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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS - 12/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12/04/2024

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  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 12/04/2024

The advent of a holistic approach to ‘one health’

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The emergence of pandemics like COVID-19 has underscored the intricate interdependence between humans, animals, and the environment.

  • It’s no longer just humans who are affected; outbreaks such as the lumpy skin disease in livestock highlight this interconnectedness.

Key Highlights

  • The Significance of the National One Health Mission
    • The cabinet recently approved the establishment of the ‘National One Health Mission.’
    • This initiative, endorsed by the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) in July 2022, represents a milestone in recognizing and addressing the complex web of interactions between human, animal, and environmental health.
    • Thirteen Ministries and Departments, along with key science funding agencies, have joined forces to shape the National One Health Mission.
    • This coalition includes prominent entities such as the Department Of Science and Technology, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Department of Pharmaceuticals, and AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy).
    • The collaboration extends across diverse sectors, including the Ministries of Health, Animal Husbandry, Environment, and Defence.
    • Establishment of the National Institute for One Health
      • Central to the mission’s implementation is the creation of a National Institute for One Health, with Nagpur chosen as its headquarters.
      • This institute will serve as the focal point for coordinating national activities and act as the nodal agency for international collaborations in the realm of one health.
    • Setting Goals for the National One Health Mission
      • The ‘National One Health Mission’ aims to tackle the intertwined challenges of disease surveillance, outbreak response, research and development (R&D), and information sharing.
      • By integrating these efforts, the mission seeks to enhance control over both routine and pandemic diseases.
      • While diseases like COVID-19 are well-recognized for their impact on human health, others affecting animals, such as foot and mouth disease and lumpy skin disease, can significantly disrupt productivity and trade.
      • Additionally, diseases like canine distemper can impact wild animals and biodiversity conservation.
      • Thus, a coordinated approach is essential to prepare for existing and potential pandemic threats, including avian influenza and Nipah virus.
    • Importance of Research and Development in Pandemic Preparedness
      • Effective pandemic preparedness hinges on robust research and development efforts.
      • Focused R&D can equip us with vital tools like vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics to combat emerging diseases.
      • The involvement of key departments such as the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, and the Department of Pharmaceuticals is crucial in this endeavor.
      • Beyond governmental bodies, academic institutions, and the private sector also play pivotal roles as stakeholders in driving innovation and implementation.
    • Emphasizing Collaboration Between Centre and States
      • The success of the National One Health Mission relies on close coordination between the central government and state administrations.
      • Collaboration with states is essential for effective implementation of the mission’s objectives at the grassroots level.
      • Furthermore, this partnership facilitates the sharing of insights and experiences, contributing to the evolution of a more effective strategy over time.
    • Establishing a National Network of High-Risk Pathogen Laboratories
      • As part of the National One Health Mission, a crucial initiative involves creating a network of high-risk pathogen laboratories, operating at Biosafety Level 3 (BSL 3) and Biosafety Level 4 (BSL 4).
      • By consolidating these facilities managed by various departments, the mission aims to enhance disease outbreak response capabilities across human, animal, and environmental sectors.
      • Such coordination is particularly vital for addressing complex diseases like Nipah virus, which involve multiple hosts such as bats, pigs, and humans.
    • Advancing Epidemiology and Data Analytics
      • To bolster India’s epidemiological and data analytic capacities, the mission prioritizes the application of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and disease modeling.
      • These tools play a pivotal role in improving disease surveillance, outbreak prediction, and response strategies.
      • Additionally, efforts are underway to enhance capacity building in epidemiology across sectors.
      • Innovations like genomic surveillance, which proved effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, will be expanded to include other sentinels such as areas where livestock or wildlife gather.
      • This broader approach aims to mainstream advanced surveillance methods into routine practices across human, livestock, and environmental sectors.
    • Global Collaboration and Endorsement
      • Recognizing the global significance of the One Health approach, India leveraged its presidency of the G-20 to highlight and garner widespread endorsement for this approach among member nations.
      • The G-20 members pledged to collaborate in specific areas such as enhancing surveillance capacity, strengthening analytical capabilities, and establishing an international network of One Health institutes.
    • Beyond Disease: Addressing Intersectoral Challenges
      • One Health extends beyond disease management to encompass broader issues such as antimicrobial resistance, food safety, plant diseases, and the impacts of climate change.
      • Tackling these intersectoral challenges necessitates close engagement not only among different governmental agencies but also with non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector, and citizens.
      • By adopting a collaborative and action-oriented framework, stakeholders can advance towards the shared objectives of “One Earth, One Health” and “Health for All.”
    • Note: The mission will also support the Animal Pandemic Preparedness Initiative and World Bank-funded Animal Health System Support for One Health to enhance India’s preparedness and response to potential animal pandemics.

On unemployment in Indian States

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

A recent report jointly released by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Institute for Human Development (IHD) has shed light on a concerning trend: two out of every three unemployed individuals in India are young graduates.

  • This revelation underscores the pressing need for immediate policy interventions to address this issue.
  • However, the root causes of unemployment in India remain inadequately understood, signalling a critical knowledge gap that demands urgent attention and rectification.

Key Highlights

  • Analyzing Unemployment Trends Across Indian States
    • An in-depth analysis of unemployment in India’s major states, excluding the Union Territories, has been conducted using data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) of 2022-23.
    • It’s essential to note that Manipur is not included in this analysis due to incomplete fieldwork stemming from ongoing conflict in the region.
    • While the coverage of smaller states in the overall sample may be limited compared to larger states, the findings serve as valuable indicators of the key factors driving unemployment.
    • Unemployment Rates: Regional Disparities and Intriguing Trends
      • Figure 1 presents a comprehensive overview of unemployment rates across Indian states for the year 2022-23, arranged from highest to lowest.
      • Notably, Goa emerges with the highest unemployment rate, hovering at almost 10%, surpassing the national average of 3.17% by more than threefold.
      • Surprisingly, four out of the top five states with high unemployment rates—Goa, Kerala, Haryana, and Punjab—are relatively affluent states.
      • Conversely, states in western India, such as Maharashtra and Gujarat, boast unemployment rates significantly lower than the national average.
    • Regional Disparities and Economic Indicators
      • An intriguing observation emerges regarding the correlation between unemployment rates and economic status.
      • The analysis reveals that all northern states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, exhibit unemployment rates higher than the national average.
      • Similarly, southern states, with the exception of Karnataka, also experience elevated unemployment rates.
      • However, among the 27 states considered, 12 states boast unemployment rates lower than the national average.
      • Notably, larger states such as Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh contribute to bringing down the national average despite having per capita incomes lower than the national average.
    • Unemployment Rates vs. Economic Indicators
      • The analysis poses a conundrum: while several states exhibit unemployment rates lower than the national average, their per capita incomes fall below the national average.
      • This paradoxical scenario raises questions about the intricate dynamics underlying unemployment trends and their relationship with economic indicators.
    • Examining Determinants of Unemployment: Insights from Figures
      • Relationship Between Unemployment Rates and Self-Employment
        • Figure 2 portrays the correlation between unemployment rates and the proportion of the labor force engaged in self-employment across Indian states.
        • The downward-sloping trend line indicates a negative relationship, suggesting that states with higher levels of self-employment tend to have lower unemployment rates.
        • This phenomenon stems from the predominance of informal self-employment in India, particularly in the agricultural and rural sectors.
        • In states with a significant informal workforce, the absorption of job-seekers is relatively easier.
      • The Role of Urbanization in Unemployment
        • To delve deeper into the dynamics, Figure 3 examines the relationship between the urban share of the labor force and unemployment rates.
        • A clear positive correlation emerges, indicating higher unemployment rates in states with greater urbanization.
        • This relationship elucidates the elevated unemployment levels in highly urbanized states like Goa and Kerala, where opportunities for informal employment are more limited due to smaller agrarian sectors. Conversely, states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh, with lower levels of urbanization, experience relatively lower unemployment rates.
        • In urban settings, while informal sectors do exist, their capacity to absorb job-seekers is constrained compared to rural agriculture, which often serves as a ‘reserve’ absorbing surplus labor.
      • Interplay Between Informal Economy and Unemployment
        • The analysis underscores the complex interplay between informal employment, urbanization, and unemployment.
        • While states with higher levels of self-employment exhibit lower unemployment rates, the causal relationship remains ambiguous.
        • Moreover, the positive correlation between urbanization and unemployment highlights the challenges faced by highly urbanized states in providing adequate employment opportunities, particularly in the informal sector.
        • Understanding these determinants is crucial for crafting targeted policies aimed at promoting inclusive growth and reducing unemployment disparities across regions in India.
      • Education, Urbanization, and Employment Dynamics
        • Despite high levels of urbanization, states like Gujarat and Maharashtra boast lower unemployment rates compared to states with similar urbanization levels like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
        • This phenomenon challenges conventional wisdom and prompts a deeper exploration of the relationship between education, urbanization, and employment.
        • Education’s Role in Unemployment
          • Recent discussions following the release of the ILO-IHD report have underscored the critical link between education and unemployment.
          • The prevalence of unemployment among graduates has been a subject of concern.
          • A clear positive correlation emerges between the level of education and unemployment rates.
          • Kerala, with a highly educated labor force where 30% are graduates, grapples with high unemployment rates.
          • In contrast, states like Gujarat and Maharashtra exhibit lower unemployment despite having a lower share of graduates in their labor force—roughly 14% and 20%, respectively.
          • This discrepancy persists even though these states are wealthier and more urbanized.
          • Several factors may contribute to this outcome.
          • One possibility is the mismatch between graduates’ skills and the requirements of the modern sector.
          • Inadequate teaching infrastructure and standards may exacerbate this issue.
          • Another explanation revolves around graduates’ aspirations for high-wage jobs commensurate with their skills, steering them away from informal employment opportunities.
          • If the modern sector fails to expand sufficiently to absorb new graduates, it can lead to unemployment.
          • Additionally, state policies also play a significant role in shaping employment outcomes.
        • Implications for Policy and Structural Transformation
          • As developing economies like India undergo structural transformations marked by reduced reliance on agriculture, increased urbanization, and higher educational attainment, there’s a concomitant upward pressure on unemployment rates.
          • To counter these trends, policymakers must prioritize employment generation initiatives.
          • Addressing the multifaceted challenges of education, urbanization, and employment requires holistic strategies aimed at fostering inclusive growth and opportunity for all segments of society.

ADB projects India’s GDP growth in 2024-25 at 7%

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) recently released its Asia Development Outlook report, projecting India’s economic trajectory for the next couple of years.

  • Despite a forecasted slowdown in headline GDP growth from 7.6% in 2023-24 to 7% in the current year, followed by an improvement to 7.2% in 2025-26, the outlook remains robust.

Key Highlights

  • Inflation and Agricultural Outlook
    • The ADB anticipates a favorable moderation in retail inflation, easing to 4.6% in the current year and further to 4.5% in 2025-26.
    • This projection is underpinned by the expected drop in ‘persistent’ food inflation to 5.7% as agricultural output returns to a normal trend.
    • The revival of a projected normal monsoon this year is poised to augment rural consumption, which faced constraints due to erratic rainfall in the preceding year, leading to stress in the farm sector.
  • Consumer Demand and Urban Confidence
    • Rising incomes are expected to propel consumer demand, with an emphasis on urban areas where confidence levels have improved.
    • The anticipation of falling inflation coupled with gradual enhancements in urban labor markets is set to drive demand from these regions.
    • The ADB underscores the role of higher incomes in stimulating consumer confidence, contributing to an uptick in demand.
  • Trade Dynamics and Current Account Deficit
    • While domestic demand is forecasted to rise, there’s a corresponding expectation of increased imports to meet this demand.
    • This could moderately widen the Current Account Deficit to 1.7% of GDP in the current year and the following year.
    • Despite a relatively muted outlook for exports, especially due to the anticipated slowdown in major advanced economies, a rebound is expected in 2025-26.
  • Drivers of Growth: Investment and Consumer Demand
    • India’s growth trajectory, according to the report, will be propelled by both public and private sector investment demand, alongside an incremental improvement in consumer demand as the rural economy revitalizes.
    • While exports may face headwinds in the near term, the overall growth narrative remains optimistic, underpinned by investment dynamics and the gradual strengthening of consumer sentiment.
  • South Asia’s Growth Dynamics
    • Given India’s significant contribution to South Asia’s GDP, comprising 80% of the sub-region’s economic output, it remains the fastest-growing economy within South Asia.
    • The ADB forecasts South Asia to grow at 6.3% this year and 6.6% in 2025, reflecting the broader regional growth context within which India operates.
  • Foreign Direct Investment Outlook
    • The report suggests that foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow into India is expected to remain subdued in the near term due to tight global financial conditions.
    • However, it is projected to pick up in 2025-26, driven by increased investment in industry and infrastructure.
    • This highlights the role of FDI in driving economic growth and development, especially in sectors critical for India’s long-term prosperity.
  • Risk Factors: Global Shocks and Domestic Challenges
    • The report cautions that India’s economic outlook is contingent upon maintaining price and financial market stability, critical for fostering consumer and business confidence.
    • It identifies downside risks stemming from global shocks, such as a potential spike in crude oil and energy prices leading to higher global inflation and tighter financial conditions.
    • Domestically, there’s a risk of underperformance in agriculture due to weather-related shocks, which could impact demand and inflation.
    • These risk factors underscore the importance of proactive policy measures to mitigate external and internal challenges to economic stability.
  • Upside Potential: FDI Inflow and Global Growth
    • On a more optimistic note, the ADB highlights potential upside risks to its forecast.
    • Faster-than-expected FDI inflow, particularly into manufacturing sectors, could significantly enhance output and productivity, contributing to overall economic growth.
    • Moreover, better-than-anticipated global growth could provide a further boost to exports, thereby amplifying India’s growth prospects.

About the Asian Development Bank (ADB)

  • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a regional development bank established on December 19, 1966, with its headquarters in 6 ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines.
  • The bank was set up with the primary objective of financing development projects in its member states across Asia.
  • As of 2019, the bank listed 68 members, which is composed of 49 regional members and 19 non-regional members.
  • The regional members are geographically situated in Asia and are primary beneficiaries of the bank’s programs, whereas the non-regional members primarily from Western countries, mainly Europe and North America, are contributors of capital to the bank.
  • The ADB finances development projects in areas like education and health, while also helping improve the capital markets and business infrastructure in target countries.
  • The bank focuses on the key areas of development that are aligned with the World Bank’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).
  • These key areas are: (1) education, (2) health, (3) infrastructure, (4) regional cooperation and integration, (5) environment, (6) financial sector development, (7) public management, and (8) social protection.
  • The decision-making process at the Asian Development Bank is like that of the World Bank.
    • The number of votes controlled by a member is commensurate with the number of shares held by that member.
    • ADB’s five largest shareholders are Japan and the United States (each with 15.6% of total shares), the People’s Republic of China (6.4%), India (6.3%), and Australia (5.8%).

What is retail inflation?

  • Retail inflation in India, also known as Consumer Price Inflation (CPI), is a measure of inflation that reflects changes in the prices of goods and services commonly purchased by households.
  • It is calculated based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which covers a wide range of consumer goods and services, including food, clothing, housing, and transportation.
  • Components of CPI: The CPI in India is composed of various sub-indices representing different categories of goods and services. The two main sub-indices are:
    • CPI for Urban Areas: Reflects price changes in urban regions and is based on the consumption patterns of urban households.
    • CPI for Rural Areas: Reflects price changes in rural regions and is based on the consumption patterns of rural households.
  • The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is measured and calculated by the National Statistical Office (NSO), which operates under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
  • Note: The CPI is used by the RBI for building monetary policies, and the RBI aims to keep the inflation rate around 4%, which can fluctuate anywhere between 2% and 6%.

A battle to save Ladakh, and all of humanity

(General Studies- Paper III0

Source : The Hindu

Renowned climate activist SonamWangchuk, recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2018, addressed a sizable gathering of 30,000 individuals in Leh, Ladakh, on March 6, 2024.

  • Wangchuk’s activism in Ladakh signifies the region’s growing concern over climate change and its implications for both local inhabitants and the wider world.

Key Highlights

  • Ladakh’s Unique Context
    • Situated at an elevation of 11,500 feet and nestled between India’s neighbors, Pakistan and China, Ladakh boasts a population predominantly comprised of indigenous tribes, accounting for 97% of its inhabitants.
    • These communities primarily subsist on traditional pastoral livelihoods, relying on farming and animal rearing for sustenance.
    • However, beyond its picturesque landscapes, Ladakh grapples with multifaceted challenges, including border disputes and the adverse impacts of climate change.
  • Climate Change in the Himalayan Region
    • Ladakh, like much of the Himalayan region, faces a myriad of climate-related challenges, including floods, droughts, landslides, and the proliferation of greenhouse gases and pollutants.
    • With approximately 15,000 glaciers dotting the Himalayan landscape, often referred to as the “Third Pole,” Ladakh plays a crucial role in the hydrological cycle.
    • These glaciers serve as vital reservoirs, releasing meltwater during spring and summer, which feeds into major river systems such as the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra.
    • Implications of Glacier Melting
      • The Himalayan glaciers, like their counterparts worldwide, are vulnerable to the effects of global warming and climate change.
      • The accelerated melting of these glaciers poses a significant threat to both local communities residing in the mountainous regions and populations downstream who depend on the freshwater supply originating from these glaciers.
      • The potential consequences of glacier retreat include altered water availability, disruptions to agriculture, and heightened risks of natural disasters, impacting millions of lives across the region.
    • National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE)
      • The National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) was initiated as part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008.
      • Under the Ministry of Science and Technology, its primary objective is to scientifically evaluate the vulnerability of the Himalayan region to climate change and monitor the health of the ecosystem.
      • However, concerns have arisen regarding the apparent neglect of this mission’s mandate in light of recent infrastructure development activities in the region.
    • Infrastructure Development in Ladakh
      • Following its transition to a Union Territory, Ladakh witnessed a surge in mega infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and promoting tourism.
      • These projects encompassed a wide range of initiatives, including the construction of bridges, road widening, tunneling, railway expansion, and large-scale solar energy projects.
      • Notable undertakings include the ambitious Zojila tunnel spanning 14.15 kilometers, the Kargil-Zanskar National Highway project stretching 230 kilometers, and a massive 10-gigawatt solar energy initiative covering 20,000 acres in the Changthang region.
      • Industrial Development and Investment Promotion
        • The Ladakh (UT) Industrial Land Allotment Policy of 2023 underscores the region’s aspirations to become a prime investment destination.
        • By fostering an environment conducive to industrial growth, the policy aims to attract investors and bolster economic development in Ladakh.
        • However, questions arise regarding the alignment of such industrial endeavors with environmental conservation objectives, particularly in a fragile ecosystem like the Himalayan region.
      • The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), in collaboration with the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL), has been at the forefront of executing many of these infrastructure projects.
      • The NHIDCL’s vision emphasizes expediting the construction of national highways and infrastructure in strategically significant areas like Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and the North Eastern Region.
      • Lessons Unlearned: Ignoring Past Disasters
        • Despite a series of calamities in the Himalayan region in recent years, government bodies responsible for sanctioning and executing infrastructure projects appear oblivious to the lessons learned from these tragic events.
        • The relentless pace of development raises concerns about the lack of heed paid to warnings stemming from past disasters, highlighting a critical oversight in disaster preparedness and risk management.
      • Chronicle of Disasters
        • Since 2010, the Himalayan region has been plagued by a string of disasters resulting in significant loss of lives and livelihoods.
        • The catastrophic cloudburst in 2013 at Kedarnath triggered flash floods, claiming an estimated 6,000 lives and devastating numerous settlements.
        • Subsequent incidents, such as the January 2023 disaster in Joshimath, where water inundated parts of the town, and the November 2023 rescue operation following the collapse of the Silkyara tunnel project, underscore the region’s vulnerability to natural calamities.
      • Development Despite Warnings
        • The state of Uttarakhand, where many of these tragedies unfolded, has been a hotspot for infrastructure development since its formation in 2000.
        • Despite warnings from geologists and ecologists regarding the environmental fragility of the region, the momentum of development has continued unabated.
        • Even recommendations from expert committees, such as the Supreme Court-appointed panel advocating for limits on pilgrimage to Char Dham Himalayan shrines based on carrying capacity, have been disregarded.
        • Instead, pilgrimage numbers have surged annually, exacerbating environmental strain.
      • Human Cost of Environmental Destruction
        • Tragically, the consequences of environmental degradation and unchecked development disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
        • Poor migrant workers engaged in ongoing projects and local residents, tourists, and pilgrims bear the brunt of these disasters.
        • While government bodies sanctioning projects and the developers executing them evade accountability, marginalized communities suffer the human toll of environmental destruction.
      • Neglecting Environmental Safeguards for Development
        • The relentless pursuit of development objectives in the Himalayan region has raised concerns among environmental advocates, who argue that the fragile balance of the ecosystem and its biodiversity cannot be sacrificed in the name of progress.
        • The absence of adequate measures to mitigate environmental risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects underscores a worrying trend of prioritizing short-term gains over long-term sustainability.
      • Protecting the Himalayan Ecosystem
        • The responsibility to safeguard the Himalayas and the communities residing in its shadow falls upon all stakeholders.
        • It is imperative to recognize that the repercussions of environmental degradation in the Himalayan region extend far beyond local populations.

About Ladakh

  • Ladakh is a union territory of India, located in the northern and eastern part of Kashmir, in the Indian subcontinent.
  • It is one of the highest regions in the world, with a vast area covering approximately 45,000 square miles (117,000 square km).
  • Ladakh is divided into two districts: Leh and Kargil.
  • The largest town in Ladakh is Leh, followed by Kargil, each of which headquarters a district.
  • The region is known for its high plains and deep valleys, with the eastern part predominantly consisting of high plains that gradually diminish towards the west.
  • Ladakh has a cold and dry climate, with an average annual precipitation of roughly 3 inches (80 mm).
    • The climate is characterized by fine, dry, flaked snow that is frequent and sometimes falls heavily.
    • Vegetation is confined to valleys and sheltered spots, where stunted growths of tamarisk (genus Tamarix) shrubs, furze (also called gorse; spiny plants of the legume family), and other plants provide essential firewood.
  • Major Rivers and Glaciers:
    • Ladakh is home to several major rivers and tributaries, including the Indus River, which flows through the region from west to east. The Indus is one of the longest rivers in Asia and a lifeline for the people of Ladakh.
    • Other significant rivers in Ladakh include the Zanskar River, which is a tributary of the Indus, and the Shyok River, which flows through the Nubra Valley.
    • The region also boasts numerous glaciers, including the Siachen Glacier, which is the longest glacier in the Karakoram Range and often referred to as the world’s highest battlefield due to ongoing military conflicts in the area.
  • The economy of Ladakh is primarily based on agriculture, with tourism being a significant contributor to the region’s GDP.
  • The population of Ladakh is predominantly Buddhist, with a significant Muslim population in the Kargil district.
    • The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Tibetan and Indian influences.
    • The Ladakhi language is a Tibetan dialect spoken by the Changpa people, while Hindi, Urdu, and English are also widely spoken.

About the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

  • The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) is a comprehensive action plan initiated by the Government of India to address climate change-related issues.
  • It was first released by the Prime Minister on June 30, 2008, outlining a national strategy to enable the country to adapt to climate change and enhance the ecological sustainability of India’s development path.
  • The NAPCC focuses on promoting understanding of climate change, adaptation, and mitigation, energy efficiency, and natural resource conservation through eight “National Missions” that form the core of the plan.
  • The eight National Missions under the NAPCC are as follows:
    • National Solar Mission: Aims to establish India as a global leader in solar energy by creating policy conditions for solar technology diffusion across the country.
    • National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Focuses on enhancing energy efficiency in energy-intensive industries through initiatives like the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme.
    • National Mission on Sustainable Habitat: Seeks to promote energy efficiency as a crucial component of urban planning, extending the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC), and emphasizing urban waste management and recycling.
    • National Water Mission: Aims to conserve water resources and promote sustainable water management practices.
    • National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem: Focuses on preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and promoting sustainable development in the region.
    • National Mission for a Green India: Aims at protecting, restoring, and enhancing India’s forest cover and responding to climate change through plantation activities.
    • National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture: Focuses on promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing agricultural resilience to climate change.
    • National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change: Seeks to build a vibrant and dynamic knowledge system to inform climate change-related policies and actions.

ISRO’s ‘zero orbital debris’ milestone

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone with its PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission, claiming to have practically left zero debris in Earth’s orbit.

  • The space agency accomplished this feat by transforming the last stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) into a novel orbital station known as the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3), designed to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere upon completing its mission instead of lingering in orbit.

Key Highlights

  • POEM: Innovative Space Platform
    • POEM, developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), serves as a cost-effective space platform leveraging the spent fourth stage of a PSLV rocket.
    • Initially employed in the PSLV-C53 mission in June 2022, POEM functions as a stabilized platform for conducting in-orbit scientific experiments with diverse payloads.
    • Technical Specifications of POEM
      • Powered by solar panels affixed to the fuel tank of the rocket’s fourth stage and a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, POEM features a dedicated navigation, guidance, and control (NGC) system to stabilize its altitude.
      • Equipped with helium control thrusters, the NGC system integrates four Sun sensors, a magnetometer, and gyroscopes, facilitating communication with ISRO’s NavIC satellite constellation for navigation.
    • Additionally, POEM is equipped with a telecommand system for ground station communication.
    • Historical Context: Reuse of Spent Rocket Stage
      • ISRO’s utilization of the spent fourth stage of its rocket dates back to the PSLV C-44 mission in 2019.
      • Following the successful injection of satellites into target orbits, the fourth stage, carrying a student payload named Kalamsat-V2, was maneuvered to a higher circular orbit of 443 kilometers, where it remained, allowing the payload to conduct observations.
    • POEM-3 Mission Overview
      • ISRO’s PSLV C-58 mission, launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre on January 1, 2024, marked a significant milestone in space exploration.
      • Following the successful deployment of the XpoSat satellite into its designated orbit at 650 kilometers above Earth’s surface, the fourth stage of the rocket was repurposed into POEM-3, heralding a new chapter in scientific experimentation and technological innovation.
      • Preparation for Re-entry
        • After fulfilling its scientific objectives, POEM-3 commenced preparations for re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.
        • Over a span of two months, ISRO meticulously tracked POEM-3’s trajectory using its Telemetry, Tracking, and Command Network (ISTRAC) stations located strategically across the globe.
        • On March 21, 2024, POEM-3 re-entered the Earth’s atmosphere, culminating its mission in a fiery descent.
        • The successful completion of POEM-3’s objectives underscores ISRO’s commitment to scientific exploration and technological advancement, while also demonstrating its capability to responsibly manage space debris and ensure the sustainable utilization of space resources.
      • The Challenge of Space Debris
        • The proliferation of satellites in orbit around Earth has led to a growing concern regarding space debris, posing significant risks to space assets and activities.
        • Space debris, predominantly found in the low Earth orbit (LEO), comprises remnants of spacecraft, rockets, defunct satellites, and fragments from explosive events such as anti-satellite missile tests.
        • With debris hurtling at speeds of up to 27,000 kilometers per hour, the sheer volume and velocity of these objects pose a formidable threat to operational satellites and space missions.
        • Scope and Impact of Space Debris
          • The low Earth orbit (LEO), spanning from 100 kilometers to 2000 kilometers above Earth’s surface, hosts critical satellites responsible for intelligence data tracking, encrypted communication, and navigation.
          • According to ISRO’s Space Situational Assessment report for 2022, the world witnessed a significant increase in the number of objects placed in space, with 2,533 objects deployed in 179 launches, up from 1,860 objects in 135 launches in 2021.
          • This surge in satellite deployments exacerbates the challenge of managing space debris, which also exists in smaller volumes in the geosynchronous orbit (GEO) located 36,000 kilometers above Earth’s surface.
        • On-Orbit Break-Up Events
          • In 2022, four significant on-orbit break-up events occurred, resulting in the generation of a substantial amount of debris:
            • March 2022: The intentional destruction of Russia’s Cosmos 1048 in an anti-satellite test added 1,408 fragments of debris.
            • July 2022: The upper stage of Japan’s H-2A rocket broke up while deploying the GOSAT-2 satellite, contributing 52 fragments of debris.
            • November 2022: An accidental explosion of China’s Yunhai-3 upper stage added 533 pieces of debris.
            • November 2022: The break-up of the Japanese H-2A upper stage during the deployment of the GCOM satellite added 30 pieces of debris.
          • Real-Life Impacts of Space Debris
            • The tangible consequences of space debris were demonstrated on March 8, 2024, when a chunk of metal, believed to be a discarded battery pallet from the International Space Station, penetrated the roof and two stories of a house in Florida.
            • Weighing nearly 1 kilogram, the cylindrical piece was tracked by the US Space Command as it re-entered the Earth’s atmosphere over the Gulf of Mexico.
            • The incident underscores the potential dangers posed by space debris to terrestrial infrastructure and human safety, prompting ongoing investigations by NASA.
          • Impact of Satellite Deployment
            • The increasing number of satellites, particularly propelled by initiatives like SpaceX’s Starlink project, poses a significant challenge to space agencies and exacerbates the issue of space debris.
            • Starlink, envisaging a constellation of 12,000 satellites to provide global internet services, has already deployed satellites across various orbits and plans to expand further by 2027 with an additional 30,000 LEO satellites.
            • This surge in satellite deployments, coupled with anti-satellite tests, contributes to on-orbit breakups and collisions, generating smaller fragments that add to the space debris population.
          • Risks Associated with Space Debris
            • The proliferation of space debris presents two primary risks: the creation of unusable regions within orbits due to excessive debris density and the potential onset of the ‘Kessler syndrome,’ wherein cascading collisions result in a chain reaction of debris generation following a single collision event.
            • ISRO estimates project that the number of space objects exceeding 10 centimeters in size in LEO could reach around 60,000 by 2030, highlighting the urgency of addressing the space debris challenge.
          • Mitigation Efforts by Space Agencies
            • While there are currently no international space laws specifically addressing LEO debris, most space-faring nations adhere to the Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines 2002 set forth by the Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC), endorsed by the U.N. in 2007.
            • These guidelines outline strategies to mitigate accidental collisions, break-ups during operations, intentional destruction, and post-mission break-ups.
            • Additionally, they advocate for limiting the long-term presence of spacecraft and launch vehicle orbital stages in LEO and minimizing interference in the GEO region.
            • Initiatives by NASA and ESA
              • NASA established its Orbital Debris Program in 1979 to develop measures for reducing orbital debris and devising technologies for tracking and removing existing debris.
              • Currently, the U.S. Space Force, through its sixth wing, monitors space debris and potential collisions in LEO.
              • However, active debris removal technologies are still in the conceptual stage.
              • Similarly, the European Space Agency (ESA) has adopted a ‘Zero Debris charter,’ which encompasses various strategies for mitigating space debris. ESA aims for zero space debris by 2030 and encourages other space agencies to adopt similar goals.

Is transparency lacking in candidate disclosure?

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

Section 33 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act), in conjunction with rule 4A of the election rules, mandates that every candidate contesting elections must submit a nomination paper accompanied by an affidavit in a specified format.

  • This affidavit serves as a declaration of various details pertaining to the candidate’s background, assets, income, and criminal history.

Key Highlights

  • Supreme Court’s Directive
    • In the landmark case of Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) Vs Union of India (2002), the Supreme Court asserted the citizens’ right to be informed about crucial aspects of electoral candidates.
    • The court ruled that voters have a legitimate interest in knowing about a candidate’s criminal record, income and asset details, educational qualifications, and those of their dependents.
    • Consequently, Section 33A was introduced into the RP Act to compel candidates to disclose information regarding their criminal antecedents in their election affidavits.
  • Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance
    • Section 125A of the RP Act imposes strict penalties for non-compliance with the disclosure requirements outlined in Section 33 and 33A.
    • Candidates who fail to furnish the requisite information, provide false information, or conceal relevant details in their nomination papers or affidavits may face imprisonment for up to six months, a monetary fine, or both.
  • Criminal Charges and Incomplete Affidavits
    • Another significant issue pertains to candidates with serious criminal charges contesting elections.
    • Some candidates exploit loopholes by submitting incomplete affidavits, leaving certain columns blank to circumvent disclosure requirements.
    • A report by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) revealed that 19% of candidates in the 2019 Lok Sabha election faced charges of rape, murder, or kidnapping.
    • Court interventions, such as in Resurgence India Vs EC (2013), have been necessary to ensure the completion of affidavits.
  • Recommendations for Reform
    • The Law Commission and the Election Commission have proposed several recommendations to address these issues.
    • These include increasing the punishment for filing false affidavits to a minimum of two years imprisonment and making it grounds for disqualification.
    • Additionally, trials in such cases should be expedited, and candidates charged with serious offences should be debarred from contesting elections if the case is filed at least six months before the election, as suggested in the 244th report of the Law Commission on ‘Electoral Disqualifications’ (2014) and EC’s memorandum on ‘Electoral reforms’ (2016).
    • Public Disclosure of Criminal Records
      • In Public Interest Foundation Vs Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court directed candidates and political parties to issue declarations about criminal antecedents at least three times before the election, through newspapers and electronic media, to enhance transparency.

About the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act)

  • The Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) is a legislation in India that governs the following:
    • conduct of elections to the Houses of Parliament and the Legislature of each State,
    • the qualifications and disqualifications for membership of those Houses,
    • the corrupt practices and other offences at or in connection with such elections, and
    • the decision of doubts and disputes arising out of or in connection with such elections.
  • The RP Act was enacted by the Provisional Parliament under Article 327 of the Indian Constitution, before the first general election, and it has been amended several times to address various issues related to elections in India.