Hyperspectral remote sensing (HRS) technology (2024)

In News: Centre allows Aadhaar authentication for registration for births and deaths

About Aadhaar Authentication for Registration for Births and Deaths

• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEiTY) has recently granted permission for the Office of Registrar General of India (RGI) to use the Aadhaar database for identity
• Central government is empowered to authorize Aadhaar authentication for requesting entities, promoting good governance, preventing misuse of public funds, and facilitating ease of living.
• Key features:
  • The Registrar appointed under the Registration of Birth and Death Act, 1969, can perform voluntary Aadhaar authentication to establish identity of:
    • Child, parent, and informant in case of births
    • Parent, spouse, and informant in case of deaths.
  • States and UT administrations will be required to adhere to the guidelines set by MEiTY regarding the use of Aadhaar authentication during registration.
  • Ministry or State governments will have to prepare a proposal justifying use of Aadhar for authentication and submit it to the Centre for reference to UIDAI.
• For now, Aadhaar authentication for births and deaths registration will not be mandatory but it may be used for additional layer of identity verification.

Overall, Aadhaar authentication aligns with the government's focus on promoting transparency, accountability, and efficient utilization of resources in governance.

Why in news?Recently, The Government of Odisha & the Quality Council of India, in collaboration with industry associations – ASSOCHAM, FICCI, EEPC, OASME, PHDCCI, CIPET, FHRAI - launched the Odisha Gunvatta Sankalp (Odisha Quality Mission) at Bhubaneswar.

About:

• The initiativeaims to promote and prioritize quality across various sectors in Odisha,creating an ecosystem of qualityfor a progressive and empowered Odisha.
• This includes areas such aspublic service delivery, heritage tourism, healthcare, education, skilling, and infrastructure development.

Quality Council of India:

• QCI is anon-profit organization registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.
• Nodal Ministry is the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• QCI established in 1997, isresponsible for national accreditation, improving quality across sectors, and advising the government on quality-related matters.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1935392

In News:I-T department tweaks disclosure norms for charitable institutions claiming exemption.

About

CBDT has made several amendments (applicable from 1 October 2023) under which Charitable institutions have to:

• Mention whether the activities undertaken are charitable, religious, or both to claim tax benefits.
• Furnish details of donations received over Rs 2 lakh in a single day.
• Under I-T law, income of charitable institutions and religious trusts, and medical and educational institutions are exempt from tax.
• However, these institutions are required to seek registration from the I-T department.

The Income Tax (I-T) Rules were amended in 2023 to tighten the rules for charitable institutions. The amendments include:

• Increased scrutiny of applications for registration:The Principal Commissioner or Commissioner of Income-tax will now have the power to examine the objects, genuineness of activities, and past compliances of the institutions before granting registrations.
• Requirement for charitable institutions to donate 100% of the grant amount to other charities in order to avail full tax exemption. This is to plug a loophole that was being used by some charities to claim tax exemption on chain donations.
• Exposure of charities to the provisions of 'exit tax:Charities are now liable to pay tax at 34.94% on the accreted income (FMV of assets less FMV of liabilities) upon violation of certain conditions (viz., change in objects, transfer of assets to non-charitable entities, etc.).
• Changes to the forms that need to be filed by charitable institutions: New forms have been introduced for applications for registration, approval, and annual returns.

The amendments are aimed at ensuring that charitable institutions are used for their intended purpose and that tax benefits are not misused.

Key changes that were made to the Income Tax (I-T) Rules in 2023:

• Rule 2C:This rule was amended to require charitable institutions to deposit 100% of the grant amount received from other charities into a separate bank account. This is to prevent the misuse of chain donations.
• Rule 11AA:This rule was amended to require charitable institutions to file an annual return with the Principal Commissioner or Commissioner of Income-tax. The return must include information about the institution's activities, income, and expenditure.
• Rule 17A:This rule was amended to require charitable institutions to get their accounts audited by a chartered accountant. The audit report must be filed with the Principal Commissioner or Commissioner of Income-tax.

The amendments to the Income Tax (I-T) Rules are a significant development for charitable institutions in India. The changes are aimed at ensuring that these institutions are used for their intended purpose and that tax benefits are not misused.

https://m.economictimes.com/news/economy/policy/i-t-department-tweaks-disclosure-norms-for-charitable-institutions-claiming-exemption/articleshow/101284185.cms

In News:Government deliberates on Digital India Bill to establish an internet-age governance framework to secure the vulnerable

About Technology Facilitated Gender Based Violence (TFGBV)

• Technology Facilitated Gender Based Violence (TFGBV) refers to themisuse of technologytoperpetrate harm, threaten, stalk, or harass individualsbased on theirsexual or gender identity.
• It involves theexploitation of devices, accounts, software, and platformsto control, abuse, track, and intimidate victim-survivors.
• Theincreased exposure of personal liveson the internet and enhanced user data sharing have led to theemergence of TFGBV.
• Perpetrators of tech abuseutilize various tools such as phones, computers, email accounts, social media,and tracking apps to carry out their abusive actions.
• It posessignificant harm to the safety and well-beingof individuals, necessitating the strengthening of response mechanisms and victim redressal measures.
• Challenges:
  • Existing social normsand a widening gender digital dividecontribute to the vulnerabilityofmarginalized groups to online violence.
  • Women oftenface restricted access to the internet, leading to lower reporting rates due to fear of losing ownership and usage of technology.
  • Research indicates thatfemale journalists, women's rights workers, and politicians experiencehigher rates of online abuse compared to other women.
  • Theoutdatedlegal frameworks, such as theIndian Penal Codeand theCriminal Procedure Code, areill-equipped to addressthe evolving nature of internet-based harms.
  • Specific lawsaimed at the digital ecosystem, like theInformation Technology Act,do not adequatelyaddress gender-based crimes in the tech space.
• Steps to improve situation:
  • It is crucial torevamp regulatory interventionsand enact legislation that specifically addresses gender-based violence on the internet.
  • Law enforcement agencies(LEAs) should facilitatededicated training to understand the formsand effects of tech-based violence and effectively prevent and respond to such incidents.
  • Legislative measuresshould prioritizeaccountability from platformswhile safeguarding the rights of younger users.
  • Additional fundingshould be allocated tocreate survivor-centric resources, such as legalsupport and therapy services, through community-led collaborations.
• In the due course, India canlearn fromtime testedinternational frameworks, such as those inSingapore, Australia, and the USfor development oftargeted responsibility sharing.
• Overall,coordinated action among stakeholders, including the government, LEAs, platforms, and community organizations can go a long way forcreation of an effective response system.

https://www.livemint.com/opinion/columns/the-digital-india-bill-should-help-us-fight-against-gender-injustice-11687457545110.html

Why in News:State Election Commission accountable for all bloodshed during panchayat polls, says West Bengal Governor.

State Election Commission (SEC):

• A Constitutional Body responsible for conducting free, fair, and impartial elections to local bodies in the state.
• The State Election Commissioner isappointed by the Governor.

Constitutional Provisions:

• Powers: As perArticle 243K(1) and 243ZA, the superintendence, direction, and control of the preparation of electoral rolls and conduct elections to Panchayats (243K(1)) and Municipalities (243ZA) is vested in the SEC.
• Tenure: As per Article 243K(2), The service and tenure of the State Election Commissioner is subject to thelaw made by the State Legislature.
• Removal: As per Article 243K(2), The State Election Commissioner shall not be removed except inlike manner and on like ground as a Judge of a High Court. Also, the condition of service shall not be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment.

Challenges of SECs:

• Violence during elections: As per the recent statement of West Bengal Governor, SEC is accountable for violence during recent panchayat polls.
• Lack of Autonomy: Tenure and appointment of the State Election Commissioner are subject to the law made by the respective state legislature.
• Conflict with the state government: In 2008 state election commissioner of Maharashtra was arrested and sent to jail after the Legislative assembly found him guilty of breach of privilege in an alleged conflict over his jurisdiction and powers.
• Non-Uniform Service Conditions: Each SEC is governed by a separate law as passed by respective state legislatures.

Suggestions for Reforms in SECs:

• In 2021, the Supreme Court ruled thatserving bureaucrats must not be appointed as election commissionersto ensure the independence of the SECs.
• As per the suggestion of 2^ndARC, theState Election Commissioner should be appointed by the Governor on the recommendation of a collegiumcomprising the Chief Minister, the Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly and the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/sec-accountable-for-all-blood-shed-during-panchayat-polls-says-wb-governor/article66997962.ece#:~:text=West%20Bengal%20Governor%20C.V.,is%20shed%20in%20the%20field.

Why in news?A new curated collection, DAKSHTA (Development of Attitude, Knowledge, Skill for Holistic Transformation in Administration) For Young Professionals, is now Live on the iGOT Karmayogi Platform.

About:

• Thiscollection consists of 18 courses designed to enhance functional, domain, and behavioral competenciesnecessary for effective duty discharge such as data-driven decision-making, code of conduct, communication skills, public policy, stress management, and more.
• The iGOT Karmayogi Platform (https://igotkarmayogi.gov.in/) is a comprehensive online portal to guide government officials in their capacity-building journey.
• The portalcombines 6 functional hubsforonline learning, competency management, career management, discussions, events and networking.
• The platform ismanaged by Karmayogi Bharat, a government-owned not-for-profit organizationunder the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
• Currently, 40 Young Professionals and Consultants in NITI Aayog are undergoing phase-wise induction training through this curated collection of courses on the iGOT Karmayogi Platform.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1933344

In News:Union government releases the "National Working Plan Code-2023"

About National Working Plan Code-2023:

• TheMinistry of Environment, Forest & Climate Changehas recently released the "National Working Plan Code-2023" forscientific management of forests.
• India isone of the few countries with a scientific system of forest management, and the new working plan is themain instrument for achieving
• The National Working Plan Code, first adopted in 2004,aims tobring uniformity and serve as a guiding principlefor the preparation of working plans for different forest divisions in the country.
• The forests in Indiaare managed for various reasons, including:
  • Environmental stability, natural heritage conservation.
  • Soil erosion prevention, dune control,
  • Increasing forest coverwith public involvement, andenhancing forest productivity.
• Major highlights:
  • The code willfocus on essentials of forest management planningand incorporatesprinciples of sustainable forest management.
  • It includes aspects such asforest and tree cover extent and condition,biodiversity conservation,wildlife management.
  • It will also includesoil and water resource conservation, forest resource productivityenhancement, andsocio-economic benefits.
  • For the first time, the codemandates stateforest departments to engage incontinuous data collectionand its updation in a centralized database.
  • It introduces the "Indian Forest Management Standard" as part of the new code to bringuniformity in forest management practiceswhile considering the diverse forest ecosystems in India.
• The Forest Standard is based onlong-term experiencesof scientific forest management in India andaligns with international criteria and indicators.
• It willenable state forest departmentsto measure theeffectiveness of managementpractices against theprescriptions of Working Plans.
• Overall, Scientific Forest management in India and globally iscontinually evolving with newapproaches, technologies, and innovationsand in this regard the new Code willserve as a guiding principle.

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1933043

In News:NCBC proposes addition of more caste to OBC central List

About Addition of more castes to OBC List:

• TheNational Commission for Backward Classes(NCBC) is processing theaddition of approximately 80 castesto theCentral Listof Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
• Once the decisions are made, the recommendations aresent to the Cabinet for final approvalandsubsequent legislation.

Major recommendation:

• TheCentral OBC listcurrently includes over2,650 communitiesfrom different states and union territories.
• The addition of these castes to the Central OBC list willprovide them with access to various government benefitsandreservationsin educational institutions and job opportunities.
• Overall, the expansion of the OBC list will further help toensure equitable representationandupliftment of marginalized communitiesbeside fosteringsocial equality in the society.

National Commission for Backward Classes(NCBC)

• NCBC is aconstitutional bodyestablished to safeguard therights and interests of backward classesin India.
• It was establishedin pursuance of the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993.
• Its primary objective is toidentify and recommendtheinclusion or exclusionof communities in theCentral List of Other Backward Classes(OBCs).
• The Commission examines thebackwardnessof various communitiesbasedonsocial, educational,andeconomic indicators.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/around-80-more-communities-likely-to-be-added-to-central-obc-list/article66972886.ece

In News:Experts deliberates on Punchhi commission recommendations that could potentially address the ongoing crisis in Manipur.

About Punchhi Commission recommendations and potential solutions for Manipur Crisis:

• The Punchhi Commission wasestablished in 2007toexamine Centre-state relations,and itoffers a potential solutionto the current impasse in Manipur.
• The Commission'sFifth Task Forcestudied criminal justice, national security, andCentre-state cooperation.
• Major recommendations:
  • It recommended the feasibility of supporting legislationunderArticle 355for thedeployment of Central forces in stateswhen the situation demands.
  • Itacknowledged the reluctance of political parties,especially in Opposition-ruled states,to allow the Centre to take over elected administrationsduringtemporary breakdownsin law and order.
  • It proposed"Localised Emergency provisions"underArticle 355,enabling theimposition of Central ruleina limited affected areafor a periodnot exceeding three monthswhile the rest ofthe state's elected government continues functioning.
  • It suggested toamend the Communal Violence Billto ensurethat state consent does not hinder the deploymentof central forces during serious communal riots.
  • The proposed amendment suggests aone-week deployment, followed by post-facto consent from the state.
• Previously, similar strategieswere employed during the Telangana insurgencyin 1950, where the centralIntelligence Bureau(IB)took charge oflaw and orderin Communist strongholds.
• Overall, by implementing these recommendationsthrough constitutional amendments, the Centre canadminister specific areas in Manipurwithout disrupting the elected government.

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/how-an-old-report-can-pave-way-for-central-forces-to-stabilise-manipur-8667810/

In News:Centre sets up a panel led by former Law Secy T K Vishwanathan to recommend reforms in arbitration law.

About

The Indian government has set up a panel led by former law secretary T K Vishwanathan to recommend reforms in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The panel has 30 days to report back, and its terms of reference include evaluating and analysing the operation of the present arbitration ecosystem of the country, and recommending reforms to reduce the burden on courts.

The Need for Reform

• Arbitration is a process by which parties to a dispute agree to have their differences resolved by a neutral third party, rather than going to court. It is often seen as a more efficient and cost-effective way to resolve disputes, and India has a long history of arbitration.
• However, there are some areas where the current arbitration law in India could be improved. For example, the law could be made more streamlined and efficient, and the cost of arbitration could be reduced. Additionally, the law could be strengthened to ensure that arbitrators are impartial and independent and that the rights of the parties to the dispute are protected.

Panel's Recommendations

The panel is expected to submit its recommendations in the next few weeks. It will be interesting to see what reforms they recommend, and how they will impact the arbitration landscape in India.

Key issues that the panel is likely to consider:

• Streamlining the arbitration process:The panel could recommend reforms to make the arbitration process more streamlined and efficient. This could include shortening the time limits for completing arbitration proceedings, and reducing the number of procedural steps that need to be taken.
• Reducing the cost of arbitration:The panel could also recommend reforms to reduce the cost of arbitration. This could include capping the fees that arbitrators can charge, and providing for more cost-effective ways to appoint arbitrators.
• Strengthening the impartiality and independence of arbitrators:The panel could recommend reforms to strengthen the impartiality and independence of arbitrators. This could include requiring arbitrators to disclose any conflicts of interest, and providing for more effective mechanisms for challenging arbitrators.
• Protecting the rights of the parties to the dispute: The panel could also recommend reforms to protect the rights of the parties to the dispute. This could include ensuring that the parties have a right to be heard, and that their evidence is fairly considered.

The reforms recommended by the panel will have a significant impact on the arbitration landscape in India. They could make India an even more attractive destination for international arbitration, and boost foreign investment and trade. It will be interesting to see what the panel recommends, and how the reforms are implemented.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/centre-sets-up-panel-led-by-former-law-secy-t-k-vishwanathan-to-recommend-reforms-in-arbitration-law/articleshow/101047183.cms?from=mdr

Why in news?Electronic signage systems called Justice Clocks have been installed in the court complexes of High Courts.

About:

• It is anLED display of 7 feet by 10 feet,placed at a height of 17 feet from the ground.
• This ‘Justice Clock’will exhibit vital statistics of the justice delivery system, to maximise outreach and visibility of the work done by the state judiciary.
• These clocksaim to inform stakeholders about key court-related parameters and provide a bird’s eye view of court-related data.
• The initiative isexpected to increase awareness among the public about the judicial process.
• The interface has been designed and developed in-house and will display data from the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) in real-time.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1932637

Why in news?Recently, the state government of Tamil Nadu has decided to withdraw the general consent granted to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct investigations in the state.

About:

General consent

• TheCBI needs consent of the state government in whose territorial jurisdiction, the CBI has to conduct an investigation.
• Section 6 of the DPSE Act authorizesthe central government to direct CBI to probe a case within the jurisdiction of any state on the recommendation of the concerned state government.
• However, thecourts (SC and HC) can also order a CBIprobe, and even monitor the progress of investigation in which caseit won’t need states consent.
• Howevereven after withdrawal of the general consent The CBI continues to probe in old casesuntil specifically taken back by the state government. Further, it continues to investigate cases that were given to it by a court order.
• Whena state gives a general consent to the CBI for probing a case, the agency is not required to seek fresh permission every time it enters that state in connection with investigation or for every case.
• In case of lack of general consent,the CBI can approach a local courtfor a search warrant and conduct investigation.
• It facilitates seamless investigation in cases of corruption or violence involving central government employees in the state.

More Information:

• Legal Basis: According toSection 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act of 1946under which the CBI functions,the State’s consent is required to extend CBI investigation beyond Union Territories.
• Constitutional Basis: The general consent given by the States enables theCBI to investigate corruption charges freely, as “police” is Entry 2 in the State List under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.
• Other states that have withdrawn the consent:West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, Mizoram, Punjab, Telangana, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Meghalaya.

https://www.aninews.in/news/national/politics/this-is-very-shameful-annamalai-slams-dmk-on-withdrawal-of-general-consent-to-cbi20230616023959

Why in news?Recently, Under the Skill Impact Bond (SIB) initiative, nearly 18,000 first-time job seekers have been skilled, with 72% of them being women.

About:

• The Skill Impact Bond (SIB) isIndia’s first development impact bond for skilling and employment.
• It is apublic-private partnership (PPP) modelthat emphasizesproviding employment opportunities to trainees rather than just issuing training certificates.
• It islaunched by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)in collaboration with global partners.
• Aim isto benefit 50,000 young Indians (over 4 years),with afocus on empowering women (60% of beneficiaries)
• The SIB addresses the impact of the pandemic on women and employment, removes barriers to women’s workforce retention, and leverages private sector capital and expertise.
• Italso works towards strengthening India’s technical and vocational education ecosystemthrough knowledge exchange and mainstreaming good practices.

https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/skill-impact-bond-initiative-skilled-nearly-18-000-first-time-job-seekers-123061401015_1.html

In News:NCSC sends notice to food delivery company Zomato for airing a casteist advertisem*nt featuring a Dalit character.

About NCSC:

• National Commission for Scheduled Castes(NCSC) is astatutory bodyestablished underArticle 338of the Constitution of India.
• The body is responsible forsafeguarding the rights and interests of Scheduled Castes(SCs)besides ensuringeffective implementation of constitutional provisionsand other laws related to SCs.
• It also providesrecommendations and advice to the governmenton policies, legislation, and development programs for Scheduled Castes.
• It consists of aChairperson, Vice-Chairperson, andfivemembersappointed by the Presidentof India.
• Chairpersonand members have thesame powers as a civil courtwhile investigating complaints.
• Itconducts inquiries and investigationsinto specific complaints of atrocities or discrimination against Scheduled Castes.
• Itcan also take suo motu cognizanceof matters related to Scheduled Castes' welfare and initiates appropriate action.
• It cansummon witnesses, examine documents, and issue summonsandwarrantsduring its investigations.
• It collaborates with other organizations and authoritiesto promote the welfareof SCsbeside providing legal aid and supportSCs facing discrimination or injustice.
• Itorganizes awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars to educate people about the rights of Scheduled Castes.
• Overall, it is the cradle ofsocial integrationandequality for Scheduled Castesbesides working towardseliminating caste-based discriminationandpromoting social harmony.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/national-commission-for-scheduled-castes-notice-to-zomato-delhi-police-youtube-over-casteist-advertisem*nt/article66964808.ece

In News:RBIGovernorShaktikanta Das states thatIndia's disinflationprocess will beslowandprotracted.

About Disinflation in India:

• Indiahas been experiencing agradual disinflationin recent years which in economic terms is adecrease in the rate of inflationor a period of slowing inflation.
• In this regard, theReserve Bank of India(RBI) has been implementingmonetary policy measures to targetinflationrates of 4% over the medium term.
• The benchmark set by the RBI has been slow and protracted in recent years thustaking time to reach the desired inflation target.
• Inflation projectionsfor the current financial year indicate arate of 5.1%, which is lower butstill above the target.
• Although the Retail inflation data has been showing a cooling trend, the analysts expect inflation to remain sticky and pose challenges in the coming months.
• Role of MPC:
  • The RBI'sMonetary Policy Committee(MPC),headed by Governorplays a crucial role inmanaging inflation and ensuring price stability.
  • The MPC aims tostrike a balancebetweencontrolling inflationandsupporting economic growth.
  • RBI uses policy decisions, such asrate hikes or pauses to maintain stabilityin the financial system.
• Whiledisinflation is necessary to control prices, policymakers also consider thepotential impact on economic growth and employment.
• Achieving disinflation requires acombination of monetary policy measures, fiscal discipline, structural reforms, and supply-side interventions.
• In this regard, the government's efforts toimprove productivity, ease supply constraints,andpromote investmentcan contribute to the disinflationary process.
• Overall,Inflation managementanddisinflationary measuresare essential formaintaining macroeconomic stabilityandsupporting sustainable economic growthin India.

https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/indias-disinflation-process-to-be-slow-protracted-says-cenbank-chief/article66965158.ece

In News: The Centre has releasedRs 1.18 lakh crore as the third regular instalment of tax devolutionto the states in June. One advance instalment, in addition to the regular instalment due in June 2023, has also been released.

About Tax Devolution:

• Tax devolutionrefers to the distribution of tax revenues between the central government and the state governments. It is a constitutional mechanism established to allocate the proceeds of certain taxes among the Union and the states in a fair and equitable manner.
• The Finance Commission established by Article 280of the constitution is assigned with the task of making recommendations regarding the division of the net proceeds of taxes between the Union and the states.
• The 15^thFinance Commission, headed byN K Singh, recommendedvertical devolutionat 41% to states against 14th FC recommendation of 42% in order to adjust for the change instatus of Jammu & Kashmir.
• Forhorizontal devolution, it has suggested 12.5% weightage to demographic performance, 45% to income, 15% each to population and area, 10% to forest and ecology and 2.5% to tax and fiscal efforts.
• Finance Commission recommendedpost-devolution revenue deficit grants amounting to about Rs. 3 trillionover the five-year period ending FY26, to help fiscally stressed states by COVID
• Anadvance instalment was releasedin June, 2023 in order to enable the states
  • Tospeed up capital spending, finance their development/welfare-related expenditure
  • Tomake available resources for priority projects/ schemes.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-releases-118-lakh-cr-as-third-instalment-of-tax-devolution-to-states-in-june/article66960453.ece

In News:Nyaya Vikas Portal is created by Ministry of Law and Justice for monitoring the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS).

About

• Department of Justice has beenimplementing CSS for Development of Infrastructure Facilities
• for Districts and Subordinate Judiciary since 1993-94.
• Central assistance is provided to theState Government / UT Administrations for constructionof court halls and residential units for Judicial Officers / Judges of District, etc.
• Funding for the Scheme:North Eastern and Himalayan States (90:10); Union Territories (100%), remaining states (60:40).

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1930074

In News:Recently, MeitY launched a pilot project on Electronics Repair Services Outsourcing (ERSO) ERSO to make India Global Repair Capital

About

• Government launched the ERSO Pilot initiative to validate certain transformational policy and process changes to make India the Repair Capital of the World.
• Over the next 5 years, India’s ERSO industry is likely to fetch India a upto $20 billion in revenue and also generate millions of jobs.
• ERSO has been identified as a gamechanger for India and has been supported by the Government to make India a world leader in a hitherto untapped domain.

Read Right to Repair

https://edukemy.com/daily-current-affairs/right-to-repair/2022-07-19

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1928643

In News:Recently government launched a Mobile app for loan applications for street vendors under the PM SVANidhi scheme

About

• The PM SVANidhi is a micro credit scheme which waslaunched by the Central government in 2020 to provide handholding support tostreet vendors,to tide over pandemic-induced economic stress.
• The scheme facilitates a working capital collateral-free loan of ₹10,000, with subsequent loans of ₹20,000 and ₹50,000 with 7% interest subsidy.
• Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister launched a facility to provide easy access to vendors for obtainingUdyam Registration Certificate for promotion of their business.
• The ‘Udyam’registration certificate for street vendors was launched with thehelp of the Ministry of Small and Medium enterprises. It simplifies the process of registering a business.
• The scheme facilitates workingcapital loans in three tranchesto the street vendors. It has been providing microcredits to more than 36 lakh street vendors across India.

https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/mobile-app-for-loan-application-for-street-vendors-under-pm-svanidhi-scheme/article66920410.ece

In News:Recently, the Law Commission of India said that “repealing the legal provision can have serious adverse ramifications for the security and integrity of the country”.

About

• The Law Commission of India has recommended the retention of the 153-year-old colonial law on sedition in India, emphasising that “repealing the legal provision can have serious adverseramifications for the security and integrity of the country.”
• Law Commission favoured amendingSection 124A of the Indian Penal Code(sedition law) to bring about more clarity in the interpretation, understanding, and usage of the provision.

• Commission recommended Section 124A should be amended to align it with the Supreme Court’s1962 verdict in the Kedar Nath Case, which underlined that the presence of apernicious tendency to incite violence is a preconditionto invoke the sedition clause and that the penal provision cannot be used to stifle free speech.
• Law commission suggest that sedition law, which carries a maximum punishment of life imprisonment or “three years”, should be amended toenhance the alternative punishment to “seven years”.

Issues related to Sedition Law

• A law of Colonial Era:Under British rule, individuals who expressed criticism towards British policies faced imprisonment through the manipulation of sedition by colonial administrators. Prominent figures in the freedom movement, including Lokmanya Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi, and Jawaharlal Nehru were prosecuted under sedition law.
• Repressing Democratic Values:India is being described as an elected autocracy primarily because of the callous and calculated use of sedition law.
• Supreme Court’s Judgement:In the case ofKedar Nath Singh vs State of Bihar in 1962, the Supreme Court established a limitation on the application of sedition. The court ruled that seditionshould only be applicable to "acts involving intention or tendency to create disorder, or disturbance of law and order, or incitement to violence."
• View Constituent Assembly:The members of the Constituent Assembly held the belief that the sedition law had the potentialto restrict freedom of speech and expression. They raised concerns that this law could bemisused as a tool to suppress the legitimate and constitutionally guaranteed rightof the people to engage in peaceful protests.

Significance of Sedition Law in India

• Protecting National Security:The sedition law in India is seen as significant in safeguarding the integrity and sovereignty of the nation by discouraging actions or expressions that threaten the government's authority, promote violence, or incite rebellion.
• Balancing Individual Freedom and State Interests:Supporters argue that sedition laws strike a balance between individual freedom of speech and the interests of the state, aiming to maintain national security and social order.
• Maintaining Unity & Integrity:Sedition law helps the government in combating anti-national, secessionist and terrorist elements.
• Maintaining the Stability of State:The sedition law plays a crucial role in safeguarding the elected government from violent and illegal attempts to overthrow it. Preserving the continuity of a legally established government is vital for maintaining the stability of the State.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/law-commission-recommends-retention-of-sedition-law-in-india-proposes-changes-101685681464225.html

Why in news?According to a NITI Aayog member, more than half of India’s cultivated land now has access to assured irrigation led by an expansion in micro-projects that use water more efficiently.

About:

• In 2022-23, of 210 million hectares of gross sown area,nearly 55%, had irrigation access, up from 47.8% in 2013-14.
• Increase in irrigation cover is attributed to expansion especially in drylandfarm zones ofTelangana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka.
• Out of total irrigated area,40%is currently wateredthrough canalnetworks, and60% through groundwater.
• Increase has been drivenby Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY),AcceleratedIrrigation Benefit Programme,Har Khet Ko Paani-Surface Minor Irrigation etc.

https://www.livemint.com/news/india/over-50-of-india-s-cultivated-land-now-has-assured-irrigation-thanks-to-expansion-in-micro-projects-and-efficient-water-use-11685555001532.html

In News:Supreme Court rules that when entering into contracts under the President's name, the government cannot claim immunity from the legal provisions of that contract under Article 299 of the Constitution.

About Article 299 of the Constitution:

• Article 299 of the Constitution pertains to themanner in which contracts made by the governmentare to beexpressed and executed.
• It appliesto contracts madein the exercise of theexecutive power of the Union or of a State.
• According to it,all such contracts must be expressedto bemade by the President or by the Governorof the State.
• Contracts and assurances of property made in the exercise of that powermust be executed on behalf of the President or the Governorby persons authorized and directed by them.
• The phrase 'expressed to be made and executed'implies thattheremust be a written contract or deedexecuted by a person duly authorized by the President or the Governor.
• The objective of Article 299 is toestablish a specific procedurefor making contracts on behalf of the government,preventing unauthorized or illegitimate contractsthat may deplete public funds.
• Contractsnot adhering to the mannergiven in Article 299(1)cannot be enforcedby any contracting party.
• However, Article 299(2) clarifies that neither thePresident nor the Governor can be personally held liablefor contracts made under their name.
• Thus, the provision of the articleensures transparency and accountabilityin government contracts, while alsoprotecting government officials from personal liability.
• Previously, the courts haveestablished the essential conditions in government contractsthrough judgments in cases including'K.P. Chowdhry v. State of Madhya Pradesh and Others, 1966., and'State of Bihar v. Messrs. Karam Chand Thapar' in 1962.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/govt-immunity-contract-president-name-sc-8636329/

In News:Recently, a French shipping major resumed service for cashew export from Guinea-Bissau to India and Vietnam.

About

• Guinea-Bissau, officiallyknown as the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, is a small West African country located on the Atlantic coast.
• Guinea-Bissau is bordered bySenegal to the north, Guineato the south and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
• The country has atropical climate and has diverse ecosystems, including coastal mangroves, savannahs, and dense forests.
• The capital andlargest city of Guinea-Bissauis Bissau.

https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/french-shipping-major-resumes-service-for-cashew-export-from-guinea-bissau-to-india-and-vietnam/article67000742.ece

In News:Recently, India's Prime minister visited Egypt.

India and Egypt share a long-standing history of cultural and diplomatic ties. Over the years, the bilateral relationship between these two nations has strengthened, encompassing various sectors such as trade, defense, tourism, and cultural exchange. This article explores the key aspects and recent developments in the India-Egypt relationship.

Historical Background:

• Ancient civilizational links:India and Egypt have had historical and cultural connections dating back to ancient times. Both civilizations have interacted through trade routes and shared knowledge in fields such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.
• Non-Aligned Movement:India and Egypt were among the founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement, which played a significant role during the Cold War era in promoting the principles of neutrality, sovereignty, and mutual cooperation.

Diplomatic Relations:

• Establishment of diplomatic ties:India and Egypt established diplomatic relations in 1947, shortly after India's independence. The bilateral ties were further reinforced through the opening of resident missions in New Delhi and Cairo.
• High-level visits:The relationship has been strengthened through regular high-level visits between leaders of both countries. These visits have served as platforms for discussions on various issues of mutual interest and have contributed to enhancing cooperation.

Economic Cooperation:

• Trade and Investment:Economic cooperation forms a vital pillar of India-Egypt relations. Bilateral trade between the two countries has witnessed significant growth, with a focus on sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, machinery, and information technology. Both nations have also encouraged investment opportunities, leading to joint ventures and collaborations.
• Bilateral agreements:India and Egypt have signed several bilateral agreements to promote economic cooperation, including agreements on trade, investment protection, double taxation avoidance, and agriculture. These agreements provide a framework for enhancing economic engagement.

Defense and Security Cooperation:

• Military cooperation:India and Egypt have collaborated in the defense sector through the exchange of defense-related delegations, joint military exercises, and training programs. This cooperation has contributed to enhancing the capabilities of both countries' armed forces.
• Counterterrorism:India and Egypt have cooperated closely in the fight against terrorism. Both countries have faced common challenges and have exchanged information and intelligence to counter the menace of terrorism and extremism.

Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges:

• Cultural exchanges:India and Egypt have a rich cultural heritage, and both countries have fostered cultural exchanges through events such as festivals, exhibitions, and performances. These exchanges help in promoting mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people contacts.
• Educational ties:Educational cooperation between India and Egypt has expanded over the years. Indian universities attract Egyptian students, while scholarships and exchange programs facilitate academic collaborations and promote educational linkages.

Recent Developments:

• COVID-19 cooperation:India and Egypt have cooperated in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. India has provided medical supplies, vaccines, and technical assistance to Egypt to support its efforts in tackling the crisis.
• Renewable energy collaboration:Both countries have shown interest in collaborating on renewable energy projects. India's expertise in the field of solar energy aligns with Egypt's renewable energy goals, opening avenues for collaboration in this sector.

The relationship between India and Egypt is characterized by historical ties, shared values, and cooperation in various sectors. The strengthening of diplomatic, economic, defense, and cultural ties between the two countries reflects a commitment to fostering mutual prosperity and strategic partnership. As both nations continue to collaborate and engage, the India-Egypt relationship is expected to further deepen in the years to come.

Why in News:Recently, India and USA have agreed to end 6 trade disputes at the WTO.

Resolved disputes by India and USA:

• Initiated by India–
  • Renewable energy sector measures.
  • Measures on Steel and Aluminium products.
  • Countervailing measures on some hot–rolled carbon steel flat products from India.
• Initiated by USA–
  • Export-related measures (India’s support to its export sector under different schemes).
  • Some measures related to solar cells and modules.
  • Additional duties on some products from the USA.

Significance of resolution of disputes:

• It is likely to contribute tothe promotion of trade.
• It willenhance India’s exports to the USA(In 2022-23, the USA was the largest trading partner of India with bilateral trade of $128.8 billion).
• It willpromote a 2+2 dialoguebetween the two nations.

WTO dispute resolution process:

1. Bilateral consultationsbetween the parties.
2. Establishment of adispute settlement panelif consultations fail.
3. Adjudication by panels.

Appellate Mechanism:

• The ruling and reports of the panels can be challenged by WTO’s appellate body.
• Theappellate body is not functioningbecause the USA has been blocking the appointment of members.
• As an alternative option, aMulti-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA)has been formed by the members.
• MPIA was formed in 2020.
• Any member can join MPIA by notifying the Dispute Settlement Body.India is not a member yet.

https://www.thehindu.com/business/india-us-decision-to-end-wto-disputes-to-help-boost-bilateral-trade-experts/article67000615.ece

In News:Recently, India's Prime minister visited Egypt.

India and Egypt share a long-standing history of cultural and diplomatic ties. Over the years, the bilateral relationship between these two nations has strengthened, encompassing various sectors such as trade, defense, tourism, and cultural exchange. This article explores the key aspects and recent developments in the India-Egypt relationship.

Historical Background:

• Ancient civilizational links:India and Egypt have had historical and cultural connections dating back to ancient times. Both civilizations have interacted through trade routes and shared knowledge in fields such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.
• Non-Aligned Movement:India and Egypt were among the founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement, which played a significant role during the Cold War era in promoting the principles of neutrality, sovereignty, and mutual cooperation.

Diplomatic Relations:

• Establishment of diplomatic ties:India and Egypt established diplomatic relations in 1947, shortly after India's independence. The bilateral ties were further reinforced through the opening of resident missions in New Delhi and Cairo.
• High-level visits:The relationship has been strengthened through regular high-level visits between leaders of both countries. These visits have served as platforms for discussions on various issues of mutual interest and have contributed to enhancing cooperation.

Economic Cooperation:

• Trade and Investment:Economic cooperation forms a vital pillar of India-Egypt relations. Bilateral trade between the two countries has witnessed significant growth, with a focus on sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, machinery, and information technology. Both nations have also encouraged investment opportunities, leading to joint ventures and collaborations.
• Bilateral agreements:India and Egypt have signed several bilateral agreements to promote economic cooperation, including agreements on trade, investment protection, double taxation avoidance, and agriculture. These agreements provide a framework for enhancing economic engagement.

Defense and Security Cooperation:

• Military cooperation:India and Egypt have collaborated in the defense sector through the exchange of defense-related delegations, joint military exercises, and training programs. This cooperation has contributed to enhancing the capabilities of both countries' armed forces.
• Counterterrorism:India and Egypt have cooperated closely in the fight against terrorism. Both countries have faced common challenges and have exchanged information and intelligence to counter the menace of terrorism and extremism.

Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges:

• Cultural exchanges:India and Egypt have a rich cultural heritage, and both countries have fostered cultural exchanges through events such as festivals, exhibitions, and performances. These exchanges help in promoting mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people contacts.
• Educational ties:Educational cooperation between India and Egypt has expanded over the years. Indian universities attract Egyptian students, while scholarships and exchange programs facilitate academic collaborations and promote educational linkages.

Recent Developments:

• COVID-19 cooperation:India and Egypt have cooperated in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. India has provided medical supplies, vaccines, and technical assistance to Egypt to support its efforts in tackling the crisis.
• Renewable energy collaboration:Both countries have shown interest in collaborating on renewable energy projects. India's expertise in the field of solar energy aligns with Egypt's renewable energy goals, opening avenues for collaboration in this sector.

The relationship between India and Egypt is characterized by historical ties, shared values, and cooperation in various sectors. The strengthening of diplomatic, economic, defense, and cultural ties between the two countries reflects a commitment to fostering mutual prosperity and strategic partnership. As both nations continue to collaborate and engage, the India-Egypt relationship is expected to further deepen in the years to come.

Why in news?Prime Minister of India will pay his respects at the Heliopolis (Port Tewfik) Memorial in the Heliopolis War Cemetery in Cairo, Egypt.

About:

• The Heliopolis (Port Tewfik) Memorial ispart of the larger Heliopolis Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery.
• This memorial commemorates thememory of Indian soldiers who died fighting in various campaigns in Egypt and Palestine in the First World War.
• Theoriginal Port Tewfik memorial was unveiled in 1926and wassituated at the entrance to the Suez Canal.
• Port Tewfik is now known as Port Suez.
• Thememorial was destroyed in the Israeli-Egyptian War of 1967by retreating Egyptian soldiers, and anew memorialwas erected inHeliopolis Commonwealth War Grave Cemetery in 1980.
• The Indian troops played a key role in securing the Suez Canal in Egypt and in Palestine, where Indian cavalry participated in the Battle of Haifa and also played a key role in Mesopotamia in the First World War.
• The memorial includes the names of soldiers from various Indian regiments and also commemorates Risaldar Badlu Singh, who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery (the highest British wartime gallantry award)

Port Suez

• It islocated in Egypt along the northern coastline of the Gulf of Suez.
• The port and city mark the southern terminus of the Suez Canal, which runs north-south through Egypt from the Mediterranean Sea to the Gulf of Suez.
• The port serves vessels transporting general cargo, oil tankers, and both commercial and private passenger vessels.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/pm-modi-egypt-heliopolis-memorial-history-8682314/#:~:text=The%20Heliopolis%20(Port%20Tewfik)%20Memorial%20is%20part%20of%20the%20larger,in%20the%20First%20World%20War.

In News:Indian Prime Minister presents gifts to US President during his visit to White House in Washington DC.

About Biden Yeats:

• Biden Yeats refers to thegift exchangebetween Indian Prime Minister and US President especially theYeats' translation work of Indian Upanishads.
• The gifts given by Indian PM includes:
  • Yeats' 'Ten Principal Upanishads': First edition print of the book from 1937 which is a collaborative translation by Irish poet WB Yeats and scholar Shri Purohit Swami.
  • Lab-grown Diamond: A 7.5 carat lab-grown diamond to President which are created in a controlled environment using technological processes, offering an ethical and sustainable alternative to mined diamonds.
  • Sandalwood Box:An exquisite sandalwood box which is highly valued in Indian culture for its fragrance and aesthetic appeal.
• Importance of Book:
  • TheUpanishads are foundational texts in Hindu theologyand explore concepts such as the connection between humanity and the cosmos.
  • They are consideredmore significant than the Vedasthemselves and have attracted widespread attention.
  • The Upanishads discuss topics liketransmigration and emphasize the illusory nature of the transient world.
  • The philosophy ofAdvaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the non-dualistic nature of reality,is closely associated with the Upanishads.
  • The Ten Principal Upanishads include titles such asEsha, Kena, Katha, Prashna, Mundaka, Mandukya, Taittiriya, Aitareya, Chandogya, and Brihadaranyaka.
• WB Yeats, a renowned figure in modern English literature, was deeply interested in Indian culture and had aclose friendship with Rabindranath Tagore.
• Overall, the gift of the 'Ten Principal Upanishads'reflects the cultural exchange and appreciationbetween India and the United States.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-culture/pm-modi-biden-yeats-ten-principal-upanishads-8680613/

Why in news?Recently, India gifted the indigenously built in-service missile corvette INS Kirpan to Vietnam to enhance that country’s naval capabilities.

About:

• Vietnam is a countrylocated in Southeast Asia on the eastern part of the Indochinese Peninsula.
• It shares itsborders with Chinato the north,Laosto the northwest,Cambodiato the southwest, and theSouth China Seato the east.
• It also borders theGulf of Tonkin, the Gulf of Thailand and the Pacific Ocean.
• The country has a long coastline stretching over 3,260 kilometers (2,030 miles).
• Thecapital, Hanoi, is located in the north, while the country’slargest city, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), is in the south.

INS Kirpan:

• INS Kirpan is aKhukri class missile corvette displacing1,350tonnesand wascommissioned into the Navy in1991.
• It is capable ofspeed in excess of25knots.
• The corvette is equipped with a medium-range gun, 30mm close-range guns, chaff launchers, and surface-to-surface missiles.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-gifts-missile-corvette-ins-kirpan-to-vietnam/article66986653.ece

In News:U.S. Re-joins UNESCO and pays back dues in an attempt to Counter Chinese Influence on the international body

About US and UNESCO:

• The United States has decided to re-join theUnited Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation(UNESCO) after a decade-long dispute.
• The U.S. hadpreviously stopped funding UNESCO in 2011when it includedPalestine as a member state, leading to theloss of voting rights for both the U.S. and Israelin 2013.
• This step has been motivated by concerns overChinese influencein UNESCO policy-making, especially in areas such asartificial intelligence and technology education,
• The return of the U.S., once the largest funder of UNESCO, is expected toface a voteby the organization's193 memberstates next month.
• The decision to re-join UNESCO will also provide a welcomefinancial boostto the organization, known for itsWorld Heritage program.
• The renewed relationship between the U.S. and UNESCO is anticipatedtopromote a free world, address issues such asartificial intelligence, slavery and girl’s education.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-decides-to-rejoin-unesco-and-pay-back-dues-to-counter-chinese-influence/article66960485.ece

In News:While the Indian Prime Minister visits USA to discuss building their relationship in light of a greater alignment in Asia and the Indo-Pacific, there seems to progress towards a detente between USA and China.

About US and China Relationships:

• Trade sanctions:There have been sanctions and increased tariffs imposed on the import items by both the countries. Trade rivalry elevated more due to the confrontational attitude of the previous US president.
• Support for Taiwan: Nancy Pelosi’s visit and growing military support for Taiwan was not welcomed by China as it was against the One China vision.
• Contention in South China Sea: China’s claim virtually over the entire South China Sea has been frequently opposed by the USA, which considers stability and security of the Indo pacific essential for global order.
• Formation of Quadrilateral Alliance: USA along with Japan, India and Australia have formed a diplomatic partnership for promoting stability, resilience and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific is being viewed by China as an attempt to contain China.
• Technology sanctionssuch as those put on Huawei and the issue ofsurveillance by Chinese balloonsin American airspace has further strained their relationships.

Various outreach efforts by USA:

• Rescheduling of Anthony Blinken’s visitafter it was cancelled due to China’s balloon incident in USA’s airspace.
• Secret visit of CIA director to Chinaand meeting with Chinese officials to stabilise the relationship and prevent a possible open conflict. He also emphasised on the importance of maintaining open lines of communications in intelligence channels
• Visit of US National Security Advisor to Chinato meet former Foreign Minister Wang Yi where the discussions continued for more than eight hours.
• Change in approach of USAwhere in the G7 meeting Biden used the word “de-risk” for their economic engagement with China instead of the more combative “decouple”. USA was not looking to decouple from China but rather to de-risk and diversify their relationship.

Concerns for India:

• Shared Perception of China’s rise: The US and India have come closer over a shared perception of China’s rise along with greater integration of their economy. Recognition of the sphere of influence of China by the USA would put India into an uncomfortable position.
• Border Security concern: India’s embrace of Quad and the US Indo-Pacific strategy came after the Doklam standoff in 2018 and the PLA’s incursions into eastern Ladakh in 2020.
• Concerns over Indo Pacific stability:The shared interests in stabilising the Asian balance of power were the objective realities demanding a solid India-US strategic partnership. A mutual agreement between the USA and China would make India and other Asian countries lose their advantage of the USA's influence.
• Bilateral defence cooperation:Currently, both India and USA are in talks for a significant elevation of bilateral defence cooperation, including technology transfers and joint defence industrial production.
• The thaw in US and China relationship could prove to becounterproductive and emergence of a US-China G2 for global stabilitycould become India’s worst nightmare.

However, another perspective of the détente between US and China relationship could be improved regional stability, increase in global trade and peace in the Indo Pacific. This could be possible only when the US tries to push in its key demands of decrease in China’s aggressiveness in the South China Sea.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/express-explained-the-us-china-thaw-8653367/

Why in news?NATO has sent 700 more of its peacekeeping troops to Kosovo, to establish peace in the Kosovo-Serbia conflict.

About:

• Many Serbs consider Kosovo the birthplace of their nation.
• The Kosovo-Serbia conflict stems from Kosovo’s declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008, which Serbia does not recognize.
• Tensions arise from historical, ethnic, and political factors, leading to sporadic clashes and disputes.

Serbia:

• Serbia is asmall land-locked country in the Balkan region (in eastern Europe).
• It shares borders withBosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania and Albania.
• Rivers: Danube, Sava and Tisa etc.
• Highest Point: Daravica
• Capital City: Belgrade

Kosovo:

• Kosovo is a small landlocked region thatlies to Serbia’s southwest, sharingborders withNorth Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro.
• It islocated between the Mediterranean Sea and mountainous regions of Southeast Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula.
• Kosovo is a region where Serbs and Albanians, representing different ethnicities and religious backgrounds, have been living for centuries.
• Kosovo has a population of 1.8 million people, with 92% Albanians, 6% Serbians, and the rest comprising Bosniaks, Gorans, Turks, and Roma.
• Serbs are primarily Eastern Orthodox Christians, while Albanians in Kosovo are predominantly Muslim. Other minority groups include Bosnians and Turks. Serbs form the majority in Serbia, while Albanians are the majority in Kosovo.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/explained-why-is-there-trouble-in-kosovo-again/article66939379.ece

In News:India and Suriname exchanged four MoUs in various fields including health and agriculture.

• Suriname is a countrylocated on the northern coast of South America.
• Its economy is dependent on itsextensive supply of natural resources, most notably bauxite,of which it is one of the top producers in the world.
• The southern four-fifths of the country is entirely covered withpristine tropical rainforest.
• Suriname formerly known asDutch Guiana, Surinamewas a plantation colony of the Netherlands.
• Suriname is bordered by theAtlantic Ocean to the north, by French Guianato the east, by Brazil to the south, and by Guyana to the west.
• Suriname’smajor rivers flow northward into the Atlantic. They include theCourantyne,which forms part of the boundary withGuyana; the Coppename;the Suriname; and theMaroni, which forms part of the border with French Guiana.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/president-murmu-meets-suriname-counterpart-discusses-ways-to-deepen-bilateral-partnership/article66935548.ece

In News:Iran and Afghanistan are locked in a long-standing dispute over the sharing of water from the Helmand River.

River Helmand

• Afghanistan and Iran have been at loggerheads over the sharing of river water for over a century.
• Afghanistan and Iran signed an agreement — theHelmand River Treaty — in 1973to regulate the allocation of river water. But the accord was neither ratified nor fully implemented, causing disagreements and tensions to persist.
• TheHelmand is Afghanistan's longest river. It originates near Kabul in thewestern Hindu Kush mountain rangeand flows in a southwesterly direction through desert areas for a total of about 1,150 kilometers before emptying into Lake Hamun, which straddles the Afghanistan-Iran border.

Lake Hamun

• Lake Hamun is the largest freshwater lake in Iran.
• It used to be one of the world’s largest wetlands, straddling 4,000 square kilometers between Iran and Afghanistan, fed by the Helmand.
• Lake Hamun has been dried upand a trend experts blame on drought and the impact of dams and water controls. The lake is of great importance for the regional environment and economy.

Tehran and Taliban Ties

• Iran and Afghanistan share a950-kilometer land border.Both countries have no major territorial disputes.
• Tehran had cultivated good ties with theTaliban before the Islamic fundamentalist group captured Kabul in August 2021as US and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from Afghanistan.
• Both sides were united in theiropposition to the US’s presence in the regio
• Iran has so farrefrained from formally recognizing the Taliban government, it has been pragmatic and maintained relations with Afghanistan’s current rulers.
• Tehran and the Taliban were showingno interest in addressing the mismanagement of waterresources and tackling the environmental problems in the region.
• Government in Tehran is focusing on the disadvantaged province ofSistan-Baluchistan.

Countries share land border with Afghanistan and Iran

• Afghanistan is boundedto the east and south by Pakistan (including those areas of Kashmir administered by Pakistan but claimed by India), to the westby Iran, and to the north by the Central Asian states of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan.
• Iran is bounded tothe north by Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkmenistan, and the Caspian Sea; to the east by Pakistan and Afghanistan; to the south by the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman; and to the west by Turkey and Iraq. About one-third of its 4,770-mile (7,680-kilometre) boundary is seacoast.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/what-is-the-iran-taliban-water-conflict-all-about-8642887/lite/

Why in news?Recently, President of Turkey was re-elected to the post of President.

About:

• It liespartly in Asia and partly in Europe.
• It isbordered by eight countries: Greece and Bulgaria to the northwest, Georgia to the northeast, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran to the east, and Iraq and Syria to the southeast.
• Turkey has acoastline along the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Sharesmaritime borders with Cyprus, Egypt, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine.
• Ankarais thecapital cityof Turkey.
• Largest city and seaport is Istanbul.
• It islocated mainly on the Anatolian Peninsula in Western Asia, with a smaller portion on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe.
• Geographical features
  • Major River: Euphrates, Tigris and Kizilirmak.
  • Highest Point: Mount Ararat.
  • Important Straits: Bosphorus strait, Dardanallaise strait.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/5/28/turkey-presidential-election-results-3

In News:Hvaldimir, a beluga whalehas recently gained attention due to speculations about its alleged connection to Russian espionage.

Use of animals for espionage:

• Since ages, animals have been trained by humans to can carry surveillance equipment, gather data, or even act as autonomous spies.
• However, over the years, the use of animals for espionage have raised ethical concerns about their welfare and exploitation.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/hvaldimir-whale-suspected-spy-russia-8636986/

Why in news?Recently, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister said total length of the National Highways in the country increased by about 59% in the last nine years.

About:

Key Highlights:

• In 2013-14, the total length of National Highways was 91,287 km, which has increased to 1,45,240 km in 2022-23. India has a total length of 4,219 km of expressways.
  • Thetotal length of National Highways in India has increased by about 59% in the last nine years.
  • As a result of this expansion,India now has the second largest road network, after the US.
• FASTag has led to a significant jump in toll collection revenue.
  • Toll revenue rose from Rs 4,770 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 41,342 crore in 2022-23.
  • The Government aims to increase the toll revenue to Rs 1,30,000 crore by 2030.
• The waiting time at toll plazas has reduced from 734 seconds in 2014 to 47 seconds in 2023, with a goal of further reducing it to 30 seconds.
• NHAItransplanted more than 68,000 while itplanted 3.86 crore trees during in the last nine years.
• NHAI has developed more than 15,00 Amrit Sarovarsalong the National Highways across the country.
• Ministry hasutilised 30 lakh tons of garbage in road construction for the Delhi Ring Road project, demonstrating a proactive approach towards waste management and sustainable infrastructure development.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1935658#:~:text=Addressing%20a%20Press%20Conference%20in,59%25%20during%20this%20period.%E2%80%9D

Why in news?Recently, The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush has launched the new guidelines for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) called ‘Sagar Samajik Sahayyog’.

About:

• Objectives:
  • Toempower ports to undertake CSR activities directly.
  • To allow ports to initiate, undertake and expedite projects for community welfare through a framework wherelocal communities can also become partners of development & change.
• Expenditure:
  • A port with an annualnet profit of ₹100 crores or less can fix between 3% - 5%for CSR expenses. Similarly, ports with anet profit between ₹100 crores to ₹500 crores annually, can fix its CSR expensesbetween 2% and 3%of its net profit. For ports, whose annualnet profit is above ₹500 crores per year, the CSR expenses can be between5% and 2% of its net profit.
  • 20% of CSR expenses must be earmarked to Sainik Kalyan Board at district level, National Maritime Heritage Complex and National Youth Development Fund.
  • 78% of fundsshould be released for thesocial & environmental welfare of the community.
  • A sum of2% total CSR expensehas beenearmarked for monitoring of the projects under the CSR programmes by the Ports.
• Implementation:
  • Theimplementation and monitoringof CSR projects will beoverseen by a Corporate Social Responsibility Committee constituted in each major port.
  • The Committee shall be headed by the Dy. Chairperson of the Major Port and shall have 2 other Members.
  • Each major port shall prepare a Corporate Social Responsibility Plan for every financial year and integrate its CSR in Business Plan with the social and environmental concerns related to the business of the entity.
  • CSR Budget will be mandatorily created through a Board Resolution as a percentage of net profit.
  • India has 13 major ports and 205 notified minor and intermediate ports.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1935698

Why in News: The Department of Expenditure under the Finance Ministry of India has approved capital investment proposals of Rs. 56,415 crores for 16 states in the current financial year 2023-24.

Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2023-24 Scheme:

• The scheme wasannounced in the Union Budget 2023-24to give special assistance to the State Governments in the form of a50-year interest-free loanupto an overallsum of Rs. 1.3 lakh croreduringthe FY 2023-24.
• The Scheme for financial assistance to States for capital investment/expenditure,first instituted by the Ministry of Finance in 2020-21 in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic. The flexibility and simplicity of the scheme design have earned praise from states.
• Objective of the Scheme:
  • The objective of the scheme is to have ahigher multiplier effecton the economy by stimulating demand and creating jobs.
  • It also aims toaccelerate the projectsunderJal Jeevan MissionandPradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojanaby providing funds for meeting the state share.
• Components of the scheme: The scheme haseight parts.
  • Part – I: It is thelargest with allocation of Rs. 1 lakh croreallocated amongst states in proportion to their share of central taxes and duties as per theaward of 15^thFinance Commission.
  • Part – II: It provides incentives to statesfor scrapping of old vehicles and setting up of automated vehicle testing facilities. Rs 3,000 crore has been allocated for this.
  • Part – III & IVaims at providingincentives to States for reforms in Urban Planning and Urban Finance.
  • Part – V: It provides funds forincreasing the housing stock for police personnel and their familieswithin the police stations in urban areas.
  • Part – VI: It promotes national integration,Make in India and One District One Product (ODOP)by promoting cultural diversity and local products throughUnity Mall Projects.
  • Part – VII: It provides financial assistance to states forsetting up libraries with digital infrastructure at Panchayats and Ward levels. Rs. 5,000 crores is provided for this part.

Capital Expenditure (Capex):

• It includesmoney spent by the government on acquisition, construction, or improvement of physical assetssuch as infrastructure, buildings, health and education facilities, repayment of loans, etc.
• It islong-term in nature which leads to the creation of assetsand allows the economy to generate revenue for many years.
• Effective capital expenditureis defined as the sum of capital expenditure and grants for creation of capital assets.
• The capital expenditure presented in the budgetdoes not include the spending by the government on creating capital assets through grants-in-aid to states and other agencies.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1935378

Why in News: Recently, seven products from Uttar Pradesh have got the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag.

About GI Tag:

• A geographical indication (GI) tag is aname or sign used on certain products that correspond to a specific geographical location or origin.
• It ensures that only the authorised users or those residing in the geographical territory are allowed to use the popular product name.
• Its validity is for10 years.

Legal Framework and Governing Laws:

• Geographical Indicators are covered as an element ofIntellectual Property Rights (IPRs)under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
• They are also covered under the WTO agreement onTrade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)
• It is also defined in theGeneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications.
• In India, theGeographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications.
• This Act is administered by theController General of Patents, Design and Trademarkswho is the Registrar of Geographical Indications.
• The GI registry is located atChennai.

Products that got GI tag:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/seven-products-from-uttar-pradesh-get-geographical-indication-tag/article67016530.ece#:~

Why in news?Recently, Greedflation is in the news due to increasing inflation in India and around the world.

About:

• Greedflation is a term that describes asituation where inflation is driven by excessive greed and speculation rather than by supply and demand factors.
• It occurs when investors, consumers and businesses expect prices to rise continuously and act accordingly, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy.
• Instead of the traditional wage-price spiral, it is the profit-price spiral that drives inflation.
• In developed countries like Europe and the US, there is a growing consensus that greedflation is a significant factor contributing to inflation.
• Impact of Greedflation:
  • Itleads to higher inflationary pressures, financial strain on individuals, income inequality, social unrest and reduced purchasing power.
  • It undermines trust in businesses, distorts market dynamics, and hampers economic stability and growth.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/explainspeaking-greedflation-inflation-india-explained-8687194/

In News:Power ministry establishes UTPRERAK, a Centre of Excellence to Accelerate Adoption of Energy Efficient Technologies in Indian Industry.

About

• UTPRERAK has been set up by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).
• The Centre would implement and support projects in areas such as training/capacity building, showcase for energy-efficient technologies, information centre and knowledge repository etc.
• Centre is mandated to become the key reference and resource institution on industrial energy-efficient technologies.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1935484

In News:Agriculture Ministry Collaborates with Pixxel Space India which will focus on leveraging sample hyperspectral data from Pixxel’s pathfinder satellites to develop an analytics model.

About

• The Ministry of Agriculture has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a private company to utilize High-Resolution Spectroscopy (HRS) data for tasks such as crop mapping, distinguishing different stages of crops,and monitoring crop health.
• HRS, also referred to as imaging spectroscopy, involves the extraction of valuable information fromobjects or landscapes on the Earth's surface through radiance captured by sensorson airborne or spaceborne platforms.
• Unlike traditional remote sensing, which captures data in a limited number of discrete spectral bands,HRS collects data across numerous narrow and contiguous bands.
• This enables the acquisition ofhighly detailed spectral information for precise location identificationwithin the scene.

https://smestreet.in/sectors/agriculture/agriculture-ministry-collaborates-with-pixxel-space-india/

In News:Recently, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways said India and Russia are keen to make the Chennai – Vladivostok maritime route operational, and a stakeholder has been scheduled in September.

About

• The Chennai-Vladivostok maritime route is a proposed sea route connecting the Indian port city ofChennai and the Russian port city of Vladivostok.
• The route is approximately 5,600 nautical miles (10,300 km) long and passes through theSea of Japan, the South China Sea, and the Strait of Malacca.
• The aim of the route is to increase bilateral trade between India and Russia, as well as to provide India with access to the Far East.
• The route is expected to take only 12 days, compared to the current route's duration of 32 days.

Benefits of using the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime route:

• It is shorter than the current route, which means that it will take less time and cost less money to transport goods between the two countries.
• The route passes through less congested waters, which means that there is less risk of delays.
• The route passes through waters that are not controlled by China, which gives India more options for trade.

https://indiashippingnews.com/india-and-russia-aim-to-establish-chennai-vladivostok-maritime-route-sarbananda-sonowal/

In News:SEBI releases compliance reports for emerging investment vehicles - REITs and InvITs.

About compliance rules for REITs and InvITs:

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently released compliance rules forReal Estate Investment Trusts(REITs) andInfrastructure Investment Trusts(InvITs).
• These compliance rules focus ondisclosure formats for governance and annual secretarial compliance
• Major highlights:
  • REITs and InvITs will have todisclose the name ofinvestment managers, board of directors' composition, and committee detailson a quarterly basis.
  • Investment managerswill be required to submit aquarterly compliance report to stock exchangeswithin 21 daysfrom the end of each quarter.
  • The compliancereport should be signedby the compliance officer or the CEO of the investment manager.
  • Investment managers have also beenmandated to submit Annual secretarial compliance reportswith SEBI.
  • A practicingcompany secretarymust beappointed annually to examinecompliance and submit report to the investment managerdisclosing compliance, deviations, and observations.
• The compliance rules will beeffective from the financial year 2024 onwardsand will promotetransparency, accountability and investor’s confidence.
• Overall, SEBI's compliance rules will helpstrengthen the regulatory frameworkfor REITs and InvITs, besidesenhancing the functioningof these investment vehicles.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/sebi-releases-compliance-rules-for-reits-invits/articleshow/101291668.cms

In News:World Bank Group Announces Comprehensive Toolkit to Support Countries After Natural Disasters

About World Bank toolkit to support countries after Natural Disasters

• TheWorld Bank Grouphas recently introduced acomprehensive toolkitto assist countries in responding to natural disasters and other crises effectively.
• The toolkit includes arange of measuresto supportcrisis preparedness, response, and recovery.
• These measures are aimed atalleviating the financial burdenon countries and enabling them to prioritize the urgent needs of their people during times of crisis.
• Important features:
  • Climate Resilient Debt Clauses: Provision of debt relief through Climate Resilient Debt Clauses, allowing vulnerable countries to pause debt repayments during crises or catastrophes.
  • Rapid Response Option: The World Bank Group will also offer countries the flexibility to redirect a portion of their funds for emergency response, ensuring immediate access to cash.
  • Prevention and Preparedness: World Bank Group to link investments in prevention and preparedness with financing for catastrophe and crisis response support.
  • Supporting Private Sector Clients: Taking measures to backstop development projects with private sector support, enabling businesses to sustain operations and protect jobs during crises.
  • Embedding Catastrophe Insurance: Working towards building enhanced catastrophe insurance products that provideresources for disaster-stricken countrieswithout adding to their debt burden.
• Overall, by implementing the toolkit will helpensure better crisis response, timely assistance,andsupport to the recovery process to countriesafter natural disasters and other emergencies.

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/factsheet/2023/06/22/comprehensive-toolkit-to-support-countries-after-natural-disasters#:

In News: Experts deliberate on the role of Punjab and Haryana to de-risk Indian economy, especially in an EL Nino year

About Role of Punjab and Haryana in de-risking the Indian Economy

• Punjab and Haryana, known as thebreadbasket states of India, play a crucial role in ensuring foodsecurity and de-riskingthe Indian economy.
• Assured irrigation accessin these states makes themreliable producers of rice and wheat, especially during poor monsoon years.
• Limited spread ofGreen Revolutionin other states has led to thedecline inPunjab and Haryana'scombined share in procurementover thelast two decades:
  • Share of Punjab and Haryana intotal wheat procurementfor the Central foodgrain pool has decreased from90% to around 70%
  • Their share inrice procurementhasfallen from 43-44% to 28-29%.
• Poor monsoons and unfavorable weather conditions in other states havehighlighted the significance of Punjab and Haryana's contributionto wheat and rice production.
• El Niñowhich is often associated withmonsoon failuresin India,may impact the ongoing monsoonseason,emphasizing the role of these statesin mitigating risks.
• Important factors:
  • Punjab and Haryana farmers have assured access to irrigation,safeguarding their crop productioneven in the event of a poor monsoon.
  • Paddy cultivationin Punjab benefitsfrom groundwater irrigation, which tends to increase yieldsduring low rainfall years.
• The states' reliable production ofcontributes to national food security, especially in times of precarious government stocks and rising global rice prices.
• Even though policymakers and economists havesuggested diversifying cropsin Punjab and Haryana, theirdependence on rice and wheat provesbeneficial in the current scenario.
• Overall, there is aneed to diversify the procurement process to other statessuch asMadhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Uttar Pradeshin an attempt toreduce the dependencyon Punjab and Haryanafor de-risking the Indian economy.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/how-punjab-and-haryana-may-de-risk-indian-economy-in-bad-monsoon-season-8685949/

Why in News:Recently, India and USA have agreed to end 6 trade disputes at the WTO.

Resolved disputes by India and USA:

• Initiated by India–
  • Renewable energy sector measures.
  • Measures on Steel and Aluminium products.
  • Countervailing measures on some hot–rolled carbon steel flat products from India.
• Initiated by USA–
  • Export-related measures (India’s support to its export sector under different schemes).
  • Some measures related to solar cells and modules.
  • Additional duties on some products from the USA.

Significance of resolution of disputes:

• It is likely to contribute tothe promotion of trade.
• It willenhance India’s exports to the USA(In 2022-23, the USA was the largest trading partner of India with bilateral trade of $128.8 billion).
• It willpromote a 2+2 dialoguebetween the two nations.

WTO dispute resolution process:

1. Bilateral consultationsbetween the parties.
2. Establishment of adispute settlement panelif consultations fail.
3. Adjudication by panels.

Appellate Mechanism:

• The ruling and reports of the panels can be challenged by WTO’s appellate body.
• Theappellate body is not functioningbecause the USA has been blocking the appointment of members.
• As an alternative option, aMulti-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA)has been formed by the members.
• MPIA was formed in 2020.
• Any member can join MPIA by notifying the Dispute Settlement Body.India is not a member yet.

https://www.thehindu.com/business/india-us-decision-to-end-wto-disputes-to-help-boost-bilateral-trade-experts/article67000615.ece

In News: Experts deliberate on the role of Punjab and Haryana to de-risk Indian economy, especially in an EL Nino year

About Role of Punjab and Haryana in de-risking the Indian Economy

• Punjab and Haryana, known as thebreadbasket states of India, play a crucial role in ensuring foodsecurity and de-riskingthe Indian economy.
• Assured irrigation accessin these states makes themreliable producers of rice and wheat, especially during poor monsoon years.
• Limited spread ofGreen Revolutionin other states has led to thedecline inPunjab and Haryana'scombined share in procurementover thelast two decades:
  • Share of Punjab and Haryana intotal wheat procurementfor the Central foodgrain pool has decreased from90% to around 70%
  • Their share inrice procurementhasfallen from 43-44% to 28-29%.
• Poor monsoons and unfavorable weather conditions in other states havehighlighted the significance of Punjab and Haryana's contributionto wheat and rice production.
• El Niñowhich is often associated withmonsoon failuresin India,may impact the ongoing monsoonseason,emphasizing the role of these statesin mitigating risks.
• Important factors:
  • Punjab and Haryana farmers have assured access to irrigation,safeguarding their crop productioneven in the event of a poor monsoon.
  • Paddy cultivationin Punjab benefitsfrom groundwater irrigation, which tends to increase yieldsduring low rainfall years.
• The states' reliable production ofcontributes to national food security, especially in times of precarious government stocks and rising global rice prices.
• Even though policymakers and economists havesuggested diversifying cropsin Punjab and Haryana, theirdependence on rice and wheat provesbeneficial in the current scenario.
• Overall, there is aneed to diversify the procurement process to other statessuch asMadhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Uttar Pradeshin an attempt toreduce the dependencyon Punjab and Haryanafor de-risking the Indian economy.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/how-punjab-and-haryana-may-de-risk-indian-economy-in-bad-monsoon-season-8685949/

In News:World Bank Group Announces Comprehensive Toolkit to Support Countries After Natural Disasters

About World Bank toolkit to support countries after Natural Disasters

• TheWorld Bank Grouphas recently introduced acomprehensive toolkitto assist countries in responding to natural disasters and other crises effectively.
• The toolkit includes arange of measuresto supportcrisis preparedness, response, and recovery.
• These measures are aimed atalleviating the financial burdenon countries and enabling them to prioritize the urgent needs of their people during times of crisis.
• Important features:
  • Climate Resilient Debt Clauses: Provision of debt relief through Climate Resilient Debt Clauses, allowing vulnerable countries to pause debt repayments during crises or catastrophes.
  • Rapid Response Option: The World Bank Group will also offer countries the flexibility to redirect a portion of their funds for emergency response, ensuring immediate access to cash.
  • Prevention and Preparedness: World Bank Group to link investments in prevention and preparedness with financing for catastrophe and crisis response support.
  • Supporting Private Sector Clients: Taking measures to backstop development projects with private sector support, enabling businesses to sustain operations and protect jobs during crises.
  • Embedding Catastrophe Insurance: Working towards building enhanced catastrophe insurance products that provideresources for disaster-stricken countrieswithout adding to their debt burden.
• Overall, by implementing the toolkit will helpensure better crisis response, timely assistance,andsupport to the recovery process to countriesafter natural disasters and other emergencies.

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/factsheet/2023/06/22/comprehensive-toolkit-to-support-countries-after-natural-disasters#:

Why in News:Recently, the Economist Intelligence Unit released Global Liveability Index 2023.

About Global Liveability Index:

• It is released by theEconomist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
• EIU (founded in 1946 and HQ: London) is the research and analysis division ofthe Economist Group.
• Living conditions in 172 cities in the world have been rated based onfive categories: Stability; Healthcare; Culture and Environment; Education; Infrastructure.

Observations Related to Developing Countries' Progress:

• According to the report, developing nations have experiencedgradual improvements in their livability rankings,with significant progress seen in Asia-Pacific cities. In contrast, Western European cities have seen a decline in their rankings for the year 2023.
• The report emphasizes theincreasing focus on healthcare and educationin countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, which indicates a positive trend toward better livability. However, it also highlights a decrease in stability scores due to civil unrest in specific regions of the world.

Key findings of the report:

• Vienna(Austria),Copenhagen(Denmark), andMelbourne(Australia) are thetop 3most liveable cities in the world in 2023.
• Damascus(Syria) – 173^rd,Tripoli(Libya) – 172^nd, andAlgiers(Algeria) – 171^stare thebottom 3 citiesin the list.
• From India: New Delhi and Mumbai (141^stposition), Chennai (144^thposition), Ahmedabad (147^thposition) and Bengaluru (148^thposition).
• From Asia: OnlyOsaka(Japan) – 9^thposition among the top 10 cities.
• Theaverage index scorethis year is2(out of 100), higher than last year (73.2). This increase reflectsglobal recovery from the pandemic.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/destination-of-the-week/most-livable-cities-in-the-world-2023-8679205/

Why in News:Recently, theWorld Economic Forum (WEF)released its 17^thedition of Global Gender Gap Report 2023.

About Global Gender Gap Index:

• It is an annual index that started published in 2006 by WEF to measure Gender Equality in a country.
• It considersfour key dimensions:
• Economic Participation and Opportunity;
• Educational Attainment;
• Health and Survival;
• Political Empowerment.
• It provides scores between 0 and 1, where 0 shows complete imparity and 1 is full gender parity.

Key findings of the 2023 report:

• Iceland (91.2%) ranked 1and is the only country having closed more than 90% of the gender gap.
• Norway (87.9%) ranked 2 and Finland (86.3%) ranked 3.

India’s Performance:

• India ranked127 out of 146countries (an improvement of 8 ranks from last year).
• India has closed 64.3% of the overall gender gap.
• Political empowerment – India got 25.3% parity (15.1% of parliamentarians are women) which is the highest for India since 2006.
• India’s neighbours: Bangladesh – 59; Bhutan – 103; China – 107; Sri Lanka – 115; Nepal – 116; Pakistan – 142.

Challenges for India:

• In Economic participation and Opportunity India could reach only 36.7%.
• There is a slight drop in the women’s representation in senior positions and technical roles.
• India has relatively low scores in the Health and Survival because of the skewed sex ratios.

Suggestions:

• To increase women’s economic participation in leadership positions in business as well as government.
• Collective and coordinated actions should be taken by private and public sector leaders to accelerate toward gender parity.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/india-climbs-eight-places-to-127-in-global-gender-index-says-wef-report/articleshow/101162655.cms

In News:A report of Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), highlights thesignificance of market accessfor the success of India’s momentum towards organic and natural farming.

About the Report:

• To understand the role of three important stakeholders i.e. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO), food retail corporations and state governments, theCSE identified six cases pan Indiato illustrate means to provide better market access to make organic and natural farming.
• The report highlights how variousstakeholders procure, process and sell organic and natural producewhile trying to ensure remunerative prices to farmers and also highlights the challenges faced by them.

Key Findings of the Report:

• For a sustainable and large-scale transition, two basic issues need to be addressed
  • Knowledge of practisingorganic or natural farming to farmers,
  • Effective access to markets that pay remunerative prices.
• Government plans to create more farmer producer organisations (FPOs), shows recognition of the issue of market access. Additionally, food retail corporations and state government programmes have helped connect farmers with consumers.
• Bhoomgaadi, a farmers’ collective from Chhattisgarh, leveraged the pan India presence of Tribal Cooperative Marketing Federation of India to market their products.
• Sresta Bioproducts, Hyderabad used online selling effectively as well as its wide network of processing facilities to increase its market access.
• Bigbasket, an online supermarket, demonstrated increased sales through an efficient supply chain, where “organically grown” fruits and vegetables reach the doorstep of the consumer in reduced time.

Recommendation of the report:

• Coherence in different certification systemslike Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) and third-party National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) certification as acceptability of PGS certification is facing difficulty.
• Expansion of value addition and move towards shorter supply chains for better price realisation by farmers.
• Providing similarbenefits to organic farmers which conventional farmers getin terms of input subsidies.
• Unlocking consumer demandis the key to stabilising prices of organic produce.

Source:https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/agriculture/market-access-critical-for-india-s-sustainable-agri-transition-cse-report-90208

In News:Union government announces theStar Rating Registration processforCoal and Lignite Mines

About Star Rating Registration Process:

• Ministry of Coalhas recently started the Star Rating Registration process for Coal and Lignite Mines for thefinancial year 2022-23.
• The objective of the Star Rating policy is topromote competitiveness and sustainable miningpractices among mines.
• The registration processevaluates mines based on compliancewith statutory provisions,adoption of advanced mining technology, andeconomic achievements.
• The evaluation is done acrossseven key parameters, including:
  • Mining Operations, Environment-related parameters, Adoption of Technologies, Best Mining Practices.
  • Economic performance, Rehabilitation & Resettlement, Worker-related Compliance, and Safety & security.
• Participating mines will be encouraged to undertake acomprehensive self-evaluation processandtop 10% of the highest-scoring mines will be selectedfor further validation.
• All participantswill have the opportunity toreview other minesafter which aCoal Controller reviewwill be conducted,ensuring transparency and impartialityin the assessment.
• The ratings awarded will be in therange from Five Star to NO Star,providing a comprehensive assessment of each mine's achievements.
• Overall, the Star Rating Registration process will go a long way to help elevate the overall performance and sustainabilityof coal and lignite mining in the country.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1933999

In News: United Nations(UN) adopts an international treaty on Protecting High Seas

About UN adoption of High Sea Treaty:

• TheUnited Nations (UN)has recently adopted the ground-breaking High Seas Treaty whichestablishes a framework for governing activitiesininternational waters.
• The High Seas Treaty is thefirst-ever international attempt to govern activitiesininternational waters,which make up aroundtwo-thirds of the world's oceans.
• The treaty addresses the pressingissue of overfishing, mining, and oil extractionin the high seas, which have beencausing significant damage to oceanic ecosystems.
• Nearly 200 nationshavesignedtheBiodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty, which represents a major step forward in protecting marine life and biodiversity.
• The main objective of the treaty isto prevent species extinctionsand safeguard the health of the oceans by implementing measures to regulate harmful activities.
• Important features:
  • The High Seas Treatyestablishes marine protected areasin international waters,extending beyond the coastal areasprotected by individual countries.
  • The agreementincludes guidelines for assessing the environmental impactsof activities such as fishing and mining in the high seas, ensuring greater transparency and accountability.
  • A new body called theConference of Partiesto be establishedto enforce compliancewith the treaty and overseeing the implementation of its terms.
• Previously, theUN Convention on the Law of the Sea was adopted in 1982to extend governance into the ocean, focusing on waters within12 nautical miles of coastlines.
• The treatystill needs to be ratified by at least 60 memberstates to come into effect, including approval from the US Senate, as the US is not part of the Law of the Sea.
• Overall, the adoption of the High Seas Treatywill helpaddress the issue of regulation and protection of the high seas for amore sustainable and responsible approachto activities in international waters.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/katherinehamilton/2023/06/19/un-adopts-first-ever-international-treaty-protecting-high-seas/?sh=3a190fc01e45

In News: According to theWorld Bank’s latest Migration and Development Brief, India is expected to post agrowth of just 0.2% in remittance inflows in 2023, after registering a record-high growth of 24% to reach $111 billion, in 2022.

Trends of Indian Remittance growth:

• Almost36% of India’s remittances are from the high-skilled and largely high-tech Indian migrantsin three high-income destinations i.e. USA, United Kingdom, and Singapore.
• In 2022,India posted more than 24% growthin its inward remittances to reach $111 billion, higher than the World Bank’s earlier estimate of $100 billion.
• The remittance in 2022 increased because India’s other high-income destinations also had favorable economic conditions.High energy prices and low food price inflation in the GCC countries, had positive spillovers for less-skilled South Asian migrants.
• High energy prices favored employment in GCC countries, while GCC governments’ special measures to curb food price inflation shielded migrants’ remitting potential.
• The top five recipient countries for remittances in 2022 wereIndia($111 billion),Mexico($61 billion),China($51 billion),Philippines($38 billion), and Pakistan ($30 billion).

Reasons for decline in Remittance growth:

• Slower growth in OECD economies, especially in the tech sector in the US could affect the demand for IT workers and will impact the flow of remittances in 2023.
• Limited demand for migrant workers in GCC countrieswhere declining oil prices are expected to slow down growth from 5.3% in 2022 to 3% in 2023.
• High Base effect: Remittance growth is expected to be the lowest in South Asia (0.3%), because of the high base in 2022 along with slowing demand for highly skilled IT workers in the US and Europe.
• Increase in Remittance costs: Remittance costs remained high with the global average cost of sending $200 being 6.2% in the last quarter of 2022 up from 6%.
• Weak balance-of-payments conditions and exchange controlsare expected to divert remittances to informal money transfer channels in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

Future trends of Remittances in other regions:

• Remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries areexpected to moderate to 1.4%in 2023, resulting in total inflows of $656 billion.
• Slowdown in High income countries: Central banks’ tight monetary stances to counter inflation, limited fiscal buffers to absorb shocks amid historically high debt levels, and continued global uncertainty due to Russia’s invasion are likely to slump growth in high-income countries.
• Lower fuel pricesin 2023 will further dampen demand for migrants in the GCC countries, reducing remittance flows to East Asia and the Pacific Islands.
• Global slowdown in manufacturingwill reduce the demand for manufactured goods with implications for East Asian migrants employed in the export factories of China, Malaysia, and Thailand.
• In Europe and Central Asia, the growth inremittances is expected to fall to 1% due to a high base effect, lingering weakness in flows to Ukraine and Russia, and a weaker Russian ruble against the US dollar
• Remittances may recover somewhat in the Middle East and North Africawith a decline in oil prices, as remittances to Egypt are expected to rebound.

Significance of Remittances:

• After Covid-19, remittances are being viewed as acritical financial inflow, and an important source of foreign exchangefor several countries including those in South Asia.
• Remittances measured almost326% of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in 2022, up from 247% in 2019.
• Remittances arehighly complementary to government cash transfersand essential to households during times of need.
• For India, the largest global recipient, remittances represented3% of GDPin 2022.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/remittances-growth-2023-slow-8664191/

Why in news?Recently, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has released the National Time Release Study (NTRS) 2023 report, which measures the cargo release time at various ports in India.

About:

• The reportaims to assess the progress made towards the National Trade Facilitation Action Plan (NTFAP) targets, identify the impact of various trade facilitation initiatives, and identify the challenges to more expeditious reduction in release time.
• The study was conducted based on a sampleperiod of January 1-7, 2023, comparing the performance with the corresponding periods of 2021 and 2022.
• The Time Release Study (TRS) is aperformance measurement tool that quantifies the time taken for cargo release at customs stations.
  • It measures the duration from cargo arrival to its out-of-charge for domestic clearance in imports and from cargo arrival to carrier departure in exports.
• The study coversseaports, air cargo complexes (ACCs), inland container depots (ICDs), and integrated check posts (ICPs),which handle a significant proportion of entry and shipping bills in the country.

Key Highlights of NTRS 2023:

• The findings highlight the importance of the “Path to Promptness” strategy,which includesadvance filing of import documents, risk-based facilitation, and benefits for trusted clients.
  • Cargoes that incorporate all three features achieve the National Trade Facilitation Action Plan release time target across all port categories.
• In line with the government’s focus on export promotion,NTRS 2023 places greater emphasis on measuring export release time.
• NTRS 2023 recognises thedistinction between regulatory clearance(also referred as customs release), which gets completed with the grant of Let Export Order (LEO)and the wider aspect of physical clearancewhich occurs on completion of logistics processes with departure of the carrier with the goods.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1932587

In News:Government plans to bring new measures to revive the wind energy sector by 2030

About Wind Energy in India:

• India aims to build140 gigawatts of wind capacity by 2030,part of its goal toinstall 500 GWof renewablesby the end of the decade.
• Wind energy has thepotential to power about 100 million homesin India andcan createabout150,000 jobs by 2030, up from 26,000 in 2021.
• Challenges:
• Wind power projectsrequire technical qualifications and skills, making themmore labor-intensivethan solar energy projects.
• Wind sector is hindered by challenges including a lack of skills in areas such asmarine bed surveys, offshore wind plant construction, downsizing, and stunted growth.
• The wind power industry has also faced challenges due to thecompetitive bidding processanddisruptions caused by COVID-19.
• Steps:
  • India isfocusing on developing offshore wind farmsto boost the wind supply chain and installation industry.
  • Government hasscrapped the bidding processand announcednew renewable energy parkstomeet its renewable energy targets.
  • India is alsoinvesting in skills developmentandtrainingto bridge thetalent demand-supply gapin the wind energy sector.
• Reviving the domestic wind marketrequires a strong and stable policy framework, incentivizingmanufacturers, and restoringmanufacturing capacity.
• India's wind energy push has thepotential to create green jobs, contribute to the clean energy transition, and help achieve the country's renewable energy goals.
• Overall, wind energy plays a significant role in India's renewable energy sector andis crucial for India's energy transition and achieving net-zero emissions.

In News: World Bank Report suggests that subsidies don't help Fight Climate Change

About Consequence of Subsidies:

• A new World Bank report highlights thenegative consequences of inefficient subsidiesin agriculture,fishing, and fossil fuel sectors.
• Major findings:
  • As per findings, countriesin 2021 spent $577 billion on subsidies to lower the price of polluting fuelslike oil, gas, and coal.
  • The report reveals thatsubsidies in agriculture, fishing, and fossil fuels exceed $7 trillion, equivalent to8% of global GDP.
  • Explicitagricultural subsidies amount to $635 billion per yearin countries with accessible data, and possiblyover $1 trillion globally.
  • Thefisheries sectorreceives an estimated$35.4 billion per year in subsidies, contributing to
• Challenges:
  • Subsidies for fossil fuelscontribute to higher greenhouse gas emissionsand exacerbateclimate change.
  • Theyencourage the overuse of polluting fuelsanddelay the transition to cleanandrenewable energy sources.
  • They canlead to overexploitationof natural resources, such as fisheries, causingenvironmental degradation.
  • Subsidies put astrain on government budgetsand contribute to fiscal deficits besidescrowding out public spendingin crucial areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
  • They canexacerbate income inequalityand maynot effectively reach the intended beneficiaries,leading to unequal distribution of benefits.
  • Subsidies also createsdependency on government support,hindering self-sufficiencyand
  • Market signals and price mechanisms are altered by subsidies leading to inefficient resource allocation and unsustainable practices.
  • All leads torise in Opportunity costsfrom the foregone benefits and potential economic growth that could have been achieved.
• Step ahead:
  • Repurposing subsidiescanfinance just transition activities and improve quality of life, as they have significant environmental impacts.
  • Availability, affordability, and accessibility of cleaner alternativescan be addressed to increase theeffectiveness of subsidy reform.

Overall,governments should consider the long-term effectsandopportunity costsof implementing or continuing subsidiesand should strive for a balance between support and market efficiency.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/world/subsidies-don-t-help-fight-climate-change-world-bank-report-finds-90064

In News:Government releases draft guidelines for Registration of Bio-stimulants

About Guidelines for registration of bio-stimulants:

• Ministry of Agriculturehas recently released a draft guideline for the registration of various categories of bio-stimulants.

Major Highlights:

What is Bio-stimulant?

• A bio-stimulant is defined as asubstance or micro-organismthatstimulates physiological processesinplants, enhances nutrient uptake, growth, yield,andstress tolerance.
• They donot include pesticidesor plant growth regulatorsregulated under the Insecticides Act, 1968.
• Common bio-stimulantsincludes:
  • Seaweed extracts, Humic substances, Amino acids
  • Microbial inoculantssuch as mycorrhizal fungi, rhizobacteria
  • Plant growth-promoting substanceslike cytokinin, auxins, gibberellins, and brassinosteroids etc.

https://www.business-standard.com/industry/agriculture/agri-min-issues-draft-guidelines-for-registration-of-bio-stimulants-123061400625_1.html

In News:The recently releasedWorld Bank’s Logistic Performance Index (LPI) Report 2023has ranked India at22^ndposition globally on the International Shipments” category, up from the 44th position in 2014. Moreover, India has also secured 38^thrank on the Logistics Performance Index scores.

Reasons for better performance:

• Dwell time:The time vessels spend in port actively loading or unloading the cargo has seen substantial reduction, reaching an optimum level of 3 days vis-à-vis 4 days in UAE, South Africa and 10 days in USA.
• Port operational efficiency-India’s average turnaround time (TRT) is of only 0.9 day vis-à-vis 1.4 days for Belgium, Germany, UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, New Zealand and 1.5 days for USA.
• Increased investments in the upgradation of infrastructure in the ports and shipping sectorwith consistent focus on improvements in port efficiency and productivity through reforms, induction of new technologies, a greater thrust on public-private partnership has also improved the performance.
• Increase in Capacity: The capacity at 12 major ports has increased from 871 million metric tonnes (MMT) in 2015 to 1,617 MMT in 2023. The total capacity has also gone up from 1,560 MMT in 2015 to more than 2,600 MMT
• Increase in value of operationalization of PPP projects in Major Ports: There has been a 150% increase in value of operationalization of PPP which has contributed significantly to increased operational efficiencies.
• Decarbonisation in the maritime sector: There has been a 14-fold increase in the use of renewable energy in major ports over the last 8 years. Four of the major ports now generate surplus renewable energy.

Various initiative by Government in the Maritime Sector:

• Harit Sagar Green Portguidelines issued by the government is an important step towards green ports and aims to bring about a paradigm shift towards safe, efficient and sustainable ports while implementing sound environmental practices.
• Launch of National LogisticsPortalhas led to increase in efficiency of ports. It is a single-window digital platform for all stakeholders including those engaged in cargo services, carrier services, banking and financial services, and government and regulatory agencies.
• Sagar Setu appfacilitates seamless movement of goods and services in ports while substantially enhancing the ease of doing business.
• Important Legislative reforms:
• Major Port Authorities Act, 2021grants greater autonomy to major ports.
  • The Marine Aids to Navigation Act, 2021provides for increased safety and efficiency in vessel traffic services and training and certification at par with international standards.
  • The Indian Vessels Act, 2021brings uniformity in law and standardised provisions across all inland waterways in the country.
  • The Indian Ports Act 1908is also being reviewed by the government to replace it with a new law which is in tune with present-day requirements
• Maritime India Vision (MIV)-2030launched in 2020, is a ten-year blueprint for the maritime sector aiming to give a fillip to the shipbuilding industry and encourage cruise tourism in India.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/how-india-can-become-a-global-maritime-power-by-2030-8663367/

Why in news?Recently, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed non-bank Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) issuers to issue e-RUPI vouchers.

About:

• e-RUPI is acontactless cashless voucher which a user gets on his or her phone in the form of an SMS or QR code.
• The users will beable to redeem the voucherwithout needing a card, digital payments app, or internet banking access,at any centre that accepts it.
• Thesystem is pre-paid in natureand hence, assures timely payment to the service provider without the involvement of any intermediary.
• The cap on the amount for e-RUPI vouchers issued by thegovernment has been set at Rs 1,00,000 per voucher.
• The central bank has alsoallowed the use of the e-RUPI voucher multiple times(until the amount of the voucher is completely redeemed).
• Itensures an easy, contactless process that is operable on basic phones also.
• For instance
  • If the central government wants to cover a particular treatment of an employee in a specified hospital, it can issue an e-RUPI voucher for the determined amount through a partner bank. The employee will receive an SMS or a QR Code on his feature phone/smartphone. He/she can go to the specified hospital, avail of the services and pay through the e-RUPI voucher received on his phone.

More Information

• At present,purpose-specific vouchers are issued by banks on behalf of central and state governmentsand to a limited extent on behalf of corporates.
• Now, it isproposed to expand the scope and reach of e-RUPI vouchers by
  • permitting non-bank Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) issuers to issue e-RUPI vouchersand
  • enabling theissuance of e-RUPI vouchers on behalf of individuals,
• It is also proposed tosimplify the process of issuance and redemption.
• These measures will make the benefits of e-RUPI digital voucher accessible to a wider set of users and further deepen the penetration of digital payments in the country.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/save/purpose-specific-prepaid-e-rupi-vouchers-can-now-be-issued-for-individuals-by-ppis/articleshow/100838589.cms

Why in news?The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) will create a “common panel” consisting of registered insolvency professionals (IPs).

About:

• The purpose of this panel is to allow the authority to choose IPs from the list to oversee various cases of resolution or liquidation.
• At present
  • The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) is required to recommend the IP's name only after receiving reference from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in a corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP).
• Proposed move
  • The proposed move will "avoid administrative delays" in the appointment of IPs and help expedite insolvency resolution.
  • This list of IPs will also be submitted with the Debt Recovery Tribunal for handling individual insolvency cases.
  • The board will prepare a common panel of IPs for appointment as IRP (interim resolution professional), liquidator, RP (resolution professionals) and BT (bankruptcy trustee) and share the same with the AA (adjudicating authority)".

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/ibbi-to-form-common-panel-of-insolvency-professionals/articleshow/100974639.cms

In News:The Government has imposed limits on the stock of wheat that can beheld by traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers and processors.The objective is to manage the overall food security and to prevent hoarding and unscrupulous speculation

About the orders issued by the government on wheat stocks:

• The permissible stock that traders/wholesalers can hold is3,000 metric tonnes. Retailers and big chain retailers can hold up to10 metric tonnes at each of their outlets, while the latter can hold up to 3,000 metric tonnes at all their depots combined.
• The mentioned entities are expected todeclare their stock positions and update them regularlyon the Department of Food and Public Distribution’s portal.
• If the stock held by them is higher than the limit, theywill have 30 days from the day of issueof notification to bring the same under the prescribed limits.
• The government has also decided tooffload 15 lakh tonnes of wheat from the central pool via the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) to flour mills, private traders, bulk buyers, and manufacturers of wheat products through e-auction, to control the retail prices of wheat.
• The order stood effective with immediate effect until theend of March next year.
• Government is also planning to offload rice under OMSS to moderate its prices

Why has the government issued these orders on wheat stocks?

• The orders have been issued in the backdrop of rising concerns about theoverall wheat output taking a hit after the unseasonal rains and hailstorms towards the end of Marchand early April alongsidehotter temperatures in February.
  • High temperature during flowering and maturing period leads to loss in yield. About23 lakh hectares of wheat crophas been damaged in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
• Lower production leads to higher prices of the crop which could in turn create conditions for local prices exceeding the government’s purchase prices and thus, creatingdifficulty for the government to stock up supplies.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/business/agri-business/explained-why-did-the-govt-impose-a-ceiling-on-wheat-stocks/article66969902.ece

Why in news?Recently, The Kari Ishad mango prominently grown in Ankola taluk of Uttara Kannada has bagged the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Government.

About:

• Ishad mango is grownpredominantly around Ankola, is tasty and contains a lot of pulp.
• It is said that the mango variety has beencultivated for the last 400 years.
• It hastwo variants — Kari Ishad, which has thin skin, more pulp and is sweeter, andBili Ishad, which has thick skin and less pulp and sweetness.
• TheKari Ishad is accepted as one of the finest quality mangoes due to its unique aroma, luscious taste, high amount of pulp, shape, and size.

GI tag:

• A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a signused on products that have a specific geographical originand possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
• The registration of a geographical indication isvalid for a period of 10 years.
• Itcan be renewedfrom time to time for a further period of 10 years each.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/kari-ishad-mango-of-ankola-in-uttar-karnataka-gets-gi-tag/article66899782.ece

Why in news?Recently, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed the Default loss guarantee (DLG) (also called First Loss Default Guarantee -FLDG) system in the digital lending space.

About:

• FLDG is alending model between a fintech and a regulated entity.
• It is a new technology thatseeks to improve and automate the deliveryanduse of financial services.
• It is asafety-net arrangement among banks, non-banking finance companies (NBFC), and lending service providers (LSPs),(popularly known as fintech players) in the digital lending space.
• Under this, a third party such as a financial technology (fintech) player (LSP) guarantees to compensate up to a certain percentage of default.
• Thefintech originates a loan and promises to compensate the partners up to a pre-decided percentage in case customers fail to repay.

New guidelines:

• The RBI permitted FLDG arrangements between banks and fintech or between two regulated entities (REs).
• The LSP-providing DLG must be incorporated as a company under the Companies Act, 2013.
• Banks and NBFCs should ensure that the total amount of DLG cover on any outstanding portfolio does not exceed 5% of the amount of that loan portfolio.

https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/economy/story/rbi-issues-guidelines-on-default-loss-guarantee-in-digital-lending-384839-2023-06-08#

In News: Union government of India inaugurates Global DPI Summit and Exhibition

About Global DPI Summit:

• Ministry of Electronics & IThas recently inauguratedGlobal DPI Summitwhich witnessed participation from around 50 countries and welcomed 150 foreign delegates.
• The focus of the summit was onDigital Public Infrastructure (DPI)and itsrole in driving digital transformationandinclusive development.
• The summit witnessed discussions on key topics such asDPI overview, digital identities, digital payments and financial inclusion,and DPI forjudicial systemsand regulations.
• The discussions explored the principles and design of DPI, includingopen standards, partnerships, interoperability, and low-cost solutions.
• The summit also highlighted successful digital solutions implementedat a population scale, with India signingMoUs with Armenia, Sierra Leone, and Surinameto share itsINDIA STACK experiences.
• TheGlobal DPI Exhibitionwas a significant part of the summit, showcasing14 experiencezonesondigital identity, fast payment, e-governance, agriculture, healthcare, and
• Overall, the summit's success highlights theincreasing recognition and importance of DPIin driving digital empowerment and inclusive growth on a global scale.

Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI)

• It refers to thefoundational digital infrastructure and servicesthat are essential forenabling digital transformationand promotinginclusive digital development in society.
• It encompasses thetechnological, policy,andgovernanceframeworks necessary to build and operate a robust digital ecosystem.
• Itsmajor componentsinclude: Digital Identity, connectivity and broadband Infrastructure, high-speed internet connectivity and broadband infrastructure and data exchange platforms etc.,

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1931731

In News: Union government of India inaugurates Global DPI Summit and Exhibition

About Global DPI Summit:

• Ministry of Electronics & IThas recently inauguratedGlobal DPI Summitwhich witnessed participation from around 50 countries and welcomed 150 foreign delegates.
• The focus of the summit was onDigital Public Infrastructure (DPI)and itsrole in driving digital transformationandinclusive development.
• The summit witnessed discussions on key topics such asDPI overview, digital identities, digital payments and financial inclusion,and DPI forjudicial systemsand regulations.
• The discussions explored the principles and design of DPI, includingopen standards, partnerships, interoperability, and low-cost solutions.
• The summit also highlighted successful digital solutions implementedat a population scale, with India signingMoUs with Armenia, Sierra Leone, and Surinameto share itsINDIA STACK experiences.
• TheGlobal DPI Exhibitionwas a significant part of the summit, showcasing14 experiencezonesondigital identity, fast payment, e-governance, agriculture, healthcare, and
• Overall, the summit's success highlights theincreasing recognition and importance of DPIin driving digital empowerment and inclusive growth on a global scale.

Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI)

• It refers to thefoundational digital infrastructure and servicesthat are essential forenabling digital transformationand promotinginclusive digital development in society.
• It encompasses thetechnological, policy,andgovernanceframeworks necessary to build and operate a robust digital ecosystem.
• Itsmajor componentsinclude: Digital Identity, connectivity and broadband Infrastructure, high-speed internet connectivity and broadband infrastructure and data exchange platforms etc.,

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1931731

In News:Reserve Bank of India (RBI) notifies 4 Key measures to strengthen Urban Co-operative Banks(UCBs) of India

About RBI’s Regulation for UCBs

• RBI has recently announced four key measures to strengthen,enhance operationsand support the growth of1,514 urban co-operative banks (UCBs)of India.

• Overall, these initiatives will enhance the role of UCBs and promote their development in alignment with the government's vision.

https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news/rbi-notifies-4-key-measures-to-strengthen-1-514-urban-co-operative-banks-123060900842_1.html

In News:Train tragedy and the electronic interlocking system in Indian railways

About Interlocking System in Indian Railways:

• The interlocking system isan integral part of railway signallingin Indian Railways to ensure thesafe movementof trains andmanages track configurationsat stations and junctions.
• It usescomputer-based systems and electronic equipmentto control signals, points, and level-crossing gates.
• Indian Railways uses anadvanced versionof interlocking calledthe electronic interlocking (EI) system.
  • It is amicroprocessor-basedand processes inputs in afail-safe manner.
  • It relies onsoftware and electronic componentsto manage interlocking logic, ensuring proper sequencing of elements for safe train movement.
  • Trains are givensignals to pass only ifthe trackdirection is set correctlyand the divergent track isfree of obstructions.
• Components:
  • Signal:Light signals indicate whether a train shouldstop(red),proceed(green), orexercise caution(yellow)based on the track aheadand in case ofsystem failure, it shows a red lightindicating that the route ahead is not clear or safe.
  • Point:These aremoveable sections of trackthatguide trains to change lineswhichremain locked until a train has crosseda particular section of track or the signal to proceed has been withdrawn.
  • Track circuit:These areelectrical circuits installed on trackstodetect the presence of a trainand prevents multiple trains from running on the same blockto avoid collisions.
• Electronic systems and communication devicescontrol the signalling equipmentand arekept in relay roomswithaccess controlwhereall activitiesof thesystem are recordedin a data logger.
• Overall, this systemprevents conflicting movementsby allowing a train toproceed only when its route is set,locked,andverifiedas safe.

Rail track system of India:

• The Indian Railways is thefourth largest railway networkglobally, with aroundeight billion passengers annually.
• The network stretches over68,000 kmand comprisesmore than 7,000 stations.
• Therunning track length is 1,02,831 km, while the total track length, including sidings, yards, and crossings, is 1,28,305 km.
• By the year ending 2022, almost2,888 stations, covering over 45%of the Indian Railways, wereequipped with electronic interlocking systems.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/explained-what-is-the-electronic-interlocking-system-in-railways/article66933809.ece

In News: A brief history of the US role in independent India's agricultural development is useful in the context of the Prime Minister's upcoming visit to the US, for strengthening the “global strategic partnership” between the two countries.

About

The US has played a significant role in India's agricultural development since the 1950s and 1960s. The Rockefeller and Ford Foundations were instrumental in establishing agricultural universities in India, and the US government provided technical assistance and funding for the Green Revolution, which helped to increase agricultural productivity and food production. The Indo-US cooperation in agriculture has been mutually beneficial, and it has helped to improve food security in both countries.

The following are some of the lessons that can be learned from the Indo-US cooperation in agriculture:

• The importance of technical assistance and training:The Rockefeller and Ford Foundations played a key role in establishing agricultural universities in India, and they also provided technical assistance to Indian farmers. This assistance helped to improve agricultural productivity and food production.
• The importance of funding:The US government provided significant funding for the Green Revolution, which helped to make it a success. This funding helped to cover the costs of research, development, and implementation of new agricultural technologies.
• The importance of cooperation:The Indo-US cooperation in agriculture has been mutually beneficial. Both countries have benefited from the exchange of knowledge, technology, and resources.

India’s agricultural development after Independence:

• Pre-independent India food shortage: Agriculture was monsoon-dependent and unfavorable rains and natural calamities resulted in crop failures.
• Post-independent Planning process:It identified agriculture as the most prioritized sector and emphasized that ‘everything can wait but agriculture’.
• Increase in the food grain production: From merely 51 million tons (Mt) in 1950/51 increased over 6 times to over 314 Mt in 2022.
• The country became the largest producer of milk, pulses, and jute and the second-largest producer of rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables in the world.

key challenges facing Indian agriculture in the 21st century:

• Climate change:Climate change is already having a significant impact on Indian agriculture, and this impact is expected to worsen in the future.
• Population growth:India's population is expected to reach 1.6 billion by 2050, which will put a strain on the country's agricultural resources.
• Urbanization:The urbanization of India is also putting a strain on the country's agricultural sector, as people move to cities and demand for food increases.
• Farmer Income:The cost of inputs such as fertilizer, seed, and fuel has been rising in recent years, which has put a strain on farmer Income.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/the-lessons-of-indo-us-cooperation-in-agriculture-8657682/

In News:RBIin consonance withMinistry of Cooperationnotifies measures to strengthen urban co-operative banks

About Notification on Urban Co-operative Banks:

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently introducedfour keymeasures to strengthen1,514 urban co-operative banks (UCBs).
• These measures aim toenhance the functioning and operationsof UCBs, ensuring their compliance with regulatory requirements and providingUCBs with more flexibility and supportin key areas.

Measures:

• Opening New Branches:UCBs are nowallowed to open new branches without prior approvalfrom the RBI, up to aspecified limitto expand their presence and reach more customers.
  • However, UCBsmust still adhere to the Financially Sound and Well Managed (FSWM) normsand obtainboard approvalfor opening new branches.
• Facility of One-Time Settlement: Introduction of aframework for One-Time Settlementsto allow UCBs to undertake settlements with borrowers.
  • It will help UCBs to efficiently manage theirloan portfolios and address non-performing assets.
  • It will provide amechanism for technical write-offsand borrower settlements, similar to commercial banks.
• Timelinefor PSL: RBI has allowed for an extension of timelines for UCBsto achieve Priority Sector Lending (PSL) targets.
• Nodal officer: RBI to appoint a new nodal officerto facilitate closer coordination and interactionwith UCBs.
  • It aims tostrengthen the relationship between UCBs and the RBI,enabling smoother communication and support.

Overall, the new regulatory requirements will help UCBsin implementing sound practicesbesidesenhancing their stabilityandcontributing to the overall growthof the economy.

In News:The Food Safety Index evaluates the performance of states and Union territories across different aspects of food safety.

About

• State Food Safety Index was developed by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), a statutory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
• First State Food Safety Index was released in 2019
• The index is a benchmarking model that provides an objective framework for evaluating food safety across all States/UTs.

The parameters include:

• Human Resources and Institutional Data
• Compliance
• Food Testing – Infrastructure and Surveillance
• Training & Capacity Building and Consumer Empowerment.
• Top performers in the 5th edition were Kerala (Large states), Goa (small state) and J&K (UTs).

https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2023/jun/08/food-safety-index-2023-kerala-punjab-lead-tn-slips-to-3rd-spot-2582948.html

In News:CACP recommends bringing urea under the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) regime to address imbalanced use of nutrients.

About CACP Report on Price Policy for Kharif Crop 2023-24:

• TheCommission for Agricultural Costs and Prices(CACP) has recently released itsreport on the Price Policy for Kharif Crop 2023-24.
• The report highlights theissue of imbalanced use of nutrientsin agriculture andrecommends bringing urea under the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) regime.
• At present,Urea is excluded from the NBSwhich is one of the primary reasons forworsening plant nutrient imbalance.
• Keeping urea out of the NBSallows the government to retain direct controlover itsmaximum retail price (MRP) and subsidy.
• As per findings, theimbalanced use of nutrients, deficiencyof micro and secondary nutrients, anddepletion of soil organic carbonhave led todeclining fertilizer responseand
• Urea'saffordability and unchanged pricehave resulted in higher sales of urea compared to other fertilizers like DAP and NPK leading to itsoveruse and sonegatively impacting soil health.
• Also, the challenges posed byhigh and volatile international fertilizer prices areimpacting theavailability and affordabilityof fertilizers for farmers.
• The report emphasizes theneed to address nutrient imbalancescaused by fertilizer subsidies and recommendscapping the number of subsidized bagsof fertilizers per farmer.
• Overall, implementing the cap would not onlyreduce the government's subsidy burdenbut also will allowresources to be redirectedto agriculture research anddevelopment and infrastructure.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/agriculture/cacp-recommends-centre-to-bring-urea-under-nbs-regime-to-check-overuse-89907

In News:Experts opinions that India should learn lessons from Thailand on Tourism

About Lessons from Thailand on Tourism

• Thailandhas in recent years emerged as asuccessful tourism destination, providing valuable lessons for other countries, including India.
• It has experienced a significant increase in tourist arrivals, jumping from 30 million in 2015 to40 million in 2019.
• Major steps by Thailand:
  • Innovative initiatives likeEathai, a street food conceptin the basem*nt of a shopping mall to attract visitors with its diverse offerings and efficient ordering process.
  • Theintegration of services such as VAT refundsto enhance the overall tourist experience.
  • Visa-free policy has been instrumental in attracting tourists from various countries.
  • Flexibility and responsiveness to industry concerns through initiatives like the removal of the Thailand Pass requirement etc.,
• India, with11 million tourists in 2019, can implement successful strategies by adopting genuinely radical measures to revamp its tourism approach such as:
  • Visa-free travel for G20andSoutheast Asian countriesto boost tourism.
  • Focusing on attracting foreign tourists through Indian tourism ministry's"Dekho Apna Desh" campaignwith a foreigner component in it.
  • Refreshing andreinvigorating its "Incredible India!" campaignto maintain impact factor among foreigners.
  • Removing the need for visas, rather than withdrawing e-visa availability during diplomatic tensions, for a more sensible approach.
• Overall, implementing the lessons from Thailandcan help India build a stronger andmore vibrant tourism industry.

https://www.livemint.com/opinion/columns/india-could-learn-from-thailand-how-to-boost-tourism-11686157728130.html

In News:India attempts to revive its dwindling rubber industry

About Reviving rubber industry:

• India's rubber industry in recent years has faced challenges ranging fromfalling productionto abandoned
• The decline in rubber production has beenattributed to poor returns, high labor costs,andplummeting prices.
• Despite therise in demand for natural rubberin India, particularly from the tire industry, the domestic producers have been hurt due to imports as theinternational rubber prices are usually lower.
• For revival, the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA) and the Rubber Board are collaborating tocreate new rubber plantationsinNortheast IndiaandWest Bengal.
• Also, theGenetically modified (GM) rubber plantsare being developed to withstand different climatic conditions.
• GM technology is seen as the future of rubber plantations, offeringimproved qualitiesspecially tocope up with Climate changewhich pose a major challenge to rubber farming.
• Technological solutions such asmotorized tapping machinesare being adopted to increase efficiency and productivity.
• Overall,Innovationandrevitalizationefforts are needed toreverse the declineandpromotesustainable growthin the rubber industry.

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-65543616

Why in news?Punjab and Himachal Pradesh are gearing up for a face-off over the Shanan Power Project.

About:

• The Shanan hydroelectric plant, commissioned in 1932, thepowerhouse was constructed as per a 99-year lease executed between Raja Jogendra Sen,the then king of Mandi,and Col BC Batty, Chief Engineer of the Punjab Government, in 1925.
• It is located inJoginder Nagar in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh.
• Theproject harnesses the power of the Uhl River, a tributary of the Beas River, and generates 110 MW of electricity.
• The project consists of adam, a powerhouse, a reservoir and a network of canals and tunne
• The project is also a source of irrigation and drinking water for the surrounding areas.
• The lease agreementwill expire in March 2024, and both Himachal Pradesh and Punjab are claiming their rights over the project.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/the-power-battle-between-punjab-and-himachal-pradesh-101686131180224.html

In News: India achieves over90% self-sufficiency in dals(pulses) on the wave of increased chana (chickpea) production.

About Atmanirbhar in Pulses Compared to Edible Oil:

• India has recently madesubstantial progress in achieving self-sufficiency in pulseswhile remaining significantly import-dependent in edible oil.
• The country has achieved over90% self-sufficiency in pulses,primarily due toincreased production of chana (chickpea).
• In contrast, India'svegetable oil imports have surgedover the years, reaching a valueof $20,837.70 million (Rs 167,269.99 crore) in 2022-23.
• Out of the24-25 million tonnesof cooking oil consumed annually,only 9-10 million tonnes are domestically produced,while the rest is imported.
• India's pulsesimports have declinedfrom 6.61 mt in 2016-17 to70 mt and 2.52 mtin 2021-22 and 2022-23 respectively.
• Domestic pulses productionhas increased from 19.26 mt in 2013-14 to50 mt in 2022-23,contributing to self-sufficiency.
• Governmentinterventions such as a 60% import dutyon chana,minimum support prices (MSP) adequate stocking and availability of imports have helped to mitigate potential inflation in pulses.
• Overall, while India has made significant strides towards self-sufficiency in pulses, howevergreater focus is needed to achieve similar results in the edible oil sector.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/how-india-has-become-relatively-atmanirbhar-in-pulses-compared-to-edible-oil-8645756/

In News: A report titled ‘Low-cost finance for energy transition’by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), laid out a detailed strategy to access low cost finances for energy transition and ), haspraised India’s achievementin rolling out “unprecedented” renewable energy capacity.

About the Report:

• This report, developed byIRENA in collaboration with the Ministry of New and RenewableEnergy (MNRE) under the Energy Transition Working Group of India's G20 Presidency.
• It highlights theimportance of low-cost financein driving the deployment of critical technologies such as hydrogen, offshore wind and energy storage.

Key Highlights of the Report:

Cost trends and investments in both renewable power generation technologies

• The period 2010-2022 witnessed a dramatic reduction in the cost of generating electricity fromsolar photovoltaic (PV), onshore wind, offshore windand concentrating solar power (CSP).
• This cost reduction was driven by avirtuous cycle of policiesthat supported deployment, reducing costs and leading to more countries adopting renewable energy.
• Today, onshore wind and utility-scale solar PV are typically thelowest-cost sources of new electricity generation.
• Costs have also fallen forcritical energy transition technologies like offshore wind, hydrogen electrolysers, heat pumps and batteries, although the reduction is not as significant as for solar PV.
• In 2010,88 GWof renewable energy (RE) was added at a cost ofUSD 221 billion. However in 2021, three timesthat level of new RE capacity was commissioned, but with the investment of onlyUSD 353 billion.

The Energy Transition: A 1.5°C Pathway

• Share of RE in final energy consumption needs toincrease to 80% from the current 17-18%.
• Electricity production through renewablesshould increase to 90%, of which solar and wind would make up two-thirds of this generation.
• Green hydrogenproduced from renewable sources has a key role in challenging sectors like industry and shipping.
• CO₂removal and storagethrough carbon capture and storage(CCS),and carbon capture, utilisation and storage(CCUS)or negative emission measures such as bioenergy with carbon capture and storage(BECCS),direct-air capture, reforestation and afforestation, among others.

Low-Cost Finance for Renewable Power:

• Domestic financial markets are critical sources of capital for financingthe energy transitionsince they provide diversified funding sources, access to local equity capital and corporate bond markets, and much-needed local-currency financing to avoid currency risk and help mitigate macroeconomic shocks.
• Governments can set conditions for the private sector to build & finance aviable pipeline of transition–oriented projects.

Innovative Frameworks to Accelerate Deployment of Low-Carbon Technologies:

• Along with economies of scale as markets grow,innovation is one of the main leversavailable to reduce technology costs, accelerate market penetration and unlock financial resources.
• Effective innovation frameworks incorporate coordinated policies and actions to drive innovations infour areas i.e. enabling technologies, business models, market design and system operation.

Recommendations for the G20 members for their policy-making process:

• The fossil fuel price shock of 2022has reinforced the need for countries to stay on course in the energy transition and to scale up the deployment of renewables.
• Countries should provide a range of policy incentives(economic, financial and regulatory as appropriate to a country’s situation) to facilitate the development and deployment of the next set of critical technologies for the energy transition.
• Countries should build upon thelessons learnt from the success of solar PV and onshore wind.
• Therole of the public sector is crucial to unlocking low-cost private sector capitalfor the energy transition.
• Knowledge exchange is vitaland G20 members should take the opportunity to exchange knowledge and best practices.

Source:

https://mc-cd8320d4-36a1-40ac-83cc-3389-cdn-endpoint.azureedge.net/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2023/May/IRENA_Low_cost_finance_energy_transition_2023.pdf?rev=02ba5ca271cc40e7a0c9d76586fd209f

In News:Kerala government launches KFON scheme in an attempt to reduce the digital divide in the state.

About Kerala Fibre Optical Network (KFON):

• KFON is a Kerala government scheme to providehigh-speed broadband internet access to allhouseholds and government offices in Kerala
• It is anoptical fibre cable networkspanning30,000 kms with 375 Points-of-Presenceacross the state shared with service providers, including cable operators.
• While governmentoffices will directly benefitfrom KFON, individual households will need to rely onlocal internet service providers.
• It is part of the state'scommitment to making internet access a basic rightand is expected toaccelerate Kerala's journeytowards being aknowledge-based economyandboost e-governance.
• The network promisesinternet speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbpsand aims to improve mobile phone call quality.
• In thefirst stage, connectivity will be provided to30,000 government offices and 14,000 below povertyline(BPL) families.
• At present, the major services provided under KFON includes leasing of dark fibre, internet leased line,fibre to the home,Wi-Fi hotspots, internet protocol television,OTT,andcloud hosting.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/kfon-kerala-scheme-internet-connectivity-for-all-explained-8648744/

In News:BRICS pitches for using local currencies in international trade

About

• The BRICS nations are a group of emerging economies that have been working together to increase their economic and political influence on the global stage.
• The group's call for increased use of local currencies in international trade is a sign of their growing confidence and their desire to reduce their dependence on the US dollar.
• Theuse of local currenciesin international trade could have a number of benefits. It could help to reduce the cost of trade, as businesses would no longer have to convert their currencies into dollars or other reserve currencies.
  • It could also help to promote financial stability, as businesses would be less exposed to currency fluctuations.
• Potential risks associatedwith using local currencies in international trade. For example, it could make it more difficult for businesses to hedge against currency risk.
  • It could also make it more difficult for businesses to access international capital markets.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/brics-pitches-for-using-local-currencies-in-international-trade/article66923189.ece

In News:There is no justification for introducing any change in the law relating to adverse possession,” the 22nd Law Commission has said in its recent report.

About

• Concept of Adverse possession steps from the idea thatland must not be left vacantbut instead, be put to judicious use.
• Limitations Act 1963 provides that any person in possession of private land for over 12 years or government land for over 30 years can become the owner of that property (Adverse Possession).
• However, the possession must be continuous, uninterrupted, and peaceful.

In the 2004 Apex Court ruling inKarnataka Board of Wakf v Government of India, the court dealt with the ingredients of adverse possession. According to the observations made by former SC judge S. Rajendra Babu in the case, “Aperson who claims adverse possession shouldshow:

(a) on what date he came into possession

(b) what was the nature of his possession

(c) whether the factum of possession was known to the other party

(d) how long his possession has continued

(e) his possession was open and undisturbed.”

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-law/adverse-possession-law-commission-8645815/

In News:A lobby group representing major beverage companies resents with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on non-sugar sweeteners.

About Beverage Lobby Differs with WHO on Sweeteners:

• A lobby group representing major beverage companies, including Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Red Bull, has criticized the recentWHO guidelines on non-sugar sweeteners.
• WHO guidelines state thatNon-Sugar Sweeteners(NSS)do not aid weight lossand increase the risk of certain diseases.
• WHO has however reiterated its stands by itsconditional guidelineson NSS, including bothsynthetic and natural sweetenerslikeaspartame, saccharin, sucralose, and stevia.
• WHO has also emphasized thatreplacing free sugars with NSS does not aidlong-termweight controland that NSSlack nutritional value.
• Previously,Health groupshave advocated forrestrictive use of artificial sweetenersandclear messagingon their limited consumption.
• Companies under TheIndian Beverage Association(IBA) have been supporting the role of low or no-calorie sweetenersin reducing sugar intake amid the global obesity crisis.
• Sales of diet colas, ice-creams, juices, breakfast cereals, confectionery, and no-sugar cooking alternativeshave been growing in double digits.
• In this regard, the industry executives haveraised apprehensionthat new guidelines requiring warnings on products with NSScould impact sales of diet foods.
• Overall, WHO's norms arepart of guidelines on healthy dietand it advocates other ways to reduce free sugars' intake, such asconsuming foods with naturally occurring sugarsor unsweetened options.

Non-sugar sweeteners(NSS):

• These are also known asartificial sweetenersor sugar substitutes and are used to provide sweetness to food and beverageswithout adding significant calories or carbohydrates.
• These sweeteners are used asalternatives to sugar, particularly for individuals looking to reduce their sugar intake or manage conditions like diabetes.
• These can besynthetic or derivedfrom natural sources, and they areoften much sweeter than sugar, requiring smaller amounts for the same level of sweetness.
• Somecommon non-sugar sweetenersinclude:Aspartame, Sucralose, Saccharin, Stevia, Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K), Neotame, Monk Fruit Extract etc.,

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/food/beverage-lobby-differs-with-who-on-sweeteners/articleshow/100752293.cms

In News:Government-owned engineering consultancy firmEngineers India (EIL)conducts the feasibility study of developing salt cavern-based strategic oil reserves in Rajasthan.

About Oil reserves in salt caverns:

• In an attemptto increase its strategic oil storage capacity, India has started studying Salt cavern-based oil reservesin Rajasthan.
• India currentlydepends on imports for over 85% of its crude oil requirementand these reserves can help mitigate majorsupply disruptions in the global oil supply chain.
• Salt cavernsare developed throughsolution miningand they offers acheaper and less labour-intensive storage optioncompared to rock caverns.
• Rajasthanin India has thenecessary salt formationsand infrastructure for salt cavern-based reserves which arenaturally well-sealedand allow forrapid injectionand extraction of oil.
• Exploring salt cavern-based strategic oil reservescan strengthen India's energy securityand mitigate supply disruptions.

Strategic Petroleum Reserve:

• These are stockpiles of crude oil and/or refined petroleum products maintained by countriesto ensure energy security and stabilityagainst emergencies or supply disruptions.
• SPRs are typically stored in dedicated facilities, such asunderground caverns, salt domes, or above-ground tanks, designed to ensure the safe storage and preservation of the oil.
• TheInternational Energy Agency (IEA)recommends holding an emergency oil stockpile equivalent to90 days of import protection.
• India'sexisting SPR capacity is 5.33 million tonnes, meeting about5 days of demandand theexpansion plans are underway for an additional 6.5 million tonnes.
• Previously, TheUnited Stateshas successfully utilizedsalt caverns for its Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/explained-economics-oil-reserves-in-salt-caverns-8643242/

In News: The issue of Indian railway safety has come under scrutiny following the recentBalasore train accident that resulted in the death of over 288 passengers.

About the train accident in Balasore

• In the Balasore train accident, three trains collided, resulting in a high number of casualties and injuries.
• The collision occurred when theChennai-bound Coromandel Express veered off its track and crashed into a stationary goods train. The impact caused the passenger train’s coaches toderail and hit another passenger train travelling in the opposite direction.
• The preliminary investigation report says that the accident was caused due to afaulty signalling system. The signal was given for Coromandel Express toproceed on the main line, but the train got into the loop lineand collided with a stationary goods train.
• Reason for the accident:
  • The official had earlier precisely pointed to serious flaws in the signalling system where theroute of dispatch gets altered after a train starts on signalswith correct appearance of route in the Station master’s panel, thus contravening the essence and basic principles ofinterlocking.
  • The incident of Hosadurga Road Station in Mysore Division on February 8, 2023 wasnotified to General Managers of all the regions, making them aware of the faulty signalling system to take corrective actions.

Various Government Initiatives to address railway safety concerns:

• Kavach system: KAVACH is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System for Indian Railways.
  • It provides protection bypreventing trains from passing the signal at Red and activates the train’s braking system automatically(if the driver jumps the Red signal) and avoids collision.
  • The Traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS)helps in two-way communication between the station master and loco-pilot to convey any emergency message.
• Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK):The government initiated the RRSK in 2017-18, with a dedicated fund aimed at carrying out safety-related work in a systematic manner.
  • It has acorpus of Rs 1 lakh croreover a period of five years with anannual outlay of Rs 20,000 crore.
• National Rail Plan (NRP) for India – 2030: Indian Railways have prepared a plan to create a ‘future ready’Railway system by 2030. NRP is aimed toformulate strategies based on both operational capacities and commercial policyinitiatives to increase modal share of the Railways in freight to 45%.
• Project Mission Raftar: It is an Indian Railway project, introduced in the Railway Budget of 2016-17 and approved by NITI Aayog in 2017. The goal is to double the average speed of freight trains and increase passenger train speed by 50%.
• Upgradation of infrastructurethrough allocation of funds in modernization and upgradation of railway infrastructure including electrification of railway lines, expansion of rail networks, and the introduction of high-speed and ultra-high-speed lines.
• Audit reports and recommendations:The CAG periodically conducts audits of Indian Railways, identifying shortcomings and making recommendations to address safety concerns. These reports serve as a basis for corrective actions and improvements in safety protocols.

Way forward

• Bibek Debroy Committee on Mobilization of Resourcesfor Major Railway Projects (2015) recommended creation of a separate safety department within Indian Railways, development of a comprehensive safety plan, utilisation of technology for safety enhancements, improvement in track maintenance practices, and enhancement of safety training program.
• Anil Kakodkar Committee on Railway Safety (2012)suggested adoption of an Advanced Signalling System for the entire trunk route within 5 years and use of LHB coaches instead of ICF coaches.
• Strengthen maintenance practicesfor tracks and leverage improved technologies to enhance the efficiency & effectiveness of maintenance activities coupled withenhanced staffing and training.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/odisha-accident-senior-official-had-alerted-railway-on-serious-flaws-in-signalling-system/article66930016.ece

In News: NITI Aayog reports Indiahaving nearly 55% of farm land getting irrigation

About Access to Access to Assured Irrigation:

• More than half of India's cultivated land now has access to assured irrigation, withnearly 55% of the gross sown area having irrigation access in 2022-23,compared to 47.8% in 2013-14.
• Theincrease in irrigation coveris attributed to the expansion of land under agriculture, particularly indryland farm zones such as Telangana, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh.
• The expansion of irrigation is expected tohelp mitigate the impact of dry summers and patchy monsoons,which are partially linked to the climate crisis.
• Agriculture accounts for about80% of India's available water use of 700 billion cubic meters annuallyand contribute around18% to the national economybeside being the largest employer.
• India has installed micro irrigation facilities, including sprinklers and drip systems in8 million hectares,constituting a significant portion of the total irrigated area.
• Currently,40% of the irrigated area in the country is watered through canal networks, while 60% relies on groundwater.
• With groundwater levels in several states depleting significantly,India must create irrigation potential in about 60% of its arable landsubject to hydrological and geographical limitations.

Major government schemes:

• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)
  • PMKSY waslaunched in 2015to expand thecultivated area with assured irrigation, reduce water wastage, improve water use efficiency, and incentivize micro-irrigation through subsidies.
  • Since then, the cultivated area under irrigation hasbeen increasing by 1% each yearwith States making more investments than the central government to make the scheme successful.
• Micro-Irrigation Fund (MIF)
  • In 2018-19, a ₹500 billion micro-irrigation fund (MIF) was created to assist states in mobilizing resources related to micro irrigation facilities.
• Other Programs and Projects
  • Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP)
  • Har Khet Ko Paani-Surface Minor Irrigation

https://www.livemint.com/news/india/over-50-of-india-s-cultivated-land-now-has-assured-irrigation-thanks-to-expansion-in-micro-projects-and-efficient-water-use-11685555001532.html

In News:The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has recently notified the National Electricity Plan (NEP) for the period of 2022-32.

About National Electricity Plan 2022-2032:

• The National Electricity Plan is prepared by the CEA ofMinistry of Powerin accordance with theNational Electricity Policy and the Electricity Act, 2003.
• The plan has been notified for the period of 2022-32 and includes areview of the last five years(2017-22), detailed plan for the next five years (2022-27), and aprospective planfor thefollowing five years (2027-32).

Major highlights:

• The plan projects theAll-India peak electricity demandand electrical energy requirement to reach2 GWand 1907.8 BUby 2026-27, and 366.4 GW and 2473.8 BU by 2031-32.
• Theshare of non-fossil-based capacityis expected toincrease to 57.4%by the end of 2026-27 and further to 68.4% by the end of 2031-32, compared to thecurrent share of around 42.5%.
• The plan estimates atotal fund requirement of Rs. 33.60 lakh crorefor power generation capacity additionfrom 2022-2032.
• By 2026-27, the likelyinstalled capacityis projected tobe 609,591 MW, consisting of conventional capacity (273,038 MW) andrenewable-based capacity(336,553 MW).
• By 2031-32, theestimated installed capacity is 900,422 MW, including conventional capacity (304,147 MW) and renewable-based capacity (596,275 MW).
• The averagePlant Load Factor (PLF)for coal-based capacity is estimated to beabout 58.4% in 2026-27and 58.7% in 2031-32.
• Energy storage capacityrequirements are projected to be13 GW/82.37 GWh by 2026-27and 73.93 GW/411.4 GWh by 2031-32.
• The plan considers thedomestic coal requirement,which is estimated to be4 million tonnes for 2026-27and 1025.8 million tonnes for 2031-32, with an additional28.9 million tonnes of coal imports.
• The plan aims to reduce theaverage emission factorto548 kg CO2/kWhnet by 2026-27and 0.430 kg CO2/kWhnet by 2031-32.
• Overall, the plan aims to align withIndia’s target of achieving a non-fossilbased installed capacity of around500 GW by 2029-30.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1928750#:

In News:Ministry of Electronics and IT recently announced that it will reopen the window for applying to itsRs 76,000 crore semiconductor manufacturing planafter the first window failed to attract any major names.

About the Semiconductor Industry:

• A semiconductor is a material that is used in electronic equipment and devices to manage and control the flow of electricity. Semiconductors are the"brains" of modern electronics.
• They are made from elements likesilicon or germanium, or compounds likegallium arsenide.
• Semiconductors are thebuilding blocks of today’s technologyand find application in computers, mobiles, cars, planes, medical diagnostic tools, defence technology, aerospace etc.
• They make the devicesmore compact, less expensive, and more powerful.

Current scenario of India’s semiconductor manufacturing landscape:

• The Indian semiconductor market is expected to reachUS$ 63 billion by 2026, with smartphones and wearable, automotive components etc. accounting formore than 60% of the market.
• Currently, the Indian semiconductor industry accounts forroughly US$ 2.3 trillion of global GDPand represents 1% of the international semiconductor trade and 0.5% of global semiconductor sales.
• However Indian semiconductor manufacturing industry is facing hurdles due tounavailability of technology and applicants running out of contentiondue to delayed mergers.
• Three entities namelyVedanta-Foxconn JV, international consortium ISMC, & Singapore-based IGSS Ventureshad applied to set up fabrication units in the country, but all are facing hurdles.

Challenges of Semiconductor industry:

• No fruition of deals:
  • Vedanta-Foxconn struggles to find a tech partnerthat could licence them the technology to manufacture 28-nanometre chips.
  • ISMC has asked not to consider its proposal owing to a pending mergerbetween Intel and Tower Semiconductor
  • Singapore-based IGSS Venture’s proposal was not found to be up to the markby the government’s advisory committee.
• It is acapital intensive industry as chipdesign and manufacturing requires a developed ecosystem for business to thrive. As per a government estimate, it would costroughly $5-$7 billion to set up a chip fabricationunit in India.
• Despite the huge talent pool of chip designers in India, itlacks skilled process engineerswho can run a front-end chip factory.
• Structural Flawsas FDI in electronics is less than 1% of the total FDI inflow due to lack of skilled labour, delays in land acquisition, and the uncertain tax regime.

Significance of Semiconductor industry for India:

• Tackle supply shocks:The pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns impacted the supply of chips to India. Automobile manufacturers were compelled to reduce their production due to the shortage.
• Meet the rising demand:Experts estimate that around 50 crore people will join the internet in the next decade thereby demanding more phones and laptops.
• Employment Creation: Indigenous manufacturing of chips will build its smartphone assembly industry and strengthen its electronics supply chain, creating numerous employment opportunities.
• Geopolitical Benefits: Countries having a sufficient supply of chips would be in a better position to mold the future course of geopolitics, driven by data and the digital revolution.
• Reduction of import dependence: Development of a domestic electronics supply chain will reduce its imports from foreign countries, especially China.
• Replacing China: It is an opportune time for India to venture into semiconductor manufacturing, as more companies try to diversify their bases from China.

Government Initiative:

• Production-Linked Incentive schemewith a budgeted incentive of Rs 76,000 crore over the next six years.
• National Policy on Electronics 2019which envisions positioning India as a global hub for the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector..
• Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS)
• Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme
• 100%Foreign Direct Investmentunder the automatic route for ESDM sector.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/india-semiconductor-manufacturing-industry-8640475/

In News: Centre to implementWorld's Largest Grain Storage Planas Pilot Project in selected districts

About World's largest Grain storage Plan:

• The Union Cabinet has recently approved the implementation of the world's largest grain storage planin the cooperative sector.
• The planaims to converge various schemesof ministries related to agriculture, farmers' welfare, consumer affairs, food and public distribution, and food processing industries.
• TheMinistry of Cooperationwill execute apilot project in 10selected districts across different states.
• Under the plan, theInter Ministerial Committee(IMC) will establish guidelines for creating infrastructure, such as godowns, at selectedPrimary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).
• The plan willutilise the available outlaysprovided under the identified schemes of the respective Ministries.
• Farmers will have theopportunity to sell their crops to PACSand receiveadvance payment at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
• PACS will sell the food grainsin the market and provide theremaining balance to the farmers.
• Farmers can store their cropsin PACS-managed warehouses andreceive financingfor the next crop cycle.
• PACS will not only provide storage facilities but alsoengage in activitiessuch asFair Price Shop and Custom Hiring Centres.
• The plan aims toaddress the lack of agricultural storage capacityandreduce wastage of food grains.
• It will also providemodern grain storage facilitiesto farmers, ensuring they receive fair prices for their grains.
• Overall, the plan is expected to benefitmillions of farmersassociated withcooperatives, improve food security,andstrengthen the rural economy.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cabinet-approves-inter-ministerial-committee-for-largest-grain-storage/article66917127.ece

In News:SEBI proposes additional disclosure forHigh-Risk Foreign Portfolio Investors

About High-Risk Foreign Portfolio Investors:

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has recently proposedadditional disclosure requirementsfor high-riskForeign Portfolio Investors (FPIs).
• The aim is toenhance transparencyandidentify all holders of ownership, economic, and control rights.

Major issues:

• FPIs have been observed toconcentrate a substantial portionof their equity portfolio in asingle company/group for a long timeare of concern.
• Concentrated holdingsmay increase the risk ofprice manipulation and circumvent regulatory requirements.

Major Proposals:

• The proposed framework categorises FPIs into high, moderate, and low risk and all FPIs,except government-related entities, will beclassified as high-risk FPIs.
• High-risk FPIs withmore than 50%of their equityAsset Under Management(AUM) in a single corporate group will nowneed to comply with additional disclosure requirements.
• FPIs withsingle group exposure below 25%of their overall AUM may bereclassified asmoderate risk andexempted from additional
• Failure to provide additional disclosures may lead to invalid FPI registrationand a requirement towind down within six months.
• High-risk FPIs withover Rs 25,000 crore AUM will have to mandatorily comply with additional disclosurerequirements within six months.
• ApproximatelyRs 2.6 lakh crore(6% of total FPI equity AUM) may be identified ashigh-risk FPIsbased on group concentration or fund size thresholds.
• Overall, the SEBI steps will go a long way toaddress investment concerns and strengthentheregulatory frameworkin India's equity markets.

https://indianexpress.com/article/business/sebi-proposes-additional-disclosure-for-high-risk-foreign-portfolio-investors-8639519/

In News:Union government launches Electronics Repair Services Outsourcing(ERSO) Pilot Project

About Electronics Repair Services Outsourcing (ERSO) project:

• TheMinistry of Electronics & IT (MeitY)has recently launched a pilot project Electronics Repair Services Outsourcing (ERSO)with a vision to make India a global electronics powerhouse.
• The objective is toposition India as the global leaderinrepair services for ICT(Information and Communication Technology) products.
• Under the project, the government will take steps toattract outsourced repair services from around the worldand make India the preferred destination.
• The project will besupported by MeitY, Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change(MoEF&CC) incollaboration with industry stakeholders.
• The initiative will also emphasise onenvironmental sustainabilitybyextending the life of ICT productsthroughaffordable and reliable repair services.
• Therevenue potentialfrom outsourced repair services is estimated to reach $20 billion in the next 5 years.
• Overall, the ERSO initiative will be agame-changerfor India,creating millions of job opportunitiesbesides complimenting its commitment to the environment and the planetis reaffirmed through the ERSO initiative.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1928643

Why in news?The Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL) is nearing completion and is expected to revolutionize connectivity, development, and travel between Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Pune.

About:

• The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), also known asthe Sewri–Nhava Sheva Trans Harbour Link,is a 22km bridge, which willconnect Mumbai with Navi Mumbai, its satellite city.
• The bridge will begin in Sewri, South Mumbai, will cross Thane Creek north of Elephanta Island, and will terminate at Chirle near Nhava Sheva.
• Key Features of the Bridge:
• The MTHLwill be the longest sea bridge in Indiaand ranking as the World’s10th longest sea bridge.
• It is expected toalleviate traffic congestion,promote economic development, andreduce travel time between Sewri and Chirleto just 15 to 20 minutes.
• Fuel, transportation costs and 1 hour travel time will be saved.
• 1st project in India with an open road tolling system.
• It refers to a method of collecting tolls on highways without requiring vehicles to stop or slow down.
• For the first time in India,Orthotropic steel deck technology used.
• It is a construction method used in building bridges and other structures. It involves using steel plates that are specifically designed to be strong and stiff in one direction while being flexible in other directions.

https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/trans-harbour-link-from-mumbai-to-navi-mumbai-in-20-minutes-thanks-to-indias-longest-sea-bridge/videoshow/100571402.cms

Why in news?Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor raised red flags over banks adopting innovative methods for evergreening of loans – covering up the real status of stressed loans of corporates.

About:

• Evergreening of loans refers to apractice where banks or lenders provide additional funds or take other measuresto artificially sustain a loan that isnot being repaid as scheduled.
• A form of zombie lending, it is typically a temporary fix for a bank to avoid classification of a loan as a non-Performing asset (NPA).
• Methods used by banks for Evergreening of loans:
  • Bringing two lenders together to evergreen each other’s loans by sale and buyback of loans or debt instruments.
  • Good borrowers are being persuaded to enter into structured deals with stressed borrowers.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-economics/banks-corporates-window-dressing-loans-explained-rbi-8636026/

Why in news?Recently, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has conceptualised a lightweight payment and settlements system, which it is calling a “bunker” equivalent of digital payments.

About:

• It can beoperated from anywhere by a bare minimum staffin exigencies such asnatural calamities or war.
• The infrastructure for this system will beindependent of the technologies that underlie the existing systems of payments such as UPI, NEFT, and RTGS.
• The system operates onminimalistic hardware and softwareand is activated only when needed.
• Benefits:
• Such a lightweight and portable payment systemcould ensure near zero downtime of the payment and settlement system in the country and keep the liquidity pipeline of the economy aliveand intact by facilitating uninterrupted functioning of essential payment services.
• By implementing a lightweight system as a backup, theRBI aims to ensure that individuals and institutions can continue to make payments during emergenciesor disruptions to the conventional payment infrastructure.
• It serves as a precautionary measure to beprepared for extreme situations and maintain the continuity of financial transactions.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/what-is-rbi-planned-lightweight-payments-system-for-emergencies-8637007/

Why in news?Government will soon hire the National Land Monetisation Corporation (NLMC) chief.

About:

• NLMC was announced in the2021-22 Union Budget.
• NLMC is awholly owned government company established as Special Purpose Vehicle to carry out monetisation of governmentandpublic sector assetsin form of surplus, unused or underused land assets.
• It also acts as anadvisory body and supports in identifying CPSEs surplusnon-core assets to monetise them, maximising value realisation.
• Itfalls under the administrative jurisdiction of Ministry of Finance.
• The new company will have an initial authorised share capital of ₹5,000 crore and paid-up share capital of ₹150 crore.
• Composition:
  • The Board of Directors of NLMC will comprise senior Central Government officers and eminent experts to enable professional operations and management of the company.
  • The chairman, non-government directors of the NLMC will be appointed through a merit-based selection process.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/company/corporate-trends/process-to-hire-nlmc-chief-gathers-pace/articleshow/100602905.cms

In News: G20 Countries Contributing to Modern Slavery as per Global Slavery Index 2023

About Global Slavery Index:

• The Global Slavery Index is an annual report thatassesses the prevalence and conditions of modern slavery
• It isreleased by the Walk Free Foundation, an Australia-based organization dedicated to ending modern slavery.

Major findings:

• The report highlights thatover halfof the estimated50 millionpeopleliving in modern slaveryare in theG20 countries.
• It identifiesIndia as the country with the highest number of forced laborersamong G20 nations,followed by China, Russia, Indonesia, Turkey, and the U.S.
• Trade operations and global supply chainsof G20 countriescontributeto the increase inmodern slavery.
• Imports worth nearly $468 billionofat-risk products, such as electronics, textiles, palm oil, and solar panels,are shipped from countrieswith weak worker protection.
• G20 countriescollectively import $148 billionworth of apparel goods and$13 billion worth of textilesproduced by forced laboreach year.
• The report indicates a25% rise in modern slavery over the past five years, attributed toclimate change, armed conflict, weak governance, and health emergencies.
• The report calls forstronger measures and legislationto prevent governments and businesses from sourcing goods and services linked to modern slavery.
• It recommendsembedding anti-slavery measuresin climate change sustainability plans and tightening regulations on forced and child marriage.
• The report also emphasizes theneed for rehabilitation and empowermentof modern slavery victims, including providing education, job security, and adequate compensation.
• Overall,G20 nations should ensure the rehabilitationof modern slavery victims and prioritize providing themwith education, job security, and compensation besidesaccess to public goods and decent work.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/g20-countries-including-india-are-fuelling-modern-slavery-says-new-report/article66895654.ece

In News: India moves ahead with plan to create new Theatre Commands for Integrated War-Fighting

About Theatre Command

• A theatre command is astrategic military conceptthat aims tointegrate the operations of multiple branchesof the armed forceswithin a specific geographical region.
• Their establishment is driven by theneed to enhance coordination, efficiency, and effectivenessin military operations.
• These commandsbring together the Army, Navy, and Air Forceunder aunified command structure.
• Importance:
  • It helps facilitatingjoint planning, decision-making, and executionof military missions.
  • It allows for theseamless integration of resources, intelligence, logistics, and firepoweracross different military branches.
  • It helpseliminate inter-service rivalriesand promoting collaboration among different forces.
  • It is particularlyrelevant in modern warfare scenariosthat involvecomplex, multidimensional threats and operations.
• Challenges:
  • Implementation of theatre commands requirescareful planning, coordination, and organizational restructuringwithin the armed forces.
  • There is need to address issues includinginstitutional resistance,effective coordination,andaddressing concernsof each branch of the armed forces.
  • Successful implementation of theatre commands requires astrong command and control structure,advanced communication systems, andstreamlined decision-making processes.
• At present, several countries including the United States, Chinahave the theatre command concept to modernize their military capabilities.
• Overall, with everevolving nature of modern war fares, theatre commands will become increasingly vital toenhance their military capabilitiesandrespond effectivelyto complex security challenges.

Theatre Command of India

• India has recently proposed a plan for creation ofthree integrated theatre
• The proposed command will beeach led by a senior three-star generale.,Lieutenant General, Air Marshal,orVice Admiral.
• These commands will be responsible formanaging specific regions:
  • Northernborders withChina
  • Westernfront withPakistan
  • Maritime commandinpeninsular India.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-moves-ahead-with-creation-of-theatre-commands-for-integrated-war-fighting/articleshow/101078591.cms

In News:ISRO to set up Satellite Terminals on fishing boats along Coastal States

About Satellite terminals on fishing boats:

• ISRO'scommercial arm, NewSpace India Ltd, plans to establishmobile satellite service(MSS) terminals on motorized and fishing boats in13 coastal states.
• The initiativeaims to improve communicationwith vessels at sea andenhance monitoringof Indian waters.
• Important Features:
  • Private vendors will beselected to supply,install, andcommission MSS terminalson at least one lakh boats.
  • The system willestablish a vessel communication and support systemfor monitoring, control, and surveillance.
  • Adedicated MSS satcom networkwill be established, including ground stations, hub baseband systems, and satellite terminals.
  • Xponders(transponders) will beinstalled in coastal states,enablingtwo-way communicationwith fishermen.
  • Authorities willhave periodic location access,issue emergency weather alerts, and detect international water border violations.
• The project will bepowered by India's own navigation satellite system, NavIC, ensuring accurate navigation alerts.
• Overall, the system willprovide better security to fishermen and enhance coastal securitythrough monitoring and surveillance in Indian waters andwill help support national security efforts.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/newspace-india-ltd-to-install-satellite-terminals-on-1-lakh-fishing-boats-in-13-coastal-states-to-monitor-indian-waters-101687115022785.html

Why in news?Recently, The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has released its annual assessment, highlighting the increase in nuclear weapons as countries pursue force modernization and expansion plans.

About:

• SIPRI is anindependent international institute dedicated to research into conflict, armaments, arms control and disarmament.
• Established in 1966,SIPRI provides data, analysis and recommendations, based on open sources, to policymakers, researchers, media and the interested public.
• HQ: Stockholm, Sweden

Key Findings:

• Thenine nuclear-armed states —the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea(North Korea) andIsrael—continue to modernise their nuclear arsenals and several deployed new nuclear-armed in 2022.
• Russia and the U.S.together possess almost90% of all nuclear weapons.
• Countries withDeployed Nuclear Warheads are USA (Largest number),Russia, France and UK (USA>Russia>France>US).
• Countries withNo Deployed Nuclear Warheads are India, China, Pakistan, North Korea and Isreal.
• Total Inventory of Nuclear Warheads: Russia (Highest total inventory)> USA> China
• Thenuclear arsenals of India grew from 160 in 2022 to 164 in 2023and that of Pakistan from 165 to 170.
• While China is modernizing and expanding its arsenal, India and Pakistan are increasing the size of their inventories.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/china-could-potentially-have-as-many-icbms-as-us-or-russia-by-turn-of-decade-sipri/article66961196.ece

Why in news?Recently, Varunastra was successfully test-fired with a live warhead against an undersea target, by the Indian Navy.

About:

• It is indigenouslydesigned and developed ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo.
• It was designed and developedby Vizag-based Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) under the DRDO.
• It ismanufactured by Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) With a maximum speed of 40 knots and a maximum operating depth of 600 m, has a long range with multi-manoeuvering capabilities.
• It features advanced capabilities such as low drift navigational systems, acoustic homing, and autonomous guidance algorithms.

Torpedo:

• A torpedo is a self-propelled underwater weapon designed to target and destroy enemy vessels or submarines.
• It is typically cylindrical in shape and equipped with explosives, propulsion systems, and guidance mechanisms.

https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-varunastra-torpedo-to-enhance-indian-navys-anti-submarine-warfare-capabilities-know-all-about-its-powerful-features-here-3117020/

In News: Indian Navy's reiterates its commitment to Green Initiatives

About Indian Navy’s Green Initiative:

• The Indian Navy has recently recognized the importance ofenergy efficiency in its operationsand asserts its dedication to environmental protection and green initiatives.

Steps Taken:

• Indian Navy has commissionedsolar power plants with a cumulative capacity of 15.87MWto align with the government's Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM).
• The Navy is implementing aretrofit deviceto reduce diesel engine emissions and the device will be phased in on all land-based Diesel Gensets to further reduce emissions.
• Indigenousmarine bio-remedial agentshave been developed to combat oil spills at Naval harbours besides cleaning the seawater and protecting the marine ecosystem.
• The Navy, incollaboration with IISc(Bengaluru), has operationalized a 100KW capacity AC plant based on the natural refrigerant Carbon dioxide to curb its high global Warming Potential (GWP).
• Overall, the Navy is committed to reducing its carbon footprint andensuring environmental sustainabilityfor is actively pursuinggreen initiatives for a cleaner future.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1929750

Why in news?Recently, Indian Navy achieved a unique feat after an MH-60 ‘Romeo’ multi-mission helicopter landed on the indigenously built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

About:

• MH-60 Romeo Helicopter is theworld’s most advanced maritime helicopter,designed to operate from frigates, destroyers, cruisers and aircraft carriers.
• Itis an all-weatherhelicopter designed to support multiple missions with state-of-the-art avionics and sensors.
• It ismanufactured by US defence major Lockheed Martin.
• This helicoptercan detect and track submarines and surface shipsand attack with torpedoes and missiles.
• Main missions of the MH-60R Seahawk areAnti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW).
• Secondary missions are search and rescue, combat search and rescue, vertical replenishment, medical evacuation and insertion and extraction of special forces.
• Itcarries advanced airborne active sonar, multi-mode search radar and nose-mounted forward-looking infrared (FLIR) turret.
• This helicopter is operated by a crew of 4 in anti-submarine warfare role and crew of 5 in anti-surface warfare role. It can also accommodate additional passengers.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/mh60r-helicopter-makes-maiden-landing-on-ins-vikrant/articleshow/100657468.cms

In News:Amid violence in Manipur, Chief Minister told the media that 40 insurgents had been killed by security forces. The Kuki National Organisation (KNO) has countered his claims.

About

• Manipur has been in the cross-currents of India’s oldest insurgent movements. The Naga national movement in the 1950s and the fight for an independent Nagalim touched parts of Manipur. The NSCN-IM entered a ceasefire agreement with the Indian government only in 1997.
• In 1964, theUnited National Liberation Front (UNLF)was formed, demanding secession from India.People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), which received arms and training from China also rise at that time.
• These valley groups operated with a dual purpose –independence from India, and warding off Naga insurgent groups.
• The Kuki-Zomi groups were a reaction to Naga aggression against the Kukis. In1993, a massacre of Kukis by the NSCN-IM left thousands of Kukis homeless.

Reasons for the Rise of Insurgency in Manipur

• Forced Merger of Manipur:A forced merger of Manipur with the Union of India and the subsequent t delay in granting it full-fledged statehood is one of the reasons for the rise in insurgency. The Kingdom of Manipur was merged with India on 15th October 1949, it became a state only in 1972.
• Rise of Militant outfits:People’s Liberation Army (PLA), People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) being formed at that time.
• Spillover Effect of Greater Nagalim Demand:The Naga movement in neighboring Nagaland spilled over into Manipur’s hill districts with the NSCN-IM controlling most of it while pressing for “Nagalim” (Greater Nagaland), which is perceived in the valley as a “threat” to Manipur’s “territorial integrity”.
• Geographical area Conflict:While the hills account for nine-tenths of Manipur’s geographical area, they are sparsely populated, with most of the state’s population concentrated in the valley.The Meitei community forms a majority in Imphal valley, while the surrounding hill districts are inhabited by Nagas and Kukis.
• Naga-Kuki Conflict:In the early 1990s, the ethnic clashes between Nagas and Kukis led to the formation of several Kuki insurgent groups, which have now scaled down their demand from a separate Kuki state to a Territorial Council.

Steps taken by the government to control Insurgency

• The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) 1958 was enacted and extended to the entire state. As the law-and-order situation gradually improved, AFSPA has been repealed in several areas.
• In the 1980s, Manipur was declared a disturbed area.
• A tripartite Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement between the Centre, the state, and the Kuki-Zomi groups was signed in 2008.
• Valley insurgent groups like the UNLF (mother of all Meitei insurgent groups) have never entered an agreement with the Centre.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/dozens-of-groups-deep-faultlines-history-of-insurgeny-in-manipur-8635597/

In News: TheInternational Sustainability Standard Board(ISSB) publishes new global norms to combat greenwashing.

About Combating Greenwashing:

• Greenwashing refers to thepractice of misleading consumers or investorsabout theenvironmental benefits of a product, service, or company.
• Key features:
  • It involves makingfalse or exaggerated claimsabout a product's environmental impact or sustainability practices.
  • It can range fromvague and misleading marketing slogansto themanipulation of dataor certifications.
  • Itundermines consumer trust, hampers progresstowards sustainability goals, and allows companies to profit from deceptive practices.
  • It has become agrowing concern as businesses seek to capitalizeon the rising demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly options.
• Impact of Greenwashing:
  • Greenwashingmisleads consumers and creates confusionand skepticismabout sustainability claims, leading to a loss of credibility for legitimate eco-friendly businesses.
  • Investors may bemisled into supporting companiesthat donot truly prioritizesustainability, impacting the allocation of resources towards genuinely sustainable initiatives.
• Steps needed:
  • Increased awareness,technology integration and active participationby stakeholders to encourage businesses in combating greenwashing.
  • Blockchain technologycan provide immutable records of sustainability practices and supply chain information, ensuring credibility and traceability.
  • Artificial intelligence and data analyticscan help identify inconsistencies or discrepancies in sustainability reporting, enabling better detection of greenwashing practices.
  • Engaging stakeholders, including consumers, investors, and employees, is vital in combating greenwashing.
  • Feedback and scrutinyfrom stakeholders can hold businesses accountable and promote ethical practices.
• Overall, combating greenwashing isessential for fostering genuine sustainabilityand promoting a healthier planet besides creating abetter future for both the environment and society as a whole.

In News:A summit on‘Global Financial Pact on Climate Change’was held in Paris, where vulnerable countries reiterated their requirement of grants, technology transfers and financial support.

About Global Financial Pact on Climate Change:

• The Global Financial Pact on Climate Change was aimed atboosting crisis financing for low-income states and easing their debt burdens, reforming post-war financial systems and freeing up fundsto tackle climate change.
• There is a need ofadditional $4 trillion every yearto meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals, COP21 and Biodiversity COP15 objectives. Howeveronly $204 billion official development assistance was collectedin 2022-23.
• Only 25% of global climate investmentgoes to South Asia, Latin America, and Africa, which house some of the most vulnerable regions.

Key highlights of the Summit:

• The New global financing pact consisted of three components, i.e.
  • Pactfor global flows of finance that covers two levels of social contracts domestic and international levels.
  • Platformto de-risk finance and attract private investment in sustainable infrastructure.
  • Political pathwaythat creates time-bound deliverables on climate finance from one summit to another is required.
• The demands of Global South governments revolve aroundfinancial system reforms and include increased concessional and grant financing, debt reduction, and debt cancellationfor least-developed countries.
• The failure to collect 100 billion $ funds by 2020 represented failure of the global climate financing systemand aggravated the atmosphere of mistrust in climate negotiations
• The World Bank said it will pause repaymentsfor countries struggling with climate disasters.
• Calls were made forpolluter taxes, including a tax on shipping emissions, and financial transactions.
• TheEU called for increased coverage of global emissions with carbon pricing mechanismsand allocation of a proportion of revenues to climate finance.
• However despite these measures, there is aneed for structural discussions to address the inequities that prevent countries in the Global Southfrom affording the costs of adaptation and mitigation.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/express-view-on-climate-meet-in-france-thaw-in-paris-8685923/

In News: A recent report published in journal Nature, titled “Wild foods contribute to women’s higher dietary diversity in India” highlights the role of food items collected from forests and common lands in women’s diets in rural India.

About the Report:

• The report was a result of collaboration betweenresearchers from Indian School of Business, Universities of USA, Germany, UK and Denmark.
• The results put a spotlight on theneed to have public policies that promote knowledge of wild foods and protect people’s rights to access forestsand common lands as an instrument to improve nutrition.
• The monthly data on diet was collected from 570 households across two tribal dominated and forested districts inJharkhand and West Bengal.

Key Highlights of the report:

• The report revealed thatwomen who consumed wild foods had higher average dietary diversity scores (13% and 9% higher in June and July, respectively) than those who did not collect wild foods.
• The research reports that40% of the women in the study group never met the minimum dietarydiversity over the one-year period, highlighting the dire need to address poor diets.
• The findings suggest that consumption of wild foods isimportant to vulnerable women in tribal areas, particularly during June & July when other crops are still in the growing stages.
• Wild foods act as asource of nutrition securityfor forest-dwelling communities and poor people.
• These wild foods and knowledge associated with their distribution, seasonality, and abundance needs to beincluded in analysis of food systems and interventions to improve nutrition.
• Wild foods can act as anactive hedge against rainfall dependent cropsand can stabilize food consumption for the poorest households.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/wild-foods-contribute-to-womens-higher-dietary-diversity-in-india-says-study/article67011224.ece#:~:text=Results%20of%20the%20study%20revealed,did%20not%20collect%20wild%20foods

In News:Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary of Odisha records higher prey density

About

• Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in theSambalpur district of Odisha, India. It is located near the Hirakud Dam built onMahanadi River.
• The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, sambar deer, chital deer, wild boar, gaur,and many species of birds.

About Mahanadi River

• TheMahanadi River system is the third largest of peninsular Indiaafter Godavari and Krishna, and the largest river of Odisha state.
• The catchment area of the river extends toChhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand and Maharashtra.
• Its basin is bounded by the Central India hills on the north, by theEastern Ghats on the south and east and by the Maikala rangein the west.
• It rises from a place nearSihawa, near Raipur in the state of Chhattisgarhto the south of Amarkantak.
• TheSeonath, the Hasdeo, the Mand and the Ib joins Mahanadifrom left whereas the Ong, the Tel and the Jonk joins it from right.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2023/jun/25/debrigarh-wildlife-sanctuary-of-odisharecords-higher-prey-density-2588380.html

In News:A summit on‘Global Financial Pact on Climate Change’was held in Paris, which was chaired by France and India was co-chairing the steering committee. It is aimed at addressing the financing needs of sustainable development and climate action.

About the Global Financial Pact on Climate Change:

• The pact focuses onmobilizing funds from various sources, including public and private sectors, to support initiatives that promote economic growth, poverty eradication, and environmental sustainability.
• The summit was aimed atboosting crisis financing for low-income states and easing their debt burdens, reforming post-war financial systemsand freeing up funds to tackle climate change.

Key Outcomes of the Summit:

• The summit shed light on themagnitude of the crises, the clear demands from developing nations, and the proposed courses of actionadvocated by developed nations.
• An additional lending capacity of$200 billion for Multi-Development Banks (MDBs) to support emerging economieswould be unlocked to address climate challenges.
• Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs)were a central topic of discussion for financial system reforms, with calls for expanded resources to address trans boundary challenges and climate issues.
• The World Bankintroduced disaster clauses for debt deals, allowing debt payments to be suspended in the event of extreme weather events.
  • Additionally, it unveiled aPrivate Sector Investment Lab focused on renewable energyand energy infrastructure.
• The International Monetary Fundannounced thefulfilment of its commitment to allocate US $100 billionin Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) for vulnerable nations.
  • It proposed torecycle SDRs from rich countries to poor countries, expanding the amount of concessional finance available for developing countries.
• A Euro 2.5 billion Just Energy Transition Partnership deal was announced for Senegal, aiming to increase the share of renewable energy in the country's electricity mix to 40% by 2030.
• Colombia and Kenya proposed aGlobal Expert Review on Debt, Nature, and Climateto assess the impact of debt on countries' capacity to address climate change and preserve nature.
• Furthermore, it was suggested that thelong-delayed goal of US $100 billion in climate financewould be achieved this year
• The EU unveileda call to action on ‘Paris Aligned Carbon Markets’with the goal ofcovering at least 60% of global emissionswith carbon pricing mechanisms for climate alignment.

Source:

https://m.timesofindia.com/business/international-business/paris-finance-summit-fails-to-deliver-transformational-solutions-initiates-crucial-dialogue-cse/articleshow/101283568.cms

Why in news?Vulture conservationists and experts have welcomed the central government’s move to ban veterinary drugs aceclofenac and ketoprofen that are fatal for vultures.

About:

• Thedecision taken on the ban by the Drugs Technical Advisory Boardis the second big step towards vulture conservation since thebanning of Diclofenac in 2006.
• Ban on three drugs —aceclofenac, nimesulide and ketoprofen– had been requested.
• Butnimesulide continues to use and it possess a threat and should be banned soon.
• Ketoprofen and aceclofenac in cattle are equally toxic as Diclofenac and can kill vultures.

Vultures:

• Vultures aremedium- to large-sized birds of prey.
• They areknown for eating carrion (the bodies of dead animals).
• India is home to 9 species of Vulturenamely the Oriental white-backed, Long-billed, Slender-billed, Himalayan, Red-headed, Egyptian, Bearded, Cinereous and the Eurasian Griffon.
• Most of these 9 species face dangers of extinction.
• Bearded, Long-billed, Slender-billed, Oriental white-backedare protected in theSchedule-1 of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. Rests are protected under ‘Schedule IV’.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/ban-on-more-drugs-harmful-for-vultures-welcome-move-but-more-stringent-steps-needed-experts-90234

In News: Recent researches byplant physiological ecologists, have highlighted how plants evolved to human-induced stresses like drought and emphasises on theneed for ‘Plant Literacy’ to understand plants’ physiological responses.

About Plant Physiological Ecology:

• Plant physiological ecology is primarily focused on understanding the relationships between thestructure and functions of plants and regarding their constructions and shapes.
• Researchers examine development and growth along with advantages a certain form confers a plant in a given environment.
• They research thevascular systems of plantsa lot which is effectively a plant’s plumbing system in its roots, stems and leaves.
• Using acomparative anatomy approach the differences in construction of different vascular systemsof plants living in disparate regions of the world is understood. It shows plants evolved over millions of years and they will respond to future climatic conditions.
• It also studies theconstraints which the environment places on plantsand the novel solutions plants develop to survive and thrive.

Key features of plant architecture:

• Vascular systemis a series of cells arranged similar to pipes, developed over 400 million years to transport water. There is a
  • There is a strongrelationship between the amount of water a plant can extract from soil and transport to its leaves and its productivity.
• Stomata: Microscopic valves called stomataregulate the flow of carbon dioxideinto leaves for photosynthesis.
  • Plants lose 400 water molecules for every CO₂molecule they take up.
  • When water is limited, the plant closes its stomata, cutting off CO₂it normally takes up from the atmosphere. Thus, plants have been fine-tuning the cells that control water flow in them over millennia.
• Adaptations: Plants created a range of adaptations for water stress and evolved gravitational sensing mechanisms to knowwhich way to grow deeper for water and nutrients. They also havelight receptors to detect nearby plants, or to grow nearer to the sun.

Source:

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/our-lives-depend-on-plants-we-must-have-plant-literacy-to-understand-climate-change/articleshow/101225559.cms?from=mdr

In News: Despite global calls for emission reduction,coal-based thermal power generation, one of the most polluting sectors of India, was found to be brazenly flouting emission norms.

About the Coal based Thermal Power Plants:

• The thermal power sector accounts for around75% of the country's total installed power capacity. As of May 2022, India had a total thermal installed capacity of1 GW of which 58.6%is obtained from coal and the rest from Lignite, Diesel, and Gas.
• According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India may need an additional28GW of coal-fired generation capacity by 2032apart from 25GW thermal projects already under construction.

Emissions from thermal power plants:

• Thermal power plants emit a large amount ofcarbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and other pollutants into the air. They alsoconsume a lot of freshwater, causing water scarcity.
• The MoEFCC made it mandatory in 2015, for thermal power plants to install aflue gas desulphurisation (FGD) systemto remove sulphur dioxide from their exhaust.
• However, by April 2023,only 5%of the country's installed coal-based thermal power plants had FGD mechanisms in place.No plant in the Eastern regionwas found to be compliant with SO2 emissions norms.
• Maharashtrahas the highest capacity complying with the norms, followed by Gujarat, UP, Haryana and Tamil Nadu
• Evennew projects are not compliant with SO2 emissions norms. Only81 GWof 32.63 GWnewly commissioned capacity is complying with the norms.
• Furthermore, the reliability of the data could not be ascertained as there isno information available about on-ground inspectionsby state-level regulatory bodies.
• Singareni Thermal Power Plantis set to become the1^stpublic sector coal-based power generating station in South and 1^stamong State PSUs to have a FGD plant.
• Variousfactors for delayed the implementation of the normsare:
  • Sector’s dependencyon the external market for some FGD components,
  • Novelty of the technologyfor the Indian market,
  • COVID-19 pandemic.

Source:

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/pollution/only-5-of-india-s-coal-based-thermal-power-capacity-meets-so2-emissions-norms-cse-report-90229

Why in news?India has emerged as a top country with LEED Zero green building projects, outperforming the United States of America and China, said the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI).

About LEED Zero projects:

• LEED Zero has recognised projectsthat have reached net zero or net positive statusin the categories of carbon, energy, water, or waste.
  • Net zero refers to a state in which the greenhouse gases going into the atmosphere are balanced by removal from the atmosphere.
• The LEED Zero projectsinclude office spaces, hospitality facilities, retail malls, industrial manufacturing projects and data centres.
• LEED certifications are given incategories like- Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points) and Platinum (80+ points).
• LEED Zero hasfour categorieswhich recognisenet-zero status in carbon, energy, water, and waste over a period of 12 months.
• India’s strong position in LEED Zero projects reflects its commitment to sustainability and aligns with its ambitious target of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070.

Key Findings:

• Out of 150 LEED Zero-certified projects, India has 73 projects, accounting for 45% of the total.
  • Haryana and Tamil Nadu are the top statesin terms of certifications.
• Nearly one-third of all carbon emissions in India come from the building and construction sector.
• TheUnited States and China follow with 47 (30%) and 15 (10%)certifications respectively.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/india-leads-in-leed-zero-green-building-projects-outperforming-us-and-china-usgbc-and-gbci-101687115927271.html

Why in news?The State of the Climate in Europe 2022 report reveals that Europe has been warming twice as fast as the global average since the 1980s.

About:

• The report was released to coincide with the6th European Climate Change Adaptation Conference in Dublin, Ireland, and is accompanied by an interactive Story Map.
• It was producedjointly by the World Meteorological Organization and the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Key findings:

• In 2022,Europe was approximately 2.3 °C above the pre-industrial (1850-1900) averageused as a baseline for the Paris Agreement on climate change.
• Rates of surface ocean warming, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, the Baltic and Black Seas, and the southern Arctic were more than three times the global average.
• Wind and solar power generated 22.3% of European Union (EU) electricity in 2022, overtaking fossil gas (20%).
  • For the first time, more electricity was generated by wind and solar than by fossil gas in the EU.
• “The record-breaking heat stress that Europeans experienced in 2022 was one of the main drivers of weather-related excess deaths in Europe.

https://public.wmo.int/en/media/press-release/climate-change-impacts-scar-europe-increase-renewables-signals-hope-future#:~:text=Climate%20change%20impacts%20scar%20Europe,World%20Meteorological%20Organization

In News: World leaders and finance moguls are gathering in Paris for theSummit for a New Global Financing Pact, which is being hosted by France with India, co-chairing the steering committee.

About the New Global Financing Pact:

• It is a proposed pact aimed ataddressing the financing needs of sustainable development and climate action.
• There is a need ofadditional $4 trillion every yearto meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals, COP21 and Biodiversity COP15 objectives. Howeveronly $204 billion official development assistance was collectedin 2022-23.
• Only 25% of global climate investmentgoes to South Asia, Latin America, and Africa, which house some of the most vulnerable regions.
• Other challenges likeconditional disbursal of money, high domestic taxes, illicit finance flows, and higher risk perceptionslead to lack of funds to undertake developmental projects in a sustainable manner.

Components of New Global Financing Pact:

• Pact: There is a need to create a pact forglobal flows of finance that covers two levels of socialcontracts domestic and international.
  • At the domestic level, high debt limits the fiscal space of developing countries. There is a need tostandardise existing tax structures, stop illegal cross-border money movement, and curbing ineffectual fossil fuel subsidiesto increase the fiscal space.
  • At the international level, finance is needed foradaptation as well as loss and damagestemming from climate change. Therefore, the international social contract must rest on a strong foundation of global solidarity.
• Platform: A platform tode-risk finance and attract private investmentin sustainable infrastructure
  • Vulnerable countries need several types of blended finance such as aGlobal Clean Investment Risk Mitigation Mechanismthat pools risks across geographies and lower costs for all.
  • Hedging against currency fluctuationshould be done to prevent an increase in cost of finance.
• Pathway: A political pathway thatcreates time-bound deliverables on climate financefrom one summit to another is required.
  • The summit must outline the maths of finance, the mechanisms of delivery, and establish the momentum for real investment over the next two years

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/a-summit-with-substance/article66986234.ece

In News:Rivers in the Eastern Himalayas get less water from glacial melt; Still, the perennial nature of several rivers could be lost, say experts.

About

A recent report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) has unveiled alarming findings about the state of rivers in East-Northeast India. The report underscores the urgent need for immediate action to protect the delicate river ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

Climate Change Exacerbates Threats to Rivers

• The ICIMOD report highlights the profound impact of climate change on the region's rivers.
• Increasing temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and the melting of glaciers have led to reduced water flows, frequent droughts, and extreme weather events.
• These environmental shifts are significantly disrupting the delicate balance of river systems, posing severe challenges for agriculture, hydropower generation, and domestic water supply.

Human Activities Aggravate River Degradation:

• Report also emphasizes the detrimental role played by human activities in exacerbating the degradation of rivers in East-Northeast India.
• Uncontrolled urbanization, rapid industrial expansion, and rampant deforestation have significantly contributed to the problem. Irresponsible sand mining, unregulated dam construction, and pollution from industrial and residential sources further strain the already vulnerable river ecosystems.
• The consequences are not only the loss of aquatic biodiversity but also the endangerment of livelihoods reliant on fishing and agriculture.

Urgent Measures for River Conservation:

• To protect the rivers of East-Northeast India, the ICIMOD report underscores the necessity for immediate and concerted efforts.
• It emphasizes the implementation of robust policies and regulations to mitigate the impacts of climate change and prevent further deterioration of river ecosystems.
• Strengthening river basin management, promoting sustainable land use practices, and adopting water-efficient technologies are key measures recommended to safeguard these invaluable water resources.

Community Participation and Traditional Knowledge

• The report stresses the importance of engaging local communities, including indigenous groups, in river conservation endeavors.
• These communities possess invaluable traditional knowledge and practices that can contribute to the sustainable management of rivers.
• Recognizing their rights and empowering them in decision-making processes will be instrumental in ensuring the long-term resilience of both the rivers and the communities that depend on them.

A Call for Collaborative Action

• The ICIMOD report serves as a call to action for governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to prioritize the preservation and restoration of rivers in East-Northeast India.
• It emphasizes the urgent need for collaborative efforts at regional, national, and local levels to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and unsustainable human activities.
• Failing to act promptly could result in irreversible damage to the region's river ecosystems and the socio-economic well-being of millions of people.

ICIMOD report underscores the critical importance of protecting and conserving the rivers of East-Northeast India. Preserving these invaluable water resources is not only vital for maintaining diverse ecosystems but also for sustaining the livelihoods of communities dependent on them. By taking immediate and comprehensive action, we can work towards securing a sustainable and prosperous future for both the rivers and the people who rely on them.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/icimod-report-rings-warning-bells-for-rivers-of-east-northeast-india-90154

Why in news?Recently, a non-native alligator gar fish,known for its crocodile-like head and razor-sharp teeth, was found in one of Kashmir’s idyllic lakes, raising apprehensions about its impact on the native fish species.

About:

• Alligator Gar Fish is aray-finned euryhaline fishand isone of the biggest freshwater fish in North Americaand thelargest species in the ‘gar’ family.
• The alligator gar is a close relative of the bowfin species.
• It was also found in some parts of India likeBhopal, Kerala and from waterbodies of Maharashtra and Kolkata.
• They grow rapidly and have alife span of 20-30 years.
• Protection Status: IUCN- Least Concern.
• Concerns: During winter, gar fish can even sustain themselves in the cold waters of Dal because the temperature they mostly live in is 11-23 degrees Celsius. They can be dangerous for indigenous fish species.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/carnivorous-alligator-gar-the-latest-threat-for-srinagar-s-idyllic-dal-lake--90088

Why in news?Scientists in Chile have uncovered the remains of a previously unknown species of herbivorous dinosaur, challenging existing beliefs about the range of duck-billed dinosaurs.

About:

• It is a species of herbivorous dinosaurpreviously unknown in the southern hemisphere.
• The newly discovered dinosaur,named Gonkoken nanoi, lived 72 million years agoin what is now Chilean Patagonia.
• Measuring up tofour meters in length and weighing a ton, theseslender dinosaurs were capable of both bipedal and quadrupedal posturestoaccess vegetation at different heights.
• This type of duck-billed dinosaur wascommon in North America, Asia and Europeduring the Cretaceous period.

Cretaceous Period

• The Cretaceous began 145.0 million years ago and ended 66 million years ago.
• The Cretaceous Period, in geologic time, is the last of the three periods of the Mesozoic Era.
• It followed the Jurassic Period and was succeeded by the Paleogene Period.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/remains-of-new-species-of-duck-billed-dinosaur-found-in-chile/article66979278.ece

Why in news?The wild orchids of North Bengal, known for their beauty, fragrance, and medicinal properties, are disappearing due to deforestation in their natural habitat.

About:

• Orchids are attractivelyflowered and colorful plants.
• They are known fortheir vibrant and intricate flowers.
• Orchids arenatural gauges of air qualitybecause they don’t grow in polluted air.
• Habitat: they arefound in various habitats around the world, including tropical rainforests, mountains, and even deserts.
• India has over 1200 species of Orchids (388 are endemic to India, out of which 128 are endemic to the Western Ghats)
  • The Himalayas, North-East parts of India, and Western Ghats are the hotspots of orchids.
  • Thehighest number of orchid speciesis recorded fromArunachal Pradesh followed by Sikkim and West Bengal.
• Protection Status:CITES- Appendix II
• Orchids are broadly categorized into three life forms:
  • Epiphytic:They are plants growing on another plant including those growing on rock boulders and are often termed lithophytes. About 60% of all orchids found in India are epiphytic.
  • Terrestrial:They are plants growing on land and climbers. 447 species in India are terrestrial. These grow directly on the soil and are found in large numbers in temperate and alpine regions.
  • Mycoheterotrophic:They are plants which derive nutrients from mycorrhizal fungi that are attached to the roots of a vascular plant.
• Distribution:
  • Himalayan Zone: Richest in orchid species.
  • Northeast India: Highest species concentration.
  • Western Ghats: High endemism of orchids.
  • Highest Number of Orchid Species: Arunachal Pradesh> Sikkim> West Bengal.
• Uses:
  • For aesthetic purposes.
  • In herbal medicine.
  • Vanilla is produced from Vanilla planifolia orchid.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/the-disappearing-wild-orchids-of-north-bengal-90096

Why in news?Recently, Germany has proposed transitioning to carbon-neutral synthetic fuels for existing internal combustion vehicles instead of phasing them out completely.

About:

• Synthetic hydrocarbon fuel, also known assynfuel or synthetic fuel, refers to fuels that are produced through chemical processesfrom non-petroleum sources.
• Synthetic hydrocarbon fuels can bederived from a variety of feedstocks, including coal, natural gas, biomass, and even renewable energy sourcessuch as solar or wind.
• The production of synfuels typicallyinvolves complex processes such as gasification, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, and hydroprocessin
  • Gasification is a process where the feedstock, such as coal or biomass, is converted into a mixture of gases, primarily carbon monoxide and hydrogen, by reacting it with oxygen or steam at high temperatures.
  • Fischer-Tropsch synthesis involves converting these gasified gases into liquid hydrocarbons through catalytic reactions.
  • Hydroprocessing further refines the liquid hydrocarbons by removing impurities and adjusting the fuel properties to meet specific requirements.
• Benefits:
  • Producing synthetic fuelcould be carbon-negative if the carbon emissions from the fuel are less than the carbon captured during the production process.
  • Even if there is a net carbon release, it may still be lower than the carbon impact of manufacturing a large number of electric vehicles (EVs).
  • Challenges: High initial cost compared to petrol or diesel; engineering hurdles inefficient carbon capture; need for advancements in green hydrogen electrolysis

https://www.business-standard.com/opinion/columns/germany-s-net-zero-plan-for-old-vehicles-123061601058_1.html

Why in news?Researchers have recently discovered 20 new species of Sea lettuce along the Baltic and Scandinavian coasts.

About:

• Sea lettuce (Ulva lactuca) is aprominent species of green macroalgae, scattered widely across the vast Baltic Sea region,stretching from the Atlantic waters to the Bay of Bothnia in the Baltic Sea.
• It iscommonly referred to as seaweed.
• It is a genus of green algaeusually found growing on rocky shores of seas and oceans around the world.
• Some species of Sea lettucealso grow in brackish water rich in organic matteror sewage and can accumulate heavy metals.
• Itusually grows attached by a small discoid holdfast to rocks and shells, but it can also grow in a free-floating, non-attached form, sometimes in prolific masses.
• It isperennial, and grows all year, although the largest blooms occur during the summer.
• Itneeds a lot of sunlight to flourish.
• Large masses of sea lettuce are often anindicator of nutrient pollution in the water.
• The color is often bright green but can range fromdark green to almost yellow.
• Owing to its rapid growth and easy reproduction, sea lettuce has piqued the interest of the growing aquaculture industry.
• Sea lettuce finds itsapplication in various industries like food industry.
• It isquite high in nutritional values like protein, dietary fibre, and healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids.

https://scitechdaily.com/researchers-discover-20-new-species-of-sea-lettuce-in-the-baltic-sea-region/

Why in news?This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action.

About:

• The Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action (VDPA) is asignificant human rights document adopted by the United Nations World Conference on Human Rightsheld inVienna,Austria, in 1993.
• It acknowledgesthe interdependence and indivisibility of human rights,emphasizing that civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights are all integral parts of the universalhuman rights framework.
• The declarationrecognizes the importanceof respecting and promoting human rights andfundamental freedoms for all individuals.
• Fight against impunity, including the establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
• Thedeclaration reaffirms the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) of 1948.
  • UDHR, sets out a common standard of human rights for people worldwide, regardless of their nationality, race, religion, or other status.

https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2023/06/dont-give-veteran-rights-activist-urges-younger-generations

In News:Three States, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Telangana, have deferred a proposal, approved by the Centre’s Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), to test a new kind of transgenic cotton seed that contains a gene, Cry2Ai, that purportedly makes cotton resistant to pink bollworm, a major pest.

About

Transgenic crops are plants that have been modified by introducing genes from other organisms using genetic engineering techniques. These genes are typically sourced from different species, including bacteria, viruses, animals, or even other plants.

Genetically modified (GM) crops have gained attention in India with various crops undergoing trials. The regulation of transgenic crops in India involves a thorough assessment process and is subject to ongoing litigation.

Limited Commercial Cultivation:

• Cotton is currently the only transgenic crop commercially cultivated in India.
• Other crops, including brinjal, tomato, maize, and chickpea, are in different stages of trials employing transgenic technology.

Approval Process:

• TheGenetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), the apex technical bodyresponsible for evaluating GM seed proposals, plays a crucial role in the approval process.
• The GEAC approves theenvironmental release of transgenic cropsafter rigorous evaluation and testing.
• The Mustard hybrid DMH-11 and its parental lines wereapproved for seed production and testing, moving closer to full commercial cultivation.

Supreme Court Litigation:

• There is ongoing litigation in the Supreme Courtregarding the permissibility of allowing transgenic food cropsin farmer fields.
• Activist Aruna Rodrigues andGene Campaign, an NGO, have filed petitions challenging the release of transgenic crops due to concerns over herbicide use and ecological harm.

Previous Instances:

• In 2017, the GEAC initially approved GM mustard but later imposed additional tests, delaying its release.
• In 2010, the GEAC approved GM brinjal, but the government placed it under an "indefinite moratorium."

Regulatory Process of Transgenic Crops in India:

• Safety Assessments:
  • The development of transgenic crops involves the insertion of transgenic genes into plants to achieve desired traits.
  • Before further testing in open plots, transgenic crops undergo multiple safety assessments by committees.
  • The assessments aim to ensure that transgenic crops are better than non-GM variants in claimed parameters without posing ecological harm to other species.
• Open Field Trials:
  • After safety assessments, transgenic plants undergo open field trials in different geographical conditions and crop seasons.
  • These trials assess the suitability and performance of transgenic crops across various states.

Resistance from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana:

• Cotton Seed Development:Hyderabad-based Bioseed Research India has developed Cry2Ai transgenic cotton seed, which confers resistance to pink bollworm. The GEAC recommended testing Cry2Ai cotton in farmers' fields in Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Haryana.
• State Approval Challenges:Agriculture being a State subject, companies seeking to test their transgenic seeds require approvals from respective states. Only Haryana granted permission for the trials, while Gujarat and Telangana rebuffed the GEAC's proposal.
• GEAC's Response and Activist Concerns:The GEAC asked the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) to organize capacity-building activities to apprise state governments about GM crops and the regulatory framework. Activist groups raised objections, considering the GEAC's approach biased, as they believed it pressured states to furnish reasons for disapproval.

Potential Changes in the Regulatory Process:

• Notified Testing Sites Proposal:
  • To address the issue of differing attitudes towards GM crops among states, the GEAC is considering a proposal by the DBT.
  • The proposal suggests declaring specific regions across India as "notified testing sites" (42 proposed sites).
  • If implemented, companies and institutions conducting GM crop trials in these locations would not require state-level permissions.

The status of transgenic crops in India is predominantly limited to cotton, with other crops in various stages of trials. The regulatory process involves stringent safety assessments and open field trials before commercial cultivation approval. Ongoing litigation in the Supreme Court and resistance from some states pose challenges to the widespread adoption of transgenic crops. The proposal for notified testing sites may streamline the approval process and facilitate further research and development in the field of transgenic crops in India.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/agriculture/explained-what-is-the-status-of-transgenic-crops-in-india/article66968448.ece

In News:Conservationists raises concern over the potential impact of the cyclone Biporjoy on the Great Indian Bustards (GIB) and Asiatic lions of the Gir forest.

About Great Indian Bustards:

• Great Indian Bustards (GIB) arecritically endangered large birdsfound manly in thegrassland habitatsofRajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra.
• These are large terrestrial birds known for their impressive size and unique appearance. Males can reach a height of up to one meter and weigh around 15 kilograms.
• InGujarat, Naliyais home to the last remaining population of GIB in the state which currently hasonly four female
• The remaining GIB population in India is estimated to beless than 200 individuals, making urgent conservation efforts crucial for their survival.
• These majestic birds are characterized by theirbrownish upper body, long bare legs, and a distinctiveblack crest on their head.
• The species has seensignificant decline in populationprimarily due tohabitat loss and fragmentationby human activities, including agriculture, infrastructure development, and grazing pressure.
• The impact ofCyclone Biporjoy on the GIB population in Naliyais a cause for concern as its grassland habitats, like the one in Naliya, can be prone to severe damage.

About Asiatic Lions:

• The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is a subspecies of lion that isnative to the Indian
• It is foundprimarily in Gujarat’s Gir ForestNational Park and Wildlife Sanctuary which is thelast stronghold of Asiatic lions in the world.
• Asiatic lions areslightly smaller than their African counterpartsbut still possess immense power and grace.
• Malelions can weigh up to200 kilogramsand have adistinctive mane, which varies in colour and length while lionesses play a vital role in the pride's hunting activities.
• The lion population in Gir is estimated to be around500 individuals, a remarkable recovery from a mere20 lions in the early 20th century.
• The Asiatic lion's habitatprimarily consists of dry deciduous forests, savannahs, and grasslands, where they can find an abundant supply of prey.
• Previouslyattempts have been made to translocatesome lionsto the Kuno National Parkin Madhya Pradesh but was unsuccessful.
• The potentialimpact of recent Cyclone Biporjoyon the lion population and their habitat is a matter of concern for conservationists.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/biporjoy-as-cyclone-nears-kutch-saurashtra-concern-grows-over-gir-lions-naliya-bustards-90011

In News:A crocodile in Costa Rica had a virgin birth.

About

• A female crocodile at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, has given birth toeight healthy baby crocodiles without mating.This is the first time thatparthenogenesis, or virgin birth, has been observed in crocodiles.
• Parthenogenesis is rare in mammals, but it is more common in reptiles. It is thought to occur when an egg is fertilized by a sperm cell that has degenerated or is missing.
• In Cleopatra's case, it is possible that she produced an egg that was fertilized by a sperm cell that was too weak to fertilize another egg.
• The birth of Cleopatra's babies is a significant scientific event. It provides further evidence thatparthenogenesis is possible in crocodiles and other reptiles. It also raises the possibility that parthenogenesis could be used to help conserve endangered species.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/09/world/crocodile-virgin-birth-parthenogenesis-scn/index.html

In News:The United States and Britain recently announced a new strategic pact as their leaders rededicated the "special relationship" to counter Russia, China and economic instability.

About

• “The Atlantic Declaration is a Framework for a Twenty-First Century U.S.-UK Economic Partnership” outlines the commitment of the United States and the United Kingdom to strengthen their economic alliance to address global challenges.
• It emphasizes the need for cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, economic security, digital transformation, clean energy, and defence.

Other Agreements:

• The Five Eyes Agreement (intelligence alliance comprising the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand);
• Open Skies Agreement (US-UK aviation agreement, 2007);
• UK-US Data Sharing Agreement (2019)

https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-uk-ties-joe-biden-rishi-sunak-us-visit-us-uk-forge-atlantic-declaration-to-boost-economic-ties-101686248803511.html

In News:A recent study in the Nature journal reveals that theloss of Arctic sea ice is inevitablein the decades ahead, even if the world somehow sharply reduces carbon emissions.

About the Arctic Sea Ice and its significance:

• Arctic Sea iceinfluences global climateand the rise and fall in Arctic sea temperatures.
• Sea ice is light-coloured and therefore has higher albedothan liquid water, thus playing a vital role in keeping Polar Regions cool and maintaining the earth’s energy balance.
• Sea ice alsokeeps the air cool by forming a barrierbetween the cold air above and the relatively warmer water below.
• As the amount of sea ice decreases, theArctic region’s cooling effect is reduced, and this may initiate a ‘feedback loop’ whereby ocean warming caused by more absorption of solar energy leads to an even greater loss of sea ice and further warming.”
• Changes in sea ice canaffect biodiversity and impact mammalssuch as polar bears and walruses, which rely on the presence of sea ice for hunting, breeding, and migrating
• The reduction in ice cover alsoaffects the traditional subsistence hunting lifestyleof indigenous Arctic populations such as the Yup’ik, Iñupiat, and Inuit,
• However,reduced ice can present commercial and economic opportunitieswith the opening up of shipping lanes and increased access to natural resources in the Arctic region.

Highlights of the Study:

• It is expected that the world will see itsfirst ‘sea-ice free summer’ before 2050. This is under the assumption that global emissions will drive temperatures to beyond 4.5°C.
• Moreover, if drastic reductions in emissions aren’t undertaken, we could very well be seeing the first such summer in the 2030s as satellites over the Arctic have shown13% loss every year.
• It was found that around 90% of the ice-melting was due to anthropogenic factors, while rest was caused by natural variability.
• The diminished sea ice while warming the Arctic also leads to aweakening of the polar jet streams, which has been linked torising temperatures and heat waves in Europe as well as unseasonal rainfall in northwest India.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/business/explained-why-is-the-markets-regulator-asking-for-more-disclosures-from-foreign-portfolio-investors/article66941630.ece

In News: SEBI proposedadditional disclosures from Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs)to guard against possible circumvention of Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS) requirements and to prevent the misuse of the FPI route.

About the SEBI’s proposed regulations:

• The objective of the proposed legislation is toenhance trust in the Indian securities marketsby mandating additional granular disclosures around ownership of, economic interest, and control of objectively identified high-risk FPIs.
• The regulations wouldidentify tangible ownership and curtail incidences of multiple routesbeing used to acquire ownership in a company to keep up with the MPS norms.
• The two broad issues that prompted floating of the proposed regulation are:
  • FPIs direct a substantial portion of their equity portfolio in the country to a single investee company or a company group without much trade in theses equities.Such concentrated investments could possibly mean thatpromoters of such corporate groups, are acting in concert, and could be using the FPI route for circumventing regulatoryrequirements such as MPS.
  • The central government amended the FDI policy requiring an entitysharing a land border with India, or where the beneficial owner is based out of any such country, to do so only via the government route. FPIs could be used to circumvent this requirement.

Proposals by SEBI:

• The proposed legislation categorises FPIs intolow risk, moderate risk and high risk.
  • Low riskwould cover government and government-related entities such as central banks or sovereign wealth funds.
  • Moderate riskrefers to pension funds or public retail funds with widespread and dispersed investors.
  • All other FPIs are categorised ashigh-risk.
• High-risk FPIs holding more than 50% of their equity assetunder management (AUM) in a single corporate group would have to make additional disclosures.
• The paper also proposes that existing high-risk FPIs with an overall holding in the Indian equity market of over Rs 25,000 crorecomply with the disclosure mandate within six months.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/business/explained-why-is-the-markets-regulator-asking-for-more-disclosures-from-foreign-portfolio-investors/article66941630.ece

In News:Government is launching Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research, MAHIR, to quickly identify emerging technologies in the power sector.

About

• The Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research (MAHIR) is a significant initiative launched by theMinistry of Power and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
• Itaims to leverage emerging technologiesin the power sector through indigenous development and collaboration.

Mission Objectives

• Toidentify emerging technologiesand areas of future relevance for the Global Power Sector and take up indigenous end-to-end development of relevant technologies
• Toprovide a common platformfor Power Sector Stakeholders for collective brainstorming, synergetic technology development and devise pathways for smooth transfer of technology
• Tosupport pilot projects of indigenous technologies(developed especially by Indian Start-ups) and facilitate their commercialization
• To leverageforeign alliances and partnerships to accelerate research& development of advanced technologies and to build competencies, capabilities and access to advanced technologies through bilateral or multilateral collaborations, thereby facilitating exchange of knowhow and Technology Transfer.
• To seed,nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&Dand to create vibrant & innovative ecosystem in the Power Sector of the country
• To make ourNation among the leading Countries in Power Systemrelated Technologies & Applications development.

Areas Identified for Research

• Alternatives to Lithium-Ion storage batteries
• Modifying electric cookers / pans to suit Indian cooking methods
• Green hydrogen for mobility (High Efficiency Fuel Cell)
• Carbon capture
• Geo-thermal energy
• Solid state refrigeration.
• Nano technology for EV battery
• Indigenous CRGO technology

Funding of the Mission:

• Pooling resources from the Ministry of Power, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, and Central Public Sector Enterprises under these ministries and also from the Government of India's budgetary resources.

Structure of the Mission

• MAHIR mission has a two-tier structure consisting of aTechnical Scoping Committee and an Apex Committee.

Scope of the Mission

• After the identification and approval of research areas, a global invitation will be extended for outcome-linked funding proposals.
• The selection process for these proposals will be based on a Quality cum Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) method.
• Funding will be provided for pilot projects involving technologies developed by Indian start-ups, with a focus on facilitating their commercialization.
• Additionally, there will be a strong emphasis on encouraging international collaboration and promoting technology transfer.

https://newsonair.gov.in/News?title=Govt-launching-Mission-on-Advanced-and-High-Impact-Research%2C-MAHIR&id=462147

In News:Govt Permits Import of Pet co*ke as Raw Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

About PET co*ke for Lithium-Ion Battery:

• The government has recentlypermitted the import of pet co*keas a raw material formaking graphite anode materialspecificallyfor lithium-ion batteries.
• The imported pet co*ke, known asneedle pet co*ke (NPC),has been allowed for the production of graphite anode materialonlyandnot for other purposes or as fuel.
• Thesulphur contentin the imported NPCshould be less than 0.8 percent,which will be monitored bystate pollution control boards.
• At present,import of low-sulphur pet co*ke is restrictedand requiresauthorization from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
• Low-sulphur pet co*ke importsare authorized for use inintegrated steel plants, specifically forblending with co*king coal in recovery-type co*ke ovens equipped withdesulphurization plants.
• The import of low-sulphur pet co*ke has tomandatorily complywith the terms and conditionsset by the Ministry of Environment,Forest and Climate Change of India.
• The steel industrycannot use low-sulphur pet co*keas fuel orfor trade purposesas Pet co*ke import forfuel purposes is completely bannedat present.
• Needle co*kes, derived from pet co*ke, serve as aprimary material for electrodesused in electric steel furnaces forsmelting and refining steel scrap.
• Graphite,which is commonly made from pet co*ke, iswidely used as the anode materialin the manufacturing oflithium-ion batteries.
• Overall, thepermission to import pet co*kefor lithium-ion batteriesaims to support the growth of electric vehiclesandbattery technology.

Pet co*ke

• Pet co*ke orpetroleum co*keis a carbon-rich solid material that is produced through the thermal decomposition of heavy crude oil residue during the refining process.
• It consists predominantly ofcarbon content ranging from 90% to 97%and the remaining composition includessulphur, metals(such as vanadium and nickel), and other impurities.
• Pet co*ke has ahigh energy content, making it a desirable fuel source for industries that require high heat intensity.
• Majorexportingcountries: United States, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, and China.
• Majorimportingcountries:India, China, and Brazil.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/foreign-trade/govt-permits-import-of-pet-co*ke-as-raw-material-for-lithium-ion-batteries/articleshow/100709958.cms

In News:According to a report by the LDC Group at World Trade Organization (WTO), around85% of the 11,000 products offered at zero tariffs by Indiato least developed countries (LDCs) under the duty-free quota-free (DFQF) scheme remain unutilized.

About the duty-free quota-free (DFQF) scheme for LDCs:

• The Schemerequires all developed and developing country members to provide preferential market accessfor all products originating from all LDCs.
• The decision to provide duty-free quota-free (DFQF) access for LDCs was first taken at theWTO Hong Kong Ministerial Meeting in 2005.
• India became the first developing countryto extend this facility to LDCs in2008, providing market access on 85% of India’s total tariff lines to better integrate LDCs into the global trading system.
• The scheme wasfurther expanded in 2014providing preferential market access onabout 98.2% of India’s tariff lines to LDCs. India offers 11,506 preferential tariff lines to LDCs of which 10, 991 are duty-free.

Key Findings of the Report:

• According to WTO data for 2020,85% of India’s tariff lines show a zero utilisation rate compared to 64% by China.
• Noteworthy amounts of LDC exports are enteringunder non-preferential (i.e. most favoured nation) tariff route into Indiaeven though they are covered by the Indian preference scheme. For instance there could have been aduty savings of $74 million on vegetable oil exports from Bangladesh to India, if the preference scheme was used instead of the MFN route.
• However, the report contended thatthere may be data gapsand requested China and India to redouble efforts to provide the WTO secretariat with an appropriate and complete set of data.

Source:

https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/wto-highlights-poor-utilisation-of-india-s-preferential-scheme-for-ldcs-123060200896_1.html

In News:The RBI has proposed a mechanism to establish robust governance mechanismsfor authorised non-bank payment system operators (PSOs)to effectively address emerging cyber security risks.

About the draft proposal of RBI:

• The RBI released a draft of ‘Master Directions on Cyber Resilience and Digital Payment Security Controls for Payment System Operators’ to deal with security threats in payment systems and PSOs.
• The directions cover governance mechanisms for theidentification, assessment, monitoring and management of cyber security risks.
• As per the draft, PSOs will have toreport any unusual incident, including those involving cyber-attacks, outage of critical infrastructure, internal fraud and settlement delay, to RBIwithin six hours of detection.
• The Board of Directors of PSO shall be responsible for ensuring adequateoversight over information security risks, including cyber risk and cyber resilience.
• PSOs will be required todevelop an approved Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP) to detect, contain, respondto, and recover from cyber threats and attacks.
• PSOs should maintainrecords of key roles, information assets, critical functions, processes, third-party service providers, and their interconnections, and document their levels of usage, criticality and business value.
• To ensure data security, the PSOsmust implement a comprehensive data leak prevention policy to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, availability and protection of business and customer information, both within the PSO's control and at vendor-managed facilities.

Source:

https://cio.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/government-policy/rbi-proposes-norms-on-cyber-resilience-digital-payment-security-controls-for-psos/100765838

In News:Recently, the government approved the second phase of the City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain (CITIIS) project, a program under the ambit of the Smart Cities Mission,

About

• CITIIS, or the City Investments toInnovate, Integrate and Sustain, is a sub-componentof the Government of India's Smart Cities Mission.
• It is a joint program of theMinistry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Agence Francaise de Development (AFD), the European Union (EU), and theNational Institute of Urban Affairs(NIUA)
• CITIIS 2.0 envisages supportingcompetitively selected projects promoting a circular economywith a focus on integrated waste management at the city level, climate-oriented reform actions at the state level, and institutional strengthening and knowledge dissemination at the national level.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/cabinet-approves-citiis-20-for-integrated-waste-management-and-climate-oriented-reform/article66916174.ece

Why in news?Recently, A new study has discovered 62 desiccation-tolerant vascular plant species in the Western Ghats, with potential applications in agriculture and conservation.

About:

• Desiccation-tolerant vascular (DT) plantsare able to withstand extreme dehydration, losing up to 95% of their water content, and they revive themselves once water is available again.
• This unique ability allows them to survive in harsh, arid environments that would be uninhabitable for most other plants.
• Desiccation-tolerant plants have special adaptations e.g.,mechanisms to prevent cellular damage during dehydration;thick cuticle on leaves, which reduces water loss through evaporation etc.
• Examples:Selaginella lepidophylla(Rose of Jericho);Xerophyta viscosa; Myrothamnus flabellifolius(Resurrection plant);Craterostigma plantagineum; Haberlea rhodopensis.
• Moreover,out of the 62 species identified, 16 are endemic to India.
• Additionally,12 species are exclusively found in the Western Ghats, showcasing the region’s significance as a global hotspot for DT plants.

Vascular plants

• Vascular plants, also known as tracheophytes, are a group of plants that have specialized tissues for conducting water, nutrients, and sugars throughout their structures.
• These tissues are called vascular tissues and include the xylem and phloem.

https://www.deccanherald.com/science-and-environment/new-study-discovers-62-desiccation-tolerant-vascular-plant-species-1223928.html

In News:Recently, Prime Minister praised the Times of India Saving Our Stripes' initiative on the importance of tiger conservation.

About

• The Saving Our Stripes campaign was launched by TOI in 2023 to celebrate the success of Project Tiger, raise awareness, and mobilize action to safeguard endangered tiger populations.
• The campaign garnered widespread support from the public, government, and private sectors.
• By targeting children, the initiative encourages the younger generation to embrace the ethical values of environmental stewardship and conservation.
• A special Tiger Anthem curated by celebrated artists including Nalla Muthu.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/this-is-a-good-effort-pm-modi-praises-tois-tiger-anthem/articleshow/100666717.cms

Why in news?Recently, the government-owned Tribal Development Co-operative Corporation of Odisha Ltd (TDCCOL) decided to procure sal seeds (Shorea robusta) from nine Odisha districts.

About:

Sal tree:

• Shorea robusta, the sal tree, is aspecies of tree in the family Dipterocarpaceae.
• The tree isnative to India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Tibetandacross the Himalayan regions.
• Shorea robustacan grow up to 40 metrestall with a trunkdiameter of 2 metres.
• The leaves are 10–25 cm long and 5–15 cm broad.
• The sal tree is known also assakhua in northern India, including Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Jharkhand.
• It is thestate tree of two Indian states – Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.
• In India, it extends fromChhattisgarh, Assam, Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand west to the Shivalik Hills in Haryana, east of the Yamuna.
• The range also extends through the Eastern Ghats and to the eastern Vindhya and Satpura ranges of central India.
• Odisha has a rich depository of sal seeds accounting for 25 per cent of the country’s production, which played a significant role in the economics of the tribal people in the state.
  • Around 40 per cent of the total tribal populations here are engaged in collecting and processing the seeds to eke out a living.
• Other major sal seeds producing statesincludeBihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/forests/odisha-to-procure-sal-seeds-from-9-districts-tribals-say-it-s-too-late-89719

Why in news?Recently, Scientists have discovered a new asteroid (dubbed 2023 FW13) along Earth, is considered a "quasi-moon" or "quasi-satellite".

About:

• It is considered a "quasi-moon" or "quasi-satellite," meaningit orbits the sun in a similar time frame as Earth does but is only slightly influenced by Earth’s gravitational pull.
• Experts believe that it has beenorbiting Earth since 100 BCand will keep circling our planet for at least another 1,500 years, until AD 3700.
• It wasidentified by experts utilizing the Pan-STARRS telescopesituated atopHawaii’s Haleakala volcano.
• Earlier, a quasi-satellite known asKamo'oalewawas also discovered in 2016.
• Thenewfound asteroid 2023 FW13 circles the sun in sync with Earth.
• According to preliminary estimates,its diameter is from 10 to 20 meters.

https://www.livemint.com/science/news/scientists-discover-2nd-moon-near-earth-that-is-going-to-stay-for-at-least-1-500-years-11685583527361.html#:~:text=Scientists%20have%20discovered%20a%20new%20asteroid%20along%20Earth%20recently.,50%20feet%20(15%20metres

In News:Thesedimentary deposits recovered from the Indus River valley in Ladakhhave helped in retracing the climate since last deglaciation from 19.6 to 6.1 thousand years ago, paving the path towards understanding climate variation during the era.

About the Research Methodology:

• The Scientists sampled sediments from18 m thick sediment sequence from ancient lake deposits along the Indus River, at an altitude of 3287 mand carried out meticulous laboratory analysis of the samples.
• They used physical characteristics like colour texture, grain size, grain composition, total organic carbon, and magnetic parametersof sediments to extract past climate information from the palaeolake sedimentary archive.
• This was used toreconstruct paleoclimate (climate prevalent in a particular geological time period) variationsof the period.

Key Findings of the Research:

• Researchers reconstructedmillennial to centennial-scale climate recordsfrom the paleolake deposits.
• They identified acold arid period, followed by strong monsoon period and subsequent weakening monsoonphase with enhanced El Nino activities with climate variations in the Last Glacial Maxima.
• Climatic variations through time:
  • 6 to 11.1 thousand years ago:Cold arid climateinfluenced by westerly circulation
  • 4 to 16.5 thousand years ago: A short wet phase within the dominant westerly period is attributed to theearly wet phase of a two-fold H1 event
  • 1 to 7.5 thousand years ago: Monsoon forcings dominated the climate of the region, following which theorbitally controlled solar insolationtook over.
  • It influenced the positionof Inter Tropical Convergence Zone ITCZand was the key driver of the variability of these atmospheric circulations.
  • 5 to 6.1 thousand years ago: Westerlies regained strength during the mid-Holocene, coinciding with decreasing insolation, weakening monsoon, and enhanced El Nino activities.
• The study provides insights into the past climate variations since the last deglaciation that followed the Last Glacial Maxima andrecognizes the influence of different forcing mechanisms and teleconnections to improve the understanding of climate variability.

Why was Ladakh used for studying the Climate Change profile?

• Ladakh lies in the Trans-Himalaya region, which forms an environmental boundary between North Atlantic and monsoon forcings, making the location ideal to gain insight into the variations of the atmospheric circulations like westerly and Indian summer monsoon.
• Nature of sedimentary deposits: Sediment deposits in the lakes of Ladakh region are useful in attesting both short and long-term climatic changes, due to their continuous sedimentation rate which preserve physical and chemical characteristics of the sediments.
• Pronounced climatic change effects in Mountainous regions: Glacial-to-interglacial transitional period witnesses large scale changes and mountainous regions helps in better understanding of such hydro-climate variations of a region due to their geomorphological set-up.
• Presence of Glacierswhich respond quickly to climate change events and act as an accessible source of preservation of ancient records and evidence.

Source:

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1928273

Why in news?Recently, Two Gangetic dolphins found dead in Bihar in the last 3 days.

About:

• The Ganges River dolphin was officially discovered in 1801.
• It was recognised as the National Aquatic Animal in 2009, by the Government of India.
• The Gangetic River dolphin (Platanista gangetica) isone of the four freshwater dolphin species in the world.
  • The other three are the baiji, now likely extinct from the Yangtze River in China, the bhulan of the Indus in Pakistan and the boto of the Amazon River in Latin America.
• Ganges river dolphins live in theGanges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu River systems of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
  • The distribution range of the Ganges River dolphins in India covers seven states namely, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal.
• The Ganges River dolphin canonly live in freshwater and is essentially blind.
  • Theyhunt by emitting ultrasonic sounds,which bounces off of fish and other prey, enabling them to “see” an image in their mind. They are also called ‘susu’.
• It is a reliable indicator of the health of the entire river ecosystem.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN: Endangered.
  • Indian Wildlife (Protection), Act 1972:Schedule I.
  • CITES:Appendix I (most endangered).
  • Convention on Migratory Species(CMS): Appendix II

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/two-gangetic-dolphins-found-dead-in-bihar-in-the-last-3-days-89668

In News: Health Ministry notified the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART Regulations) Amendment Rules 2023, under the ART Act 2021, to provide donors and patients with better medical care and security.

However the industry experts are concerned regarding theincreased costs and limited conception opportunitiesfor the commissioning couples due to restrictions.

About the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART):

• ART is defined asall the techniques used to obtain a pregnancyby handling the sperm or egg cell outside the human body and transferring the embryo into the woman’s reproductive tract.
• It involves themanipulation of sperm, eggs, or embryosin a laboratory setting to facilitate fertilisation and embryo development.
• Various types of permitted ART procedures areIn Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Surrogacy.

Features of ART Regulations Act, 2021

New Provisions of the ART Regulations, 2023

• Age and Marital Restrictions:The provision states that an oocyte donor should be an ever-married (persons who have been married at least once in their lives) woman having at least one living child of her own (minimum three years of age)
• Frequency restrictions: Donor can donate oocytes only once in her lifetime and not more than seven oocytes can be retrieved.
• Limitations on Gamete Distribution: ART banks are prohibited from supplying reproductive cells from a single donor to more than one commissioning couple.
• Insurance coverage:Parties seeking ART services will be required to provide insurance coverage in the favour of the oocyte donor (for any loss, damage, or death of the donor).
• Prohibition on sex selective conception: Clinics are prohibited from offering to provide a child of pre-determined sex.
• Checking for genetic diseasesbefore the embryo implantation is needed.

Concern with the new regulations:

• Increased cost of treatment: Couples seeking gamete donation will face higher expenses as additional investments such as insurance for donors and other associated charges pushing the costs to 1.5 times.
• Reduced opportunities:Limitations on number of donors and cycles of donation along with number of oocytes to be extracted limit the chances of successful treatment for ART couples.
• Increasing infertility rates in Indiais resulting in increased demands for ART. Such limitations can lead to demand supply mismatch resulting in illegal practices.
• Legal procedures discouraging donorscould be other problems for ART couples who would find it much more difficult to find suitable donors.

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/brought-in-to-protect-donors-and-prospective-parents-new-art-provisions-push-up-cost-and-challenges-in-assisted-conception/article67001330.ece

Why in news?Recently, Amul Paid Tribute to Creator Of 'Utterly Butterly' Campaign, Sylvester daCunha.

About:

• Sylvester daCunha wasthe creator of the iconic ‘Amul Girl’ and ‘Utterly Butterly’ campaigns, the brand owned by Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), in 1966.
• In 1969, daCunha solidified his legacy by establishing daCunha Communications.
• Lessons from Sylvester daCunha’s life:
• Creating a memorable and iconic campaign can leave a lasting impact.
• Building trust and respect withclients is crucial for long-term success.
• Creativity and humour can be powerful toolsin advertising.
• Embracing topical andrelevant content can help connect with consumers.

https://food.ndtv.com/news/amul-girl-creator-sylvester-dacunha-dies-dairy-brand-pays-tribute-4145720#pfrom=home-ndtv_lateststories

In News: According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), a staggering10.1 million childrenin India find themselves ensnared in various forms of labour.

About Child Labour:

• According to ILO,Child Labouris defined as work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential and their dignity, and that is harmful to physical and mental development.
• Child Labour refers to work that:
  • Ismentally, physically, socially or morally dangerousand harmful to children; and/or
  • Interferes with their schoolingby: depriving them of the opportunity to attend school; obliging them to leave school prematurely; or requiring them to attempt to combine school attendance with excessively long and heavy work.
• Theworst forms of child labourinvolves children being enslaved, separated from their families, exposed to serious hazards and illnesses and/or left to fend for themselves on the streets of large cities, often at a very early age. Example- all forms of slavery, prostitution, p*rnography, illicit activities etc.

About the Prevalence of Child Labour in India:

• The National Sample Survey reveals alarming rates of child labour in numerous states.
  • Uttar Pradeshhas an estimated1 million child labourers.
  • Bihar, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradeshare other states where significant numbers of children are involved in exploitative labour practices.
  • Together, these statesconstitute nearly 55% of the total working childrenin India.

• Sectors of employment:Agriculture sector accounts for70% (112 million)of child labour,
  • Services industrylike hospitality, household labour etc. follow with20% (31.4 million)
  • Industriesemploy 10% (16.5 million) of child labourers.
• Education: Nearly 28% of children aged 5-11 years and 35% of children aged 12-14 years involved in child labourare out of school.
• Gender Composition: Child labour ismore prevalent among boys than girlsat every age. The prevalence of child labour in rural areas (14%) is around three times of urban areas (5%).

Impacts of Child Labour:

• Vicious cycle of poverty, ruthlessly denying children their fundamental rights. Poverty and child labour intertwines, crushing their aspirations and trapping them in a perpetual struggle for survival.
• Physical wellbeing: Engaging in hazardous work exposes these children toinjuries, health complications and long-term developmental issues.
• Emotional Trauma: The emotional scars run deep, leaving these young souls grappling withanxiety, trauma and a pervasive sense of hopelessness.

Measures to Curb Child Labour:

• Constitutional Provisions:
  • Article 21(A)andArticle 45ensureRight to Education.
  • Article 24prohibits employment of children below the age of 14 in mines, factories or hazardous workplaces.
  • Article 39(f)directs the state to protect children's youth and childhood against moral and material abandonment and exploitation.
• Legislations: Government has implemented legislation such as theChild Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, which aims to strengthen the protection of children from exploitation andJuvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2000.
• Role of ILO:ILO has been at the forefront of the global fight against child labour, providing technical assistance and promoting international standards to eradicate this issue.
  • ILO plays a crucial role insetting international labour standardsand their implementation.
  • ILOfacilitates dialogue and cooperationto address labour challenges through its tripartite structure, bringing together representatives of workers, employers & government.
• Raising Awareness: Civil society organisations and grassroots movements have also played a vital role in raising awareness, rescuing child labourers and advocating for their rights.
• Addressing root causes of child laboursuch as poverty, lack of education and weak enforcement of labour laws, can create an environment where children are protected, educated and given the opportunity to thrive.

Source:

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/health/battle-against-child-labour-necessitates-a-united-front-90118#:~:text=The%20battle%20against%20child%20labour,support%20to%20eradicate%20child%20labour

In News:The report by the UNDP on 2023 Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI), titled "Breaking down gender biases: Shifting social norms towards gender equality", reveals that biased gender social norms continue to impede progress towards achieving gender equality and violate human rights.

About Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI):

• The Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI) quantifies biases against women, capturing people’s attitudes on women’s roles alongfour key dimensions: political, educational, economic and physical integrity.
  • Each dimension is characterised by one or two indicators of biases against women.
  • Each indicator takes a value of 1 when an individual has a bias and 0 when the individual does not.
• The GSNI capturesbeliefs on gender equality in capabilities and rights. First introduced in the 2019 human development report, it differs from achievement-based objective measures of gender equality, which assess gender gaps in terms of outcomes.

Key Highlights of the GSNI-2023:

• Biased gender social norms, undervaluation of women’s capabilities and rights in society, constrain women’s choices and opportunities by regulating behaviour and setting the boundaries of what women are expected to do and be.
• Persistent Gender Social Norms: The GSNI values have stagnated over the past decade showing little progress, despite powerful global and local campaigns for women’s rights such asMe Too, Ni Una Menos, Time’s Up and Un Violador en Tu Camino.
• Impediment to economic empowerment: Despite increase in women's education, it has not translated into better economic outcomes due to gender social norms. In 59 countries where adult women are more educated than men, the average income gap still remains 39%.
• Domestic chore and care workare indiscriminately considered the responsibility of women, who spend nearly six times more time on these tasks than men, thus limiting their opportunities.
• Poor political representation: On average, the share of women heads of state or government has remained around 10% since 1995 and they occupy just a quarter of parliament seats globally.
• Biased gender norms deprive societies from the benefits of women’s leadershipand the diversity of perspectives, experiences, abilities, voices and ideas they bring.

Source:

https://hdr.undp.org/system/files/documents/hdp-document/gsni202303pdf.pdf

In News:The report by the UNDP on 2023 Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI), titled "Breaking down gender biases: Shifting social norms towards gender equality", reveals that biassed gender social norms continue to impede progress towards achieving gender equality and violate human rights.

About Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI):

• The Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI) quantifies biases against women, capturing people’s attitudes on women’s roles alongfour key dimensions: political, educational, economic and physical integrity.
  • Each dimension is characterised by one or two indicators of biases against women.
  • Each indicator takes a value of 1 when an individual has a bias and 0 when the individual does not.
• The GSNI capturesbeliefs on gender equality in capabilities and rights. First introduced in the 2019 human development report, it differs from achievement-based objective measures of gender equality, which assess gender gaps in terms of outcomes.
• By focusing on beliefs, biases and prejudices, it provides anin-depth account of the root causes of gender inequalitythat hinder progress for women and girls. The GSNI is calculated using data from theWorld Values Survey

Key Highlights of the GSNI-2023:

• The index, covering 85% of the global population, reveals that close to9 out of 10 men and women hold fundamental biases against women.
• Nearly90% of people still hold at least one biasagainst women and25 per centof people believe it is justified for a man to beat his wife.
• Countries with greater bias in gender social norms also show alower presence of women in parliament.
• Indigenous women, migrant women and women with disabilities have meagre political representation, demonstrating how overlapping biases can further reduce opportunities for women.
• The recent increase ineducation achievements has not translated into better economic outcomesand opportunities for women.

Source:

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/world/prejudices-against-women-didn-t-reduce-in-last-decade-90-people-still-hold-gender-bias-un-89994

In News:Agriculture Ministry Collaborates with Pixxel Space India which will focus on leveraging sample hyperspectral data from Pixxel’s pathfinder satellites to develop an analytics model.

About

• The Ministry of Agriculture has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a private company to utilize High-Resolution Spectroscopy (HRS) data for tasks such as crop mapping, distinguishing different stages of crops,and monitoring crop health.
• HRS, also referred to as imaging spectroscopy, involves the extraction of valuable information fromobjects or landscapes on the Earth's surface through radiance captured by sensorson airborne or spaceborne platforms.
• Unlike traditional remote sensing, which captures data in a limited number of discrete spectral bands,HRS collects data across numerous narrow and contiguous bands.
• This enables the acquisition ofhighly detailed spectral information for precise location identificationwithin the scene.

https://smestreet.in/sectors/agriculture/agriculture-ministry-collaborates-with-pixxel-space-india/

Why in News: Recently, Google parent company Alphabet started deliveringinternet service to remote areas by using Laser beamsof light.

About the Project:

• The project is known asTaarawhich is a part ofAlphabet’s innovation called X or “Moonshot Factory”.
• It wasinitiated in 2016initially a part of project Loon. In India it haspartnership with Airtel.
• Project Loon was to deliver internet using stratospheric balloons. This project has been side-lined due to high costs.
• This project is helping to link upinternet services in 13 countries so farincluding Australia, Kenya and Fiji.
• This project has deals with Econet Group and its subsidiary Liquid Telecom in Africa,internet provider Bluetown in Indiaand Digicel in the Pacific Islands.
• Google in July 2020 committed$10 billion for digitizing India. It invested $700 million for a 1.28% stake in Bharti Airtel last year. X and Google are sister companies under Alphabet, while Taara's partnership with Bharti Airtel is separate from the Google investment.

Technology used:

• It usesFree Space Optical Communication (FSOC)technology where free space is used as communication channel.
• The size of the machine is similar to that of traffic lights. Thismachine beam the laser carrying the data – essentially fiber-optic internet without the cables.
• Partners like Airtel use the machine to build out communications infrastructure in hard to reach places.
• Thetested speed was achieved upto 20Gbpsthrough upto20 km range.

Advantages:

• Cost effective and quickly deployable.
• High Speed data transmission.
• Effective in remote areas that are difficult to connect using fiber cables.

Challenges:

• Weather conditions likefog and haze can affectthe signal transmission.
• Obstructions likebirds or insects in front of the signal.

Way Forward:

• It can be used for high speed data transfer and connectivity.
• It can be a boon for therural connectivityand will help toboost Digital Indian Mission.

https://m.economictimes.com/tech/technology/alphabet-bets-on-lasers-to-deliver-internet-in-remote-areas/articleshow/101279108.cms

In News:U.S. government approves selective companies to sell cell-cultivated chicken in the country

About Cell Cultivated Chicken:

• Cell-cultivated chicken refers to chicken meat thatis grown in a laboratory for human consumption.
• It is a form oflab-grown meatproduced byisolating and cultivating cellsthat makeup chicken meat.
• Two California-based companies,Good Meat,andUpside Foods, have recently received approval from theS. government to make and sellcell-cultivated chicken.
• Important Features:
  • Cell-cultivated meat isproduced in bioreactors, which are containers designedto support a specific biological environment.
  • Thecells are provided withnecessary resources such asnutrients, fats, carbohydrates, amino acids,and theright temperatureto grow and replicate themselves.
  • After reaching a sufficient cell count, typicallywithin two to three weeks, thecells resemble minced meatand are processed with additives to improve texture and appearance.
• Proponentsof cell-cultivated meat argue that it canhelp reduce carbon emissionsassociated with the food industry and prevent animal slaughter.
• Other benefits of Lab-grown meat include climatemitigation, land use reduction, food security,andcustomization for improved health.
• However, there arechallengesto this new concept including includeconsumer acceptance, cost competitiveness, resource requirements,andpotential environmental impacts.
• Overall, ongoing research and development will go a long way inaddressing these challenges besides improving the viabilityof cell-cultivated meat as analternative to traditional meat.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/lab-grown-meat-upside-good-meat-usda-fda-explained/article67001226.ece

In News:Mitochondria in eukaryotic cells and chloroplasts in plant cells have evolved from free-living bacteria.

About

In recent times, there has been a notable surge of interest inunraveling the evolutionary path from prokaryotes to eukaryotes, providing insights into the captivating puzzle of the emergence of sophisticated cells equipped with nuclei and organelles.

Thedominant theory of endosymbiosis postulates that the evolution of eukaryotescan be attributed to a symbiotic association between an ancient archaeon (a primordial group of microorganisms known for their ability to thrive in extreme environments) and a bacterium.

Difference between Prokaryotic Cells and Eukaryotic Cells

• Cell Structure:Prokaryotic cells are simpler instructure and lack a distinct nucleus. They haveno membrane-bound organelles. In contrast, eukaryotic cells have a well-defined nucleus enclosed within a nuclear membrane. They also possess various membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes.
• DNA Organization:Prokaryotic cells have a single,circular DNA moleculelocated in the nucleoid region, which is not enclosed by a membrane. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, havemultiple linear DNA moleculesorganized into chromosomes that are enclosed within the nucleus.
• Size:Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller, with adiameter of around 1-5 micrometers.Eukaryotic cells are larger, ranging from 10-100 micrometersin diameter.
• Reproduction:Prokaryotic cells reproduceasexually through binary fission, where the DNA replicates and the cell divides into twoidentical daughter cells.Eukaryotic cells canreproduce asexuallythrough processes like mitosis,producing identical daughter cells, or sexually through meiosis,which involves the formation of gametes and genetic recombination.
• Complexity:Eukaryotic cells are more complex in terms of internal organization and cellular processes. They have a higher degree of specialization and differentiation, allowing for the development of tissues, organs, and multicellular organisms.
• Examples:Prokaryotic cells are found inbacteria and archaea, which are single-celled organisms. Eukaryotic cells are found inplants, animals, fungi, and protists,including both single-celled and multicellular organisms.

Endosymbiosis and Eukaryotes

• Endosymbiosis is a process where one organism lives inside anotherand both benefit from the relationship. The endosymbiotic theory suggests that eukaryotes evolved from a small archaeon engulfing a bacterium.
• Thearchaeon protected the bacterium and provided a stable environment,while the bacterium supplied energy to the archaeon. Over time, they became dependent on each other and formed a new type of cell called a eukaryote.
• The engulfedbacterium became the mitochondrion, which produces energy for the cell.
• In plants, anotherendosymbiotic event occurred with a cyanobacteriumbecoming the chloroplast, responsible for photosynthesis.
• Thissymbiotic relationship allowed eukaryotes to grow larger,become more complex, and adapt to different environments.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/how-prokaryotes-led-to-eukaryotes/article67002928.ece

Why in news?Recently, researchers at the Institute of Advanced Studies in Science and Technology explored the nutraceutical properties of Joha rice to investigate its potential benefits.

About:

• Joha rice is anindigenous rice of Assamand grown in Kharif season.
• It isunique in aromaand grain characteristics and distinct from other aromatic rice like Basmati.
• Major Joha varieties included in this areKola Joha, Keteki Joha, Bokul Joha and Kunkuni Joha.
• This rice is alsorich in several antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolics.
• It hasgot Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Key findings:

• The researchers discoveredtwo essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and linolenic acid (omega-3),through laboratory analysis.
  • These fatty acids, which the human body cannot produce, play a role in maintaining various physiological conditions.
• Omega-3 fatty acid has been found to prevent metabolic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.In diabetic rats, Joha rice was effective in reducing blood glucose levels and preventing the onset of diabetes.
• Additionally,the researchers found that scented Joha rice has a more balanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acidscompared to the commonly consumed non-scented variety.
• Some of the identified bioactive compounds in Joha rice include oryzanol, ferulic acid, tocotrienol, caffeic acid, catechuic acid, gallic acid, and tricin.
  • These compounds have reported antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, and cardio-protective effects.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1934733

Why in news?Recently, many actresses have chosen to preserve their baby’s cord blood.

About:

• Cord blood (short for umbilical cord blood) is theblood that remains in the umbilical cord and placenta post-delivery.
• Umbilical cord blood is arich source of stem cells that can potentially developinto different types of cells, and be used, via a transplant, in thetreatment of certain blood, immune and metabolic disorders.
  • These are known as hematopoietic stem cell transplantations (HSCT).
• Cord blood banking is theprocess of collecting the cord blood and extracting and cryogenically freezing its stem cells and other cellsof the immune systemfor potential future medical use.
• While over the past decade or so the popularity of cord blood banking has increased among new parents.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/reevaluating-the-import-of-cord-blood-banking-in-regenerative-medicine/article66996382.ece

Why in news?According to recent research, the chiral Bose-liquid state may be an entirely new state of matter.

About:

• Usually matter is a solid, liquid or gas.
• But at temperatures approaching absolute zero, or the world within the atom, things are very different.
• In these “quantum” states,matter behaves in ways quite different from the solid, liquid, and gaseous states.
• Under frustrated quantum systems, involve the interactions of particles leading to infinite possibilities.
  • In these systems, collisions can produce unexpected outcomes, such as levitating or defying traditional angles.
  • Some scientists have engineered such a frustration machine: a bi-layer semiconducting device.

Formation of Chiral Bose-liquid state:

• The chiral bose-liquid state isformed by bringing two layers of a special material very close together at very low temperatures(close to absolute Zero).
• Thetop layer is electron-rich, and these electrons can move freely.
• Thebottom layer is filled with “holes,” or places that a roving electron can occupy.
• When these layers are brought together, a local imbalance is created, causing electrons to not have enough holes to fill.
• Thisimbalance triggers the formation of the chiral bose-liquid state, which has unique properties and behaviours.
• This unique state allows electrons to freeze into predictable patterns, exhibit resilience to changes in spin (a characteristic of subatomic particles) and synchronize their movements.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/what-is-the-chiral-bose-liquid-state/article66992947.ece

Why in news?Recently, The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) has signed sub-licence agreements with some Indian companies, as well as an Indonesian firm to produce generic versions of the cancer drug Nilotinib.

About:

• The drug Nilotinib isused for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukaemia, which is a type of blood cancer,is currently marketed by Novartis under the brand name Tasigna.

Medicines Patent Pool

• The Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) is aUnited Nation-backed international organisation founded in July 2010, based in Geneva, Switzerland.
• It is working toincrease access to and facilitate the development of life-saving medicines for low- and middle-income countries.
• Through its innovative business model, MPP partners with civil society, governments, international organisations, industry, patient groups, and other stakeholders,to prioritise and license needed medicines and pool intellectual property to encourage generic manufacture and the development of new formulations.

https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_madurai/issues/40738/OPS/G4OBD2AR8.1+GK3BD3PID.1.html

In News: NIT Warangal in collaboration with Prime Textiles, with support from IMPRINT developed a pilot-scale textile effluent treatment plant.

About Textile Effluents:

• Textile effluents are heavily contaminated with pollutants such asdyes, dissolved solids, suspended solids and toxic metals, which needs robust, efficient technologies to treat such effluent before they are discharged.
• These effluents have high total dissolved solids (TDS) because of the use of common salt and Glauber salt. Their direct discharge may increase thelevel of TDS in groundwater and surface water.

Technology developed to treat textile wastewater:

The pilot-scale textile effluent treatment plant uses bio surfactants (BS), cavitation (C), and membrane (M) technology.

• Bio surfactants: They are natural compoundsproduced by microorganisms, which possess surface-active properties.
  • They can beused in the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) to assist in the removal of dyes from the wastewater.
  • Bio surfactant to be used was extracted from microorganisms isolated from textile effluent and textile effluent contaminated soil.
• Cavitation:It is a process in whichpressure variations in a liquid can in a short period of time cause countless small cavitiesto form and then implode.
  • It is anadvanced oxidation process, which aids in reducing installation cost as well as reducing carbon footprint.
  • Itgenerates oxidising radicals in-situ, reducing the reliance on external oxidising agents.
• Membrane: It helps in textile effluent treatment by enhancing the separation and removal of pollutants.
  • Modifying the membrane surface usingboehmite sol decreasesthe pore size frommicro-scale to nano-scaleand leads to significant improvement in its performance.
• With this sequence, the pilot plant of200 Litres Per Day capacityremoves pollutants and the treated water can be utilised for agricultural activities, and cleaning purposes.

Source:https://dst.gov.in/new-low-cost-technology-reduces-textile-effluent-pollution-significantly

Why in news?According to IBM India Software Labs, Generative AI is set to eliminate digital drudgery.

About:

• Digital drudgeryrefers to the monotonous and repetitive tasksthat are often associated with working or spending asignificant amount of time in the digital realm.
• Itencompasses the tedious and mundane activities that are performed using computers, smartphones, or otherdigital devices.

According to IBM India Software Labs:

• Generative AI has the potential to eliminate digital drudgery, however, focus should be on deploying trustworthy and ethical AI.
• Transparency, explainability, robustness, privacy and fairness were the five key propertiesthat are critical for any AI deployments.
• As businessestransition from +AI to AI first approach,ensuring robustnessbecomes crucial for stayingsecure from external threats and preventing false informationor bias.

https://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/ai-set-to-eliminate-digital-drudgery-ibm-software-labs/article66990401.ece

In News:WHO emphasizes need for Dietary Diversity to help stamp out Child Malnutrition in India

About Minimum dietary diversity (MDD)

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently developedguidelines for Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), withMDD as a core indicator.
• Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) is acritical factor in ensuring healthy diets and nutritionfor childrenaged 6-23 months.
• It involvesconsuming foods and beveragesfrom at leastfive of the eight definedfood groups withina 24-hour period.
• Theeight food groupsconsidered for MDD includebreast milk, grains, roots, tubers, pulses, nuts, dairy products, flesh foods, eggs, and fruits and vegetables.
• Breast milk alone may notmeet all the nutritional needs of infantsafter 6-8 months,necessitating the introduction ofcomplementary foods.
• Inadequate dietarydiversitycan increase the risk of poor physical and cognitive developmentin children.
• For which, adequate dietary diversity and meal frequency areessential to prevent malnutrition, especially stunting and micronutrient deficiencies.
• India faces high child malnutrition rates,with a significant percentage of children suffering from stunting, wasting, and underweight.
• Socioeconomic factors, such asmaternal education, play a crucial role in determining MDD inequalities among children.
• Relying solely onfood supplements and fortification maynot be sufficient to effectivelytackle malnutrition caused bymicronutrient deficiencies.
• Addressing malnutritionthrough MDDrequires a multi-sectoral approach, considering factors like poverty, food insecurity, and access to healthcare and safe water.
• In this regard, afood-based minimum dietary diversification approachcan be a sustainable strategy to combat micronutrient deficiencies.
• Overall,promoting dietary diversitythrough a variety of foods from different food groups isvital for improving child nutritionand overall health.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/health/dietary-diversity-can-help-stamp-out-child-malnutrition-in-india-90180

In News: The American multinational corporationGeneral Electric (GE) signed an agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL)to make fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force

About the Jet Engine Deal:

• The deal will allow themanufacture under licence in India of GE’s F414 enginefor the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2.
• India is now among only ahandful of countries namely US, Russia, UK and Francethat have mastered the technology and metallurgy needed to manufacture an engine that can power combat aircraft.
• GE-414 military aircraft engine is a part ofGE’s suite of military aircraft enginesthat has been in use by the US Navy for more than 30 years.
• The engines generate a thrust of 98 kN, and feature advanced technology such asFull Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC),the latest aircraft ignition and engine control system that controls engine performance digitally.

India’s effort in developing its own combat jet engine

• DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment first worked on developing the GTX-37 engine for the LCA. Subsequently, the ambitiousKaveri engine projectwas sanctioned in 1989.
• However the engines produced werenot suitable for fighter aircraftas there was a shortfall in the wet thrust of the engine.
• While technological capabilities built through the Kaveri engine project would be utilised, including as derivatives in drones,India shortlisted American GE-F404 engines for LCA TejasMark-1

Significance of the deal for India:

• Dual-threat along its borders and maintaining strategic autonomyin the emerging world order requires self-reliance and technological transformation in the defence sector.
• Deal wouldstrengthen bilateral defence and high-tech cooperationamid China’s growing influence and global technological dominance.
• Will helpreplace the fleet of ageing Russian fighterswith indigenously produced fighters.
• It will have atransformative impact on the aerospace and defence manufacturing
• Marks the end of “technology denial regime” and overcoming the “hesitations of history”.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/ges-f414-jet-engine-lca-tejas-boeing-super-hornet-8678400/

Why in news?Recently, The Indian Navy and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out the transfer of command-and-control capabilities of the TAPAS Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

About:

• Tapas Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is known asTapas-BH 201(Tactical Airborne Platform for Aerial Surveillance-Beyond Horizon 201),formerly referred to as Rustom-II.
• It is aMedium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE)unmannedaerial vehicle.
• TAPAS 201, amulti-mission UAVis being developed to carry out theIntelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance roles for the three-Armed Forceswith an endurance of24 to 30 hours.
• It can carry a variety ofpayloads up to a maximum of 350 kgs.
• It is beingdeveloped by Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE),Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).
• It is capable of operating at altitudes of up to 28,000 feet with an endurance of over 18 hours.
• The drone has a 20.6-meter wingspan and a maximum speed of 225 kmph.
• It can be controlled remotely and also has theability to execute pre-programmed flight plans autonomouslywith precision and flexibility.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/drdo-achieves-key-milestone-for-tapas-uav-with-navy/articleshow/101093493.cms

Why in news?The ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI) is gearing up to extend its tuber crop-based ‘rainbow diet’ campaign to more areas in the country with sizeable tribal populations.

About the Campaign:

• The initiative wasaimed at popularising biofortified tubers and value-added productsmade from them among the tribal communitiesfor tackling malnutrition and ensuring a balanced diet.
• TheCTCRI would launch the campaign in Odisha in the current fiscal, and, by the end of 2024-25, planned to cover nine districts in that State.
  • Nine districts are Mayurbhanj, Sundergarh, Kandhamal, Keonjhar, Gajapati, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur and Rayagada.
  • Two or three districts will be taken up in the first phase in 2023-24, after which it will be scaled up.

Tuber crops:

• Tuber crops are plants thatproduce edible underground storage structures called tubers.
• These tubers serve as a source of nutrients and energy for the plant.
• Examples of tuber crops includepotatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, and cassava.
• The CTCRI ispopularising the orange-fleshed sweet potato(rich in beta-carotene), thepurple-fleshed sweet potato, andpurple-fleshed yam(rich in anthocyanin).
• The CTCRI has previously introduced biofortified sweet potato varieties in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura.
  • Biofortified tubers were low-cost, natural solutions for promoting health, and wellness in tribal communities.

Rainbow diet:

• A typical ‘rainbow diet’ is a meal plan comprising different-coloured fresh fruits and vegetables.
• The colours in these natural foods are caused by specific phytonutrients.

ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI):

• CTCRI is a constituent instituteunder the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)isthe only research organization in the world dedicated solely to the research on tropical tuber crops.
• The Institute established in 1963 with itsheadquarters at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/icar-ctcri-to-take-its-tuber-based-rainbow-diet-campaign-to-more-states/article66986569.ece

Why in news?Recently, NASA’s Parker Solar Probe mission has shed new light on the origin of the intense Geminid meteor shower.

About:

• While most meteor showers originate from comets, theGeminids are believed to come from an asteroid called 3200 Phaethon.
• The new findings have perplexed scientists asasteroids are not typically influenced by the Sun’s heatand should not leave behind a trail.
• The Parker data indicates that apowerful event such as a high-speed collision or a gaseous explosion likely caused the creation of the Geminid stream.
• 3200 Phaethon is classified as an asteroid- the first to be discovered via satellite.
  • Phaethon is an asteroid, but as it flies by the Sun, it seems to have some kind of temperature-driven activity.
• It was discovered on Oct. 11, 1983, using the Infrared Astronomical Satellite, and named after the Greek myth of Phaethon, son of the sun god Helios, due to its close approach to Sun.
• Itis blue in colour, which is rare for an asteroid.

Parker Solar Probe mission:

• The Parker Solar Probe is a NASA space probe launched in 2018 with the mission of making observations of the outer corona of the Sun.
• It will approach the closest to the sun by 2025.

https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/source-uncovered-for-the-famous-geminids-meteor-shower

Why in news?Recently, Researchers have discovered that the Y chromosome possesses genes linked to ageing and lifespan regulation.

About:

• The Y chromosome, often referred to as the “master of maleness”, has long captivated scientists and historians alike.
• In humans, in addition to the22 pairs of chromosomes in each, we have a pair of sex chromosomes called X and Y. Sex as a specification is determined by these sex chromosomes.
  • All biological males have X and Y chromosomes, and all biological females have two X chromosomes.
• The ‘sex-determining region Y’ on the Y chromosome determines the biological male sex.

Findings:

• It isestimated to have emerged around 200-300 million years ago in a common ancestor of all mammals, the Y chromosome has had a unique genetic journey, and embedded within its DNA lies a remarkable tale of evolution.
• Recent research has revealed that theY chromosome possesses genes vital to biological functions, including those related to ageing and lifespan regulation.
• The study of species that have naturally lost their Y chromosome, such as rodents, provides insights into sex-chromosome turnover and the repurposing of other chromosomes as sex chromosomes.
• Thegenome sequences of Neanderthals indicate the replacement of the Y chromosome in modern humans,suggesting thatthe Y chromosome may eventually yield its role as the “master of maleness” to another chromosome.

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/y-chromosome-maleness-biological-function-loss/article66982017.ece

Why in news?Recently, a policy brief for the G20 suggests establishing a global fund to invest in increasing recycling capacities for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs).

About:

Lithium-ion Batteries

• A lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery is atype of rechargeable battery.
• Li-ion batteriesuse an intercalated lithium compound as one electrode material, compared to the metallic lithium used in a non-rechargeable lithium battery.
• Lithium ionsmove from the negative electrode to the positive electrode during discharge and back when charging.