9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – October 26th, 2023
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 2
On regulatory environment of India – When the regulated become the regulator
Contents
Source: This post on regulatory environment of India has been created based on the article “When the regulated become the regulator” published in Business Standard on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 Indian Polity — Statutory, regulatory, and various quasi-judicial bodies.
News: This article discusses the issues with the regulatory environment of India. It also suggests reforms in the public consultation process to tackle these challenges.
Recently, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) invited suggestions from the public for a comprehensive review of its regulations.
Several other regulators have also initiated similar exercises involving a comprehensive review of existing regulations, in line with the government’s proposal in the Union Budget for 2023-24.
What are the issues with regulations?
1) Difficult task to ensure the right quality and quantity of regulations.
2) A regulator is accused of lacking democratic legitimacy.
3) Regulations stay in the legal framework once enacted, even if outdated or leading to unnecessary costs.
What should be done by regulators to ensure ease of doing business?
1) Engaging with the public: Every regulator should engage with the public to both formulate new regulations and review existing ones.
3) Releasing of draft regulations: Drafts of proposed regulations must be released to invite suggestions.
4) Periodic review: Periodically review existing regulations to ease the compliance burden.
4) Universal application: These principles should also apply to subsidiary directions (such as orders, circulars, guidelines, etc.).
5) Remove outdated regulations: Regulations should be made contemporary and in tune with the requirements of dynamic businesses.
What is the need for public consultations?
In 2016, the Supreme Court exhorted Parliament to mandate consultation with stakeholders for making laws and regulations. It has the following advantages:
1) Bridges democratic deficit: Public consultations help to bridge the democratic deficit of regulators.
2) Raises awareness among the public: Public consultation enables the regulated to know the rationale and implications of regulations.
3) Large number of solutions can be offered by the people: The regulated have first-hand experience of the market, and they can offer a wide range of practical solutions.
What are the limitations of public consultations?
1) Not conducted periodically: A public consultation is meaningful only if it is done periodically and when a comprehensive picture of regulations and their intended objectives is presented.
2) Technology not utilized: It is efficient if it uses technology which is currently not being utilized substantially.
3) Passive participation of the public: Public consultation is passive participation, as stakeholders limit their comments to what is asked, and have a short timeframe to formulate their views.
What should be done?
1) Providing opportunity to the regulated: The regulated must be given an opportunity to ask for/suggest new regulations and changes in existing regulations at their convenience.
2) Periodic examination of proposals: The regulator should periodically examine proposals coming from stakeholders and publicly comment on those proposals.
3) Incorporating proposals in regulations: It should take forward the proposals it considers useful for making regulations, following due process.
Question for practice:
A comprehensive public consultation framework can augment the Indian regulatory structure. Discuss.
The legality of using white phosphorus
Contents
Source: This post on the topic white phosphorus has been created based on the article “The legality of using white phosphorus” published in The Hindu on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 International Relations — Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements.
News: This article discusses the military applications of white phosphorus in the wake of their recent usage by Israel in Gaza. It also highlights the international legal framework associated with its use.
Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions in Gaza which are putting civilians at risk of serious and long-term injury.
In the past, a 2009 UN Fact Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict had also condemned Israel’s use of white phosphorus in civilian areas.
What is white phosphorus?
White phosphorus is a waxy, yellowish-to-clear chemical with a pungent, garlic-like odour. It is a highly combustible chemical that burns quickly and brightly when exposed to air.
Its chemical reaction with atmospheric oxygen can create intense heat (about 815°C), light, and smoke
Source: Mohammed Abed/AFP (Al Jazeera).
Read More on white phosphorus here: https://forumias.com/blog/what-is-the-white-phosphorus-that-israel-is-accused-of-using-in-gaza/
What are the military uses of white phosphorous?
1) Employed to create dense smoke screens in combat, hindering visibility and providing cover for military movements.
2) Used in incendiary devices such as grenades and artillery shells, which can result in persistent and intense fires.
What are the safeguards in international law regarding usage of incendiary weapons?
1) Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW): It imposes restrictions on the use of incendiary weapons, including white phosphorus, with the aim of safeguarding civilians.
2) International humanitarian law: White phosphorus use is subject to the rules and principles of international humanitarian law, which aims to minimize harm to both civilians and combatants in armed conflicts.
3) 1980 Geneva Convention: White phosphorus bombs are internationally prohibited under it. It forbids their use against both humans and the environment.
What should be the way forward?
1) Bringing white phosphorus under the ambit of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
2) Strengthening and removing ambiguity in Protocol III of the CCW: Protocol III deals with incendiary weapons. It does not effectively regulate multi-purpose munitions such as those containing white phosphorus.
3) Strict adherence to international humanitarian law: Parties involved in armed conflicts must ensure that their actions conform to legal standards.
Question for practice:
In the light of the recent controversy regarding the usage of white phosphorus bombs by Israel in Palestine, discuss the role of various international agreements in protecting the human rights of civilians during war.
Urban health in India – Unhealthy urban India must get into street fight mode
Contents
Source: The post on Urban health in India is based on the article “Unhealthy urban India must get into street fight mode” published in The Hindu on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus: GS 2 – Social issues – Issues Related to Health
Relevance: Health related concerns with urban Indians
News: India’s urban population is expected to become the second largest in the world by 2035. However, despite their role in driving economic growth, most Indian cities are struggling to meet healthcare, environmental, and equity goals for their residents.
What are the concerns associated with Urban health in India?
Urban residents in India face a variety of health risks, including air and noise pollution, limited green space, lack of sidewalks and parks, outdated transportation, unhealthy food, and significant exposure to toxic substances.
These factors, especially when combined with a lack of physical activity, increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes, also known as cardiometabolic diseases.
In India, 20% of the population is inactive, 37% are only mildly active, which means that a total of 57% of the surveyed population does not meet the physical activity guidelines set by the World Health Organization.
Hence, physical activity becomes necessary to mitigate the problems of cardiometabolic diseases.
What factors contribute to the rising health risks in India?
Dysfunctional Provisioning Systems: Globally, seven key provisioning systems: food, energy, transportation, housing, green infrastructure, water, and waste management, are fundamental to human health, well-being, equity, and sustainability.
However, these systems are often dysfunctional and contribute to environmental degradation and health disparities.
Colonial Origins: Urban provisioning systems in India are often rooted in colonial legacies. These systems both reflect and worsen social inequalities in cities, resulting in significant disparities in health risks and outcomes.
Hence, a new approach that aligns with global frameworks like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the New Urban Agenda, and the Health in All Policies approach is needed.
Stagnant Health Infrastructure: Investments in clean energy and electric transport in India offer an opportunity to reduce air pollution and advance climate and equity goals.
However, their potential impact on health may be limited without changes in other systems like food, transportation, and green infrastructure.
Studies have also shown that even small changes to urban planning can have a big impact on health and productivity. For example, creating safe walking and biking lanes can improve physical activity and reduce air pollution.
Long Working Hours: A majority of urban Indians work long hours, often in sedentary jobs. This leaves them with little time and energy for exercise.
High Stress: The high levels of stress that many Indians experience make it difficult to motivate themselves to exercise.
Lack of Awareness: The lack of awareness of the benefits of physical activity is another factor that contributes to the lack of regular exercise in Indian urban cities.
Many people are not aware of the link between physical inactivity and chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
Regular Physical Exercise: Regular physical exercise is an effective way to reduce the risk of heart disease and other cardiometabolic diseases.
Further, electrifying transportation alone would not be enough as studies have shown that increasing physical activity is much better for health.
Investing in Footpaths: Investing in active transportation, like walking and biking paths, can also provide added health and economic advantages.
Comprehensive Policies: Encouraging healthy diets along with promoting active transportation should be integral components of comprehensive policies, benefiting both public health and economic productivity.
Increasing Awareness: It is necessary to increase awareness of the benefits of physical activity and to promote healthy lifestyles through public education campaigns.
What lies ahead?
Unhealthy diets, reduced physical activity, and urban air pollution in India pose greater health risks than drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. Hence, India needs to tackle these issues urgently.
Question for practice: Despite playing a role in driving economic growth, Indian urban population faces significant health risks. Discuss.
On internationalization of higher education -Why India must offer student work visas
Contents
Source: The post on internationalization of higher education is based on the article “Why India must offer student work visas” published in “Indian Express” on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS2 Governance – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.
News: The article discusses India’s aim to internationalize its higher education. Many Indian students study abroad due to varied college quality at home. India struggles to attract and retain foreign students, mainly because they can’t work after studying. Changes in visa policies are suggested to address this.
What is the meaning of internationalizing higher education?
According to the International Association of universities, Internationalization of higher education is the process of integrating an international/intercultural dimension into the teaching, research and service elements of an institution.
This ensures that students, faculty, and the community experience a globalized curriculum and environment, preparing them for a more interconnected world.
It also helps one to understand and appreciate diverse cultural and ethnic groups, including those within one’s own country.
NEP 2020’s goal: Internationalization of education is one of the goals of NEP 2020. It aims to achieve it by making the Indian education system self-reliant and compliant to global standards & norms. It would help India in attracting students from abroad, in large numbers.
What is India’s Student (“S”) visa policy?
India’s student visa policy allows foreign students to pursue education in recognized institutions. It is characterized by:
The Student Visa duration is either the course length or 5 years, whichever is shorter.
Working on a student visa is prohibited, but NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs are exempted.
What is the significance of internationalizing higher education in India?
1) Raising Standards through collaboration as provided in the NEP 2020: This includes updating syllabi, offering joint degrees with foreign institutions, and enhancing campus diversity.
2) Meeting Demand: Despite having 54,000 colleges, there’s a gap in quality. This has led to 7.5 lakh Indian students seeking education abroad annually.
3) Economic Opportunities: Attracting foreign students can boost India’s economy.
4) Building Global Networks: Indian companies benefit from hiring foreign talent who understand both India and their home countries.
5) Addressing Workforce Challenges: India’s aging population means a potential workforce decline. Foreign students working post-studies can help fill this gap.
What is the concern associated with permitting foreign students to work?
Job Competition: A primary worry is that foreign students might take jobs that would otherwise go to Indian students.
Bureaucratic Procedures: Currently, foreign students cannot gain work experience post-studies. Changing this requires an amendment to India’s “S” Visa, involving bureaucratic procedures.
Tax Implications: The Ministry of Finance would need to address how India’s tax laws and double taxation treaties would apply to income earned by foreign students.
Regulatory Coordination: Multiple ministries, including Education, Home Affairs, and Finance, must coordinate closely to implement such changes, which can be a complex task.
Long-term Residency Concerns: While the idea is to offer work status to foreign students, it might lead to concerns about whether this could be a pathway to longer-term residency in India.
What should be done in this regard?
Amending of Visa Rules: India should modify the “S” Visa policy to allow foreign students to work post-studies in India.
Enhancing Coordination between Ministries: The Ministry of Home Affairs needs to work alongside the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education for a cohesive approach to visa and tax issues.
Issuing of Guidelines on Recruitment: The Ministry of Education, through bodies like the UGC and AICTE, should issue guidelines for on-campus hiring of foreign students.
Promoting Higher Education Abroad: India’s Prime Minister has highlighted higher education as a key export sector. For instance, IIMs and IITs are opening branches overseas.
Engaging Private Universities: Institutions like Manipal, Sharda, and Amity, which already have foreign campuses, can share insights and best practices.
Involving Indian Companies: They can advocate for student visa changes, benefiting from hiring globally acquainted talent.
Question for practice:
In this era of globalization and the resulting internationalization of education, India should reconsider its stance on student work visas for foreign students. Analyse.
GS PAPER - 3
On ESG framework- This Notion Asks Us To Think Beyond Nation
Source: This post on ESG framework has been created based on the article “This Notion Asks Us To Think Beyond Nation” published in The Times of India on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Indian Economy — Indian Economy and issues relating to mobilization of resources.
GS Paper 4 Ethics — Corporate governance.
News: This article discusses the importance and limitations of the ESG framework, in the context of an increasing transition towards renewable energy.
Read in detail about ESG here: https://forumias.com/blog/esg-framework-in-india/
What is ESG?
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing involves making investment decisions that consider not only conventional financial metrics (such as Return on Investment (RoI)), but also non-financial aspects related to the environment, society, and corporate governance.
ESG can help us handle various challenges in the realm of economics, healthcare, education or environmental sustainability.
What are the reasons behind the phenomena of ‘renewablisation’ (rising renewable energy adoption)?
1) Lower costs: The cost to use renewable energy sources is reducing and dropping below that of fossil-oil energy.
2) Immune to fluctuations: Unlike fossil fuels, prone to inflationary impacts, renewable energy costs remain relatively stable and are largely immune to global price fluctuations.
However, geopolitical issues and manipulation of supply chain costs by nations can reduce adoption.
What are the issues with ESG Framework?
1) Lack of ESG frameworks with all nations: Only a handful of influential nations possess proprietary ESG frameworks.
2) One-size-fits-all approach: It ignores cultural nuances, unique financial conditions, stage of economic growth, and social obligations of countries.
3) Tool of dominance and control: The imposition of ESG, without accounting for local variation, can act as a tool of exerting dominance and control rather than collaborations.
Question for practice:
The ‘ESG’ framework is regarded as key to drive the energy transition across the world. However, it is plagued by various challenges. Analyse.
A green transition, but not without the coal-rich states
Contents
Source: The post is based on the article “A green transition, but not without the coal-rich states” published in “Indian Express” on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS3 Indian Economy – infrastructure (Energy)
News: The article discusses India’s energy transition from coal to renewable energy (RE). India has seen waves of power plant constructions. New renewable energy projects mainly benefit certain states, leaving others with financial strain. Solutions are needed to ensure all states benefit from the transition.
What is the history of the evolution of India’s power sector?
First Wave (mid-1970s to mid-1990s):
Central Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) took the lead. Notable creations include: NTPC and Coal India.
Aimed to fix imbalances in state power supplies. The initial plants were strategically placed to serve multiple states.
Second Wave (2000-2015):
Triggered by the Electricity Act, 2003.
Private promoters played a major role.
New plants mostly located in central, western, and southern India.
Private investment in power centered around states with industrial demand and strong finances.
What is the significance of coal in India’s energy mix?
Continued Use and Investment: Coal remains a significant part of India’s energy landscape.
New Power Plants: The power minister has announced plans to build new coal power plants.
Addressing Peak Power Problems: The reliance on coal is evident in efforts to manage seasonal demand surges in electricity.
What is Energy Transition?
In the present context, Energy Transition refers to the transformation of the energy sector from fossil-based systems of energy production and consumption to renewable energy sources. It involves a shift in the energy mix to reduce, if not eliminate, the carbon emissions (and other greenhouse gases).
Read here for more detail: What is the meaning of Energy Transition?
In India’s context, by 2030, solar and wind could account for 51% of generation capacity. Solar and wind’s contribution might rise from 8.3% in 2019 to 31% by 2030.
What are the implications of the renewable energy transition?
1) Regional disparities in distribution:
As of August 2023, eight states generated 92.5% of all renewable energy.
Mainly western and southern states are benefiting.
2) Challenges for RE-Poor States:
Coal royalties, a key revenue, will decrease.
Power procurement costs will rise for these states leading to budget deficit.
3) State vs. Union Tensions:
Disagreements over revenues, power operations, and transition costs.
State transmission companies bear the integration costs of RE projects.
What can ensure a balanced energy transition?
1) Support for RE-Poor States: States with less renewable energy need more involvement in the transition.
2) Financial Assistance: Offer preferential lending for RE projects in states with less renewable resources.
3) Increased Federal Negotiations: Give RE-poor states a bigger voice in power discussions, possibly by reviving institutions like the Inter-State Council.
Financial Transfers: The Finance Commission can provide explicit financial aid to RE-poor states.
Collaborative Policies: Implement a just transition mechanisms and collaborative industrial policies.
Equitable Green Policy: Ensure all states, not just the historically privileged ones, benefit from the green industrial policy.
Question for practice:
Critically examine the potential economic and fiscal disparities created by India’s energy transition. How will this shape future regional development and centre-state relations?
There is no easy escape from the middle-income trap
Contents
Source: This post on middle income trap is based on the article “There is no easy escape from the middle-income trap” published in “Live mint” on 26th October 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy
News: The article discusses the challenges of countries trying to move from middle-income to developed status. The World Bank’s chief economist says it’s harder now due to global trade and investment issues.
What defines a middle-income country?
The World Bank classifies Middle Income Countries (MICs) as those with a per capita gross national income ranging from $1,086 to $13,205 in 2022.
MICs play a significant role in various aspects, including financial stability, global trade, and the promotion of sustainable energy in response to climate change.
What is the middle-income trap?
According to the World Bank, the middle-income trap is a condition in which a middle-income country faces difficulties in moving towards becoming a high-income economy.
This challenge arises from increasing costs and decreasing competitiveness, leading to a plateau in per capita income and a lack of progress or a decline in economic competitiveness.
This leads to an inability to attain the necessary levels of investment and innovation required to advance to a high-income status.
Why is it now more challenging for countries attempting to transition from middle income to developed status?
1) Trade Environment: The current trade setting is more protectionist, affecting global business and development.
2) Decline in Investment: Foreign direct investment (FDI) is declining.
3) Global Economic Landscape: There’s a rise in public debt and a drop in private investment, hindering economic growth.
4) Governance Concerns: Countries like China have unexpected changes in leadership, raising questions about stability.
5) Educational and Bureaucratic Issues: Countries like India face challenges in improving education and bureaucratic efficiency, critical for development.
6) Global Trade Slowdown: Trade is expected to grow by less than 2% this year, compared to an average growth of more than 10% in the early 2000s.
What actions should be taken by governments of middle-income countries?
Enhance Education: Prioritize improvement, especially in school education, to produce skills that match economic needs.
Efficient Bureaucracy: Speed up and make bureaucratic and judicial decisions more predictable. This can help businesses and the economy.
Avoid Fiscal Temptations: Resist short-term fiscal populism that may seem attractive but can hinder long-term development.
Strengthen R&D: Invest in research and development to drive innovation and growth.
Good Governance: Ensure stable and transparent governance. For example, abrupt leadership changes in China raised concerns.
Resist Lobbyists: Avoid the influence of powerful lobbyists who might sway policies for personal interests, not national growth.
Focus on Trade and Investment: Given the decline in global trade and FDI, governments should create conducive environments to attract investments and boost trade.
Question for practice:
How are global trade challenges and internal governance affecting the transition of middle-income countries to a developed status?
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
2020 Winner: Changemaker Social Transformation – Shanti Raghavan Developing a ‘purple economy’ for disability inclusion
Source: The post is based on the article “2020 Winner: Changemaker Social Transformation – Shanti Raghavan Developing a ‘purple economy’ for disability inclusion ” published in “Hindu Businessline” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
Shanti Raghavan is the recipient of the Business Line Changemakers Award in 2020.
She leads an organization called EnAble India.It is working on creating a purple economy.
What is the Purple Economy?
Purple Economy obtains its name from the color adopted by many feminist movements.
It represents a new vision of economics that recognizes the importance of care work, empowerment and autonomy of women.
Pillars: There are four pillars of the purple economy:
1. Universal Care Services: To address gender and class disparities, ensure that professional care services are accessible to all households, either through publicly funded or state-subsidized private services.
2. Work-Life Balance in the Job Market: Implement measures for a fairer distribution of care responsibilities between genders, like parental leave and reduced work hours.
3. Alleviate Rural Unpaid Work: Reduce the extra caregiving burden on women and girls in rural areas by improving infrastructure to save time spent on tasks like fetching water, farming and cooking.
4. New Economic Policies: Support these measures with macroeconomic policies that generate jobs, allocate resources for care services, invest in rural infrastructure and ensure effective regulations to make these changes a reality.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Economy
Dogra architecture gets a revival at J&K’s Maharaj Gunj
Source: The post is based on the article “Dogra architecture gets a revival at J&K’s Maharaj Gunj” published in “The Hindu” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
Srinagar Smart City Ltd. and the Kashmir chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) have joined hands to conserve vernacular elements of Dogra architecture in Kashmir.
What is Dogra Architecture?
Dogra architecture refers to the traditional architectural style and building practices associated with the Dogra community.
They primarily ruled over Jammu and Kashmir from 1846 to 1947.
Examples of Dogra Architecture: Mubarak mandi, Jharokha style of balcony, Amar Mahal Palace.
Key Features of Dogra Architecture:
1. Use of Local Materials: Dogra architecture often utilizes locally available materials such as wood, stone, and clay, which help in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and provide insulation from the harsh weather.
2. Sloping Roofs: Houses in this style typically have sloping roofs to allow for the shedding of snow and rain which is common in the region.
3. Carved Wooden Elements: Intricate wood carvings on doors, windows and balconies showcasing the artistic skills of the local craftsmen.
4. Courtyard Design: Houses are often designed around a central courtyard, providing a private and functional space for the family.
5. Adaptation to Climate: Dogra architecture is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including cold winters and hot summers.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Architecture
In a first, Army gets vertical wind tunnel to train special forces
Source: The post is based on the article “In a first, Army gets vertical wind tunnel to train special forces” published in “The Hindu” on 26th October 2023
Why in News?
The Indian Army has installed its first vertical wind tunnel (VWT) at the Special Forces Training School (SFTS) at Bakloh in Himachal Pradesh.
Why is the Vertical Wind Tunnel(VWT) installed by the army?
Purpose: It offers a controlled environment to enable military trainees to enhance their skills by simulating real-life free fall conditions.
Benefits:
1. Improved Skill Development: It helps armed forces personnel enhance their abilities by simulating various freefall scenarios.
2. Stability and Safety: It reduces potential instability during freefall and parachute deployment.This makes it an invaluable tool for training beginners and advanced free-fallers.
3. Assessment: The system aids in assessing individual reactions to situations in airborne operations.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Indian Defence
ISA to release report on global adoption of solar technology in November
Contents
Source: The post is based on the article “ISA to release report on global adoption of solar technology in November” published in “The Hindu” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) will for the first time compile and release a ‘Global solar stocktake report’.
What is the Global solar Stocktake Report?
To be released by: International Solar Alliance(ISA)
Inspired by:‘Global Stocktake’ of the United Nations Conference of Parties
Aim: To take stock of the progress made by countries in the solar energy sector.
Focus of the report: In 2020, there was about $300 billion invested in solar, and in 2022, it was around $380 billion. But most of the manufacturing is in China.The stocktake will explore ways to diversify this manufacturing.
What is a Global Solar Facility?
To be Launched by: International Solar Alliance(ISA)
Aim: To help reduce the remaining constraints related to contracts and financing for solar energy projects.
Focus area: To expand solar installations in Africa and then expand it to West Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Funds: It will have three funds: 1) payment guarantee fund 2) Insurance fund to mitigate project risks and 3) Investment fund for technical assistance.
How much gigawatts of solar photovoltaic panels have been installed globally?
As of 2022, global solar photovoltaic installations have reached 1,133 gigawatts (GW) with 191 GW added in 2022.
China accounts for about a quarter of this total solar photovoltaic installations followed by the United States.
India is also among the top five countries globally with 62 GW of installations.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: International Organizations
Cabinet approves Memorandum of Cooperation between India and Japan on Japan-India Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership
Source: The post is based on the article “Cabinet approves Memorandum of Cooperation between India and Japan on Japan-India Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership” published in “PIB” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet of India has approved a memorandum of cooperation between India and Japan on a Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership.
What is the purpose of the Japan-India Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership?
Aim: To strengthen cooperation between India and Japan towards enhancement of the semiconductor supply chain.
Duration of the Partnership: Five Years
Type of Cooperation: The partnership is for both Governments-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) collaboration in the semiconductor supply chain sector.
What is India-Japan Digital Partnership(IJDP)?
Signed in: 2018
Aim: To strengthen existing cooperation within the Science and Technology/Information and Communication Technology sector.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: International Relations
India hosting meeting of the United Nations Forum on Forests to deliberate on forest fires and forest certification
Source: The post is based on the article “India hosting meeting of the United Nations Forum on Forests to deliberate on forest fires and forest certification” published in “PIB” on 26th October 2023
What is the News?
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is organizing a Country-Led Initiative (CLI) event as part of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) at the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Uttarakhand.
What is the United Nations Forum on Forests(UNFF)?
Specification | Details |
Established in | 2000 |
Type | High-level intergovernmental policy forum |
Established by | Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC) |
Aim | To promote the management, conservation, and sustainable development of all types of forests. |
Members | It is composed of all Member States of the United Nations and specialized agencies. |
India | Founding Member |
Headquarters | New York United States |
What is the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests 2017-2030 (UNSPF)?
Adopted by: UN General Assembly in 2017
Purpose: It is a global framework to achieve the sustainable management of all types of forests, including trees outside forests, and to combat deforestation and forest degradation.
Target: To increase forest area by 3% worldwide by 2030.
Goals: The plan contains a set of six Global Forest Goals and 26 associated targets to be reached by 2030.
All these are voluntary in nature and universally applicable.
Six Global Forest Goals:
Goal 1: Reverse the loss of forest cover worldwide.This is by adopting sustainable forest management, including protection, restoration, afforestation and reforestation.
Goal 2: Enhance forest-based economic, social and environmental benefits.This includes improving the livelihoods of forest-dependent people.
Goal 3: Increase significantly the area of protected forests worldwide and other areas of sustainably managed forests.
Goal 4: Mobilize new and additional financial resources from all sources.This is for the implementation of sustainable forest management and strengthening scientific and technical cooperation and partnerships.
Goal 5: Promote governance frameworks to implement sustainable forest management.
Goal 6: Enhance cooperation, coordination, coherence and synergies on forest-related issues at all levels
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Environment
As Gujarat’s Dhordo village gets UNWTO recognition, PM Modi says it showcases India’s tourism potential
Contents
Source: The post is based on the article “As Gujarat’s Dhordo village gets UNWTO recognition, PM Modi says it showcases India’s tourism potential” published in “The Hindu” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
The United Nations World Tourism Organization(UNWTO) has included Dhordo village (Gujarat) on the list of ‘Best Tourism Villages 2023’.
Where is Dhordo Village?
Located in: Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.
Known for: Annual Rann Utsav Festival, which celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, music and crafts.
What is the Best Tourism Villages Initiative?
Started by: United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
Aim: To promote tourism for sustainable development globally.
The award is given to villages that are leaders in rural development and preservation of landscapes, cultural diversity, local values and food traditions.
What is the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)?
Specification | Details |
Established in | 1975 |
Type | United Nations Specialized Agency |
Aim | To promote responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism |
Headquarters | Madrid, Spain |
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Art and Culture/International Organizations
Lemru Elephant Corridor: Coal Ministry ensures utmost Environ care while Enhancing Coal Production
Source: The post is based on the article “Lemru Elephant Corridor: Coal Ministry ensures utmost Environ care while Enhancing Coal Production” published in “PIB” on 26th October 2023
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Coal has excluded certain coal mines from development to protect forest areas including the Lemru Elephant Corridor.
Where is Lemru Elephant Reserve?
Located in: Chhattisgarh
Objective: To provide elephants with a permanent habitat, reduce property damage, and mitigate human-elephant conflicts.
Significance: The area under the reserve is part of the Hasdeo Aranya forests.
Where is Hasdeo Aranya forests?
Located in: Chhattisgarh
Called as: “Lungs of Chhattisgarh“
River: It is the catchment area of the Hasdeo river, the largest tributary of the Mahanadi.
Significance: It is said to be the largest contiguous stretch of dense forestland in central India.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Environment – Elephant Reserve
Lok Sabha’s Ethics Committee: its history, constitution and members
Source: The post is based on the article “Lok Sabha’s Ethics Committee: its history, constitution and members” published in “Indian Express” on 26th October 2023
Why in News?
Lok Sabha Speaker has referred a “cash-for-query” complaint made by an MP against another MP to the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee.
What is Lok Sabha Ethics Committee?
Specifications | Detail |
Origin | 1996: Presiding Officers’ Conference suggested ethics panels for both houses. 1997: Ethics Committee constituted in Rajya Sabha 13th Lok Sabha: Committee of Privileges recommends Lok Sabha Ethics Committee 2000: Ad hoc Ethics Committee established in Lok Sabha. 2015: Ethics Committee becomes a permanent part of Lok Sabha. |
Members | 15 |
Appointed by | The Speaker appoints members of the committee for one year. |
Functions | 1. To examine every complaint relating to unethical conduct of a Member of Lok Sabha referred to it by the Speaker and make recommendations 2. To formulate a code of conduct for Members 3. To suggest amendments or additions to the code of conduct from time to time. |
What is the difference between Ethics committee and privilege committee?
The work of the Ethics Committee and the Privileges Committee often overlap. An allegation of corruption against an MP can be sent to either body, but usually more serious accusations go to the Privileges Committee.
A non-MP too can be interrogated by the privilege committee for actions that attack the authority and dignity of the House. The Ethics Committee can take up only cases of misconduct that involve MPs.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: Indian Polity– Important Bodies.