Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ozone Hole
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea
- Satellite measurements conducted over Antarctica have unveiled a gigantic hole in the ozone layer.
- Termed an “ozone-depleted area,” this region spans 26 million square kilometers (10 million square miles), approximately three times the size of Brazil.
Ozone Layer and Ozone Hole
| Location |
Stratosphere, approximately 10-30 km above Earth’s surface. |
| Composition |
Composed of ozone (O3) molecules.
Unit of measurement: Dobsob Unit (DU) |
| Function |
Acts as a protective shield, absorbing and blocking a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. |
| Importance |
Essential for protecting life on Earth by preventing excessive UV radiation, which can harm living organisms and the environment. |
| Ozone-depleting Substances |
Threatened by ODS like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other synthetic compounds commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and aerosol propellants. |
| Montreal Protocol |
An international treaty adopted in 1987 to phase out the production and consumption of ODS, resulting in significant recovery of the ozone layer. |
| Current Status |
The ozone layer is in the process of recovery due to the success of the Montreal Protocol. |
| Environmental Impact |
Protects ecosystems, prevents skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans. |
| Additional Facts |
• The size of the ozone hole over Antarctica varies annually, opening in August and closing in November or December.
• Special winds caused by the Earth’s rotation create a unique climate over Antarctica, preventing mixing with surrounding air.
• When these winds subside, the hole closes. |
Potential Causes of the Giant Ozone Hole
- Volcanic Eruption in Tonga: Scientists speculate that the extensive ozone hole this year may be linked to volcanic eruptions in Hunga Tonga, Tonga, between December 2022 and January 2023. These eruptions released water vapor and other elements into the stratosphere, impacting the ozone layer through chemical reactions.
- Human-Induced Ozone Holes: In the 1970s, scientists discovered that human activities, primarily the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), led to significant ozone depletion. These chemicals released chlorine in the stratosphere, depleting the ozone layer.
- Effective Mitigation: The Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, aimed to combat ozone depletion by phasing out ozone-depleting substances. This international agreement successfully reduced the size of ozone holes over the years.
Ozone Depletion and Climate Change
- Not a Primary Climate Change Cause: Ozone depletion is not a leading contributor to global climate change.
- Impact of Rising Temperatures: However, rising global temperatures may influence ozone holes. Extreme fires, such as those in southeastern Australia in 2020 and 2021, injected smoke into the stratosphere, potentially contributing to ozone depletion.
- Changing Seasons: Ozone holes can alter the progression of seasons, as they extend the duration of polar vortexes, thereby extending winter periods.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: GI tags mentioned
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- Many GI tags were awarded in this month. Let’s take a look:
GI Tags in News:
[1] Jaderi Namakatti
- Jaderi namakatti are clay sticks that are white in colour, usually available in finger-like shape with a smooth texture.
- They are used to adorn the foreheads of idols, men and temple elephants.
- Jaderi is a small village in Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu.
- There are around 120 families in Cheyyar taluk whose primary occupation has been making namakatti for more than hundreds of years now.
[2] Basohli Pashmina
- Basohli Pashmina is a very old craft from the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. It’s famous because it’s super soft, very fine, and feels incredibly light.
- Pashmina is a type of material that is hand-spun and known for being incredibly soft, fine, lightweight, and also warm.
- You can make various things from Pashmina, like shawls for men and women, mufflers, blankets, and even baskets.
- It comes from a type of mountain goat called Capra hircus. These goats are found on the Changthang Plateau in Tibet and parts of Ladakh.
- In Ladakh, there are people called the Changpa, who are known for making Pashmina wool. They live on the Changthang plateau in Tibet and are nomadic, which means they move around a lot.
[3] Marcha Rice
- Grown in select pockets of six blocks in West Champaran district, Bihar, India. These blocks include Mainatar, Gaunaha, Narkatiaganj, Ramnagar, Lauriya, and Chanpatia.
- It has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, indicating its unique qualities associated with the region where it’s grown.
- Cultivated by the Marcha Dhan Utpadak Pragatisheel Samuh, a registered organization of paddy cultivators in West Champaran district.
- Known for its distinct aroma and taste, Marcha Rice is a special indigenous variety of paddy.
[4] Atreyapuram Pootharekulu
- Atreyapuram Pootharekulu is a traditional sweet originating from Atreyapuram village, situated on the banks of the Godavari River in the Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh.
- The name ‘Pootharekulu’ translates to ‘coated sheets,’ although this description may appear somewhat vague.
- This traditional sweet is known for its extraordinary delicacy and distinct taste.
- It is created by layering paper-thin sheets of rice flour, which are delicately coated with ghee (clarified butter) and then folded to encase powdered jaggery or sugar dust.
- Additionally, some variants of Pootharekulu may include finely chopped roasted dry fruits such as pistachios, almonds, and cashews.
- The preparation of relies on a specific type of rice known as MTU-3626, referred to locally as Bondalu.
- This rice variety is chosen for its unique taste and its ability to yield a sticky consistency, which is crucial for crafting this sweet.
Back2Basics: GI Tag
- A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
- Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
- GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
- The tag stands valid for 10 years.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: 1949 Geneva Conventions
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian forces, triggered by Hamas’ barbaric assault, has resulted in a distressing and increasing death toll on both sides.
- This conflict operates within a multifaceted international system of justice that has evolved since World War II.
Various War Crime Laws
- 1949 Geneva Conventions: Internationally accepted rules of armed conflict emerged from these conventions, ratified by all UN member states and complemented by decisions at international war crimes tribunals.
- “Law of Armed Conflict”: A series of treaties collectively known as the “Law of Armed Conflict” or “International Humanitarian Law” governs the treatment of civilians, soldiers, and prisoners of war. It applies to both government forces and organized armed groups, including Hamas militants.
- ICC Jurisdiction: The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague holds the authority to bring charges against alleged perpetrators if domestic courts do not or cannot do so.
Role and Jurisdiction of the ICC
- Establishment: The ICC, a permanent war crimes tribunal, was established in 2002 in The Hague. It has jurisdiction over war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide committed in its 123 member states or by their nationals.
- Notable Absences: Major global powers like China, the United States, Russia, India, and Egypt are not ICC members. Israel rejects the court’s jurisdiction and does not formally engage with it.
- Ongoing Investigation: ICC prosecutors have been investigating allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the occupied Palestinian territories since 2021, although no arrest warrants have been issued.
Acts Potentially Violating War Crimes Law
- Deliberate Targeting of Civilians: Human Rights Watch identified potential war crimes, including the intentional targeting of civilians, indiscriminate rocket attacks, and the hostage-taking of civilians by Palestinian armed groups.
- Israeli Counter-Strikes: Israeli counter-strikes in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of numerous Palestinians, could also fall under scrutiny as potential war crimes.
- Geneva Conventions Prohibitions: The Geneva Conventions explicitly prohibit acts such as taking hostages, murder, and torture, regardless of the conflict’s complexity.
Application of the Geneva Conventions
- Right to Respond: US President Joe Biden acknowledged Israel’s right and duty to respond to the conflict while emphasizing the importance of acting within the rule of law.
- Siege Considerations: A siege may be considered a war crime if it disproportionately targets civilians rather than undermining Hamas’ military capabilities or if it is found to be disproportionate.
- Proportionality: Attacks on military targets must be proportionate, meaning they should not result in excessive civilian casualties or damage compared to the expected military advantage.
Conclusion
- The Israel-Palestine conflict unfolds against a backdrop of intricate international legal frameworks and considerations.
- Navigating the complexities of determining war crimes in this context requires a meticulous examination of actions on all sides, considering proportionality, deliberate targeting of civilians, and adherence to the Geneva Conventions.
- As the conflict’s toll continues to rise, scrutiny of potential violations of international humanitarian law remains essential for justice and accountability.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Global Hunger Index
Mains level: Read the attached story
Central Idea
- India has been ranked 111th out of 125 countries in the Global Hunger Index-2023, a stark decline from its 107th position in 2022.
- The index highlights a concerning statistic – India reports the world’s highest child wasting rate at a staggering 18.7 percent.
- Interestingly, India’s neighboring countries, including Pakistan (102nd), Bangladesh (81st), Nepal (69th), and Sri Lanka (60th), have performed comparatively better in the index.
Global Hunger Index (GHI)
|
| Publication |
Jointly published annually by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe. |
| Scale |
Measures hunger on a 100-point scale, with 0 as the best (no hunger) and 100 as the worst score. |
| Purpose |
Comprehensively measures and tracks hunger globally, regionally, and at the country level. Aims to trigger action to reduce hunger worldwide. |
| Indicators |
4 key indicators for each country:
1. Undernourishment (reflects inadequate food availability): Share of the population that is undernourished.
2. Child Wasting (reflects acute undernutrition): Share of children under five with low weight for their height.
3. Child Stunting (reflects chronic undernutrition): Share of children under five with low height for their age.
4. Child Mortality (reflects inadequate nutrition and unhealthy environment): Mortality rate of children under five. |
Hunger in India: Fact Check
- Serious Hunger Levels: India’s score of 28.7 in the Global Hunger Index-2023 places it in the “serious” category, according to the report.
- Child Wasting: India’s child wasting rate, the proportion of undernourished children measured by weight relative to their height, stands at an alarming 18.7 percent, signaling acute undernutrition.
- Undernourishment Rate: The rate of undernourishment in India is reported at 16.6 percent, further highlighting the gravity of the issue.
- Child Mortality: Under-five mortality in India is recorded at 3.1 percent.
- Anemia Among Women: The report underscores a significant concern, with 58.1 percent of women aged 15 to 24 in India being affected by anemia.
A report to bully India
- Disputed Ranking: The Indian government has rejected the GHI 2023 ranking, citing serious methodological concerns and suggesting a malicious intent behind the report (considering elections).
- Methodological Issues: The WCD Ministry asserts that the GHI 2023 report suffers from significant methodological issues. It contends that 3 out of 4 indicators used for calculation pertain to child health, which does not represent the entire population.
- Sample size issue: It is questionable that only small sample size of 3,000 is used for the “Proportion of Undernourished Population” indicator for crores population in India.
- Child Wasting Discrepancy: The ministry highlights a significant disparity between the child wasting rate as per the Poshan Tracker (consistently below 7.2 percent) and the 18.7 percent reported in GHI 2023.
- Undue link with Child mortality: It also challenges the notion that child mortality is solely an outcome of hunger.
Conclusion
- India’s ranking underscores the persistent challenges in addressing hunger and undernutrition.
- The report serves as a stark reminder of the critical need to comprehensively tackle these issues, especially child wasting and undernourishment, to ensure the well-being of the nation’s population.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Climate change
Mains level: Climate change, Rising Temperatures, solutions and actions
What’s the news?
- September 2023 stands out as it recorded a remarkable 1.75-degree Celsius increase compared to the pre-industrial baseline of 1850–1900, making it a month with an unprecedented temperature deviation.
Central idea
- In the relentless march of climate change, 2023 has emerged as a year of unprecedented heatwaves. Each passing month seems to shatter temperature records, leaving us with grim prospects for the remainder of the year. As September, the hottest on record, draws to a close, we must confront the sobering reality that 2023 may become the warmest year ever recorded.
2023: On Track to Be the Warmest Year
- 2023 is poised to claim the dubious distinction of being the warmest year on record. The average temperature for the first nine months of the year already surpasses the corresponding period of 2016, the previous record holder.
- In 2016, the average temperature was 1.28 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial times, and 2023 may breach the 1.5-degree Celsius mark for the first time.
Rising Temperatures Predicted
- The remarkable string of record-breaking temperature events in 2023 was not entirely unexpected. Scientists had foreseen this year’s warmth, primarily due to the development of El Niño in the Pacific Ocean.
- While specific events couldn’t be predicted, the overall trend was ominous. Forecasts indicate that the last three months of the year will continue to be warmer than usual.
Record-Breaking Months
- The record-breaking temperatures in September follow a pattern of extraordinary warmth throughout the year. July, in particular, stood out as the warmest month ever recorded, setting a new global monthly temperature high.
- Multiple days in July broke daily temperature records. Preceding this, June claimed the title of the warmest June ever, and February, March, April, and May all ranked among the top five hottest for their respective months.
Lack of immediate solutions
- Despite the alarming rise in temperatures and the string of record-breaking events in 2023, there has been a noticeable lack of immediate policy responses from countries to combat climate change.
- Addressing climate change in the short term is challenging, and there are limitations to what can be done to lower temperatures or prevent future warming events on an immediate timescale.
- Only a global disruption on the scale of the COVID-19 pandemic could bring about significant deviations from the current trend of increasing temperatures.
Way forward: Urgent action is needed
- There is an urgent need for decisive action in response to the unprecedented heatwaves and their associated impacts.
- The world is rapidly approaching critical climate thresholds, including the 1.5-degree Celsius target set by the Paris Agreement.
- The lack of immediate solutions and policy responses to mitigate climate change is a pressing concern.
- Nations need to acknowledge the stark reality of climate change’s relentless advance and take immediate, robust, and meaningful measures to address the crisis.
- Decisive action is required now to prevent irreversible consequences associated with global warming.
Conclusion
- As nations prepare for the annual climate change meeting in Dubai, it is imperative that they acknowledge the stark reality of climate change’s relentless advance. The stock-take exercise must reveal the gaps in global climate action and serve as a wake-up call for more robust and immediate measures.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Key findings
Mains level: Recent labor force survey- positive and concerning trends
What’s the news?
- The issue of employment has been a central topic in economic policy discussions, especially in recent decades, as the correlation between economic growth and job creation has appeared fragile.
Central idea
- The COVID-19 pandemic intensified economic disruptions, causing financial distress, surging unemployment, and rural migration. The 2022-23 labor force survey shows rising participation rates and lower unemployment but raises concerns with declining regular employment and a rise in self-employment.
Increasing Labor Force Participation
- The national labor force participation rate (15 years and above) has grown from 49.8% in 2017-18 to 57.9% in 2022-23.
- Both rural and urban areas have witnessed increased participation, with a more significant rise in rural regions.
- Female participation in rural areas increased from 24.6% in 2017-18 to 41.5% in 2022-23, indicating higher female engagement in the labor force.
- However, this rise may also reflect economic distress in rural areas, pushing women to seek employment to augment family incomes, including work under MGNREGA.
Rise in Self-Employment
- The percentage of self-employed individuals increased from 55.6% in 2020-21 to 57.3% in 2022-23.
- Concurrently, the share of regular wage/salaried employment declined from 21.1% to 20.9%.
- The proportion of workers engaged in informal sector enterprises in the non-agricultural sector also rose from 71.4% in 2020-21 to 74.3% in 2022-23.
Concerns Over Job Quality
- While unemployment rates have fallen across the board, especially among the youth (age group 15-29), the decline in regular wage/salaried employment and the increase in self-employment raise concerns.
- These trends indicate that the economy may struggle to create sufficient productive and well-paying job opportunities to absorb the annual influx of millions into the labor force.
- Inadequate job creation remains the most significant challenge facing policymakers.
Conclusion
- The recent labor force survey highlights both positive and concerning trends in India’s labor market. Addressing the challenge of job creation and ensuring that these jobs are productive and remunerative should remain a top priority for policymakers in India’s economic development agenda.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: G-20, P-20 and key outcomes
Mains level: India's role in shaping international economic and environmental agendas, G20
What’s the news?
- India’s leadership role in the G20 reflects its growing importance and influence in global politics.
Central idea
- India celebrated its 74th Republic Day earlier this year, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950, marking the nation’s transition to a sovereign republic. This year, India’s Republic Day holds special significance as the country assumes the presidency of the G20, an influential forum comprising the world’s leading advanced and emerging economies.
India’s Democratic Success Story
- India’s journey as the world’s largest inclusive democracy, characterized by its multi-dimensional diversity and pluralistic society, is both fascinating and inspiring.
- Despite formidable challenges in the form of illiteracy and widespread poverty, India’s visionary Constitution makers established a multi-party democratic political system immediately after gaining independence.
- Overcoming these hurdles, India has consistently conducted free and fair elections through its independent constitutional body, the Election Commission of India, solidifying its democratic credentials.
- In a world where many post-colonial nations grappled with political turbulence, India’s commitment to electoral democracy stood as a beacon of hope.
Socio-Economic Development and Increased Political Participation
- India’s ascent as a democratic republic has been accompanied by substantial socio-economic advancements.
- Over the decades, the nation has made significant strides in alleviating poverty, expanding access to education, improving healthcare, and developing infrastructure.
- These achievements have not only improved the standard of living but also fostered a sense of inclusion among its diverse population.
- India’s burgeoning youth population has emerged as a potent force in shaping the country’s political landscape.
- Young people are increasingly active in civic participation, advocating for change, and driving social and political discourse.
- This dynamism reflects a commitment to democratic principles and a desire to influence the nation’s direction.
- India’s commitment to democratic values is vividly demonstrated through the consistently rising voter turnout in elections.
- Citizens across the country recognize the power of their votes in shaping the destiny of the nation.
- This surge in political engagement underlines the vibrancy of India’s democracy.
- A heartening trend in India’s democratic journey has been the growing participation of women in both electoral processes and political leadership.
- The increased representation of women at various levels of governance not only strengthens democracy but also promotes gender equality and diversity in decision-making.
- Diverse Political Landscape:
- India’s democracy has evolved into a dynamic and diverse political arena. A multitude of political parties, each representing unique constituencies and interests, actively participate in the democratic process.
- This pluralism underscores India’s commitment to accommodating a wide range of perspectives and voices.
India’s G20 Presidency
- Global Significance: The G20, comprising the world’s most advanced and emerging economies, is a forum of immense global significance. India’s presidency in this forum signifies its ascent as a major player in international affairs.
- Showcasing India: Hosting G20 meetings in India provided a unique opportunity to showcase the nation’s diversity, culture, democracy, development, and technological prowess to the global community. It allowed India to present its story as a positive model of pluralistic democracy and development, inspiring other nations, particularly in the Global South.
- Covid Pandemic Response: India’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic further solidified its reputation as a responsible global leader. Its ability to manage the crisis, provide vaccines to other nations, and contribute to global efforts for containment and recovery demonstrated its commitment to international cooperation.
- Bilateral and Multilateral Engagement: During its G20 presidency, India engaged in important bilateral and multilateral discussions, fostering partnerships and addressing global challenges. Key agreements, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Agreement and the Global Biofuels Alliance, highlighted India’s role in shaping international economic and environmental agendas.
Outcomes of the G20 Summit
- Economic Advancements: The G20 New Delhi Summit also served as a platform to showcase India’s contemporary technological advancements and its rich heritage, culture, and traditions. It energized the international economy, promoted tourism, enhanced food security through millet production, and deepened commitments to sustainable biofuels.
- Food Security: The summit emphasized stronger food security through millet production and consumption. This initiative aligns with global efforts to enhance food sustainability and ensure a stable food supply for growing populations.
- Commitment to Biofuels: India’s leadership in the G20 Summit deepened its commitment to sustainable biofuels. This focus on clean energy sources aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
- Key Agreements: Notably, the G20 Summit witnessed the conclusion of significant agreements, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Agreement and the Global Biofuels Alliance. These agreements are of considerable significance in shaping international economic and environmental agendas.
P20 (Parliamentary 20)
- The P20 (Parliamentary 20), which has evolved significantly since its inception in Canada in 2010, exemplifies the importance of parliamentary participation in shaping the global agenda.
- It has garnered social acceptance and legal tenability in participating countries, emphasizing the importance of involving elected representatives in international decision-making.
The Role of Parliament in Global Governance
- Supreme Law-Making Body: Parliament is the supreme law-making body in any democratic nation, representing the will and aspirations of its citizens. In the context of global governance, the role of parliament is essential, as it ensures that international agreements and commitments align with the interests and values of the people it represents.
- Democratic Accountability: Parliament’s participation in global governance adds a layer of democratic accountability to international agreements and treaties. When elected representatives endorse these agreements, they become socially acceptable and legally binding within their respective countries.
- Bilateral and Multilateral Engagement: Parliaments also engage in bilateral and multilateral discussions, further fostering partnerships and addressing global challenges. Their involvement helps shape the direction of international cooperation and ensures that agreements benefit their respective nations.
P20 Summit Agenda
- The upcoming P20 Summit, hosted by the Indian Parliament, exemplifies the parliamentary dimension’s significance in global governance.
- The summit’s four high-level sessions, focusing on themes such as Sustainable Development Goals, Sustainable Energy Transition, Gender Equality, and Public Digital Platforms, will facilitate wide-ranging discussions among G20 members and guest countries on how parliaments can effectively advance global objectives.
What else: Emphasizing Environmental Responsibility
- The LiFE is Beautiful initiative, recognizing environmentally conscious communities as Pro-Planet People” (P-3), demonstrates India’s commitment to sustainability and responsible living.
Conclusion
- This year’s P20 Summit theme, One Earth, One Family, One Future, reflects the spirit of unity and shared responsibility. India’s journey from Republic Day to G20 leadership is a testament to its democratic strength and its increasingly influential role in shaping the global future.
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