Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

• What is a no confidence motion?
• BYDing Time – on India’s decision to reject Chinese companys’ investment
• The SCO is a success story that can get better
• On carbon burden, Europe’s glaring hypocrisy
• Pratap Bhanu Mehta writes: In Israel’s floundering, their future, and ours

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

What is a no confidence motion?

Source– The post is based on the article

“What is a no confidence motion?” published in “The Indian Express” on 27th July 2023.

“A Parliament floor test would serve democracy” published in “Livemint” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Parliament- Conduct of Business

Relevance: Parliamentary procedures

News- Recently, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla accepted the Opposition’s no confidence motion against the Government earlier.

What are some facts about no confidence motion?

In a parliamentary democracy, a government should have a majority in Lok Sabha to continue in power. As per Article 75(3) of our Constitution, the Council of Ministers are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.

For testing this collective responsibility, the rules of Lok Sabha provide for motion of no-confidence.

Any Lok Sabha MP having support of 50 MPs can introduce a motion of no-confidence against the Council of Ministers.

Thereafter, a discussion on the motion takes place. MPs who support the motion highlight the government’s shortcomings, and the Treasury Benches respond to the issues.

Finally, a vote on motion takes place. If the motion is passed, the government will have to resign.

A no confidence motion can only be moved in the Lok Sabha.

How has this motion been used by opposition?

Historically, the no confidence motion has been employed as an instrument to compel a discussion on a particular topic or matter.

The Opposition does not have numbers. But, still it has moved the motion to force the government to have a discussion on the situation in Manipur.

During the third Lok Sabha in 1963, the first motion of no confidence was moved by Acharya J B Kripalani against the Nehru led government. The debate on the motion lasted for 21 hours over four days. 40 MPs participated in the debate.

Nehru remarked that the purpose of the no-confidence motion is to remove the party in government. It is not expected in this instance. I have welcomed this motion and this debate. Periodical tests of the government is a good thing.

BYDing Time – on India’s decision to reject Chinese companys’ investment

Source– The post is based on the article “BYDing Time” published in “The Times of India” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Bilateral groupings and agreements

Relevance: India and China bilateral relationship

News- Indian government has decided to reject Chinese EV giant BYD’s $1 billion investment plan for a car and battery manufacturing plant.

What compelled India to take this step?

The approach of using market access and economic cooperation to encourage positive behaviour from China has proven ineffective.

Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, China’s actions are different from previous expectations. The Chinese Communist Party has even targeted successful Chinese businesses that do not align with its political goals.

The situation along the LAC since 2020 has led to a trust deficit with China.

What is the current Chinese approach towards India?

The Chinese government continues to separate the border dispute from the overall relationship. It insists that both sides should consider the broader context.

However, Beijing should acknowledge that the border issue is indicative of a larger problem affecting India-China relations.

China has adopted an extremely authoritarian approach. It is determined to challenge democracies and reshape the rules-based international order.

In China’s perspective, India is viewed merely as a country that needs periodic reminders of its subordinate position in Asia.

As a result, China shows little interest in addressing Indian interests. It is evident in its ongoing support for a belligerent but financially troubled Pakistan.

The SCO is a success story that can get better

Source: The post is based on the article “The SCO is a success story that can get better” published in “The Hindu” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

News: In this article author talks about recent important changes in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). The author calls for unity, security, and cooperation to face global issues. They stress the need for multilateralism and fair global governance. They also mention China’s commitment to these principles.

About recent SCO Meeting

India hosted the 23rd SCO Meeting.

Leaders signed the New Delhi Declaration.

Iran became a full SCO member.

Belarus is on track to join SCO.

SCO’s economic plan for 2030 was adopted.

What are the achievements of SCO over the years?

Shared Future Vision: SCO promotes a vision of a shared future for mankind.

Mutual Support: Member-states have consistently backed each other in upholding their core interests.

Synergized Development: They’ve integrated their national development strategies and regional cooperation initiatives.

Promotion of Friendship: SCO countries have embraced the spirit of good neighbourliness and friendship.

Partnerships: They’ve formed partnerships based on dialogue, opting for cooperation over alliance.

Guardians of Peace: The organization has actively contributed to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. For instance, the New Delhi Declaration was a significant step towards collective security and development.

Role Model: SCO’s efforts reflect the broader aspiration for global peace, development, and win-win cooperation.

What should be done?

Strengthen Unity: SCO member-states should enhance strategic communication and support each other’s growth.

Security Cooperation: Upgrade collaboration to counter threats like terrorism, separatism, and extremism. For example, vigilantly address developments pushing for a new Cold War.

Digital & Space Security: Pursue cooperation in digital, biological, and outer space domains.

Economic Collaboration: Push against protectionism and promote trade, investment, and technology ties.

Currency Initiatives: Encourage local currency settlement among SCO members and consider forming an SCO development bank.

Promote Multilateralism: Engage more with entities like the UN to uphold international order.

Act against Unilateralism: Stand united against hegemony, unilateralism, and Cold War mentality, rejecting unfair sanctions.

On carbon burden, Europe’s glaring hypocrisy

Source: The post is based on the article “On carbon burden, Europe’s glaring hypocrisy” published in “The Indian express” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. & GS3- Environment conservation

News: The European Union (EU) is starting a carbon tax on imports to fight climate change. This may hurt trade with countries like India. Big companies can adapt, but it may raise prices for consumers. India should create its own system to price carbon and protect its interests. The EU’s approach seems unfair, and India needs to respond strategically.

How will India be impacted by the European Union’s carbon tax?

Trade Concerns:

EU is a big trading partner for India.

26.4% of India’s exports could be affected by the carbon tax.

Products like steel, which India exports to the EU, will face this tax.

Business Implications:

Large Indian companies, like Tata Steel, may have to adapt quickly.

Tata Steel is already transitioning to green steel for the EU market.

Cost Implications:

The carbon tax might raise product costs.

Tata Steel suggests these costs could lead to higher steel prices or require subsidies.

Competitive Pressures:

Bigger companies might manage, but smaller ones could struggle.

This might change the structure of India’s manufacturing sector.

What actions should be taken in response?

Actions in Response to the EU’s Carbon Tax:

Challenge at WTO: India can contest the carbon tax at the World Trade Organization as being discriminatory.

Internal Carbon Pricing: India could develop its own system to price carbon.This would align with its developmental needs and global responsibilities.

Support for Businesses:

Help companies like Tata Steel that are already transitioning, using their experience as a model.

Consider incentives to encourage green transitions within the business sector.

Consumer Protection: Implement mechanisms to prevent high costs from being passed onto Indian consumers.

Negotiate with the EU:

Engage with the EU to find an agreeable middle ground on carbon pricing.

Emphasize “common but differentiated responsibility”, meaning India can price carbon based on its developmental stage.

Pratap Bhanu Mehta writes: In Israel’s floundering, their future, and ours

Source– The post is based on the article “Pratap Bhanu Mehta writes: In Israel’s floundering, their future, and ours” published in “The Indian Express” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International politics

Relevance: The state of Israel and nationalism

News- The Israeli Knesset has voted 64-0 on a bill to limit judicial power. One of the objectives of the Bill is to limit the use of “reasonableness” as a standard to be used in judicial review.

What is criticism against the Israeli state?

The State of Israel came into being in the aftermath of the Holocaust. There are contradictions between being a Jewish State and being a liberal democracy.

Israel had some of the features of European nationalism that was responsible for Jewish flight from Europe.

It denied Palestinians all legitimate rights and occupied its territory. Its goal is subjugation of the Palestinians and annexation of all Palestinian territory.

Why is the Israeli government curbing the power of the judiciary?

Some view this crisis as simply a consequence of Benjamin Netanyahu’s will to power.

Israel’s judiciary has withstood wars and security challenges. Israel lacks federalism or a bicameral legislature to counterbalance executive authority. So, the judiciary is a critical pillar of the system.

Despite its significance, the judiciary has been unable to prevent the continuation of the Occupation.

Nonetheless, there are concerns that the judiciary’s emphasis on upholding a regime of rights might impede the government’s comprehensive right-wing agenda.

How has Netanhayu strengthened his position through right-wing agenda?

The collapse of the peace accords had detrimental effects on the political Left in Israel. It diminished its ideological influence.

Israel’s social fabric is intricate. Netanyahu capitalised on this by rallying support against the established elites. He painted them as soft, culturally disconnected, and disdainful of orthodoxy.

Netanyahu also harnessed the resentment of the orthodox community against secular and Jewish immigrants from other Arab countries. This approach justified the dismantling of institutions under the guise of anti-elitism.

How does this instance provide some valuable lessons about nationalism?

At first glance, ultra-nationalism may seem like a minor faction. It is believed that we can keep it in check. However, its impact is far-reaching.

It gradually infects the political system. Economic growth and security measures do not curb its growth. Instead, it exploits these factors to strengthen its grip until it becomes too powerful to contain.

When culture intertwined with politics, it often leads to reactionary consequences. In current times, the flaws and inadequacies of liberal nationalism have been exposed. It is accused of not being liberal or nationalist enough.

The lesson is clear: Nationalism will perpetually demand more from liberalism than liberalism can extract from nationalism.

GS Paper 3

Technology will boost the role of MSMEs in India’s export success

Source: The post is based on the article “Technology will boost the role of MSMEs in India’s export success” published in Mint on 27^th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Indian Economy – Industrial Policy

Relevance: measures needed to boost MSMEs

News: Several discussions about technology took place during Prime Minister’s recent visit to the United States.

What were the discussions made?

The discussions focused on promoting mutually beneficial collaboration, resulting in new investment projects and strengthening current partnerships in digital trade and e-commerce.

One of the outcomes of the discussion was that Amazon announced a goal of $20 billion in total e-commerce exports from India by 2025 and $125 billion by 2030.

This is in line with India’s G20 aim of connecting MSMEs to global value chains through e-commerce platforms.

What is the significance of MSMEs in the economy?

The MSME sector plays a crucial role in India’s economy, contributing around 33% to the GDP and 50% to exports. It is expected to generate at least 60% of India’s overall goods and services export goal of $2 trillion by 2030.

Therefore, to support the participation of MSMEs in international trade, various initiatives have been implemented through the Union Budget 2023-24 and Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023.

However, India needs more MSMEs to be part of the global value chains (GVCs) of large companies like Amazon and Walmart-Flipkart to gain a larger share of the $5 trillion global B2C e-commerce.

Must Read: MSMEs: Significance, Challenges and Solutions – Explained

What measures have been taken by the government to boost cross-border trade?

India has introduced various initiatives to enhance cross-border trade, including integrating e-commerce into the FTP, discussing e-commerce in trade agreements, creating a dedicated portal for MSME exporters, and identifying export hubs.

India is also focusing on including provisions for collaboration in its digital trade agreements to overcome obstacles faced by MSME exporters. Domestic market processes are being streamlined through technology to speed up customs and agency approvals.

However, two critical measures that need immediate attention: 1) removing value limits on exports to facilitate high-value product shipments, like handicrafts, and 2) establishing a strong process for handling return consignments to avoid import duties.

How has India’s exports performed?

Despite global uncertainties like the Russia-Ukraine war, India’s exports experienced double-digit growth last year. Hence, MSMEs using e-commerce for international sales will play a crucial role in achieving the FTP’s target of $2 trillion in exports by 2030.

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan also aims to increase the share of MSMEs in exports from 50% to 60% within five years.

According to a study on express delivery services (EDS) in India, the sector has experienced strong growth. However, India’s share in the global EDS market and merchandise trade is currently only 2%. 

Hence, to improve competitiveness, the study recommends adopting global best practices like removing value limits on exports, easing restrictions on perishable imports like pharmaceutical products, etc.

What can be the way ahead?

Studies show that around 80% of global trade and participation in global value chains are through SMEs. 

Therefore, MSMEs in India can significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth by utilizing e-commerce platforms and digital inclusion initiatives to expand their customer base and increase revenues.

Attracting investment in e-commerce will also create jobs and establish digital and logistical infrastructure.

Elusive quest for semiconductor self-sufficiency

Source: The post is based on an article “Elusive quest for semiconductor self-sufficiency” published in Mint on 27^th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Indian Economy – Industrial Policy

Relevance: concerns associated with semiconductor industry in India

News: The demand for semiconductors is increasing exponentially. Countries are now focusing on self-reliance for accessing semiconductors due to pandemic-related supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions.

What is the status of semiconductors in India?

India, as a major electronics consumer, imports nearly all of its semiconductor requirements. India has also identified electronics manufacturing as a crucial sector to enhance growth and exports.

However, since its dependence on imports, any disruption in the supply chain will impact India’s growth. Hence, India has been taking efforts to establish semiconductor fabrication unit in India.

What efforts were made by India to establish semiconductor fab units?

In 2006, the Andhra Pradesh government partnered with SemIndia for a $3 billion project, however, the project failed. In 2007, the Indian government tried to attract Intel Corporation, but the company invested in China and Vietnam.

In 2014, two projects, one by JP Associates and the other by Hindustan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation, were approved by the Union Cabinet. However, both projects faced obstacles and were eventually dropped.

What are challenges faced by India in the semiconductor industry?

Read Here: Need of Indigenous Semiconductor Manufacturing Facilities in India

What was the outcome of the last efforts taken by India to set up fab units?

The Centre under the PLI scheme, announced up to $10 billion in subsidies or 50% of the project cost, to attract semiconductor fab units in India.

For this, three projects were approved: 1) Vedanta-Foxconn, 2) ISMC consortium with Tower Semiconductors from Israel, and 3) IGSS Ventures from Singapore. However, these projects have experienced limited progress.

For instance, the Vedanta-Foxconn project collapsed. The ISMC project is on hold due to the merger of Tower Semiconductors and Intel, and IGSS is still in search of an Indian partner.

Must Read: Semiconductor manufacturing in India: significance and challenges

What are the efforts being taken by other countries?

The US has enacted the CHIPS Act, providing $280 billion in subsidies for chip research and production. Germany has announced subsidies worth $22 billion to encourage the establishment of fab units.

The European Union has implemented the European Chips Act to enhance semiconductor production, and the UK has unveiled its own semiconductor strategy.

Source: Mint

The changing contours of Delhi

Source: The post is based on the article “The changing contours of Delhi” published in “The Hindu” on 27th July 2023.

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

News: In this article author discusses India’s economic development challenges, especially in the Delhi-NCR region, which has become highly populous and urbanized. They emphasize the need for equitable and sustainable planning, addressing issues like income inequality, pollution, and lack of infrastructure. The article suggests using economic geography to guide effective policies and investments for inclusive growth.

What are the economic development challenges faced by India (Delhi-NCR)?

1. Population and Urbanization: India’s recent status as the world’s most populous country with 1.4 billion citizens has put immense pressure on its urban centers, particularly Delhi-NCR. The region is witnessing rapid urbanization and becoming the most populous urban agglomeration, surpassing Tokyo by 2028.
2. Infrastructure and Coordination: Delhi-NCR’s economic growth heavily relies on its mega city-regions, but the expansion of the agglomeration has created challenges due to multiple state and city jurisdictions. The lack of coordination among these entities hinders comprehensive planning and development efforts.
3. Income Inequality and Employment Patterns: The region’s economic growth has not led to an equal distribution of wealth, leading to increasing income inequality. Informal work persists, and unemployment rates have risen, with women’s workforce participation remaining low.
4. Environmental Concerns: Delhi-NCR faces severe environmental issues like air and water pollution, exacerbated by industrialization and population growth. The region struggles to balance economic development with sustainable practices, leading to detrimental effects on the environment and public health.

What should be done?

1. Regional Economic Development Corporation: Create a region-specific economic development corporation for Delhi-NCR to leverage existing interstate frameworks and devise place-specific development strategies. This would facilitate better coordination and planning among participating cities and States.
2. Multi-Stakeholder Platform: Establish a multi-stakeholder platform involving the government, private sector, academia, industrial bodies, and civil society representatives to address development needs collaboratively.
3. Targeted Infrastructure and Investment: Use spatio-economic assessments to target infrastructure investments and foreign direct investments in economically dynamic locations, ensuring better returns and job growth.
4. Empowering Women and Marginalized Groups: Implement strategies like safe and accessible work environments, along with child and elder care facilities, to enable greater participation of women in the economy. Spatio-economic assessments can also improve access to education, healthcare, basic services, and jobs for marginalized groups.
5. Environmentally Conscious Planning: Incorporate environmental impact assessments into planning processes, promoting sustainable practices and valuing planetary resources while pursuing economic growth.

Shedding more light on the debt dilemma

Source: The post is based on the article “Shedding more light on the debt dilemma” published in “The Hindu” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilisation of resources.

News: In this article author discusses India’s high fiscal deficit and public debt, emphasizing the challenges it poses to the economy and future generations. The article points to the need for fiscal consolidation, improved tax compliance, and suggests policy reforms such as reducing government involvement in certain sectors and better management of subsidies.

About current fiscal deficit and public debt data of India.

Fiscal Deficit 2020-21: It increased to 13.3% of GDP.

Public Debt 2020-21: Elevated to 89.6% of GDP.

Post-Pandemic Recovery: Deficit and debt ratios receded to 8.9% and 85.7%, respectively.

State-Level Debt: Punjab’s Debt to GSDP is 48.9%, West Bengal’s is 37.6%, Rajasthan’s is 35.4%, and Kerala’s is close to 33%.

Primary Deficit 2022-23: Stands high at 3.7% of GDP and is budgeted over 3% for 2023-24.

What challenges are posed by India’s elevated fiscal deficit and public debt?

Interest Payments: They consume over 5% of GDP and 25% of revenue receipts, surpassing government spending on education and healthcare combined.

Crowding Out Essential Spending: Large interest payments reduce funds available for infrastructure, human development, and environmental priorities.

State Debt Issues: Specific states, like Punjab (48.9% Debt to GSDP ratio) and West Bengal (37.6%), have high debt ratios.

Limited Counter-Cyclical Fiscal Policy: High debt restricts the government’s ability to respond to economic downturns or shocks.

Distorted Debt Market: Commercial banks and insurance companies mainly buy government bonds due to regulations, affecting lending to sectors like manufacturing.

Rating Concerns: High deficits lead to lower sovereign ratings, increasing the cost of borrowing internationally.

Future Generations: The next generation will bear the burden of today’s borrowing.

Election Cycles: Upcoming elections may push the debt ratio higher due to electoral budgeting.

What measures should be implemented to address these issues?

Follow Finance Commission Recommendations: The Union government should reduce its deficit relative to GDP from 43.6% in 2015-16 to 36.3%, and States should aim for about 22%.

Enhance Tax Collection: Goods and Services Tax (GST) has stabilized, showing high growth potential. This can improve revenue.

Tax Administration: Technology has made tax administration efficient. Cross-matching GST with income-tax returns can further improve compliance.

Increase Tax-GDP Ratio: Expected to rise by 1.5 to 2 percentage points in the medium term, boosting revenue.

Disinvestment: Speed up the process of selling government stakes in sectors where the private market can operate, like in Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited.

Limit Subsidies: Favor direct cash transfers to people rather than subsidizing goods and services, preventing resource distortions.

Enforce Fiscal Discipline: Adhere to Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management rules, especially when permitting states to borrow.

Reassess State Roles: Governments should avoid redundant or unnecessary expenses and avoid competitive market involvement.

FTAs: Learning from peers

Source– The post is based on the article “FTAs: Learning from peers” published in the “Business Standard” on 27th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Economy

Relevance: Issues related to external trade

News- The article compares the India approach to FTAs with other emerging economies.

What are the impacts of tariff liberalisation?

In the early stages of Free Trade Agreements, tariff liberalisation was the central agenda for shallow economic integration. An example of this is the US-Canada auto pact in 1965. It stimulated growth in the Canadian auto industry.

Similarly, the Thai auto industry experienced development through its participation in the Asean Brand to Brand complementation scheme in the late 1980s. This initiative offered preferential tariff margins to select regional economies.

How have FTAs evolved over time?

Developing economies have become aware about the advantages of integrating with global value chains. Now, FTAs have converted to deep trade agreements.

FTAs include trade in services and investment, and additional policy areas like intellectual property rights, dispute settlement and competition policy. In these deep trade agreements, the rules of origin are central to GVC-led trade.

How is India ‘s approach to FTAs different from other major emerging economies?

Tariff liberalisation– Asean’s FTAs with its regional neighbours like Japan, Korea, have tariff liberalisation commitments that are in the range of 87 percent to 99 percent of all tariff lines.

The Asean-India FTA has less than 80 per cent tariff liberalisation.

In its trade deal with Australia concluded in 2022, India adopted for liberalisation of only around 70 per cent of tariff lines as against 100 per cent by Australia.

Rule of origin– Stricter rules of origin does not favour GVC-type of production. It restricts the preferential market access offered by an FTA.

This is particularly relevant in the context of trade involving parts and components, which are essential in Global Value Chains. At each border crossing, the value addition may not always be significant.

India has negotiated a complex set of Rules of Origin in its Free Trade Agreements. It insists on both a change in tariff classification and substantial value addition.

In 2020, changes in the Customs Act have made the utilisation of FTAs even more burdensome.

Importers now have the additional responsibility of satisfying the government of India about the origin of the imported product, in addition to obtaining the Certificate of Origin.

In contrast, Asean has simplified its RoO criteria since the early 2000s. The RoOs of Asean’s FTAs, as well as those of its member states with East Asian economies, are simple with flexible cumulation rules.

Investment liberalisation– India’s model bilateral investment treaty incorporates an investor-state dispute settlement mechanism.

It is complex and requires the prior exhaustion of local remedies. These provisions have the potential to create obstacles for foreign investment.

On the other hand, China has evolved its BIT with a focus on economic development. The first-generation BITs, concluded between 1982 and 1989, only addressed dispute resolution related to determining compensation in cases of expropriation.

However, the next generation BITs expanded the scope to include the option for investors to approach the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes.

The third generation BITs offer stronger international law protection to foreign investors. China’s BITs also apply uniformly in special economic zones.

Sustainability provisions in FTAs– These provisions have transitioned from being supplementary agreements in FTAs to becoming essential chapters in almost all modern FTAs.

India’s approach of categorising sustainability provisions as “non-trade” issues is also outdated. The increasing number of FTAs that now include commitments on internationally recognized labour rights and climate cooperation, aligning with the pursuit of sustainable development goals.

For instance, the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership has detailed chapters dedicated to both environmental protection and labour standards.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

530 districts reported as free of manual scavenging: Centre

Source: The post is based on the article “530 districts reported as free of manual scavenging: Centre”  published in The Hindu on 27th July 2023.

What is the News?

The Ministry of Social Justice has provided data on the Manual Scavenging.

What is the Status of Manual Scavenging in India?

Free from Manual Scavenging: Total 530 of 783 districts (as of March 2023) in India had so far declared themselves to be free of manual scavenging.

State wise Manual Scavenging: 100% of the districts in States such as Bihar, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and a few others had declared themselves to be free of manual scavenging.

– Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Jharkhand are among the States and Union Territories that have the highest number of districts yet to declare themselves free of manual scavenging.

– Uttar Pradesh which had the highest number of manual scavengers (32,473) in two surveys conducted till 2018 has nearly 90% districts reporting to be free of manual scavenging.

Deaths: Between 2018 and 2023, 339 people lost lives while cleaning sewers and septic tanks in India.

– Nine such deaths were recorded in 2023, 66 in 2022, 58 in 2021, 22 in 2020, 117 in 2019 and 67 deaths in 2018.

Caste with highest Manual Scavenging: According to data released by the government in Parliament in 2021, over 90% of manual scavengers identified in the surveys till 2018, were from the Scheduled Caste communities.

Harness silvopasture systems for local climate resilience

Source: The post is based on the article “Harness silvopasture systems for local climate resilience”  published in Down To Earth on 25th July 2023.

What is the News?

In light of the global deterioration of natural resources and forests, silvopasture systems offer a relevant solution to deforestation trends.

What is Silvopasture?

Silvopasture is an ancient and proven practice that harmoniously integrates trees, forage and livestock on the same land. 

By combining these elements, silvopasture brings numerous environmental advantages, including improved local climate resilience.

Silvopasture practices currently cover a vast expanse of 550 million hectares worldwide.

What are the advantages of Silvopasture?

Deforestation: Silvopasture can play a vital role in reversing the negative trend of deforestation for pasture land.

Carbon Sinks: The trees on silvopasture lands act as natural carbon sinks, sequestering five to 10 times more carbon then pastures without trees.

Regulate local climatic conditions: Silvopasture systems also regulate local climatic conditions, buffering against temperature and wind extremes, providing a favorable living environment for livestock.

Nutrition cycle: The extensive root systems of trees within silvopasture plots contribute to nutrient cycling, improved soil stability and quality while effectively combating erosion.

Soil infiltration rates: Soil infiltration rates in silvopasture systems surpass those of open pastures, enhancing water storage potential.

Livestock: The cattle utilized the silvopasture landscape more evenly as there was more shading throughout the plot, reducing heat stress during the warm-weather portions of the year. 

LS passes Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill

Source: The post is based on the article “LS passes Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill”  published in The Hindu on 27th July 2023

What is the News?

Lok Sabha has passed the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill. The Bill was introduced to amend the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.

What are the key provisions of the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill,2023?

The Bill amends the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 to make it applicable to certain types of land. These include land notified as a forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 or in government records after the 1980 Act came into effect. The Act will not be applicable for land converted to non-forest use before December 12, 1996.

It also exempts certain types of land from the purview of the Act. These include land within 100 km of India’s border needed for national security projects, small roadside amenities, and public roads leading to a habitation.

The state government requires prior approval of the central government to assign any forest land to a private entity. The Bill extends this to all entities, and allows the assignment to be made on terms and conditions specified by the central government.

The Act specifies some activities that can be carried out in forests, such as establishing check posts, fencing, and bridges. The Bill also allows running zoos, safaris and eco-tourism facilities.

What are the objections raised against the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill,2023?

Firstly, the amendments “diluted” the Supreme Court’s 1996 judgement in the Godavarman case that extended protection to wide tracts of forests, even if they were not recorded as forests. 

Secondly, there were objections to the Act’s new name — Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, translated as Forest (Conservation and Augmentation) Act, instead of the existing Forest (Conservation) Act — saying it was “non-inclusive” and left out many among the “(non-Hindi speaking) population in south India and in the northeast”.

Thirdly, there are fears that large parcels of forest land near the borders would no longer be protected.

Study on Global Warming

Source: The post is based on the article “Study on Global Warming”  published in PIB on 26th July 2023

What is the News?

The Union Minister of Earth Sciences has informed Lok Sabha about the studies and steps taken against Global Warming.

What are the studies conducted on Global Warming?

The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has published ‘Assessment of Climate Change over the Indian Region’.

Purpose: The report contains a comprehensive assessment of the impact of climate change upon the Indian subcontinent.

The key highlights of the report are:

– India’s average temperature has risen by around 0.7oC during 1901-2018.

– Frequency of daily precipitation extremes (rainfall intensities >150 mm per day) increased by about 75% during 1950-2015.

– The frequency and spatial extent of droughts over India has increased significantly during 1951-2015.

– Sea-level rise in the North Indian Ocean occurred at a rate of 3.3 mm per year in the last two and half decades (1993-2017)

– Frequency of Severe Cyclonic Storms over Arabian sea has increased during the post monsoon seasons of 1998-2018.

What are the steps taken against Global Warming?

Warnings related to severe weather events: India Meteorological Department(IMD) issues forecasts and warnings related to severe weather events including heat waves, in different  spatial and temporal scales (seasonal, monthly and daily) and shares the same with the public as well as disaster management authorities so as to initiate required mitigation measures.

Heat Index: IMD has launched an experimental Heat Index to provide general guidance for the regions within India where the apparent temperature/feel like temperature (considering the impact of Humidity along with the temperature) are on a higher side causing discomfort for the human beings.

Heat Action Plan: IMD in collaboration with NDMA and local health departments have started Heat Action Plan in many parts of the country.

– The Heat Action Plan is a comprehensive early warning system and preparedness plan for extreme heat events. It became operational since 2013.

– The Plan presents immediate as well as longer-term actions to increase preparedness, information-sharing, and response coordination to reduce the health impacts of extreme heat on vulnerable populations.

India’s rice export ban impacts Asian and African nations most

Source: The post is based on the article “India’s rice export ban impacts Asian and African nations most”  published in The Hindu on 27th July 2023

What is the News?

Panic-stricken Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in the United States are rushing to grocery stores and supermarkets to hoard bags of rice.

The sudden rush to hoard bags of rice in the United States was triggered by the Indian government’s decision to ban the export of non-basmati white rice.

What is the data on India’s rice exports?

Over time, India exported varying quantities of three types of semi/wholly milled rice. Non-basmati white rice took the lead in the last two fiscal years, surpassing basmati rice in export share. 

However, non-basmati white rice, which previously accounted for over a quarter of the exports, has now been banned from exports.

The aim behind the ban was to ensure sufficient availability of rice in the Indian market and to curb the increase in prices domestically.

Note: India did not restrict the export of the other types of semi/wholly milled rice — basmati and parboiled rice.

What will be the impact of India’s rice export ban on other countries?

In FY23, non-basmati white rice from India was purchased by more than 140 countries.

The ban’s most significant impact will be felt in neighboring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh, as well as African nations like Madagascar, Benin, Kenya, and Ivory Coast, and Asian countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam, along with the UAE which are the largest buyers of this rice type. 

The U.S. ranks 34th on the list of non basmati rice imports from India. This suggests that the uproar over rice in the U.S. may be due to reporting bias, as there are 33 other countries more affected by the ban.

2D nanoflakes of material extracted from iron ore can protect sensitive optical equipment from light-induced damage

Source: The post is based on the article “2D nanoflakes of material extracted from iron ore can protect sensitive optical equipment from light-induced damage”  published in PIB on 27th July 2023

What is the News?

Researchers in India have developed a new and highly efficient optical limiter using a novel 2D material, ‘hematene’.

They found that 2D nanoflakes of hematene are capable of withstanding and acting as shield from high laser intensities. 

Hence, it could be used to make devices called optical limiters that can protect sensitive optical equipment from light-induced damage.

What are Nanoflakes?

Nanoflakes are a type of nanomaterial that consists of thin, two-dimensional (2D) flakes with nanoscale dimensions. These flakes typically have a high aspect ratio, meaning their length is much greater than their thickness. 

Nanoflakes can be made from a variety of materials, including metals, metal oxides, semiconductors, and other types of nanomaterials.

Nanoflakes have attracted significant attention in various fields of science and technology, such as nanoelectronics, photonics, catalysis, energy storage, and sensing applications.

Their large surface area-to-volume ratio and unique electronic properties make them promising candidates for enhancing the performance of many devices and technologies.

What is Hematene?

Hematene refers to a nanomaterial derived from hematite, which is an iron oxide mineral. Hematite has a reddish-black color and is a common mineral found in nature. 

Hematene is created by exfoliating, or peeling off, thin layers of hematite to obtain a two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterial with nanoscale thickness.

The unique properties of Hematene as a 2D nanomaterial, make it interesting for various applications in nanotechnology, such as in electronics, sensing and energy storage.

Why trade unions in Kerala are opposing Centre’s power sector revamp scheme

Source: The post is based on the article “Why trade unions in Kerala are opposing Centre’s power sector revamp scheme”  published in Indian Express on 27th July 2023

What is the News?

The Kerala government is facing trouble over the Centre’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).

What is Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme(RDSS)?

Government of India has launched the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) for the duration of 5 years i.e. from (FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26).

Aim: To reduce the Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses to pan-India levels of 12-15% and Average Cost of Supply (ACS)-Average Revenue Realized(ARR) gap to zero by 2024-25.

Components: The Scheme has two major components: Part ‘A’ – Financial support for Prepaid Smart Metering & System Metering and upgradation of the Distribution Infrastructure and Part ‘B’ – Training & Capacity Building and other Enabling & Supporting Activities. 

– Financial assistance to DISCOMs is provided for upgradation of the Distribution Infrastructure and for Prepaid Smart Consumer Metering & System Metering based on meeting pre-qualifying criteria and achieving basic minimum benchmark in reforms.

– The smart meters are meant to facilitate the reduction of distribution losses and enable automatic measuring of energy consumption. 

– The installation of the pre-paid meters is to be done through the TOTEX (total expenditure, including capital expenditure and operational expenditure) model with public-private participation.

Why are organizations in Kerala opposing the RDSS project?

Trade unions are opposing the TOTEX model, in which a private firm installs and maintains smart meters. The private agency will recover the cost incurred in installments. The unions fear that the smart meter system will thus pave the way for the privatization of power distribution in the state.

What is the alternative suggested by the trade unions opposing the project?

Trade Unions opposing the TOTEX model claim that the state should manufacture smart meters using the technology developed by the central government institution Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) which is willing to share the know-how. This will help bring down the cost of the smart meters significantly.

UNESCO endorses banning smartphones in schools

Source: The post is based on the article “UNESCO endorses banning smartphones in schools”  published in The Hindu on 27th July 2023

What is the News?

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has released its Global Education Monitoring Report,2023 titled “Technology in education: a tool on whose terms?”.

What are the key highlights from the Global Education Monitoring Report,2023?

The report has endorsed the ban on smartphones in schools and has warned against an uncritical rush toward embrace of digital products in educational settings. This is because:

Firstly, there is little robust evidence on digital technology’s added value in education. It cited the example of how Pearson funded its own studies, contesting independent analysis that showed its digital products had no impact on education.

Secondly, technology integration does not improve learning. It highlighted that mere proximity to a mobile device was found to distract students and have a negative impact on learning in 14 countries. But still only one in four countries have banned smartphone use in schools.

Thirdly, the report cited a study of young people between the ages of two and 17 which showed that higher screen time was associated with poorer well-being; less curiosity, self-control and emotional stability; higher anxiety and depression diagnoses.

Fourthly, the report has flagged the higher costs of delivering basic education where there is a dependence on the setting up of digital infrastructure and how this could worsen the problem of unequal access in low-income countries.

– For instance, the cost of moving to basic digital learning in low-income countries and connecting all schools to the Internet in lower-middle-income countries would add 50% to their current financing gap for achieving national SDG 4 targets.

Lastly, another major concern around the indiscriminate use of digital technology in education was children’s privacy. Children’s data are being exposed yet only 16% of countries explicitly guarantee data privacy in education by law.

– One analysis found that 89% of 163 education technology products recommended during the pandemic could survey children.

Nature inspires breakthrough achievement: Hazard-free production of fluorochemicals

Source: The post is based on the article “Nature inspires breakthrough achievement: Hazard-free production of fluorochemicals”  published in Phys.org on 20th July 2023

What is the News?

Researchers at the University of Oxford have achieved a groundbreaking breakthrough by developing a new technique to produce fluorochemicals without using hazardous hydrogen fluoride (HF) gas

What are Fluorochemicals?

Fluorine is a highly reactive element that comes from a calcium salt called calcium fluoride, or fluorspar. 

Fluorine is used to make fluorochemicals, which in turn are used to produce plastics, agrochemicals, lithium-ion batteries and drugs. 

What is the process of making Fluorochemicals and what are its drawbacks?

Process: Fluorspar is mined and then treated with sulphuric acid at a high temperature to release hydrogen fluoride (HF).HF is then made to react with other compounds to create fluorochemicals.

Drawback: A major downside of this process is that HF is an extremely poisonous and corrosive liquid that irritates the eyes and respiratory tract even at low concentrations It also requires special transportation and storage requirements.

– Moreover, despite stringent safety regulations, HF spills have occurred numerous times in the last decades, sometimes with fatal accidents and detrimental environmental effects.

What have the researchers developed to overcome this drawback in making Fluorochemicals?

Researchers took inspiration from how the human body makes bones and teeth through calcium phosphate biomineralisation. 

Based on this, they developed an innovative which involved grinding fluorspar with potassium phosphate in a ball-mill While fluorine is very reactive, calcium atoms prefer phosphorus even more, so the milling created calcium phosphate and another compound with fluorine atoms. They called this process Fluoromix.

When this Fluoromix was reacted with organic compounds, it could create around 50 fluorochemicals with up to 98% yield.

Significance: This new method has the potential to enhance safety and environmental impact, streamline the supply chain and reduce energy demands in the rapidly expanding global fluorochemical industry.

SEBI chief says instant settlement of trades in the works: What does it mean, and how will investors benefit?

Source: The post is based on the article “SEBI chief says instant settlement of trades in the works: What does it mean, and how will investors benefit?”  published in Indian Express on 25th July 2023.

What is the News?

The Securities and Exchange Board of India(SEBI) Chief has said that he is working on real-time settlement of transactions in India’s stock exchanges.

What is meant by Trade Settlement?

‘Settlement’ is a two-way process that involves the transfer of funds and securities on the settlement date.

A trade settlement is said to be complete once purchased securities of a listed company are delivered to the buyer and the seller gets the money.

Currently, there is a lag between trade and settlement — the settlement date is different from the trade date. 

This is because the current cycle of trade settlement is ‘T+1’.This means trade-related settlements happen within a day, or within 24 hours of the actual transaction.The migration to the T+1 cycle came into effect in January,2023.

Note: India became the second country to start the T+1 settlement cycle in top listed securities after China.

What has SEBI announced now?

SEBI has said it is working on a plan for “instantaneous” settlement of trades in the securities market.

This means same-day, or ‘T+0’, settlement of trades will be possible with the real-time payment system — Unified Payments Interface (UPI), online depositories, and technology stack.

What will T+0 change for investors?

Under the current T+1 settlement cycle, if an investor sells securities, the money gets credited into her account the following day. 

Under the T+0 settlement cycle, if investors sell shares, they will get the money in their account instantaneously and the buyers will get the shares in their demat accounts the same day.

This means that the investor’s money will not get stuck with brokers or stock exchanges, they will get the money on the same day after the transactions happen.

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

7 PM Editorial of the day: [Kurukshetra July 2023 Summary] Dryland Farming: Explained, pointwise