CURRENT AFFAIRS - 27/04/2024

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CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27/04/2024

Rise of a new Japan

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

Following its defeat in World War II, Japan embraced a policy of pacifism as a means of atoning for its militaristic past.

This approach entailed refraining from significant military buildup, limiting defense spending, and abstaining from involvement in military conflicts globally.
Japan’s commitment to pacifism stemmed from a desire to cleanse itself of the sins of militarism and imperialism that characterized its pre-war era.

Key Highlights

Dependence on the US Alliance:
- To compensate for its pacifist stance, Japan forged a close bilateral military alliance with the United States.
- This arrangement effectively made Japan a protectorate of the US in the Asian region.
- By relying on US security guarantees, Japan could redirect its efforts toward economic recovery and development, emerging as a formidable commercial and technological powerhouse by the late 1960s.
- By the early 1970s, Japan had ascended to become the world’s second-largest economy, trailing only behind the United States.
Shift Towards Militarization:
- In recent years, Japan has undergone a significant transformation, signaling a departure from its pacifist posture towards a more assertive role on the global stage.
- Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s recent address to the United States Congress marked a pivotal moment in this transition, highlighting Japan’s emergence as a major military power.
- This shift entails the conversion of Japan’s renowned civilian industrial prowess into a robust military-industrial complex, indicative of a departure from its traditional reliance on the US for security.
- Evolving Strategic Vision:
  - Japan’s evolution is not merely confined to military capabilities but also encompasses a strategic reorientation.
  - Over the past decade, Japan has actively promoted the concept of the Indo-Pacific region as a critical geopolitical framework.
  - This vision, initially articulated by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007, underscores the strategic unity between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
  - Japan has invested significant diplomatic, political, and financial resources in popularizing this concept, garnering support from key regional players such as Australia, Indonesia, India, and the United States.
- By aligning its strategic vision with military capabilities and political resolve, Japan seeks to actively shape the regional security architecture in the Indo-Pacific.
- This transition signifies Japan’s transition from being a passive US protectorate to becoming an equal partner in regional security affairs, thereby altering the geopolitical landscape of the Asia-Pacific region.
Reasons for Japan’s Radical Change
- The shift in Japan’s security posture stems from a combination of external and internal factors.
- External Pressures:
  - Externally, several key elements have converged to compel Japan to reassess its security stance.
  - Firstly, the rise of China and its assertive military posture, particularly concerning territorial disputes with Japan, has raised significant concerns.
  - Additionally, the deepening military cooperation between Beijing and Moscow, along with their coordinated policies in Northeast Asia, has further complicated Japan’s security calculus.
  - Moreover, the escalating military capabilities of North Korea have added to the regional security challenges faced by Japan.
  - Lastly, the apprehensions triggered by the Trump Administration’s policies, including the perceived risk of US withdrawal from security commitments to Japan and other Asian allies, have underscored the need for Japan to adopt a more proactive security posture.
- Internal Dynamics:
  - Internally, the evolving security landscape has bolstered conservative factions within Tokyo, advocating for Japan to assert itself as a “normal power.”
  - These conservatives argue that Japan has sufficiently demonstrated its credentials as a responsible global actor and that the time has come for Japan to assume greater responsibility for its own security.
  - Additionally, they contend that Japan should play a more active role in contributing to the maintenance of regional stability and order.
  - This internal sentiment, coupled with external pressures, has catalyzed Japan’s reorientation towards a more assertive security posture in the 21st century.
- Japan’s Geopolitical Power Strategies
  - Increased Defense Spending:
    - Japan has discarded its historical limit on defense expenditure, traditionally capped at around 1% of its GDP.
    - Recent data indicates a notable surge in military spending, reaching 1.1% of GDP in 2022, marking the highest level in six decades.
    - Prime Minister Kishida’s administration has committed to doubling annual defense spending to approximately 10 trillion yen ($68 billion) by 2027.
    - This substantial increase would position Japan as the world’s third-largest military spender, trailing only behind the US and China.
  - Acquisition of Counter-Strike Capability:
    - Japan is actively bolstering its own counter-strike capabilities, particularly through the acquisition of cruise missiles.
    - In January, Japan finalized a deal with the US to procure up to 400 Tomahawk cruise missiles, significantly enhancing its ability to strike targets deep within China and North Korea.
    - This shift from reliance on the US for such capabilities represents a significant departure from Japan’s previous security posture.
  - Easing Restrictions on Lethal Weapon Exports:
    - Japan’s cabinet recently relaxed its longstanding ban on the export of lethal weapons to friendly nations.
    - This decision opens avenues for Japan to leverage its advanced manufacturing and technological base to support allies facing challenges in production capacities, particularly in comparison to rivals such as China and Russia.
    - Japan has already demonstrated its commitment to this approach by approving the shipment of Japanese-made Patriot missiles to the US following the easing of export restrictions.
  - Participation in Multinational Defense Initiatives:
    - Japan is actively engaged in multinational defense initiatives aimed at enhancing its military capabilities and strengthening alliances.
    - Notably, Japan is leading the Global Combat Air Programme alongside the United Kingdom and Italy, which aims to develop the BAE Systems Tempest, a proposed sixth-generation stealth fighter.
    - Additionally, during Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to the US, both countries finalized the establishment of a joint military industrial council to facilitate collaborative weapon production.
  - Revision of Command-and-Control Framework:
    - Japan and the US are in the process of revising their command-and-control framework governing defense forces.
    - This revision entails significant integration of the command structure, with plans to establish a joint operations command in Japan.
    - Currently, while the US operates military bases in mainland Japan and Okinawa island, its command structure is centralized in Hawai’i, the headquarters of the US Indo-Pacific Command.
    - The establishment of a joint operations command in Japan signifies a strategic realignment to enhance coordination and efficiency in defense operations.
  - Japan’s Evolving Diplomatic Posture
    - Reconciliation Efforts with South Korea:
      - Japan has undertaken efforts to address historical disputes stemming from its occupation of the Korean peninsula during the period of Imperial Japan from 1910 to 1945.
      - This reconciliation with South Korea has not only improved bilateral relations but also fostered greater regional security coordination.
      - By resolving longstanding tensions, Japan has played a crucial role in transitioning the US from a system of bilateral alliances in Asia to a more interconnected regional security network, where US allies collaborate with each other.
    - Support for Ukraine:
      - Japan has emerged as a key supporter of Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.
      - Tokyo has provided significant aid for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts and has even supplied weapons to assist in its defense.
      - Notably, Japan has been vocal in advocating for Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty, even in the face of opposition.
    - Implications of Japan’s ‘New’ Diplomacy:
      - The shift in Japan’s diplomatic posture towards proactive engagement in global affairs signifies a departure from its historical pacifist stance.
      - This ‘new’ Japan, politically active and militarily capable, is poised to reshape the regional security calculus.
      - Despite concerns about the sustainability of policies outlined by Prime Minister Kishida, structural factors are likely to ensure continuity in Japan’s new orientation.
      - The potential return of Donald Trump to the White House has further incentivized Tokyo to safeguard against American isolationism, reinforcing Japan’s commitment to its evolving diplomatic stance.
    - India’s Response to Japan’s Policy Shift
      - Historical Perspective:
        
        India’s response to Japan’s recent policy changes is rooted in historical connections and shared experiences.
        
        During India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule, figures like Subhas Chandra Bose sought support from Imperial Japan.
        
        Additionally, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, emphasized the importance of both China and Japan in shaping the future of post-war Asia, reflecting a nuanced understanding of regional dynamics.
      - Bilateral Relationship with Japan:
        
        Over the past two decades, India’s bilateral relationship with Japan has evolved, acquiring a political dimension.
        
        While economic ties have flourished, there remains untapped potential for military cooperation between the two countries.
        
        Discussions on military-industrial collaboration present opportunities for deepening strategic engagement and enhancing defense capabilities.
      - Potential Benefits for India:
        
        India views a politically resolute and militarily strong Japan positively, seeing it as a contributor to building a stable Asian equilibrium.
        
        The emergence of a multipolar Asia aligns with India’s objective of fostering a multipolar world order.
        
        Japan’s assertiveness in regional security affairs may complement India’s strategic interests, promoting greater stability and balance in the Asia-Pacific region.

About Japan

Japan, an archipelago located in East Asia, comprises four main islands: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, along with numerous smaller islands.
Its strategic location in the Pacific Ocean has greatly influenced its history, culture, and economic development.
Geography:
- Japan is situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity.
- Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan, is the country’s highest peak.
- The climate varies from subtropical in the south to temperate in the north, with distinct four seasons.
- Japan’s rugged terrain includes mountains, forests, plains, and coastal areas.
History:
- Japan’s history is characterized by periods of isolation and rapid modernization.
- Ancient Japan was ruled by emperors and shoguns, with feudalism prevailing until the mid-19th century.
- In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan underwent rapid industrialization and emerged as a major imperial power, expanding its territory through colonization and militarism.
- Following defeat in World War II, Japan underwent significant reconstruction and democratization under the guidance of the Allied occupation forces, leading to its post-war economic miracle and emergence as a global economic powerhouse.
Economy:
- Japan has the third-largest economy in the world by nominal GDP. It is known for its advanced technology, automotive industry, and electronics sector.
- Key industries include manufacturing (automobiles, electronics, machinery), services (finance, healthcare, tourism), and agriculture (rice, vegetables, seafood).
- Japan faces challenges such as an aging population, low birth rate, and public debt, but it remains a major player in global trade and finance.
Culture:
- Japanese culture is renowned for its blend of tradition and modernity, with influences from Shintoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism.
- Traditional arts such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and kabuki theater coexist with contemporary trends in manga, anime, and pop culture.
- The concept of “omotenashi” (hospitality) is deeply ingrained in Japanese society, emphasizing politeness, respect, and attention to detail.
Society:
- Japan is known for its homogeneity, with the majority of the population being ethnic Japanese.
- However, there are significant minority groups such as the Ainu in Hokkaido and the Ryukyuans in Okinawa.
- Social cohesion, discipline, and a strong work ethic are hallmarks of Japanese society, contributing to its economic success and orderly public life.

SC backs EVMs, rules out revival of paper ballots

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

In a recent ruling on April 26, the Supreme Court of India delivered a verdict supporting the continued use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the country’s electoral process.

The court dismissed a plea to reintroduce paper ballots, emphasizing that unfounded mistrust in established institutions hampers societal progress.

Key Highlights

Rejection of Paper Ballot Proposal
- The Bench rejected a petition advocating for the reinstatement of paper ballots.
- The court reasoned that blind distrust in established systems fosters unnecessary skepticism and impedes societal advancement.
- Furthermore, the court declined a proposal to allow voters to inspect paper slips generated by Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units before inserting them into the ballot boxes.
- This decision aligns with the court’s reluctance to intervene against Section 49 MA of the Conduct of Election Rules, which penalizes voters for lodging complaints about vote count discrepancies.
Refusal to Direct 100% EVM-VVPAT Cross-Verification
- The Supreme Court also rejected a plea to mandate 100% cross-verification of EVMs and VVPATs nationwide.
- Currently, only five percent of EVM-VVPAT counts undergo random verification in any given Assembly constituency, a significant improvement from the previous one percent mandated before the court’s intervention.
Court’s Suggestion to the Election Commission
- Instead of mandating full-scale cross-verification, the court suggested that the Election Commission explore the possibility of developing an electronic mechanism to tally VVPAT paper slips.
- This recommendation stems from the Election Commission’s admission that manual counting of VVPAT slips is laborious and time-consuming, with each polling station requiring the counting of approximately 1000 slips, a process exacerbated by the small size and adhesive nature of the paper.
- Human Perspective on VVPAT Counting
  - The Election Commission (EC) highlighted to the court the challenges faced by counting personnel during the VVPAT counting process.
  - They emphasized that the charged atmosphere and mental pressure experienced in counting centers contribute to the slower pace of VVPAT slip counting.
  - Additionally, the EC disclosed that out of 41,629 instances of random verification conducted to date, there has not been a single instance of mismatch between EVM votes and VVPAT slips.
- Unique Bar Codes for Political Parties
  - In a bid to enhance the electoral process, the Supreme Court suggested the adoption of unique bar codes alongside symbols for political parties.
  - This measure aims to facilitate easier identification and streamline the counting process.
- Secure Handling of Symbol Loading Units (SLUs)
  - The court issued a directive to the EC mandating the sealing and secure storage of Symbol Loading Units (SLUs) after the symbol loading process into VVPATs.
  - Each SLU will be sealed in a special container in the presence of candidates or their representatives, who will affix their signatures on the seal.
  - These containers will be stored in strong rooms along with EVMs for 45 days following the declaration of election results.
- Verification of Burnt Memory of EVM Microcontrollers
  - In cases where tampering of EVMs is suspected, the court ordered the verification of burnt memory of microcontrollers of EVMs.
  - Candidates who have secured second or third positions in the election results may request this verification within seven days of result declaration.
  - The District Election Officer, along with a team of engineers, will verify the authenticity of the burnt memory.
  - The expenses for this verification will be borne by the candidates or their representatives and refunded if tampering is confirmed.
- Emphasis on Constructive Approach and Trust
  - Justice Datta underscored the importance of a critical and constructive approach guided by evidence and reason, rather than blind distrust.
  - The court emphasized the need for open dialogue, transparency, and trust to fortify the voices and choices of the electorate, ensuring that the electoral system reflects the true mandate of the voting public.

IUCN representative to be an observer in NilgiriTahr survey

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

The Tamil Nadu government has launched a synchronized survey of the NilgiriTahr, a mountain ungulate species, with the aim of estimating its population and eventually removing it from the endangered status.

Key Highlights

Survey Details
- Scheduled to commence from April 29, the three-day survey seeks to assess the current population of NilgiriTahrs across the Anamalai and Nilgiris landscape, where they historically thrived.
- The survey initiative involves collaboration with esteemed organizations such as the World Wide Fund for Nature, the Wildlife Institute of India, and the IUCN, whose country director will serve as an observer during the exercise.
Project NilgiriTahr
- The survey results will serve as baseline data for Project NilgiriTahr, which aims to stabilize the population by addressing threats to the species.
- Additionally, there are plans to reintroduce NilgiriTahrs in sites like the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve to bolster their numbers and ensure their long-term survival.
Note: Recognized as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and protected under Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the NilgiriTahr population has dwindled over the years.

About Nilgiritahr (Nilgiritragushylocrius)

The Nilgiritahr (Nilgiritragushylocrius) is an endangered mountain ungulate endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats in India.
- It is a stocky, brown-colored wild mountain goat with a distinctive appearance, including swept-back horns and a bristly mane.
- Nilgiritahrs are found in a roughly 400 km stretch of the Western Ghats in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
- Their habitat is the open montane grasslands with steep rocky cliffs.
- The Eravikulam National Park has the highest density and largest surviving population of Nilgiritahrs, estimated at around 1,000 individuals.
- Nilgiritahrs are social animals and live in herds that can range from 6 to over 100 individuals.
  - The herds may be mixed or contain only males or only adult females and their young.
  - They are diurnal, most active in the early morning and late afternoon. During midday, herds rest in the shade of cliff faces.
- Nilgiritahrs are herbivores, feeding on various grasses, shrubs, leaves, and forbs. They are polygynous, with males mating with multiple females.
- The main threats to Nilgiritahrs are habitat loss, overgrazing by livestock, illegal hunting, and climate change.

Sounding the gavel on curative jurisdiction

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Supreme Court of India holds a unique position as the highest court of appeal, a federal court, and a court of advisory jurisdiction.

Additionally, it possesses the authority to appoint and transfer judges of both the High Courts and the Supreme Court itself.

Key Highlights

Introduction of Curative Jurisdiction
- In 2002, the Court acquired a new power known as “Curative Jurisdiction.”
- This power allows the Court to rectify its judgments even after they have attained finality, distinct from the conventional power of review which enables courts to correct errors apparent from their records.
- Curative Jurisdiction: A Unique Power
  - Curative Jurisdiction stands apart from the Court’s regular process of modifying legal positions.
  - It represents a reversal of the Court’s own stance in a specific case, surpassing even the power of review.
- Analysis of the Delhi Metro Rail Case
  - Background
    - The case under scrutiny involves a judgment rendered on April 10, 2024, by a three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court.
    - The matter pertains to a curative petition in the dispute between Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (DMRC) and Delhi Airport Metro Express Pvt Ltd (DAMEPL).
  - Arbitral Tribunal’s Decision
    - DAMEPL obtained a favorable ruling from an Arbitral Tribunal in a significant claim.
    - The award was based on DAMEPL’s argument that the termination of a long-term contract concerning a section of the Delhi metro rail was valid.
    - The termination clause permitted DAMEPL to end the contract upon issuing a notice to cure defects, which DMRC allegedly failed to address, leading to the termination.
  - Supreme Court’s Intervention
    - The dispute reached the Supreme Court, which upheld the arbitral award, emphasizing the limited scope for challenging awards under Indian law.
    - Subsequently, a review petition was dismissed.
    - However, the Court, for the first time, set aside an arbitral award through a curative petition.
    - Grounds for Interference
      - The Court’s interference was based on two primary grounds.
      - Firstly, it deemed the interpretation of the termination clause by the Arbitral Tribunal as perverse, asserting that DMRC only needed to take effective steps to cure the breach, rather than rectifying the breach entirely.
      - Secondly, the Court highlighted the significance of the CMRS sanction as vital evidence, which it claimed was disregarded by the Arbitral Tribunal.
    - Significance of the Decision
      - This decision holds significance for two reasons.
      - Firstly, it diverges from the Court’s previous stance of minimal interference in arbitral awards. Secondly, it acknowledges the Court’s own verdict in 2019, which had aligned with the existing position of limited interference.
    - Legal Implications
      - The case underscores established legal principles, such as the Court’s role in setting aside awards without acting as a court of appeal.
      - While the Court possesses the authority to intervene in cases of “perverse” interpretation, distinguishing between “perverse” and “plausible but incorrect” interpretations can be challenging.
    - Critique of Curative Jurisdiction
      - Critics argue that the Supreme Court’s intervention in this case, through the exercise of its curative jurisdiction, has yielded negative consequences.
      - Role of the Supreme Court
        
        As the apex judicial institution responsible for interpreting the Constitution and declaring law for the nation and posterity, the Supreme Court’s decisions hold significant weight.
        
        However, the critique argues that the focus should extend beyond rectifying individual case errors to upholding broader legal principles and ensuring consistency in judicial interpretation.
      - Concerns Regarding Interference
        
        While acknowledging that the interpretation in the DMRC vs DAMEPL case may be correct, the validity of the Court’s intervention in arbitral awards is questioned.
        
        It suggests that such interference may exceed acceptable limits, especially considering the principle of minimum judicial interference prevalent post the 2015 amendments to arbitration legislation.
      - Expectations from the Supreme Court
        
        Such interference also underscores the Supreme Court’s role as a beacon of law and a pole star of guidance and strength.
        
        It expresses concern that the Court’s oscillation based on changing trends undermines its constancy and gravitas, essential qualities for a court of last resort.
      - Importance of Finality
        
        Quoting Justice Jackson, the critique emphasizes that the Supreme Court’s authority stems not from infallibility but from its finality.
        
        It argues that a consistent and unwavering approach is crucial for upholding the Court’s integrity and effectiveness in delivering justice.
      - Proposal for Reform
        
        In light of the concerns raised, there is a proposal to reassess the utilization of curative jurisdiction by the Supreme Court, emphasizing the need for balance between finality and justice in legal proceedings.

What is Curative Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India?

The curative jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India is a unique legal concept that allows the court to reconsider its own final judgments and orders in exceptional circumstances.
Constitutional Provision
- The curative jurisdiction of the Supreme Court is derived from Article 137 of the Constitution of India, which gives the Supreme Court the power to review its own judgments and orders.
- Article 137 states: “Subject to the provisions of any law made by Parliament or any rules made under Article 145, the Supreme Court shall have power to review any judgment pronounced or order made by it.”
- The Supreme Court has used its powers under Article 137 to create the concept of a “curative petition” as a last resort to correct gross miscarriage of justice.
Origin and Purpose
- The concept of curative petition was first recognized by the Supreme Court in the 2002 case of Rupa Ashok Hurra v. Ashok Hurra.
- The purpose of curative jurisdiction is to prevent abuse of the court’s process and to cure a gross miscarriage of justice in the Supreme Court’s final judgments.
Conditions for Curative Petition
- The petitioner must establish that there was a genuine violation of principles of natural justice or a reasonable apprehension of bias by the judge.
- The petition must specifically state that the grounds were taken in the earlier review petition which was dismissed.
- The petition must be accompanied by a certificate from a senior advocate regarding fulfillment of the above requirements.
Procedure
- The curative petition is first circulated to the three senior-most judges of the Supreme Court and the judges who passed the original judgment, if available.
- If the majority of the judges conclude that the matter needs a hearing, it is then listed before the same bench.
- The court can impose exemplary costs if the curative petition lacks merit.

Study says solar radiation available for producing power falling in India

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

Scientists at the IMD have conducted an analysis revealing an alarming decreasing trend in the quantity of solar radiation available for conversion by solar panels into electricity in various locations across India.

This analysis was published in the IMD’s scientific journal, Mausam.

Key Highlights

Causative Factors
- The decline in solar radiation availability is attributed to increased aerosol load, which includes fine particles from carbon emissions, fossil fuel burning, and dust, along with clouding.
- Aerosols absorb sunlight and deflect it away from the ground, while dense clouds further block sunlight.
- These factors significantly influence the efficiency of solar panels.
Potential Solutions
- The scientists suggest that installing more efficient solar panels could help counteract the decreasing solar radiation trend, thereby improving the conversion of sunlight into electricity.
Research Methodology
- The study utilized data from 13 in-house stations equipped with instruments to measure solar radiation, spanning the period from 1985 to 2019.
- These stations were selected for their continuous data records, enabling the computation of changes in Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) potential, representing the amount of radiation practically available for electricity conversion by solar panels.
- Findings
  - The analysis revealed a general decline in SPV potential across all studied stations, including major cities like Ahmedabad, Chennai, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Thiruvananthapuram.
  - Even in regions with large solar parks, such as Gujarat and Rajasthan, there was a noticeable decrease in SPV potential.
- Implications for India’s Solar Energy Plans
  - India aims to source 500 GW of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with solar power contributing a significant portion.
  - However, the slow rate of solar capacity addition in recent years raises concerns about achieving these targets, despite ambitious initiatives like funding rooftop solar installations.
- Global Context
  - The analysis also considers global trends in solar radiation, noting a generally decreasing trend from 1981 to 2006, followed by a reversal thereafter.
  - The exact causes of these trends remain unclear.

What is solar radiation?

Solar radiation refers to the energy emitted by the Sun in the form of electromagnetic waves.
It encompasses a broad spectrum of wavelengths, ranging from short-wavelength ultraviolet (UV) radiation to long-wavelength infrared (IR) radiation, with visible light falling in between.
Solar radiation is the primary source of energy for Earth’s climate system and drives various processes such as weather patterns, ocean currents, and photosynthesis.
The amount of solar radiation reaching a particular location on Earth’s surface depends on factors such as geographic location, time of day, time of year, atmospheric conditions, and surface albedo (reflectivity).

India’s patent filings climbed 24.6% to 83,000 in FY23, shows Nasscom report

(General Studies- Paper III)

Source : The Hindu

According to the Patenting Trends report released by Nasscom, India witnessed a significant surge in patent filings during FY2023, with a total of 83,000 patents filed.

This marks an annual growth rate of 24.6%, the highest seen in the last two decades, mirroring global trends.

Key Highlights

Increase in Granted Patents
- The report also notes a substantial increase in the number of patents granted, more than doubling between FY2019 and FY2023.
- Nasscom anticipates this trend to continue, with over 100,000 patents expected to be granted between March 15, 2023, and March 14, 2024.
- Rise in Resident Filings
  - Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the proportion of patents filed by residents, rising from 33.6% in FY2019 to over 50% in FY2023.
  - This surge indicates a growing focus on and awareness of intellectual property rights in India, with educational institutes playing a crucial role in driving this growth.
- Top Technology Patents Filed
  - Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Neurotechnology are reported to be among the top technology patents filed by DeepTech Start-ups in India, according to Nasscom’s findings.
- Application Areas and Emerging Trends
  - Healthcare-related patents, particularly in medical imaging, diagnostics, report generation, and testing, saw the highest number of applications.
  - Automation/Software Development and Retail/Ecommerce followed suit.
  - In the AI domain, patents were primarily focused on image processing, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Predictive modeling, with emerging areas such as Gen AI, Medical Data Processing, and Cognitive computing gaining traction.
- Need for Focused Initiatives
  - Despite improvements in the patent filing process in India over the past two years, the country’s share in global patents remains relatively low, at just above 2%.
  - A more focused initiatives to address this gap and elevate India’s standing in the global innovation landscape is needed.