Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

• Preserving tribal culture: Odisha’s Special Development Councils model is worth emulating
• Not going to down – urbanisation in India

GS Paper 2

• A critical lapse in Jan Vishwas Bill
• Who’s listening to the teacher? HEI Rankings aren’t

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

Preserving tribal culture: Odisha’s Special Development Councils model is worth emulating

Source: The post is based on the article “Preserving tribal culture: Odisha’s Special Development Councils model is worth emulating” published in The Hindu on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS 1 – Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.

News: The author discusses how tribal cultures are fading due to modern development. The Central government’s development projects don’t consider tribal cultures. The Odisha government’s Special Development Councils (SDCs) initiative helps preserve tribal culture while promoting development.

Why is tribal culture fading in India?

Tribal culture in India is fading due to:

Modern development: Societies adopting global norms overshadow tribal cultures.

Central government projects: These have a one-size-fits-all approach, not considering tribal customs.

Focus on development: Programs like the Aspirational Districts Programme prioritize development over cultural context. For instance, except Odisha, other states follow the Central government’s approach which doesn’t prioritize tribal culture.

This has led to a decline in the richness and diversity of tribal traditions.

How is Odisha government’s Special Development Councils (SDCs) initiative helpful in preserving tribal culture?

The Odisha government’s Special Development Councils (SDCs) initiative aids in preserving tribal culture through:

Languages:

Odisha has over 22 tribal languages. The SDCs promote the use and spread of these languages.

Example: 21 tribal proficiency centres have been set up to educate people about tribal culture and dialect.

Sacred Groves:

These are vital for tribal culture and religion.

Data: 4,500 groves were near extinction. Now, 4,730 groves are protected in nine districts.

Artisan Support:

Recognizing tribal artisans helps in preserving their craft.

Data: 40,000 tribal artisans received ID cards, ensuring both cultural preservation and job opportunities.

Tribal Resource Centres:

They ensure knowledge transfer.

Data: Over 50 centres built in Sundargarh district, with more planned in other districts.

Representation:

The SDCs involve tribes in decision-making, preventing majoritarianism.

Example: The Councils have members from all tribal groups, including Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

By integrating development with cultural preservation, the SDCs initiative ensures that tribal culture thrives alongside progress.

What should be done?

Adopt the SDCs model: Central government should use Odisha’s SDCs approach for tribal areas.

Focus on Culture: Development projects should prioritize preserving tribal customs.

Inclusive Decision Making: All tribal groups, especially smaller ones, should be involved in decisions.

State Funding: Ensure projects are state funded to cater to local needs.

Expand to Other States: Apply Odisha model in tribal-dominated areas like Madhya Pradesh and Sikkim for effective preservation and development.

Not going to down – urbanisation in India

Source– The post is based on the article “Not going to down” published in “The Times of India” on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS1- Urbanisation

Relevance: Challenges faced by emerging urban centres

News– The surge in India’s daily mean rainfall since the last week of June again showed up the poor state of urban India’s infrastructure.

What are the challenges related to urbanisation in India?

Smaller urban centres are facing more challenges. In emerging urban areas, infrastructure doesn’t exist.

As per Census 2011, there were 7,933 urban settlements.  As per Niti Aayog report in 2021, about 65% of these settlements didn’t have a master plan. Almost half of them continue to be governed as rural entities.

What are the root causes behind these challenges?

First, states have not followed the true essence of the 74th constitutional amendment. It provides for the transfer of the urban planning function to an elected local government.

Secondly, the insufficient delegation of powers has resulted in master plans losing touch with reality. They do not align with the evolving nature of urban settlements. These plans lack flexibility and overly focus on zoning.

Master plans fail to consider the informal nature of India’s urban employment market. Consequently, zoning plans encounter unforeseen growth of clusters linked to informal jobs.

What is the importance of urban areas?

GOI estimated that urbanisation contributed to almost 60% of GDP. Almost 75% of the population increase by 2036 will be due to urban growth.

Way forward-

Master plans play a crucial role in improving the urban living standards.

Achieving this goal involves addressing two key aspects. Firstly, political power needs to be decentralised to urban local governments.

Political executives should have greater ownership and influence over master plans. This involvement can bring a dose of practicality and realism to the planning process.

GS Paper 2

A critical lapse in Jan Vishwas Bill

Source: The post is based on the article “A critical lapse in Jan Vishwas Bill” published in Business standard on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2 – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

News: This article discusses the Jan Vishwas Bill passed by Lok Sabha, which amends many provisions, including those in the Drugs & Cosmetics Act. Recently, Indian drug quality was questioned due to several incidents. The new amendments favor manufacturers more than consumers, reducing penalties for producing substandard drugs. The author believes patient safety shouldn’t be compromised for business ease.

About Jan Vishwas Bill

Purpose: Boost ease of living and business by amending provisions.

Changes to D&C Act: Might favor drug manufacturers over consumers.

Quality Issues: 48 brands found substandard; concerns from US FDA and other countries.

Penalty Reduction: Lighter penalties for substandard drug production.

Concerns: Potentially compromises patient safety and India’s drug reputation.

What is the need for Jan Vishwas Bill?

Addressing Over-Criminalization: The existing laws might have been too penalizing, hindering businesses.

Aligning with Business Growth: The need to make India a more attractive business destination while ensuring quality and safety.

Pharmaceutical Industry Concerns: With reported substandard brands and international issues, a revision was deemed necessary.

Enhancing Reputation: Incidents in countries like Gambia, Sri Lanka, and the US FDA’s findings spotlighted the need for legislative action.

Ensuring Consumer Safety: Despite the bill’s potential biases, the overall intent was to safeguard consumers from health risks.

What are the implications of Jan Vishwas Bill?

Simplifies Regulations: Aims to boost ease of living and doing business by amending various provisions.

Potential Bias: Changes to the Drugs & Cosmetics Act might favor drug manufacturers over consumers.

Quality Concerns Highlighted:

Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation found 48 brands to be substandard.

US FDA pointed out issues in Indian factories exporting generics.

Deaths in Gambia and Uzbekistan linked to an Indian-made cough syrup.

Sri Lanka and Nepal raised concerns over Indian drug quality.

Weaker Penalties: Producing substandard drugs may lead to lighter penalties, risking patient safety.

Reputation at Risk: India, known as the pharmacy of the world, might see its reputation damaged.

What should be done?

Strengthen Regulations: Ensure the Drugs & Cosmetics Act prioritizes patient safety over business interests.

Stricter Quality Checks: Address issues like the 48 substandard brands and concerns raised by the US FDA.

Review Penalties: Reconsider Jan Vishwas Bill’s lenient penalties for producing substandard drugs.

Preserve Reputation: Protect India’s status as the “pharmacy of the world” by ensuring high-quality generics.

Balance Business and Safety: Improve business conditions without compromising patient rights and drug safety.

Who’s listening to the teacher? HEI Rankings aren’t

Source– The post is based on the article “Who’s listening to the teacher? HEI Rankings aren’t” published in the “The Times of India” on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Issues related to development and management of education

Relevance: Higher education

News– The article explains the issues related to the ranking system for educational institutions and importance of qualitative methods to assess the quality of education

Why are qualitative methods important to assess the quality of education institutions?

To achieve a well-rounded approach, qualitative research holds equal importance.

Quantitative methods are effective for analysing certain aspects such as faculty research and publications. But, they may not suffice when it comes to evaluating qualitative elements like the quality of teaching.

The quality of teaching is the most important among all the criteria used in rankings to judge the strength of an educational institution. This is particularly relevant for institutions that prioritise teaching in India.

What are the issues with the rankings system of educational institutions?

Certain ranking mechanisms tend to blur the distinction between the quality of teaching and ‘learning outcomes. They overlook the intricate examination of pedagogy.

Most ranking systems fail to adequately capture the subjective aspects of teaching and learning. They tend to prioritise the objective data on an institution’s accomplishments.

Ranking systems mention innovations in teaching methods. But, their approach often remains quantitative and lacks qualitative elaboration.

Teaching is inherently a creative and critical endeavour. It involves a teacher infusing their passion for the chosen subject, combining it with effective pedagogy.

If ranking exercises are merely quantitative, it fails to acknowledge the fundamental creative and critical nature of education.

What are the challenges faced by a teacher in case of overcrowded classrooms?

The recent report by QS rankers highlighted the discouraging faculty to student ratio in Indian higher education institutions.

In such overcrowded classrooms, pedagogy becomes the first and most critical casualty. It  makes it difficult for teachers to effectively deliver their lessons.

The imagination and creativity a teacher brings to the classroom are undermined when faced with an excessive number of students per class.

GS Paper 3

In the wilderness: Forest Bill defeats purpose of the law

Source: The post is based on the article “In the wilderness: Forest Bill defeats purpose of the law” published in Business standard on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment

News: Last week, the Lok Sabha passed the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, which makes significant changes to the original law.

What are the major changes to the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill?

Renaming the law in Hindi: This might exclude non-Hindi speaking regions, especially the northeast.

Exemptions for Forest Land:

Alongside rail lines or public roads leading to habitation or amenities up to 1,000 sq. metres.

Within 100 km of international borders for “national importance” projects.

Up to 10 hectares for security-related infrastructure.

Up to 5 hectares in areas with left-wing extremism.

Land not marked as forest on government records after October 25, 1980.

Limiting the Act:

Only applies to land notified before October 25, 1980. This challenges the 1996 Supreme Court’s Godavarman judgment.

Definition Changes:

Includes man-made constructions like zoos, safari parks, and eco-tourism under forestry activities.

Power to Central Government:

The Bill gives more powers to the central government, even though forests were included in the Concurrent List of the Constitution.

What are the implications of this change?

Decreased Forest Cover: Exemptions can reduce India’s forest area.

Biodiversity at Risk: Relaxations threaten fragile ecosystems, like the Aravalli hills.

Indigenous Communities: Changes may infringe on the land and rights of these communities, especially in the northeast and central India.

Legal Conflicts: Limits challenge the 1996 Supreme Court’s Godavarman judgment.

Zoos and Parks: They aren’t natural forests but are now under forestry activities.

Tensions in Governance: More central government power could strain relations with states.

The debate on data

Source: The post is based on the article “The debate on data” published in “The Hindu” on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3 – Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth development and employment.

News: The author discusses concerns over India’s statistical system and the accuracy of its data. Once admired globally, the system’s reliability has declined. There are issues with data credibility, multiple agencies providing conflicting data, and delays in publishing essential data. The author emphasizes the need for an overhaul to provide credible data for better policymaking.

What are the major issues with India’s statistical system?

Major issues with India’s statistical system:

Data Credibility:

Surveys, like household ones, face credibility questions.

Concerns about samples selected and non-response from households.

EAC-PM paper says urban data isn’t captured well.

Conflicting Data Sources:

Different agencies give different numbers for the same indicators.

Example: Manufacturing data from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs’ MCA21 portal differs from the Annual Survey of Industries.

A 2019 report found 36% of MCA21 companies, used for GDP, were not traceable or classified properly.

System Competence:

Delays in conducting and publishing surveys.

Example: Processed data of completed surveys withheld, hindering assessments of poverty.

Macroeconomic data like wholesale price series and consumer price index are overdue for revisions.

Data Non-availability:

2021 Census yet to happen.

Policymakers use thin samples, like NITI Aayog’s 2023 index based on 6 lakh households, while India has over 30 crore households.

What should be done?

Improve Data Credibility:

Use realistic samples to reflect the transforming economy.

Re-examine definitions, like ‘urban’, to ensure accuracy.

Standardize Data Sources:

Address issues like the MCA21 portal’s glitches and inaccuracies.

Reduce conflicting data from different agencies.

Enhance System Competence:

Timely conduct and publication of surveys.

Revise outdated macroeconomic data series.

Transparent Data Dissemination:

Move beyond dashboards for clear data sharing.

Review Past Recommendations:

Revisit reports, like the Rangarajan Committee Report (2001), to assess and implement past suggestions.

Success with chips will take much more effort

Source: The post is based on articles

“Success with chips will take much more effort” published in Live Mint on 1^st August 2023 and

“Chip tactics: on India’s bid to attract major global chip manufacturers” published in The Hindu on 1^st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Industrial Policy

Relevance: challenges associated with establishing semiconductor industry in India

News: Taiwan has been a cause of tussle between China and the West, due to its significance in manufacturing advanced microchips for digital devices. India has also entered into the race to become a supplier of advanced microchips.

How is India trying to become a supplier?

Despite the setbacks faced by India in failed Foxconn-Vendanta venture, the PM has still taken efforts to move ahead to attract investment for the establishment of semicon fab units.

At the Semicon India 2023 conclave, PM offered 50% financial backing to companies looking to establish chip manufacturing facilities in India including offer for low corporate tax rates.

US-based companies like AMD and Micron have shown interest in investing in India to cover their supply risks. However, looking at the the challenges, it remains uncertain if India can become a significant global player in the chip industry.

What are the challenges with India in becoming a leader in the semiconductor industry?

Lack of Capabilities: Chips are of various kinds and manufacturing of sophisticated chips is dominated by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).

While a few other companies can produce these chips, catching up with TSMC’s capabilities is challenging.

Supremacy of the Advanced Economies: The US has shifted away from free trade and adopted an inward industrial policy, under the Chips Act to enforce technology denial to China. China also has its local chip fabrication projects.

The U.S. has also announced $52 billion in financing support and drawing over $200 billion in commitments. Intel alone has committed $80 billion in investments across the European Union.

In India, a $10 billion production-linked incentive scheme was introduced, however, a $20 billion venture by Vedanta and Foxconn failed.

Therefore, while India has an opportunity to establish a modest chip-making ecosystem, becoming a global supplier would remain a challenging task given the geo-strategic interests of the advanced economies.

Must Read: Semiconductor manufacturing in India: significance and challenges

What can be the way ahead?

Diplomacy: Diplomacy could play a significant role in India’s bid to join the global chip race. Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar encouraged global chip investors to optimize globalization by investing in chip fabrication units in India, combining the advantages of offshore production with risk reduction goals.

However, India’s best chance of becoming a major player in the chip industry lies in its own R&D efforts.

Efficient Policy Framework: To encourage semiconductor investments and attract other investors, India must support Micron through its incentives. Additionally, India also needs a stable operating environment with predictable policies framework and trade linkages with global markets to attract investors.

Recalibrating India’s clean cooking strategy

Source– The post is based on the article “Recalibrating India’s clean cooking strategy” published in “The Hindu” on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Infrastructure: Energy

Relevance: Issues related to cooking fuels

News- The article explains the issues related to LPG adoption in India and need for alternate clean cooking fuels.

What are efforts by the central government to improve LPG adoption in poorer and rural households?

The Grameen Vitrak Yojana was launched in 2009. With its help, the rural distributor base has grown from 18% to 60% of the total LPG distributor base today.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana has provided more than 9.5 crore new households with LPG connections since 2016.

What are issues with LPG adoption in India?

LPG consumption saw an absolute reduction in FY23 after years of steady growth.

As per Council on Energy, Environment and Water data, the share of Indian households using LPG as the primary cooking fuel had risen to 71% in 2020 from 33% in 2011.

However, COVID­19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the resulting volatility in crude and product prices on the other, have impacted universal use of LPG in Indian households.

In 2020, subsidy for LPG consumption was withdrawn for all consumers. Average refill rates for active non­-PMUY consumers are in slow decline. 40% of PMUY consumers get two or less refills in a year now.

India’s dependence on imported LPG has steadily increased to over 64% in FY23 .

Way forward-

India’s clean cooking policy must adopt clean­ cooking technologies. LPG­ only strategy needs  a relook. Electric cooking, including induction cooktops, can be adopted.

Rural households have the potential to switch some of their cooking requirements to electricity. According to a study conducted by CEEW, cooking with electricity remains more cost-effective than using LPG even at a high tariff of ₹8 per unit of electricity.

In urban areas, around 10% of households already employ electric appliances for their cooking needs. They can set an example for the larger transition in rural regions.

One possible approach is gradually increasing LPG prices beyond a certain threshold. This strategy could displace LPG in higher consumption groups. It will create a demand for new e-cooking technologies and models, and trigger a domino effect of adoption.

The initial demand from t could drive the growth of the domestic manufacturing ecosystem for e-cooking technologies.

To support this transition, targeted assistance should be provided to manufacturers. They can be encouraged to focus on efficiency and design catering to the needs of Indian households.

There is a requirement for financial support and business strategies that recognize the significance of India’s clean cooking shift by taking into account its positive impact on climate and air quality.

Express View on India’s economy: Sweet and sour

Source– The post is based on the article “Express View on India’s economy: Sweet and sour” published in the “The Indian Express” on 1st August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Indian economy and growth

Relevance: Growth prospects of Indian economy

News- The article explains the present economic scenario

Which indicators show a favourable economic situation?

The IMF has recently upgraded its projection for the country’s economic growth to 6.1%. Inflation has been kept below the upper limit set by the central bank’s inflation targeting framework.

India’s foreign exchange reserves are at approximately $600 billion. The government has also successfully maintained its investment in infrastructure development throughout the nation.

MNCs are increasingly considering India as a viable option in their business strategy, often referred to as the “China plus one” approach.

What are challenges for economic growth?

Economic growth has been uneven, leaving significant segments of the population with limited benefits. Lower sections have not experienced substantial improvements, especially after the Covid pandemic.

Several indicators show signs of distress. Real wages in rural areas have remained nearly stagnant, and more households are resorting to work opportunities provided by the MGNREGA compared to pre-pandemic levels.

FMCG companies have not witnessed significant volume growth in consumer staples. Two-wheeler sales remain below pre-Covid levels, and non-suburban railway traffic has declined.

Way forward-

Complacency is not an option. While some countries have experienced periods of growth, only a small subset has achieved sustained high growth rates over several decades.

According to a recent study conducted by economists at the RBI, the Indian economy must maintain a growth rate of 7.6 per cent over the next twenty-five years to attain high-income status by 2047.

The policy framework must be designed with the aim of enhancing the country’s growth prospects over the medium to long term. This calls for focused and urgent action to ensure progress in the desired direction.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) Released for Public Consultation

Source: The post is based on the article “Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) Released for Public Consultation”  published in PIB on 31st July 2023.

What is the News?

The National Consortium and Working Group set up by the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council has released the Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP)  for public consultation.

What is Deep Technology?

Deep Technology refers to innovations founded on advanced scientific and technological breakthroughs. Due to their disruptive nature, they have the potential to solve India’s most pressing societal issues.

What is the Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP)?

Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) is strategically formulated to stimulate innovation, spur economic growth and promote societal development through the effective utilization of deep tech research-driven innovations.

Aim of the policy: To address the challenges confronting deep tech startups through definitive policy interventions to create a conducive ecosystem.

Prepared by: National Consortium and Working Group set up by the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC), 

Key Features of the policy:

Firstly, the policy suggests necessary changes in nine policy areas such as: 1) Nurturing Research, Development & Innovation 2) Strengthening the Intellectual Property Regime 3) Facilitating Access to Funding 4) Enabling Shared Infrastructure and Resource Sharing 5) Creating Conducive Regulations, Standards, and Certifications 6) Attracting Human Resources & Initiating Capacity Building 7) Promoting Procurement & Adoption 8) Ensuring Policy & Program Interlinkages and 9) Sustaining Deep Tech Startups.

Secondly, the policy restates the government’s disappointment with international agreements that it argues have left India on the backfoot in terms of manufacturing and development power. 

Thirdly, the policy calls for a more multi-pronged approach to protect Indian interests. The need of the hour is a coordinated, comprehensive push to optimally engage with international partners and multilateral institutions to push the Indian Deep Tech Ecosystem.

Fourthly, the policy also suggests resource-intensive policy approaches to attract global talent, such as offering networking opportunities to international deep tech startups and experts interested in relocating and contributing to the local ecosystem.

Significance of the policy: This policy complements and adds value to the existing Startup India policies, programmes and initiatives, by fostering a conducive ecosystem for deep tech startups to thrive and address their unique and complex challenges. 

Cell-free DNA promises to transform how we find diseases

Source: The post is based on the article “Cell-free DNA promises to transform how we find diseases”  published in The Hindu on 31st July 2023.

What is the News?

Scientists have been aware of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) since 1948.But only in the last two decades, since genome sequencing started to become more accessible, have they really figured out what to do with that knowledge.

What is cell-free DNA (cfDNA)?

In the human body, most of the DNA in a genome is neatly packed inside cells with the help of specific proteins, protecting it from being degraded.

In a variety of scenarios, some fragments of DNA are ‘released’ from their containers and are present outside the cell, in body fluids. These small fragments of nucleic acids are widely known as cell-free DNA (cfDNA).

How are cell-free DNA (cfDNA) produced?

Cell-free DNA can be produced and released from a cell in various situations, such as during cell death when nucleic acids degrade. 

The degradation is influenced by multiple processes causing variations in the amount, size, and origin of cfDNA. 

The release of cfDNA could occur together with a variety of processes, including those required for normal development, those related to the development of certain cancers and those associated with several other diseases. 

What are the applications of cell-free DNA (cfDNA)?

One of the most widely used applications of cfDNA has been in screening foetuses for specific chromosomal abnormalities, an application known as non-invasive prenatal testing. 

Another emerging application of cfDNA is in the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancers.

It is also useful in understanding why a body is rejecting a transplanted organ.

Further, cfDNA could also be used as a biomarker for neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, neuronal tumours, stroke, traumatic brain injury.

ISRO successfully conducts TransLunar Injection of Chandrayaan-3

Source: The post is based on the article “ISRO successfully conducts TransLunar Injection of Chandrayaan-3”  published in The Hindu on 1st August 2023.

What is the News?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully performed the TransLunar Injection (TLI) to slingshot Chandrayaan-3 towards the moon.

Note: TLI has been performed successfully on many missions to the Moon, including the Apollo missions, the Chang’e missions and the Artemis missions.

What is Trans Lunar Injection(TLI)?

The Trans Lunar Injection(TLI) manoeuvre is a vital space travel technique used to launch a spacecraft from Earth’s orbit and place it on a track beyond the Moon. 

The TLI is performed when the spacecraft is at a specific point in its orbit known as the ‘perigee’ or the closest point to Earth. 

By firing its engines at this strategic moment, the spacecraft gains enough speed to break free from Earth’s gravitational pull and embark on its journey toward the moon.

What happens after Trans Lunar Injection(TLI)?

Once the TLI is successfully completed, the spacecraft is put on a lunar trajectory, and it will continue its journey to the Moon without further propulsion from Earth.

The spacecraft typically enters a transfer orbit, which is an elliptical path that intersects with the Moon’s orbit. It continues to travel in its highly eccentric orbit until it reaches the Moon’s surface.

As the spacecraft approaches the Moon, it may perform additional manoeuvres, such as lunar orbit insertion (LOI), to enter into lunar orbit or land on the lunar surface, depending on the mission’s goals.

What is the Akira ransomware, and why has the government issued a warning against it?

Source: The post is based on the article “What is the Akira ransomware, and why has the government issued a warning against it?”  published in The Hindu on 1st August 2023.

What is the News?

The Computer Emergency Response Team of India has issued an alert for ransomware called “Akira.”

What is Akira?

Akira is a type of ransomware. It is found to target both Windows and Linux devices.

It gets its name due to its ability to modify filenames of all encrypted files by appending them with the “.akira” extension.

How does Akira infect devices?

Ransomware typically spreads through spear phishing emails that contain malicious attachments in the form of archived content (zip/rar) files. 

Other methods used to infect devices include drive-by-download, a cyber-attack that unintentionally downloads malicious code onto a device and specially crafted web links in emails, clicking on which downloads malicious code.

What does Akira do after infecting devices?

Once it infects the device, Akira ransomware deletes Windows Shadow Volume copies. These files are instrumental in ensuring that organizations can back up data used in their applications for day-to-day functioning.

It then steals the sensitive data and leaves a note (akira_readme.txt) with attack details and a link to the negotiation site. 

The attackers then demand a ransom, threatening to publish the data on their dark web blog if the demands are not met.

DGT collaborates with Amazon Web Services India to offer skilling programs on emerging technologies

Source: The post is based on the article “DGT collaborates with Amazon Web Services India to offer skilling programs on emerging technologies”  published in PIB on 31st July 2023.

What is the News?

The Directorate General of Training (DGT) is collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS) India to upskill students in emerging technologies.

What is the collaboration between DGT and Amazon Web Services(AWS)?

Directorate General of Training (DGT) works under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).

DGT is collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS) India to provide individuals with self-paced online learning programs in emerging technologies such as cloud computing, data annotation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) at no cost.

This learning content will be offered on Bharat Skills platform.

What is Bharat Skills platform?

Launched in: 2019

Launched by: Directorate General of Training(DGT) in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship(MSDE) 

Purpose: It is a Central Digital Repository of updated curriculum, course content, digitally blended content, question banks and learning videos of all courses under the Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) and Crafts Instructor Training Scheme (CITS).

Measures to curtail Urban Flooding

Source: The post is based on the article “Measures to curtail Urban Flooding”  published in PIB on 31st July 2023.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has informed Lok Sabha about the steps the government is taking to tackle urban flooding. 

What are Urban Floods?

Click Here to read

Main cause of Urban Flooding: The increased incidence of high intensity rainfall of short duration is mainly responsible for urban floods, which is further compounded by unplanned growth, encroachment of natural water bodies and poor drainage system.

Deaths due to floods: Over 17,000 people died in floods and heavy rains between 2012 and 2021 in India.

Management of urban flooding falls under purview of the State Governments and the Urban Local Bodies / Urban Development Authorities who are responsible for maintaining the drainage and sewerage system.

What are the steps taken to tackle urban flooding?

Master Plan for Artificial Recharge to Groundwater – 2020: It has been prepared by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) in collaboration with States/UTs. The plan aims to construct about 1.42 crore rain water harvesting and artificial recharge structures in the country to harness 185 Billion Cubic Meter (BCM) of water.

The Government of India is implementing Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA) in the country in which special emphasis is being given for rainwater harvesting/groundwater recharge. 

The Amrit Sarovar Mission has been launched with an aim of developing and rejuvenating 75 water bodies in each district of the country.

Atal Bhujal Yojana

Under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 Scheme, provisions have been made for harvesting the rainwater through storm water drains into the water body (which is not receiving sewage/effluent) & creation/ strengthening of storm water drains around the water body.

Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL), 2016: It has been formulated by the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) for the States/UTs.As per MBBL, all buildings having a plot size of 100 sq.m. or, more shall mandatorily include the complete proposal of rainwater harvesting. 35 States/ UTs have adopted the features of the Bye Laws.

National Water Policy (2012) advocates that the conservation of rivers, river corridors, water bodies and infrastructure should be undertaken in a scientifically planned manner through community participation. 

New catalytic process of producing hydrogen offers sustainable method of manufacturing the green fuel

Source: The post is based on the article “New catalytic process of producing hydrogen offers sustainable method of manufacturing the green fuel”  published in PIB on 31st July 2023.

What is the News?

Researchers have developed a new process of producing hydrogen from methanol through a catalytic reaction under ambient conditions.

About Hydrogen as a clean source of energy:

Hydrogen is considered one of the cleanest sources of energy that can be easily obtained from indigestible biomass or bio-derived alcohols. 

Various methods can generate hydrogen but the cost of hydrogen depends on how environmentally friendly and energy efficient the production process is. 

For instance, Water and methane are the main sources of hydrogen on Earth but extracting pure hydrogen from them consumes a lot of energy through techniques such as natural gas reforming electrolysis and water-splitting reactions.

Notably, Methanol can serve as a potential candidate for obtaining hydrogen due to its gravimetric hydrogen content of 12.6% and its effective conversion to H2 and CO2 as final products. 

What have researchers developed?

Researchers have developed a new process of producing hydrogen from methanol through a catalytic reaction under ambient conditions.

This method offers a sustainable and green method of manufacturing the much-needed Hydrogen fuel.

ISRO rocket debris on Australian shore: rules governing space junk

Source: The post is based on the article “ISRO rocket debris on Australian shore: rules governing space junk”  published in Indian Express on 1st August 2023.

What is the News?

A large object found on the shores of western Australia has been confirmed to be the debris of an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) rocket.

What has ISRO said on this?

As per ISRO, the object was most likely an unburned part of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket that launched a navigation satellite for the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) constellation two months ago.

That satellite was launched in the southward direction.

It is possible that one of the parts of the rocket did not burn completely while dropping back into the atmosphere, and fell into the ocean. It could later have been swept towards the Australian shore.

What are the previous instances of space objects falling to the earth

Junk from space objects falling to the earth are not unheard of. Most such incidents involve relatively small fragments from rockets that survive the friction of the atmosphere.

Most recently, in November 2022, large fragments of China’s Long March 5B rocket plunged uncontrolled into the south-central Pacific Ocean.

These fragments were stages of the rocket used to deliver the third and final module of the Tiangong space station.

What are the threats of space objects to the earth?

Falling space junk poses a significant threat to life and property. Even when landing in the oceans (which is more likely due to the Earth’s surface being 70% ocean), large objects can harm marine life and cause pollution.

So far, there have been no recorded incidents of significant damage to inhabited areas from falling space junk. However, the lack of a controlled system to ensure designated landing is concerning.

What happens if these objects cause damage?

There are international regulations governing space debris which include junk falling back on the earth such as:

Convention on International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects: This convention is one of the several international agreements that complement the Outer Space Treaty, the overarching framework guiding the behavior of countries in space. 

– The Convention deals mainly with damage caused by space objects to other space assets, but it also applies to damage caused by falling objects on earth.

– The Convention makes the launching country “absolutely liable” to pay compensation for any damage caused by its space object on the earth or to a flight in air.The country where the junk falls can stake a claim for compensation if it has been damaged by the falling object.

– This provision of the Convention has resulted in compensation payment only once so far — when Canada sought damages from the then Soviet Union for a satellite with radioactive substance that fell into an uninhabited region in its northern territory in 1978.The Soviet Union is reported to have paid 3 million Canadian dollars.

Pakistan and China ink six agreements to expedite cooperation under CPEC

Source: The post is based on the article “Pakistan and China ink six agreements to expedite cooperation under CPEC”  published in The Hindu on 1st August 2023.

What is the News?

Pakistan and China have signed six important documents to expand and expedite cooperation under the ambitious multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

What is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)?

CPEC is a bilateral project between Pakistan and China.

Its stated objective is to enhance connectivity across Pakistan with a network of highways, railways, and pipelines accompanied by other infrastructure development projects.

It connects Gwadar Port in Pakistan’s Balochistan with China’s Xinjiang province.

CPEC is a component of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) initiative of China.

It is opposed by India as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

What is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was launched by Chinese President Xi in 2013. 

It aims to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea routes. 

The BRI is seen as an attempt by China to further its influence abroad with infrastructure projects funded by Chinese investments all over the world. 

The initiative has led to allegations of smaller countries reeling under mounting Chinese debt after Sri Lanka gave its Hambantota port in a debt swap to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease.

India has opposed the BRI. It cited issues of sovereignty, transparency and unilateral decision making.

The following today’s current affairs articles have been covered in 7 PM Explained section of the day:

7 PM Editorial of the day: Tiger conservation in India: Explained, pointwise