sectors like textiles and MSMEs is essential to boost labour-intensive manufacturing and employment. E.g. China’s success in building its manufacturing capacity was driven by sustained budget support for its electronics industries.
• Support for MSMEs: Streamlined financing, ease of regulatory compliance, and digitization of MSMEs can help them scale up. E.g. Germany’s “Mittelstand” (small and medium-sized companies) strategy has supported the economy with innovation and competitiveness.
• Diversification of Export Base: India should diversify its export base by tapping into new global markets and promoting high-value products. E.g. Vietnam successfully diversified its exports, moving from agriculture-based exports to electronics, machinery, and textiles, boosting its global trade standing.
• Participation in Global Value Chains (GVCs) is essential for increasing the competitiveness of Indian products in international markets. E.g. South Korea’s participation in electronics and automobile global value chains has positioned the country as a leading exporter worldwide.
• Simplifying Tax System: The overly complex GST and high compliance burdens, especially on SMEs, need simplification to improve investor sentiment and reduce corruption.
• Land Reforms: Amend stringent land acquisition laws to facilitate easier land purchases for industrial projects while safeguarding farmers’ rights.
• Skill Training: Strengthen the Skill India initiative by incentivizing youth participation to meet industry demands and boost employability.
• Co-operative Federalism: Foster collaboration between states to ensure uniform progress across India, bringing underperforming states in line with successful ones through cooperative efforts.

{GS3 – Infra – Transportation} Regional Unified Transport Authority

• Context (ORF): As India’s urban population surges, transport systems face significant challenges, especially in smaller and medium-sized cities.

• The Regional Unified Transport Authority (RUTA) is proposed to solve these mobility issues by offering a framework for integrated, equitable, and decentralised transport.

Current Scenario

• Urbanisation and Rising Population: The number of cities with populations over 500,000 has increased from 100 in 2011 to 150 in 2023.
• Increasing Private Vehicle Use: There is a growing trend of private vehicle ownership in India. From 2010 to 2018, car registrations rose by 35% and two-wheeler registrations by 98%.
• Environmental and Public Health Concerns: The transport sector is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and NOx in India.
• Private vehicle dominance exacerbates air pollution, traffic congestion, and fuel dependency, leading to higher welfare losses, estimated at 7.7% of GDP.

Challenges in Mobility and Private Transport Dominance

• Lack of Public Transport Infrastructure: Smaller cities and rural areas have inadequate public transport systems, forcing people to rely on private vehicles.
• Rising Congestion: Increased use of private cars and two-wheelers leads to traffic congestion, especially in rapidly urbanising areas.
• Higher Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Private vehicle use contributes significantly to GHG emissions and worsens India’s air pollution crisis.
• Fuel Import Dependency: The heavy reliance on private transport increases India’s dependency on fuel imports, negatively impacting the trade deficit.
• Increased Travel Costs: Rural and semi-urban populations spend more on private transportation due to the absence of affordable public transport options.

Impacts of Mobility Challenges

• Health Risks Due to Air Pollution: According to the Global Burden of Disease Report (2020), air pollution is the 5th largest cause of mortality in India (around 1.67 million deaths in 2019).
• Traffic Congestion Costs: According to a study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), traffic congestion in India’s top four metropolitan cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru—cost the economy over USD 22 billion annually in productivity losses.
• Balance of Payment crisis: India imports about 85% of its oil, and the rise in private vehicle use contributes heavily to this, increasing the trade deficit. In FY 2023, the oil import bill was USD 158 billion.
• Environment Degradation: The transport sector contributes to about 14% of India’s total GHG emissions. Vehicle emissions alone account for around 60% of this.
• Air Quality: According to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), vehicular emissions contribute to about 40-50% of particulate matter (PM) levels in Indian cities.
• Limited Transport Access: A study by the World Bank noted that only 18% of rural households in India have access to public transport within a 2 km radius, compared to 80% of urban households.
• Urbanization Rate: India’s urban population grew from 27.8% in 2001 to 34.9% in 2021, and much of this migration has been attributed to better transportation opportunities in cities.
• Population Growth in Megacities: Between 2011 and 2021, the population in India’s top 10 cities grew by an average of 23%, adding to congestion and overburdening urban services, including transport.

Way Forward

• Implementation of RUTA (Regional Unified Transport Authority)
  • Integration of Transport Planning: RUTA would enable integrated mobility planning across cities, towns, and rural regions by coordinating efforts.
  • Institutional Reforms: RUTA would involve local stakeholders like block development officers and zilla parishad officials to ensure inclusive mobility planning.
• Promotion of Public Transportation
  • Improving Public Transit Infrastructure: Investments in buses, metro systems, and other mass transit solutions in smaller cities and towns would reduce the reliance on private vehicles.
  • Encouraging Private Participation: Allowing private operators to participate in public transport services through partnerships would help fill gaps in infrastructure and operational expertise.
• Adoption of Environmentally Sustainable Solutions
  • Electric Vehicle (EV) Integration: The promotion of electric buses and vehicles in urban and regional transport systems can help reduce GHG emissions.
  • Low-Emission Zones: Implementing low-emission zones in cities and towns would help mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of private vehicle use.
• Technological Upgradation
  • Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS): RUTA can deploy ITMS to manage traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall efficiency of regional transportation networks.
  • Mobility as a Service (MaaS): Introducing MaaS platforms can integrate different modes of transport—such as buses, metro, and last-mile connectivity—under a single, seamless system.
• Capacity Building and Training
  • Technical Expertise for Small Towns: Large cities’ technical expertise can be leveraged to build capacity in smaller towns, ensuring efficient implementation of transport projects under RUTA.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns focusing on the benefits of public transport and environmentally sustainable travel options would encourage a shift from private to public modes of transport.

{GS3 – S&T – IPR} Retractions in publications

• Context (TH): The ‘Retraction Watch’ database highlights two cases in India. A Lucknow scientist with 45 retractions and a Kolkata researcher who published 300 papers in a single year with six retractions.

• A retraction occurs when a scientific journal officially withdraws a research paper due to serious errors or dishonesty (e.g., fake data). It signals to the scientific community that the paper is unreliable.
• The retraction index measures the frequency of retractions in a journal, indicating the rate of retractions relative to the total number of papers published.

Primary Reasons for Retraction

• Publications: Organisations producing fake/low-quality papers to inflate publication counts.
• Ethical Violations: Issues like authorship disputes, undisclosed conflicts of interest, and lack of proper consent for studies.
• Data Errors: Honest mistakes in data collection, interpretation, or analysis that invalidate the findings.
• Image Manipulation: Altering figures or graphics, especially in biology and medicine.
• Plagiarism: Using someone else’s work without proper credit.

Impact of Retractions on Scientific Credibility:

• Trust Erosion: Undermines confidence in published research.
• Progress Hindrance: Delays scientific advancements as future research may rely on flawed studies.
• Reputation Damage: Affects the credibility and career prospects of involved researchers and institutions.
• High-Impact Journals at Risk: More retractions in high-impact journals due to the pressure to publish groundbreaking work quickly.
• Public Perception: High-profile retractions can damage public trust in science.

Way Forward:

• Strengthen Peer Review and Use AI Tools: Implement advanced AI tools to detect issues like plagiarism and data manipulation during peer review.
• Focus on Quality Over Quantity: Encourage institutions to prioritise the quality of research over the number of publications to reduce pressure on researchers and discourage reliance on paper mills.

{Prelims – Envi – Species} Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish

• Context (TOI): New Zealand scientists have discovered a new species of “ghost shark” at great depths.

Credits: The Guardian, Oceanrep

Ghost Sharks

• Ghost sharks, known as chimeras or spookfish, are distant relatives of sharks and rays. They belong to a different group of fish whose bones are made of cartilage & lack scales or any unique features.
• Referred to as the ocean’s butterflies for the way they glide through water with their large pectoral fins.

{Prelims – In News} Chess Olympiad 2024

• Context (TH): India achieved a historic double gold at 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary.

International Chess Federation (FIDE)

• Founded: July 20, 1924, in Paris, France. Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland.
• Motto: “Gens una sumus” (Latin for “We are one family”).
• Recognition: Officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1999.

India is considered the birthplace of chess. Its origins trace back nearly 1500 years to its earliest known predecessor, chaturanga. It spread from India to Persia and evolved into its current form.

FIDE World Cup

• Format: 128-player single-elimination since 2005.
• Rounds: Seven rounds of “mini-matches” with two games each.

India’s Achievement in Chess Olympiad 2024 Open Section: Defeated Slovenia. Players: D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi Women’s Section: Defeated Azerbaijan. Players: D Harika, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, R Vaishali

{Prelims – In News} PETN Explosive: A Key Component in Mossad’s Operations

• Context (IT): Penta-Erythritol-Tetra-Nitrate (PETN) was allegedly used in missions against Hezbollah.

What is PETN?

• Relative Effectiveness Factor (REF): 1.66, making it more powerful than Trinitrotoluene (TNT).
• Stability: Relatively stable and insensitive to friction.
• Detonation: Highly susceptible to shock and heat, leading to powerful explosions when triggered.
• Manufacturing: Produced by nitration of pentaerythritol with a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids.
• Detection Methods: Can be detected using chemical sensors and X-ray machines.

It was used in the 1996 Khobar Towers bombing in Saudi Arabia, killing 19 US soldiers.

{Prelims – S&T – Defence} ABHED Lightweight Bulletproof Jackets

• Context (PIB): The DRDO and IIT Delhi have developed lightweight bulletproof jackets named ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat).

• Materials Used: Polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material.
• Design Basis: Characterisation of materials at high strain rates, followed by modelling and simulation in collaboration with DRDO.
• Protection: Modular design with front and rear armours providing 360-degree protection.

{Prelims – Sci – Space} Differential Rotation of the Sun’s Chromosphere

• Context (PIB): For the first time, astronomers at the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory mapped the differential rotation of the Sun’s chromosphere using 100 years of data.

Key Findings

• Differential Rotation: The Sun’s equator rotates faster than its poles. It completes one rotation in approximately 25 days. Its poles take about 35 days for one rotation.

  

  Fig. Sun’s differential rotation at various latitudes

Source: PIB

Calcium K Spectral Line It is located in the ultraviolet part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Highlights chromospheric network & solar plages, which are areas of increased magnetic activity. It helps to study the Sun’s magnetic field and understand solar phenomena like flares and sunspots. Used in narrow-band filters for solar imaging, providing insights into lower & middle chromosphere.

Importance of Differential Rotation

• Solar Dynamo: Interaction between differential rotation and Sun’s magnetic field drives solar dynamo.
• Solar Cycle: Influences the 11-year solar cycle, affecting solar activity and magnetic storms on Earth.
• Historical Context: First observed by Carrington in the 19th century through sunspots.

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Location: Situated on the southern tip of the Palani Hills, Tamil Nadu. Historical Significance: Known for the discovery of the Evershed effect in 1909, which describes the radial outflow of gas in sunspots. Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) Headquarters: Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It researches in the field of solar physics, stellar astronomy, galactic and extragalactic astronomy, and cosmology. Collaborations: It partners with international institutions and participates in global projects like the Astrosat mission, India’s first dedicated multi-wavelength space observatory.