Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Henley Passport Index
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- India has seen an improvement in its ranking on the Henley Passport Index 2023, climbing seven places to the 80th position from 87 last year.
- However, despite the rise in ranking, the number of countries allowing visa-free access to Indian passport holders remains the same.
What is Henley Passport Index?
- The Henley Passport Index is a global ranking system that measures the strength and value of passports from different countries.
- It is published by Henley & Partners, a global residence and citizenship advisory firm.
- The index provides an annual ranking of passports based on the number of countries and territories their holders can travel to without requiring a visa or with visa-on-arrival access.
How is it derived?
- It takes into account data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and other reliable sources.
- The index includes 199 passports and 227 travel destinations.
- It assigns a “visa-free score” to each passport, which represents the number of destinations that can be visited without obtaining a visa in advance.
- The higher the visa-free score, the stronger the passport.
India’s Passport Performance in 2023
- India is ranked 80th in 2023.
- In 2014, India ranked 76th with 52 countries granting visa-free access to Indian passport holders.
- Since then, its ranking has fluctuated, with positions of 88th (2015), 85th (2016), 87th (2017), 81st (2018), 82nd (2019 and 2020), and 81st (2021).
- In the Henley Openness Index, which measures the number of nations allowing visa-free access, India ranked 94th out of 97 countries for permitting visa-free access to only four nations.
Global scenario
- Singapore Takes the Lead: Singapore has replaced Japan as the country with the most powerful passport, allowing its citizens visa-free access to 192 out of 227 travel destinations globally.
- Other Top Countries: Germany, Italy, and Spain share the second position. The third position is shared by Austria, Finland, France, Luxembourg, South Korea, and Sweden.
- Japan’s Position: Japan, previously holding the top position for five years, dropped to third place on the Henley Passport Index.
- Pakistan: The country known for terrorism and the recent economic crisis has been ranked at 100 in the list. Citizens of Pakistan can travel to just 33 countries without applying for a visa.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Viromes, bacteriophages
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Viruses have had a significant impact on human history, causing deadly outbreaks of diseases.
- However, not all viruses are harmful, and scientists are discovering the importance of the virome (bacteriophages).
Do you know?
Viromes and bacteriophages are closely related because bacteriophages, or phages for short, are a type of virus that specifically infects bacteria.
Bacteriophages are considered part of the virome, as they contribute to the overall viral genetic material present in a given environment or organism. |
What are Virome?
- What is it: They are the collection of viruses in our bodies contributing to our health, similar to the bacterial microbiome.
- Bacteriophages: The majority of viruses inside us are bacteriophages, which kill bacteria in our microbiomes without affecting human cells.
- Vast in Numbers: Our bodies host around 380 trillion virus particles, 10x more than the number of bacteria.
- Beneficial Viruses: Some viruses play beneficial roles, such as killing cancer cells, aiding immune system training, fighting pathogens, and regulating gene expression during pregnancy.
Bacteriophages and Phage Therapy
- Bacteriophages’ Mechanism: Bacteriophages hunt down bacteria, attach to their surface, inject viral DNA, and replicate inside the bacteria before causing the bacterial cell to burst and release new viral particles.
- Historical Background: In the early 20th century, scientists explored phages as potential treatments for bacterial infections, but antibiotic development overshadowed this research.
- Antibiotic Resistance: With the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, scientists are revisiting phage therapy as an alternative to combat bacterial infections.
- Advantages of Phages: Phages effectively target multi-resistant pathogens, are precise in eliminating bacterial strains, and do not disrupt the gut microbiome like antibiotics do.
Phage Therapy in Practice
- Historical Use: Phage therapy persisted in countries like Georgia, Ukraine, and Russia, where antibiotics were scarce. These regions have witnessed successful treatment outcomes against antibiotic-resistant infections.
- Expanding Use: Phage therapy is gaining attention in countries like Belgium, the US, and Germany, with specialized therapy centres and calls for increased exploration and utilization.
- Challenges and Safety: Standardization of therapy and tailoring phages to specific bacteria causing the infection remain challenges. However, phage therapies have a good safety record, and human bodies can tolerate them well.
Future Prospects
- Complementary Approach: Phages are unlikely to replace antibiotics but could be used in combination to enhance antibiotic effectiveness, particularly against resistant bacterial strains.
- Research and Clinical Projects: Further large-scale research and clinical projects are recommended to establish effective phage therapies for different types of infections.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (UPLIN)
Mains level: Land records digitalization
Central Idea
- President Murmu emphasized the importance of implementing a Unique Land Parcel Identification Number (ULPIN).
What is ULPIN?
- ULPIN or Bhu-Aadhaar is a 14-digit Alpha–Numeric Unique ID for each land parcel.
- This is the next step in the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP) which began in 2008.
- The identification will be based on the longitude and latitude coordinates of the land parcel, and is dependent on detailed surveys and geo-referenced cadastral maps.
- ULPIN is generated using the Electronic Commerce Code Management Association (ECCMA) standards during the importing of the geo-referenced shape file into BhuNaksha, a cadastral mapping solution of NIC.
Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP)
- DILRMP is a central sector scheme implemented by the Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development.
- Erstwhile National Land Record Modernization Programme, it was revamped and converted as a Central Sector Scheme with effect from 1st April, 2016 with 100% funding by the Centre.
- The program aims to develop an Integrated Land Information Management System (ILIMS) across the country by leveraging the commonalities in land records systems in different states.
- It integrates land records processes and databases with financial institutions, banks, circle rates, registration offices, and other sectors.
- The program includes the computerization of land records, survey/re-survey activities, and digitization of registration processes.
|
Benefits of ULPIN
- Curbing malpractices: The implementation of ULPIN and digitization of land records can significantly reduce unethical and illegal activities related to land. The transparency brought about by digitization enhances accountability and curbs malpractices.
- Efficient Land Use: ULPIN will facilitate proper utilization of land parcels and aid in the formulation and implementation of new schemes.
- Linkage with E-Courts: Connecting E-Courts with land records and registration databases offers multiple benefits, including improved accessibility to information and streamlined legal processes related to land disputes.
- Indestructible documentation: Digitization of land records proves valuable in times of calamities such as floods and fires, as it helps in preventing loss of documents and expedites the recovery process.
Impacts on Development and Welfare
- Development Catalyst: By providing transparent and accessible land information, digitization supports informed decision-making and effective resource management.
- Proper Scheme Implementation: Linking land records with various government departments facilitates the efficient implementation of welfare schemes ex. PM Awas Yojana.
- Beneficiary targeting: Accurate and up-to-date land data helps identify beneficiaries and ensures the targeted delivery of benefits and services.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NATO
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Vilnius Summit held in July 2023 was significant in assessing the progress made by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in the past year and preparing for future conflicts.
- While expectations were high regarding Ukraine’s membership timeline, the summit fell short in this regard.
About NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
|
| Formation |
Established on April 4, 1949 |
| Members |
Consists of 30 member countries |
| Headquarters |
Located in Brussels, Belgium |
| Mission |
Safeguard freedom and security through political and military cooperation |
| Key feature: Article 5 |
Mutual defense provision, attack on one is an attack on all |
| Operations |
Involved in peacekeeping and crisis management operations worldwide |
| NATO-Russia Relations |
Complex relationship with Russia, involving cooperation and tensions |
| Evolving Security Challenges |
Adapts to address evolving security challenges like terrorism, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare |
Also read:
NATO+5 Status and India
Key takeaways from Vilnius Summit
(1) NATO’s Response to Threats:
- Russian Threat: The summit communique acknowledged Russia as the most significant and direct threat to the security, peace, and stability of NATO allies in the Euro-Atlantic area.
- Concerns over Belarus and Iran: NATO expressed concerns about Belarus providing territory and infrastructure for Russian aggression against Ukraine. It also highlighted Iran’s delivery of Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to Russia for attacks on critical infrastructure in Ukraine.
(2) Recalibrations in the Baltic Sea:
- Finland and Sweden’s Inclusion: The summit marked Finland’s first participation as a NATO member, while Turkey agreed to ratify Sweden’s bid to join the alliance.
- Curbing Russian dominance: This paves the way for a strategic recalibration in the Baltic Sea region that was previously dominated by Russia.
(3) Commitments to Ukraine:
- Membership Timeline: Despite expectations, no concrete timeline for Ukraine’s NATO membership was provided.
- Concrete Outcomes: Ukraine secured short-term and long-term security commitments from NATO members, including the creation of the NATO-Ukraine Council and a multi-year program to help upgrade Ukrainian forces.
- Defense Support: Member states such as Germany, Norway, and France made commitments to support Ukraine’s defense, including financial assistance, military equipment, and bilateral security cooperation.
(4) Concerns over China:
- Beijing’s Threat: The summit reiterated NATO’s recognition of China as a threat to its security, interests, and values. It highlighted China’s opaque strategy, intentions, military build-up, and its support to Russia.
- Indo-Pacific Engagement: NATO emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific region’s security, linking it to Euro-Atlantic security.
(5) Defense Spending and Readiness:
- Burden-Sharing: NATO acknowledged the need for increased defense spending beyond the 2 percent of GDP baseline due to the more contested security order.
- Regional Defense Plans: Allies reached an agreement on regional defense plans to enhance the alliance’s readiness. The plans focus on upgrading forces, increasing interoperability, and addressing financial implications.
Conclusion
- Overall, the summit reaffirmed NATO’s relevance and strategic priorities in an evolving security landscape.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: NA
Mains level: Marital Rape
Central Idea
- CJI DY Chandrachud has agreed to list a series of petitions seeking the criminalisation of marital rape for an early hearing.
- The petitions, triggered by decisions from the Karnataka and Delhi High Courts, aim to challenge the exception in Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) that currently decriminalises marital rape.
What is Marital Rape?
- Marital rape is the act of sexual intercourse with one’s spouse without her consent.
- It is no different manifestation of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
- Sex and sexual violence are different altogether irrespective of the person in intercourse.
Why discuss this?
- Historical Perspective: Marital rape was historically considered a right of spouses, but it is now recognized as a form of sexual abuse and domestic violence in many societies worldwide.
- Indian Penal Code: Marital rape is not explicitly recognized as a criminal offense under Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
- Exception: Exception Two of Section 375 decriminalizes marital rape, stating that sexual intercourse by a man with his own wife, who is not under 18 years of age, without her consent is not considered rape.
- Non-Criminalization: India is one of the fifty countries that have not yet outlawed marital rape.
Background and High Court Decisions
- Karnataka HC: It had in April 2022 held that a husband could be charged with rape if he had forcible sexual intercourse with his wife.
- Delhi HC: A Division Bench delivered a split verdict in May 2022 on the issue of marital rape. It struck down ‘exception two’ as unconstitutional, while another judge rejected the plea to criminalise marital rape, suggesting that any changes in the law should be addressed by the legislature.
- Gujarat HC: Before this ruling, in 2018, the Gujarat High Court also called for a relook at the marital rape immunity but quashed the charge of rape against the married man.
Justice J.S. Verma Committee Recommendations (2013)
- It recommended the removal of the exception for marital rape.
- It proposed that the law should specify that the “marital or other relationship between the perpetrator or victim is not a valid defence against the crimes of rape or sexual violation.”
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Key observations by Delhi High Court
- Spousal Intimacy: The court highlighted that consent within a marriage is often given as a part of spousal intimacy, even when the will to engage may be absent.
- Written Agreements: The court suggested that treating every such case as marital rape could result in partners having to draft detailed written agreements for survival in a marriage.
- Burden of Evidence: The court expressed concerns about creating a detailed evidentiary record of every act of intimacy or involving a third party as a witness.
- Marriage Obligations: The court emphasized that marriage entails obligations, including conjugal expectations, financial responsibilities, and duties towards progeny.
- Sexual Liberty: The court noted that signs of injury on a partner may not necessarily indicate non-consensual sex but could be a result of passion in the age of sexual liberation.
- Cruelty vs. Rape: The court stated that forced sexual intercourse between spouses cannot be treated as rape and, at most, could be considered sexual abuse under the Domestic Violence Act.
Reasons against Criminalization
- Traditional Views: The reluctance to criminalize non-consensual sex between married couples is attributed to traditional views of marriage.
- Religious Doctrines: Interpretations of religious doctrines often influence the perceptions of marital relationships.
- Gender Norms: Societal expectations of male and female sexuality and the subordination of wives to their husbands contribute to the resistance against criminalization.
- Subjectivity: Determining consent in marital rape cases can be subjective and intricate.
- Potential Misuse: Without adequate safeguards, criminalizing marital rape could be misused by dissatisfied wives to harass their husbands, similar to the misuse of dowry laws.
- Judicial Burden: Criminalizing marital rape could increase the burden on the judiciary, diverting resources from other important cases.
Arguments for Criminalization
- Associated Violence: Marital rape is often accompanied by physical violence, making it a more dangerous form of sexual abuse.
- Mental Harassment: Research indicates that marital rape can cause more emotional and physical harm than rape by a stranger.
- Abusive Relationships: Marital rape is frequently part of an abusive relationship rather than a one-time event.
- Violation of Rights: Criminalizing marital rape is seen as a violation of fundamental rights, including the right to privacy and bodily integrity guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
Challenges in Prosecuting Marital Rape
- Lack of Awareness: Limited public awareness and reluctance of authorities to prosecute are common challenges globally.
- Gender Norms: Societal norms that subordinate wives to their husbands make it difficult for women to recognize and report marital rape.
- Acceptability: Prevailing social norms often prevent the acceptance of the concept of marital rape.
Present Regulations in India
- Indian Penal Code: The IPC criminalizes rape in most cases, but marital rape is not illegal when the woman is over 18 years of age.
- Age of Consent: Until 2017, men married to women between 15 and 18 years old could not be convicted of rape.
- Separated Wives: Marital rape of an adult wife who is separated, officially or unofficially, is a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment.
- Domestic Violence Act: The Protection of Women From Domestic Violence Act (2005) provides married women subjected to marital rape with the right to demand financial compensation and seek shelter or aid homes.
Way forward
- Recognition of Rights: Sanctioning marital rape acknowledges a woman’s right to control her body and self-determination.
- Need for Concrete Law: The absence of a clear law makes it challenging for the judiciary to decide domestic rape cases without solid evidence.
- Balancing Rights and Duties: The judiciary should consider the rights and duties of both partners before providing a final interpretation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Minimum Guarantee income and employment schemes and their key provisions
Mains level: Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, rational, significance and concerns
What’s the news?
- Rajasthan government has introduced ‘The Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023’ in the Assembly, what is widely expected to be the last session before the State goes for polls in less than four months.
Central Idea
- Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, aim at providing guaranteed wages or pensions to the entire adult population of the state. Social activists have reacted positively to the bill, highlighting its unique features and praising its focus on providing employment and pensions through legislation rather than cash transfer schemes.
What is the Bill?
- All families of the state get guaranteed employment of 125 days every year,
- The aged, disabled, widows, and single women get a minimum pension of Rs 1,000 per month.
- The pension will be increased each year at the rate of 15 per cent.
- The Bill has three broad categories: right to minimum guaranteed income, right to guaranteed employment, and right to guaranteed social security pension.
- The government anticipates an additional expenditure of Rs 2,500 crore per year for this scheme, which may increase with time
Major provisions of the Bill
- Minimum guaranteed income:
- Guaranteed minimum income for 125 days- each year – every adult citizen of Rajasthan.
- Implemented through- Indira Gandhi Shahri Rozgar Guarantee Yojana for urban areas and MGNREGA for rural areas.
- Supplement MGNREGA’s 100 days- additional 25 days of employment in rural regions.
- Guaranteed employment:
- After completion of work- minimum wages should be paid on a weekly or fortnightly basis.
- Implementation responsibility – through A program officer– ensures- job sites are located within a five-kilometer radius of the registered job card address in both urban and rural areas.
- If the program officer fails to provide employment within 15 days of receiving an application- applicant will be entitled to a weekly unemployment allowance.
- Guaranteed social security pension:
- Individuals falling into the categories- old age, specially-abled, widows, and single women with prescribed eligibility- entitled to a pension.
- The pension amount will increase annually by 5% in July and 10% in January, beginning from the financial year 2024-2025.
What is the Rationale behind the Bill?
- The bill aligns with the principle of social justice and aims to provide support and security to the most vulnerable members of society.
- Treating the most marginalized individuals with fairness and dignity.
- “Mahatma Gandhi’s message that the true measure of a society lies in how it treats its most vulnerable members”
- As part of a bouquet of schemes and measures undertaken by the government to provide relief from inflation
- Provide a safety net and alleviate financial burdens on the most vulnerable sections of society.
Criticism over the bill
- The bill’s introduction close to the upcoming elections- politically motivated
- Populist measure designed to appeal to voters
- Financial feasibility of implementing the bill’s provisions- securing sustainable funding
- Burden on the state’s finances in the long run.
- Proper identification of beneficiaries, monitoring mechanisms, and ensuring efficient delivery of guaranteed income, employment, and pensions
Conclusion
- The Rajasthan Minimum Guaranteed Income Bill, 2023, is being seen as a pioneering step towards securing social security for all residents of the state. If implemented properly and efficiently the legislation will pave the way towards building a just and inclusive society, where the welfare of every citizen is a priority.
Also read:
A Social Security Board for Gig Workers: Rajasthan’s Pioneering Step
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From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Indus river system
Mains level: Indus Water Treaty, disputes, challenges and way ahead
What’s the news?
- India raised objection when Pakistan initiated arbitration at the Permanent Court of Arbitration to address the interpretation and application of the IWT.
- On July 6, 2023, the court unanimously passed a decision (which is binding on both parties without appeal) rejecting each of India’s objections.
Central Idea
- The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), 1960 has long been hailed as a remarkable example of cooperation between India and Pakistan, despite their tumultuous relationship. The treaty has endured numerous conflicts and established detailed procedures for dispute resolution. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in the utilization of judicial recourse to settle disputes arising from India’s construction of run-of-river hydroelectric projects.
What is Indus Water Treaty (IWT)?
- The Indus Waters Treaty is a water-distribution treaty between India and Pakistan, brokered by the World Bank signed in Karachi in 1960.
- According to this agreement, control over the water flowing in three eastern rivers of India the Beas, the Ravi and the Sutlej was given to India.
- The control over the water flowing in three western rivers of India the Indus, the Chenab and the Jhelum was given to Pakistan
Basis of the treaty
- Back in time, partitioning the Indus rivers system was inevitable after the Partition of India in 1947.
- The sharing formula devised after prolonged negotiations sliced the Indus system into two halves.
- Underlying the treaty is the principle that water does not recognise international boundaries and upper riparian’s have a responsibility to lower riparian’s.
What are the Disputes and Challenges?
- Construction and design of run-of-river hydroelectric projects by India- Kishanganga (a tributary of the Jhelum) and Ratle, a hydro-electric project on the Chenab- objections from Pakistan– potentially impact the flow and utilization of water downstream.
- Pakistan initiated arbitration at Permanent Court of Arbitration- India objected to the jurisdiction of the court– advocating for the use of the neutral expert process instead.
- Pervasive atmosphere of distrust and strained relations between India and Pakistan, which hampers effective cooperation under the treaty.
- As precipitation patterns and runoff are altered, the assumption of fixed water availability under the IWT becomes increasingly uncertain.
- The treaty’s allocation of water resources does not adequately consider the potential impact of climate change on future water availability, creating a need for flexible mechanisms.
- The IWT does not sufficiently address the rapidly growing industrial and agricultural needs of both countries.
Principles of water course
- Equitable and Reasonable Utilization (ERU): This principle emphasizes the fair and reasonable use of water resources among riparian states.
- No Harm or Do No Harm Rule (NHR): The no harm principle states that riparian states should not cause significant harm to other states sharing the same watercourse. It requires taking necessary measures to prevent or mitigate any adverse impacts that might arise from water-related activities.
- Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM): IWRM approach considers water resources as an interconnected system, taking into account social, economic, and environmental factors. Achieve optimal and sustainable use of water resources.
- Basin-wide Management: Water resources should be managed at the basin or watershed level, as it is the most natural unit for water management.
- Prior Informed Consent: Obtaining the consent of affected communities and stakeholders before implementing projects or activities that may have significant impacts on water resources.
- Environmental Protection: Need to protect and conserve the ecological integrity of watercourses. Preservation of aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, and water quality.
- The Role of the World Bank: The World Bank, as a party to the treaty, could utilize its platform to foster a transnational alliance of epistemic communities.
Conclusion
- By incorporating principles of equitable water utilization and preventing significant harm, the IWT can better address the evolving needs and climate change impacts of India and Pakistan. The World Bank’s involvement in facilitating collaboration and policy convergence could play a pivotal role in shaping a revised treaty that fosters long-term cooperation and sustainability in the shared management of the Indus waters
Also read:
Indus Water Treaty: A Case of Hydropolitics
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Skill development initiatives, employment generation schemes etc
Mains level: India's demographic dividend, a window of opportunity, skill development initiatives, challenges and way forward
What’s the news?
- India has a unique window of opportunity to unlock the potential of its youth with 1.1 billion people estimated to be in the working age group (15-64) by 2047.
Central idea
- World Youth Skills Day, observed annually since 2014, highlights the importance of investing in the skills of youth to foster future employment and entrepreneurial spirit. With a significant youth population, India stands poised to unlock the potential of working-age individuals. However, without sufficient opportunities, the youth bulge could transform into a demographic bomb.
What is demographic dividend?
- Demographic dividend, as defined by the United Nations Population Fund, is the economic growth potential that can result from shifts in a population’s age structure, mainly when the share of the working-age population is larger than the non-working-age share of the population
India’s robust youth skills program
- The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) operates its umbrella scheme, the Skill India Mission launched in 2015- objective to develop a skilful youth workforce of the future- Providing proper skillset training to over 400 million young people by the year 2022
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)– a skill certification scheme of the MSDE implemented by- National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)- aims to mobilise and equip the youth population with the necessary skill sets training.
- National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF)- to enable candidates to acquire desired competency levels
- Recognition of Prior Learning Learning (RPL)—skill certification for youth, especially in the unregulated sectors
- Kaushal—a hands-on awareness-based approach with the intention of attracting potential candidates for skill training
- Rozgar Mela—a career placement fair for young jobs seekers.
- PMKVY 2.0, which ran from 2016 to 2020, aimed to equip 10 million young people with demand-driven skill sets through short-term training and Recognition of Prior Learning.
- PMKVY 3.0, launched in 2020-21, provided training to over 7.36 lakh candidates, including a specialized crash course for COVID warriors.
- Skill Hub Initiative was introduced to align vocational training with the National Education Policy 2020 and create a skilled workforce aligned with industry needs.
- PMKVY 4.0 will be launched soon to take skill development to a wider young segment- it will also cover niche new age technologies such as coding, Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, mechanotrics, Internet of Things (IOT), 3D-printing, drones, and developing other soft skills.
- The NAPS launched in 2016 has been promoting Apprenticeship in the country through financial incentives, technology, and advocacy support.
- PM-YUVA was launched in 2016 as an all-India scheme to promote business studies, and facilitate access to entrepreneurship support networks and start-ups ideas for the youth.
- Project AMBER strives to provide holistic skilling to foster quality jobs, improved employment opportunities and retention methods.
- The Skill Loan Scheme was launched in July 2015 to provide finance to the youth for enrolment in skill development courses
Challenges regarding India’s youth skills enabling journey
- According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), India is projected to face a significant skill deficit of 29 million by 2030.
- Skill development programs have suffered from underutilization of funds and high dropout rates.
- Gender disparity in India’s workforce, with a female labor participation rate of only 22
- Only a fraction of certified individuals has found jobs through the skill development programs.
Way forward
- Enhance the effectiveness of basic education– incorporating relevant and practical skills training, updating curricula– align with industry needs, and promoting experiential learning approaches.
- Foster closer collaboration between skill development initiatives and industries to ensure the relevance of training programs.
- Promote gender equality in skill development programs– encouraging more women to participate in training, providing support systems tailored to their needs, and creating opportunities for women to enter non-traditional sectors.
- Address the funding gap and ensure effective utilization of resources in skill development initiatives.
- Develop robust job placement and retention strategies, including establishing strong linkages with industries, facilitating internships and apprenticeships.
- Regularly assess labor market needs and trends to update skill training programs.
- Conduct public awareness campaigns to promote vocational skills as aspirational career choices
Conclusion
- India’s journey towards youth skill development has witnessed commendable efforts. However, addressing the skill deficit and unlocking the true potential of the youth requires continued investment, policy enhancements, and stakeholder collaboration. Through concerted efforts, India can maximize its demographic dividend for the workforce of the future.
Also read:
India’s Population Growth: Dividend or a Disaster?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Commission on Genetic Resources
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Delegates from around the world have convened in Rome, Italy for the 19th session of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA).
What is Commission on Genetic Resources?
|
Description |
| Establishment |
Established in 1983 by the FAO |
| Membership |
181 member countries including India |
| Governing Body |
Bureau consisting of Chairperson, Vice-Chairpersons, and FAO representative |
| Mandate |
Promote conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources for food and agriculture |
| ITPGRFA |
Responsible for implementing the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture |
| Functions |
Address specific areas such as plant genetic resources, animal genetic resources, and digital sequence information |
| Global Goals |
Contributes to SDG 2 on Zero Hunger and sustainable agricultural development |
Focus areas
- The session will focus on three main topics:
- Review of work on biodiversity, nutrition, and human health.
- Access and benefit-sharing for food and agriculture.
- Digital sequence information for food and agriculture.
- Biodiversity for food and agriculture.
- The role of genetic resources in mitigating and adapting to climate change.
- Forest genetic resources.
- Microorganism and invertebrate genetic resources, including pollinators and biological control agents.
- Animal genetic resources
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: DPT3
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The coverage rate for DPT3 vaccines (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) in India reached an all-time high of 93% in 2022, surpassing the pre-pandemic record of 91% in 2019.
- This significant increase from the 85% coverage in 2021 was reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
What is DPT3?
- DPT3 vaccines refer to a combination vaccine that provides protection against three infectious diseases: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus.
- The “DPT” in DPT3 stands for the initials of these three diseases:
- Diphtheria: It is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It can cause severe throat and nose congestion, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, it can lead to heart and nerve damage.
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough): It is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits, often accompanied by a “whooping” sound when gasping for breath. Pertussis can be particularly dangerous for infants and young children.
- Tetanus: Also known as lockjaw, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It enters the body through wounds or cuts and produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles.
WHO records on immunization
- DPT3 Coverage Recovery: The WHO South-East Asia Region saw the DPT3 coverage recover to pre-pandemic levels of 91% in 2022, a significant increase from 82% in 2021.
- Measles Vaccine Coverage: The region also witnessed a six percent improvement in measles vaccine coverage, rising to 92% in 2022 from 86% in 2021.
- Zero-Dose Children: The number of zero-dose children (those who have not received even the first dose of the DPT vaccine) halved from 4.6 million in 2021 to 2.3 million in 2022.
- Partially Vaccinated Children: The number of partially vaccinated children (those who received at least one dose but not the complete three-dose series) decreased from 1.3 million in 2021 to 650,000 in 2022.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Airtime Vouchers for Campaigning
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The Election Commission of India has implemented a fully online process for allotting airtime to political parties for campaigning on Akashvani and Doordarshan.
- The new system replaces the traditional method of collecting physical vouchers and instead issues digital time vouchers through an online platform.
Airtime Vouchers for Campaigning
- Objective: To provide equitable access to government-owned electronic media during elections for campaigning purposes.
- Legal basis: The allotment of time on public broadcasters during campaigning is governed by a scheme notified in January 1998, based on Section 39A of the Representation of People Act, 1951.
- Allotment Criteria: Each National party and recognized State party receive an equitable base time on Doordarshan (DD) and Akashvani.
- Scope for additional time: Factors such as past electoral performance, representation in the legislature, and the number of candidates fielded by the party are considered to ensure equitable distribution of airtime.
- Predefined Schedule: The date and time for telecasts and broadcasts by authorized party representatives are predetermined by Prasar Bharati, in consultation with EC and in the presence of party representatives.
Regulation of these Vouchers
- Scrutiny of Party Transcripts: Party transcripts undergo scrutiny to ensure compliance with relevant codes. These codes prohibit content that criticizes other countries, attacks religions or communities, incites violence, or engages in personal attacks.
- Role of Apex Committee: Disagreements over vetted content are referred to an Apex Committee comprising members from Akashvani and DD. The committee’s decision is final.
Significance of Digital Vouchers
- Process Improvement: The decision reflects its commitment to leveraging technology for an improved electoral process and enhanced convenience for all stakeholders.
- Eliminating Physical Collection: Political parties will no longer need to send representatives to the commission’s offices to collect time vouchers during elections.
Operational Challenges
- Limited Access: The scheme is exclusively available to national and recognized State parties, leading to concerns about its true equity.
- Conflict of Interest in the Apex Committee: The Apex Committee consists of officials from Akashvani and DD, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
- Row over transcript content: These officials are expected to review their own decisions when conflicts arise with political parties over the transcript content.
Also read:
How is a ‘National Party’ in India defined?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS)
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a pact during PM Modi’s visit to Abu Dhabi.
- It established a framework for promoting the use of the Indian rupee (INR) and UAE Dirham (AED) in cross-border transactions.
Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS)
- LCSS Establishment: The framework aims to establish a Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS) between India and the UAE.
- Domestic Currency Transactions: LCSS enables exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies.
- Foreign Exchange Market Development: LCSS facilitates the development of an INR-AED foreign exchange market.
- Transaction Optimization: The use of local currencies optimizes transaction costs and settlement time.
- Remittance Benefits: LCSS benefits remittances from Indians residing in the UAE.
Interlinking of Payment Systems: UPI-IPP Linkage
- Payment System Linkage: The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) includes the linking of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the UAE’s Instant Payment Platform (IPP).
- Card Switches and Messaging Systems: It explores linking the card switches (RuPay switch and UAESWITCH) and messaging systems of both countries.
- Efficient Cross-Border Fund Transfers: UPI-IPP linkage facilitates fast, convenient, safe, and cost-effective cross-border fund transfers.
- Mutual Acceptance of Domestic Cards: The agreement enables the mutual acceptance of domestic cards and processing of card transactions.
Impact of the Move
- Trade boost: Bilateral trade between India and the UAE reached around $85 billion in FY23.
- Exchange Rate Risk Management: The agreement helps Indian exporters’ hedge exchange rate risks in rupee-based trade.
- Internationalization of the Rupee: It supports India’s efforts to internationalize the rupee and reduce dependence on the US dollar.
- Interest from Other Countries: Countries in Africa, the Gulf region, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh have shown interest in trading in rupee terms.
Significance for Exporters
- Denominating in Local Currencies: Denominating export contracts and invoices in local currencies minimizes exchange-rate risks and aids in competitive pricing.
- Enhanced Cooperation: Enhanced cooperation between the banking systems of India and the UAE supports trade and economic activity.
- Major Export Categories: Major Indian exports to the UAE include mineral fuels, pearls, precious stones, electrical machinery, and equipment.
- Trade Growth and Destination: The UAE is India’s second-largest export destination, and India-UAE trade reached $85 billion in 2022.
Benefits for Remittances
- Reduced Transaction Costs: The agreement reduces high transaction costs and exchange rate margins associated with remittances.
- Affordable and Efficient Remittances: It makes remittances more affordable and efficient, particularly for low-wage earners.
- Increased Remittance Inflows: In 2022, India experienced a 24.4% increase in remittances to $111 billion, accounting for 3.3% of GDP.
- Contribution of GCC Countries: Remittance inflows from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries contribute significantly to India’s total remittance inflows.
Larger Impact
- Reducing Dollar Dependence: The agreement promotes the use of local currencies, reducing dependence on the US dollar in international transactions.
- Strengthening Economic Ties: Strengthened economic ties between India and the UAE encourage investments, remittances, and trade growth.
- Rupee Internationalization: The agreement aligns with India’s goal of internationalizing the rupee and expanding its global acceptance.
- Similar Cross-Border Efforts: Similar efforts, such as collaboration with Singapore’s PayNow, have been undertaken to facilitate cross-border transactions.
Conclusion
- The agreement positively impacts bilateral trade, facilitates remittances, and supports India’s goal of internationalizing the rupee.
- By reducing transaction costs and enhancing financial connectivity, the agreement strengthens economic relations between India and the UAE, fostering trade growth and cooperation.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The upcoming 14th Clean Energy Ministerial and Eighth Mission Innovation (CEM14/MI-8) conference, taking place in Goa from July 19-22, 2023, aims to establish the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA).
What are Biofuels?
- Biofuels are a type of renewable energy derived from organic materials, such as plants, crops, and agricultural waste.
- They are considered an alternative to traditional fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, because they areproduced from renewable biomass sources.
There are several types of biofuels, including:
- Ethanol: It is a biofuel produced by fermenting and distilling sugars or starches found in crops like corn, sugarcane, and wheat. It is commonly used as a blending component in gasoline and can be used as a fuel for vehicles in its pure form, known as E85 (85% ethanol and 15% gasoline).
- Biodiesel: It is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oils. It is typically used as a substitute for diesel fuel and can be blended with petroleum diesel or used in its pureform. Biodiesel has lower emissions of pollutants compared to petroleum diesel and can be used in conventional diesel engines without any modifications.
- Biogas: It is produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic waste materials such as agricultural residues, food waste, and animal manure. It primarily consists of methane and carbon dioxide. Biogas can be used for heating, electricity generation, or as a vehicle fuel after purification.
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What is Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)?
- G20 Priority: The GBA is a crucial priority under India’s G20 Presidency.
- Learning from ISA: The GBA draws inspiration from the International Solar Alliance (ISA), jointly initiated by India and France in 2015 to combat climate change through solar energy adoption.
- Objective: This alliance will focus on promoting international collaboration and cooperation to encourage the acceptance and utilization of biofuels.
- Core Members: The GBA, comprising Brazil, the US, and India, aims to impact the global energy architecture and achieve net-zero emissions.
- Membership and Endorsement: Other nations can join the GBA by endorsing the foundation document, and membership is open to non-G20 countries.
Focus Areas of GBA
- Focus areas of the GBA include:
- The GBA will focus on strengthening markets and facilitating global biofuel trade.
- Concrete policy lessons will be shared, and technical support will be provided for national biofuel programs worldwide.
- The alliance will highlight successful cases and best practices in the biofuel industry.
Significance of GBA
- Addressing OPEC+: The initiative signals India’s focus on reducing dependence on conventional hydrocarbons and calls for increased production by the OPEC+
- Transformative Opportunities: GBA offer transformative opportunities for economic growth, rural development, energy self-sufficiency, reduced air pollution, and clean energy transition.
- Adoption of Sustainable Biofuels: The alliance aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable biofuels.
India’s Biofuel Achievements
- Milestone Achieved: In the fiscal year 2020-21, India produced 4.08 billion litres of ethanol, achieving a blending rate of 10.02% and resulting in a reduction of 2.7 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
- Goals and Targets: India aims to achieve a blending rate of 12% by 2022-23 and a goal of 20% blending by 2025, requiring an expanded production capacity of ethanol to 17 billion litres.
- Focus on Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG): India actively promotes compressed bio-gas (CBG) derived from waste through the Sustainable Alternative towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) program.
- Target Deadline: India aims to install 5,000 CBG plants across the country by 2024.
Biofuel Advancements in Aviation
- First Commercial Passenger Flight: India conducted its first commercial passenger flight using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blend produced domestically.
- Program Committee Established: The Bio-Aviation Turbine Fuel Programme Committee has been established to advance the use of SAF in the aviation sector.
- Blending Targets: India aims to achieve a 1% SAF blend in jet fuel by 2025, requiring 140 million liters of SAF per year, and a more ambitious target of a 5% blend would need approximately 700 million liters per year.
Global response
- Brazil’s Support: Brazil expressed support for the GBA and its goals to expand and strengthen sustainable biofuels markets.
- Saudi Arabia’s Focus: Saudi, a major oil producer, has a focus on conventional hydrocarbons and has not favored the GBA.
- Russia’s Opec+ Involvement: Russia, as part of the Opec+ group, has been implementing production cuts despite fragile global economic recovery.
- China’s Opposition: China, a major biofuel producer, opposed the India-led initiative and boycotted a G20 meeting on tourism held in Srinagar.
Conclusion
- The establishment of GBA represents a significant step towards promoting international collaboration and the adoption of sustainable biofuels.
- India’s achievements in biofuel production and advancements in aviation fuel provide a strong foundation for the alliance’s objectives.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project Cheetah, Cheetah- characteristics and conservation status
Mains level: Project cheetah, Significance of cheetahs reintroduction, conservation failures and way forward
What’s the news?
- Till now, eight translocated cheetahs at Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park (KNP) have died.
Central idea
- The recent deaths of two cheetahs in Kuno due to suspected septicaemia from festering neck wounds caused by radio collars have raised concerns about the reintroduction project. Similar injuries have been observed in three other cheetahs. This unexpected setback has puzzled experts familiar with the routine use of collars for monitoring and research purposes in both India and Africa.
What are collars on animals?
- Collars on animals refer to devices worn around the neck or attached to the neck area of an animal. These collars serve various purposes depending on the specific context and the type of animal involved.
What are Radio Collars used on Cheetahs?
- Radio collars are like tracking collars which utilizes radio signals for monitoring animals.
- They are commonly used in wildlife research to gather information about animal movements, home ranges, and social interactions.
- Radio collars can provide valuable insights into the behaviour and ecology of animals in the wild.
The Problem with Collars
- Carrying a device on the body for an extended period can have adverse effects.
- A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research highlighted the higher presence of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on the wrists of watch wearers, which can lead to sepsis or death.
- Similarly, domestic dogs often develop acute moist dermatitis or hot spots under collars, worsened by tick or flea bites.
- Moreover, tight-fitting collars can cause pressure necrosis and hair loss around the neck, resembling bedsores
Factors Influencing Vulnerability of Cheetahs in Kuno
- Cheetahs possess a furrier winter coat compared to tigers or leopards, which retains more water and takes longer to dry.
- This prolonged moisture exposure weakens the skin over time.
- A study criticized the 3% collar weight rule for not considering animal athleticism.
- Accelerometer-based research revealed that collars exert forces on cheetahs during movement equivalent to up to 18 times the collar’s weight.
- This weight burden, particularly on a wet coat, may have adverse effects on cheetahs during high-speed sprints.
- Cheetahs may be vulnerable to local pathogens to which Indian tigers and leopards are immune.
- Alternatively, the cheetahs might have carried dormant pathogens that thrived under new conditions, given their weakened immunity due to stress
What needs to be done?
- An immediate action is to track, immobilize, and evaluate all cheetahs for neck injuries caused by the radio collars.
- Reevaluating the use of radio collars and exploring collar modifications or alternatives.
- Developing lighter collars and ensuring proper fitting to minimize the risk of collar-induced injuries.
- Non-invasive tracking methods that do not require collars could be explored.
- Providing appropriate veterinary care and treatment
- Understand and identify the specific pathogens causing collar-induced infections in the cheetahs of Kuno
- Collaboration among wildlife biologists, veterinarians, researchers, and conservationists is crucial. Consultation and sharing knowledge and experiences.
FYI: Some common types of collars used on animals
- Identification Collars: Collars with tags or labels are often used on domestic pets such as dogs and cats for identification purposes.
- Tracking Collars: Tracking collars are commonly used in wildlife research and conservation Equipped with GPS or radio transmitters – monitor movement and behavior of animals.
- Electric Fencing Collars: To train livestock and other animals to avoid crossing designated boundaries. Electric fencing systems and deliver a mild electric shock
- Training Collars: Training collars, also known as e-collars or shock collars, are used in dog training to aid in obedience training or behavior correction- mild electrical stimulation or vibrations to reinforce desired actions
Conclusion
- The recent collar-induced injuries and deaths of cheetahs in Kuno have posed a significant challenge to the reintroduction project. It is crucial to address the issues to ensure the success and well-being of the cheetahs. However, finding a solution that balances collar use with the cheetahs’ safety and health remains a complex task.
Also read: The impact of cheetahs on India’s grasslands
Reintroduction of Cheetahs and Its Potential Impact
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Economic indicators and concepts
Mains level: India's economic growth, Indicators, future prospect and challenges
What’s the news?
- With the receding impact of Covid-19 and hopeful prospects for an amicable resolution to the Russia-Ukraine War, India must now focus on charting its future growth strategy
Central idea
- India’s current per capita income estimated at $2,379 in 2022-23, which needs to be raised by nearly six times over the next 25 years. This ambitious goal will pave the way for a higher standard of living and the eradication of poverty. However, achieving this vision requires a comprehensive understanding of the challenges ahead and the necessary actions to overcome them.
What is per capita income?
- Per capita income refers to the average income earned by individuals in a specific geographic area. It is calculated by dividing the total income of a population by the total number of individuals in that population.
- Per capita income provides an indicator of the average standard of living and economic well-being within a given population.
What is Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF)?
- GFCF refers to the total value of investment in fixed assets within an economy, such as machinery, equipment, buildings, and infrastructure, during a specific period.
- It represents the net increase in the stock of fixed capital goods.
- GFCF is an essential component of aggregate demand and is considered a driver of economic growth.
- Higher levels of investment in fixed assets contribute to increased production capacity, improved productivity, and long-term economic development.
- The GFCF ratio is often expressed as a percentage of GDP, indicating the proportion of total investment in fixed assets relative to the size of the economy.
What is incremental capital-output ratio (ICOR)?
- The ICOR is an economic indicator that measures- amount of investment required to generate an additional unit of output.
- It represents the ratio between the change in capital investment and the corresponding change in output or GDP.
- It provides insights into the efficiency of capital utilization and the productivity of investment in an economy.
- A lower ICOR indicates that a smaller amount of investment is required to generate a given increase in output, indicating higher efficiency and productivity of capital.
- A higher ICOR suggests that a larger amount of investment is needed to achieve the same level of output growth, indicating lower efficiency of capital utilization.
Growth Target and Investment Requirements
- To sustain continuous growth of 7 percent over the next 25 years, India must maintain a GFCF rate of 28 percent.
- According to the latest release of NSO, the GFCF rate in current prices for 2022-23 is 29.2 per cent of GDP.
- While the commonly assumed incremental capital-output ratio (ICOR) of 4 suggests improved capital efficiency, recent trends indicate an average ICOR of 4.65 from 2016-17 to 2022-23.
- Acknowledge the evolving ICOR and work towards an estimated investment rate of 30-32 percent of GDP.
- Both public and private investments, especially from the corporate and non-corporate sectors, need to increase.
- Direct investments into sectors that promote growth and generate employment opportunities
- Welcoming Foreign direct investment in emerging technological sectors
What global factors at present poses challenges?
- The overall climate for peace– necessary for growth– deteriorated- Ukraine-Russia conflict.
- Prolonged tension and conflicts- negative impact on global stability and economic growth.
- Shifting attitude of some countries towards global trade.
- Developed countries, which previously advocated for free trade, are now imposing restrictions on imports– challenges for developing countries like India, particularly as they strive to compete in the world market.
- Supply disruptions of critical imports, such as oil, can cause setbacks for developing and developed countries alike.
- The absorption of new technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI)- impact on the industrial structure and employment landscape– challenge for populous countries like India
- Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability may require compromises and adjustments in the growth rate.
What strategy India must follow to sustain its growth?
- India’s economic transformation in 1991 marked a departure from the past, embracing a more market-oriented approach.
- India needs to adopt a multi-dimensional approach that encompasses agriculture, manufacturing, and exports.
- Given India’s strength in the services sector, it is essential to preserve and enhance this advantage.
- Prepare to absorb new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI),
- Reorienting the educational system to equip students with required skills and
- Identifying labour-intensive economic activities to address potential job losses due to adoption of technology
Conclusion
- India has made significant strides in building a strong and diversified economy over the past 75 years. However, India’s per capita income remains low compared to many countries, emphasizing the need for sustained growth. By addressing domestic challenges, seizing opportunities, and prioritizing inclusive development, India can realize its vision of a prosperous and equitable future.
Also read:
Why Indian manufacturing’s productivity growth is plummeting and what can be done?
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Biofuel and its applications, India's Biofuel program, GBA and ISA
Mains level: Global biofuel alliance, Biofuel Industry, significance In particular for India, India's Biofuel programme
What’s the news?
- The upcoming 14th Clean Energy Ministerial and Eighth Mission Innovation (CEM14/MI-8) conference, scheduled to take place in Goa from July 19-22, 2023, will witness the establishment of the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA).
Central Idea
- The prospected establishment of the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) led by India during its G20 Presidency, with support from Brazil and the United States, aims to foster international collaboration and cooperation to promote the acceptance and utilization of biofuels. It seeks to leverage the transformative potential of biofuels in economic growth, rural development, energy self-sufficiency, reduced air pollution, and the global transition to clean energy.
What is Biofuel?
- Biofuel is derived from biological sources, such as plants, agricultural crops, organic waste, or animal by-products.
- It is a renewable energy source that can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels.
- The production and use of biofuels aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability.
Key types of biofuels
- Bioethanol: This is an alcohol-based fuel primarily produced by fermenting sugar or starch crops, such as sugarcane, corn, or wheat. Bioethanol is commonly used as a blend in gasoline for transportation purposes.
- Biodiesel: Biodiesel is produced from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil. It can be used as a direct replacement for or blended with conventional diesel fuel in vehicles.
- Biogas: Biogas is a mixture of gases, primarily methane, produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic waste materials such as agricultural residues, food waste, or sewage. It can be used for electricity generation, heating, or as a vehicle fuel.
Key Objectives and Initiatives of Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA)
- Developing robust markets for biofuels and facilitating global trade in biofuels.
- Promote policy coordination, share concrete policy lessons, and provide technical support to national biofuel programs worldwide.
- Collaborate and complement- existing regional and international agencies– energy transition initiatives, such- Clean Energy Ministerial Biofuture Platform, the Mission Innovation Bioenergy initiatives, and the Global Bioenergy Partnership (GBEP).
- By leveraging synergies–maximize impact and accelerate the biofuel industry’s growth.
India’s Biofuel Program India’s and significant strides in recent years
- Ethanol Production: In 2020-21, India produced 4.08 billion liters of ethanol, resulting in a blending rate of 10.02%. This led to a reduction of 2.7 million tonnes of CO2 emissions and significant savings in forex.
- Blending Targets: The current target for 2022-23 is to achieve a blending rate of 12%, with the ultimate goal- 20% by 2025.
- Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) Program:
- India actively promoting CBG as a clean fuel derived from waste through the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) program. As of 46 CBG plants established so far, and around 16,164 tonnes of CBG have been sold.
- The goal- install 5,000 CBG plants across India by 2024, contributing- waste management -reducing pollution.
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF):
- India conducted its first commercial passenger flight– domestically produced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blend– commitment to decarbonizing the aviation sector.
- The establishment of the Bio-Aviation Turbine Fuel Program Committee by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas further advances the development of sustainable aviation fuel in the country.
Inspiration behind GBA: International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- The ISA jointly initiated by India and France in 2015.
- The ISA- significant contributions to combating climate change through widespread adoption of solar energy solutions.
- Facilitated- solar project development – initiatives like the Solar Finance Facility, SolarX Grand Challenge, Solar Technology Application Resource Centres, and the ‘One Sun One World One Grid Initiative.‘
- The GBA aims to replicate the success of the ISA by promoting the utilization of biofuels and reducing India’s reliance on foreign oil.
Conclusion
- The GBA is poised to revolutionize the global biofuel industry. India’s leadership in the G20 Presidency highlights the importance of biofuels in achieving energy independence, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering a clean energy transition. The GBA’s detailed roadmap, ambitious targets and initiatives will pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
Also read:
India plans to export Solar Power
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: National Multidimensional Poverty Index, 2023
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- NITI Aayog released the report ‘National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A Progress Review 2023’.
- The report highlighted a record 13.5 crore people have moved out of multidimensional poverty in India between 2015-16 and 2019-21.
What is National Multidimensional Poverty Index (NMPI)?
- NITI Aayog serves as the nodal ministry for the MPI.
- It engages with publishing agencies such as Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
- It uses the Alkire-Foster (AF) methodology.
- The Baseline Report of MPI is based on the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 4 conducted during 2015-16.
Indicators used
- The MPI considers three dimensions: health, education, and standard of living.
- It includes indicators such as nutrition, child and adolescent mortality, maternal care, years of schooling, school attendance, cooking fuel, sanitation, drinking water, electricity, housing, bank accounts, and assets.
Key findings of the report
- Decline in Poverty: India has witnessed a substantial decline in multidimensional poverty, with a decrease of 9.89 percentage points from 24.85% in 2015-16 to 14.96% in 2019-21.
- Progressiveness in rural areas: Rural areas experienced the fastest decline, from 32.59% to 19.28%, while urban areas saw a reduction from 8.65% to 5.27%.
- Regional Progress: UP recorded the largest decline in the number of poor, with 3.43 crore people escaping multidimensional poverty. The states of UP, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Rajasthan showed the fastest reduction in the proportion of multidimensional poor.
- Path towards SDG Targets: The report indicates that India is on track to achieve SDG Target 1.2, which aims to reduce multidimensional poverty by at least half by 2030.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Europe is currently experiencing a heatwave and wildfires, leading to concerns about the spread of viruses that are typically not found in colder climates.
- The WHO has issued an alert regarding the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF), a potentially fatal infection transmitted by ticks.
What is CCHF?
- CCHF is a viral haemorrhagic fever primarily transmitted by ticks.
- It can also be contracted through contact with viraemic animal tissues during animal slaughter.
- CCHF outbreaks can lead to epidemics with a high case-fatality ratio (10-40%) and pose challenges for prevention and treatment.
Transmission and Hosts
- The virus exists in the tick family of insects.
- Animals such as cattle, goats, sheep, and hares serve as amplifying hosts for the virus.
- Humans can contract CCHF through contact with infected ticks or animal blood.
- The virus can also be transmitted between humans through contact with infectious blood or body fluids.
- Migratory birds can host ticks, allowing the virus to spread over long distances.
Symptoms and Treatment
- Common symptoms of CCHF include fever, muscle aches, dizziness, neck and back pain, headache, sore eyes, and sensitivity to light.
- Early symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sore throat, followed by mood swings and confusion.
- Later stages may involve sleepiness, depression, and lassitude.
- There is no vaccine available for CCHF in humans or animals, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
- The antiviral drug ribavirin has been used to treat CCHF infection with some apparent benefit.
Spread of CCHF in Europe
- CCHF is endemic to Africa, the Balkan countries, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.
- In 2016, Spain reported the first fatality from CCHF in Europe.
- Scientists warn that CCHF, which can have a fatality rate between 10% and 40%, is spreading northward and westward in Europe.
- Cases of CCHF have been reported in Spain, Russia, Turkey, and the UK.
Reasons for this spread
- Disrupted temperature patterns due to climate change are creating favorable conditions for pathogens.
- CCHF ticks are moving northward through Europe due to longer and drier summers caused by climate change.
- Climate change contributes to the spread of diseases by expanding tick habitats, altering water habitats, and facilitating the movement of animals and human interactions.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: BIMSTEC, Bangkok Vision 2030
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- The first-ever Foreign Ministers’ meeting of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) commenced in Bangkok, Thailand.
Understanding BIMSTEC
- Origins and Membership: BIMSTEC, initially known as BIST-EC (Bangladesh-India-Sri Lanka-Thailand Economic Cooperation), was established in 1997 with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration.
- Newest members: Myanmar joined in 1997, followed by Bhutan and Nepal in 2004.
- Population and GDP: The organization comprises seven member countries located around the Bay of Bengal, representing approximately 22% of the world’s population. The combined GDP of the member states is close to $2.7 trillion.
- Sectoral Focus: BIMSTEC’s cooperation initially focused on six sectors: trade, technology, energy, transport, tourism, and fisheries.
- India’s role: India’s sectoral responsibilities within BIMSTEC include security, counter-terrorism, transnational crime, disaster management, and energy.
Significance of BIMSTEC as a Regional Forum
(A) Revitalization and Engagement:
- BIMSTEC received limited attention until India reinvigorated its engagement in October 2016, following the terrorist attack in Uri.
- India hosted an outreach summit with BIMSTEC leaders alongside the BRICS summit in Goa.
(B) Regional aspirations
Each BIMSTEC member has strategic incentives for the organization’s growth.
- Bangladesh seeks regional significance
- Sri Lanka aims to connect with Southeast Asia and become a hub for the Indo-Pacific region
- Nepal and Bhutan aim to access the Bay of Bengal region
- Myanmar and Thailand aim to balance China’s influence in Southeast Asia by strengthening ties with India
India and BIMSTEC
- BIMSTEC offers India a platform to prioritize its foreign policy goals of “Neighborhood First” and “Act East”.
- This is longer run seeks to connect South and Southeast Asia, as well as the Himalayas and the Bay of Bengal.
China’s Role and India’s Agenda
- Chinese Influence and Concerns: China’s expanding presence in South and Southeast Asia through the Belt and Road Initiative has increased its interest in the Bay of Bengal region.
- Act of counterbalancing: BIMSTEC becomes an arena for India to counterbalance Chinese investments.
- Promoting Connectivity: India can utilize BIMSTEC to promote connectivity projects aligned with international norms, countering Chinese projects that are perceived to violate these norms.
- Bay of Bengal as a Peaceful Region: India can showcase the Bay of Bengal as a region of openness and peace, highlighting the contrast with China’s behavior in the South China Sea.
- Regional Stability: BIMSTEC could establish codes of conduct for regional freedom of navigation and advocate for a Bay of Bengal Zone of Peace to limit extra-regional powers’ military actions.
Conclusion
- BIMSTEC has the potential to contribute to peace, stability, and economic development in the Bay of Bengal region and beyond.
- Continued efforts and collaboration among member states are necessary to harness the full potential of BIMSTEC and achieve common goals.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Rho Ophiuchi Cloud Complex
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- NASA recently released an image obtained by the James Webb Space Telescope, showcasing the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex, which is the closest star-forming region to Earth.
- This image marked one year since NASA unveiled the telescope’s first scientific results.
What is Rho Ophiuchi Cloud Complex?
- The Rho Ophiuchi Cloud Complex is a molecular cloud located in the constellation Ophiuchus.
- It is centered 1° south of the star ρ Ophiuchi and extends to other parts of the constellation.
- At an estimated distance of about 140 parsecs, or 460 light years, it is one of the closest star-forming regions to the Solar System.
- It consists of several dark nebulae, which are dense regions of interstellar dust and gas that block background starlight.
- The cloud complex contains numerous young stellar objects, including protostars, young stars, and brown dwarfs.
- These stellar objects form as the dense material in the cloud collapses under gravity, leading to the birth of new stars.
Observations from the Image
- Material Jets and Surrounding Gas/Dust: The image illustrates how the material jets emanating from young stars influence the surrounding gas and dust while illuminating molecular hydrogen.
- Glowing Cave Carved by Stellar Winds: One part of the image shows a star inside a glowing cave carved out in space by its stellar winds.
- Impressive Nebula with Bright Young Stars: The image showcases an impressive nebula with three bright young stars at the top, revealing the size and detail of the jets and outflows.
Insights from the new findings
- Formation of New Suns: Rho Ophiuchi image demonstrates the formation of new suns and planet-forming disks, resembling what scientists believe the early solar system looked like over 4.5 billion years ago.
- Violent Outbursts and Dusty Cocoons: The image unveils the process of stars and planetary systems assembling, as well as the dusty cocoons being disrupted by violent outbursts, portrayed as red jets cutting through the cloud.
- Visibility through Dust: The Rho Ophiuchi core is usually obscured by extensive amounts of dust, making it invisible to telescopes working in visible light, like the Hubble telescope. However, JSWT penetrates the dust, revealing the young stars within and providing insights into the early stages of star formation.
Back2Basics: James Webb Space Telescope
| Collaboration |
NASA, European Space Agency (ESA), Canadian Space Agency |
| Launch |
December 2021 |
| Location |
Sun-Earth L2 Lagrange point, approximately 1.5 million km beyond Earth’s orbit |
| Size and Capability |
Largest, most powerful infrared space telescope |
| Successor to |
Hubble Telescope |
| Time Observations |
Can see backwards in time to just after the Big Bang |
| Objectives |
Examine every phase of cosmic history, including the formation of galaxies, stars, and planets.
Look back 13.5 billion years to see the first stars and galaxies forming.
Compare early galaxies to today’s spirals to understand galaxy assembly.
Observe star and planetary system formation.
Study the atmospheres of extrasolar planets and search for signs of life elsewhere in the universe. |
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