Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

• Opium, history and economics

GS Paper 2

• Just What Is Justin Up To? – On India Canada Relations
• A mockery of pedagogic ethics, the breaking of a bond
• Unified approach- An integrated approach to health can prevent zoonotic spillover
• Expert Explains: With the announced India-Europe Economic Corridor, a look at India’s supply chain opportunity

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

Opium, history and economics

News: The West usually credits its economic growth to factors like science, tech, entrepreneurship, and trade. However, recent scholars argue that imperialism, colonialism, slavery, and opium trade were also major contributors.

The article explains how India was utilized as a colony for opium production, leading to substantial profits.

What was the opium production history in India during the colonial era?

Under Dutch East India Company

Opium, used for centuries for medicinal and elite recreational purposes, saw a shift with the emergence of “smoking opium” in the 18th century.

The Dutch East India Company’s introduction of this new form from East India to the East Indies led to mass consumption, substantial profits, and a monopoly on distribution.

The Dutch were the first to use opium as a tool of colonialism, and India under British rule perfected this model, becoming heavily dependent on drug profits.

Under British East India Company (EIC)

Purvanchal: After the East India Company (EIC) secured victories at Plassey and Buxar, they expanded their control westward to include Purvanchal (now Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern UP), a region where poppy was cultivated.

In 1772, Governor Warren Hastings of Bengal decreed that opium produced in Purvanchal could only be sold to designated EIC Agents, creating a monopoly.

In 1799, the East India Company (EIC) created the Opium Department (OD) with significant control over pricing and rules. The department dictated who could grow opium, how much, and at what price.

The EIC used force to make farmers produce opium, and corruption was widespread. They set up a big surveillance system that caused trouble for everyone except EIC officials who made money from selling opium in Calcutta.

The oppressive system lasted in Purvanchal for over a century, hindering the region’s progress. Another setback for the region came in the mid-19th century after the 1857 War of Independence.

Before the war, Purvanchal supplied about half of the East India Company’s sepoys (Indian soldiers).

However, after the British won the war, they began recruiting sepoys from other regions like Punjab, causing a decline in Purvanchal’s economic and social development.

Malwa: Malwa was another significant poppy-growing area in the 18th century, which included parts of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.

Unlike eastern India, in Malwa, small farmers voluntarily cultivated poppies and sold their products to traders from various religious backgrounds.

This was possible because the East India Company’s influence was mainly restricted to Bombay in western India.

The British East India Company attempted to halt opium production and sales in Malwa, but local merchants resisted. Eventually, the EIC chose to tax the Malwa opium trade.

This decision led to the flourishing of Malwa’s opium, surpassing the amounts exported from Calcutta. Following the Opium Wars, British-Indian opium exports skyrocketed, becoming a significant part of global trade.

The key difference between the Malwa and Purvanchal opium trades was that the Malwa trade benefited many farmers and numerous traders, financiers, and shippers in western India.

Further, the success of private enterprise in western India, in contrast to the east, can be attributed to the Maratha kingdoms’ enduring resistance, vision and strategy against colonial exploitation.

GS Paper 2

Just What Is Justin Up To? – On India Canada Relations

News– Canadian PM Justin Trudeau got a cold response from India at recently concluded G20 summit in India

What are the reasons behind increasing distrust between India and Canada?

First, Trudeau has displayed a consistent disregard displayed by  towards Indian interests. The G20 summit primarily revolve around trade. Trade necessitates at least a basic understanding of the needs and desires of the other party. However, there was an absence of common ground between the two sides.

Second, Trudeau has dismissed the khalistan issue as merely a matter of ‘freedom of expression‘. He overlooks the fact that India views it as a threat to its territorial integrity.

For example, in a recent incidents in Canada, Khalistan supporters displayed scenes depicting the assassination of India’s former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It crossed the boundaries of freedom of expression.

Third, another significant issue pertains to India’s relationship with China in comparison to its relationship with Canada. There is a close relationship between the current federal government of Canada and the Chinese Communist Party’s government.

Before the G20 summit, the Canadian government independently halted trade negotiations with India. This decision was not communicated to India’s High Commissioner to Canada. Such opacity in policymaking creates suspicions.

How do Trudeau’s personal inclinations impact the foreign policy of Canada?

Trudeau has a history of downplaying the trade potential with other countries. It may be due to ideological reasons or other motives.

During his initial visit to China early in his tenure, he returned without significant achievements because he primarily focused on issues like gender equality.

In August 2022, the German Chancellor visited Canada seeking natural gas supplies due to the Ukraine conflict. Trudeau sent him back without a deal. He cited the absence of a “business case” for exporting the abundant Canadian natural gas to Germany.

A mockery of pedagogic ethics, the breaking of a bond

News: The article discusses the decline in teacher training and quality in India, especially in Uttar Pradesh. It mentions a specific incident where a teacher made students slap a young Muslim boy. The article highlights the need for better teacher training and the importance of the teacher-student relationship.

What is the status of the Right to Education Act in India?

Momentum Loss: The Right to Education (RTE) Act, introduced over a decade ago, has lost its initial momentum.

Quality Indicators: The RTE has established clear indicators of quality for schools.

Attempted Compliance: For some time, there was an effort in a few states to ensure both government and private schools met RTE standards.

COVID-19 Impact: While the pandemic affected the implementation of the RTE, it wasn’t the sole reason for its decreased focus.

Neglect in Teacher Training: The crucial sector of teacher training has seen neglect, impacting the RTE’s effectiveness. For example, the incident in a Uttar Pradesh school, where a teacher allowed students to slap a young boy, highlights the gaps and challenges in maintaining RTE standards.

What is the issue with teacher training?

Entrepreneurial Dominance: Since the 1990s, teacher training has become a domain for small-time entrepreneurs, which could lead to a compromise in quality.

Ineffective Regulation: The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has struggled to enforce its meticulously set norms for teacher training.

Justice J.S. Verma’s Report: In 2008, the Supreme Court of India appointed a commission under the late Justice J.S. Verma to address issues in teacher training. Despite its detailed report in 2012, many recommendations have gone unheeded.

Qualification Concerns: The Supreme Court commented on the NCTE’s decision to allow Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree holders to teach at the primary level, which is traditionally for secondary education.

Gap in Professional Ethics: The incident in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, highlights the decline in teaching ethics and professionalism in some educational settings.

What are the recommendations of the Chattopadhyaya Report?

Professional Conduct: The report tried to define what would be considered appropriate professional conduct for teachers.

Well-read and Thoughtful Teachers: Chattopadhyaya envisioned a teacher who is well-read, thoughtful, and conscious of her decisions and actions.

Gap from Professional Standards: The report highlighted how teaching in India was distanced from the standards and ethics one would consider professional.

What should be done?

Reinforce RTE Act: The momentum of the Right to Education (RTE) Act needs to be reinvigorated to ensure quality education for all.

Strengthen Teacher Training: Address the concerns in the teacher training sector by strictly enforcing the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) norms.

Revisit Recommendations: Review and implement the guidelines and vision from past reports, like the Chattopadhyaya Report, emphasizing introspection and ethical teaching practices.

Address Qualification Mismatches: Ensure that teacher qualifications align with their teaching levels, as highlighted by the Supreme Court’s concern over BEd degree holders teaching primary students.

Strengthen the Teacher-Student Bond: Recognize and nurture the crucial bond between students and teachers, ensuring trust, respect, and effective education.

Unified approach- An integrated approach to health can prevent zoonotic spillover

News: The article discusses another Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, its impact, previous outbreaks, the need for constant vigilance, and emphasizes adopting a “One Health” approach to consider human, animal, and environmental health together.

About Nipah virus in India

Origin: Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, transmitted from animals, especially fruit bats, to humans.

Outbreaks: Kerala, India, has witnessed four outbreaks in the past five years. The most severe was in 2018, where 21 out of 23 infected people died.

Current Situation: Kozhikode in Kerala is facing another outbreak. Two have died, and three more are infected.

Treatment: There’s no cure for Nipah; only supportive care is available in hospitals.

Cause: Expansion of agricultural activities into fruit bat habitats has been a contributing factor in these outbreaks.

How is Kerala responding?

Establishment of Control Room: A dedicated control room has been set up in Kozhikode to monitor the situation closely.

Hospital Protocols: All hospitals in the district are directed to follow strict infection control measures.

Containment Teams: Sixteen specialized teams have been formed to implement appropriate containment protocols.

Central Assistance: A central team has been dispatched to Kerala to support the state government’s efforts.

Communication: The state’s Chief minister has communicated through video, assuring the public of serious efforts to handle the crisis.

What should be done?

Address Root Causes: Consider addressing anthropogenic activities, like the expansion of agriculture into fruit bat habitats, which contribute to zoonotic spillovers.

Adopt One Health Approach: Embrace a comprehensive strategy that looks at the health of humans, animals, and the environment as interconnected.

Educate the Public: Raise awareness about the disease, its transmission, and preventive measures.

Collaborate with Neighbors: Work closely with neighboring states to ensure the virus does not spread across borders.

Expert Explains: With the announced India-Europe Economic Corridor, a look at India’s supply chain opportunity

News: The article talks about global supply chains moving away from China and how India could become a significant hub. It mentions India’s strengths, like its growing manufacturing and service sectors, and offers ideas for India to seize this chance. The article also stresses India’s role in fostering growth in South Asia.

What are supply chains?

Supply chains represent the different stages of producing a product or service.

They dictate where each production stage, like design or assembly, happens.

The model has dominated industrial production since the 1980s.

Historically, the shift from local supply to global supply has taken about 100 years. Examples of industries with supply chains include:

Textiles: Like clothing production.

Food processing: Making packaged foods.

Complex industries: Such as cars, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.

In essence, supply chains describe the journey a product takes from its initial concept to reaching the consumer, determining where each part of that journey is most cost-effective.

Why are companies leaving China?

Economic Reasons:

Rising Wages: Costs in China are increasing, especially in labor-intensive stages of production.

Supply Chain Bottlenecks: Companies are experiencing operational issues, impacting their efficiency.

For economic: Exports from China and Hong Kong dropped by 15% and 27% respectively in the last quarter of 2022.

Regulatory Challenges:

Tighter Regulation: There’s growing apprehension about stricter oversight and rules for foreign companies in China.

Geopolitical Tensions:

Trade War: The ongoing conflict between the US and China is causing uncertainties for multinational firms.

Why is India seen as a new hub?

Manufacturing Advancements:

Tech Transfers & Manufacturing: iPhones are now being produced in India, and there was an early technology transfer for the advanced Mercedes Benz EQS.

Growing Industries: Foxconn is setting up a chip-making fabrication plant in Gujarat, and sectors like automotives and pharmaceuticals are flourishing.

Attractiveness to Foreign Investors:

WTO Rankings: By the end of 2022, the WTO listed India as the fifth largest importer of intermediate goods with a 5% share.

Trade Agreements: New trade deals, like the UAE-India partnership and ongoing negotiations with the UK and EU, indicate deep economic integration.

Service Sector Growth:

Diverse Services: India excels in IT, back-office work, financial services, and logistics.

Considering these factors, India is gaining attention as a key center in global supply chains.

What should India’s strategy be?

Promotion of FDI:

Export-Oriented Approach: India should promote export-oriented foreign direct investment to effectively join global supply chains.

Trade Liberalization: There’s a need for trade liberalization, especially with an emphasis on facilitating FDI in manufacturing.

Modern Special Economic Zones: As public-private partnerships, these zones would enhance the business environment.

Empower Local Companies:

Big Company Advantages: Large companies have the advantage in supply chains due to scale and technology access.

Support SMEs: Small and mid-sized enterprises should work as suppliers or subcontractors to these large firms.

Domestic Technological Investment: Invest in domestic technology to meet international standards in price, quality, and delivery.

Learning from China’s Experience:

Selective Adoption: While some aspects of China’s industrial policy may be relevant, India must avoid wholesale copying to sidestep risks of government failure and cronyism.

Education Focus: Upstream investment in tertiary-level education, especially in STEM fields, is crucial.

By adopting these strategies, India can position itself as a dominant force in global supply chains.

GS Paper 3

Haseeb Drabu writes: What the 16th Finance Commission needs to do differently

News– The article highlights the need for relook at federal fiscal transfer due to the introduction of GST.

Why is there a need for reconsideration of federal fiscal transfer  after the implementation of GST?

Earlier, the taxation system was based on production. Now, it is centered on consumption. It alters the dynamics of federalism both vertically and horizontally.

Previously, the central sales tax shifted the tax burden from wealthy manufacturing states to consuming states. It contributed to horizontal imbalances.

Now, the destination principle ensures that consuming states benefit at the expense of industrialized ones. The IGST levied during interstate supply of goods or services is transferred to the destination state.

This transition from the origin-based tax principle to the destination-based principle is reshaping the power balance among states.

However, the federal fiscal transfer system remains structured for the origin-based tax era. Its criteria for distribution also adhere to the previous system.

What should be the way forward for the 16th Finance Commission?

The upcoming formation of the 16th Finance Commission should include a mandate to reassess the principles governing tax distribution. It should take into account the changed landscape of fiscal federalism in India.

Its terms of reference should reflect the consolidation and inclusion of the indirect tax base shared by both the Union and the states.

There is a need for reconsideration of the statutory sharing of indirect taxes, both in terms of vertical and horizontal distribution.

To align the principle of vertical distribution with the new system, it’s crucial to redefine the divisible pool.

For example, the 16th Finance Commission will need to specify how IGST can be fully integrated into this pool. Currently, only IGST without any input tax credit is shared with the states.

There should be a standardized basis for including unsettled IGST with credit in transition into the divisible pool.

The altered administration of GST has led to a substantial increase and considerable variation in the reported cost of tax collection. It is ranging from 7% to 10%.

Therefore, the SFC should recommend a method for calculating and distributing the cost of collecting indirect taxes and proposing ways to reduce these costs and enhance collection efficiency.

Regarding horizontal distribution, the criteria for distributing the divisible pool among states will need to be reexamined.

The existing criteria have evolved in the context of a production-based tax system. This needs to be reconfigured to suit a consumption-based tax system.

The SFC should evaluate the necessity for GST compensation. It’s crucial to reassess the need, feasibility of the compensation scheme in light of the revenue performance of GST over the past six years.

Additionally, clear guidelines should be established for allocating the remaining amount of GST compensation cess collection to the divisible pool of taxes.

Furthermore, within the new institutional framework of federal finance, there should be a formal institutional relationship between the GST council and the Finance Commission.

The SFC should investigate how the GST Council can function as a Fiscal Council to oversee the implementation of its award during the periods when it is not actively in operation.

India’s unemployment challenge can’t be tackled by doles as usual

News– The article explains the issues of higher unemployment rate among the youth population.

What does the statistics say about the employment scenario in the country?

According to this PLFS data, there has been a consistent improvement in the employment situation from 2017 to 2021. Both labour-force participation and work-force participation have increased during this period.

If we contrast the data with the previous five-year survey on employment and unemployment conducted in 2011-12, the situation in 2021-22 appears markedly improved.

But, Indian unemployment rates are higher than they were in 2011-12. The gap was particularly pronounced in 2017-18 but has since narrowed.

Unemployment rates are higher in all categories. In the case of rural males, unemployment has doubled since 2011-12.

What is the conventional explanation for higher unemployment rates?

India’s demonetization of high-value currency notes in November 2016, and GST introduction in 2017, had a lasting impact on the economy, especially its informal sector. This is believed to contribute to the high unemployment rate.

Both demonetization and the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant reverse migration from urban to rural areas. It resulted in increased reliance on agriculture.

Why do the conventional explanations for higher unemployment rates do not seem to be appropriate?

Neither of these explanations is supported by the available data.

The number of people identifying as “self-employed” is higher now than in the past.

Economists recognize three categories of self-employed workers: own-account workers , employers, and workers in household enterprises. Own-account workers and employers can be considered proxies for informal sector enterprises.

In 2011-12, 52.2% of workers described themselves as self-employed. By 2021-22, this figure had increased to 55.8%.

Considering the increase in the population between 2011-12 and 2021-22, the data suggests a significant rise in the number of informal businesses.

The Periodic Labour Force Survey provides information on the average monthly earnings of self-employed workers.  These figures indicate an increase between 2017 and 2022.

This suggests that the severe adverse impact of demonetization and GST on employment is unlikely to be the primary cause of the rise in India’s unemployment rate.

The argument of reverse migration also does not hold up under scrutiny. In 2021, a special exercise within the PLFS assessed the impact on migration.

The results indicated that the migration rate in 2020-21 was nearly the same as that in the National Sample Survey’s 64th round in 2007-08.

Additionally, the proportion of workers in “usual status” describing themselves as primarily engaged in agriculture had decreased between 2011-12 and 2021-22.

What are the possible reasons behind higher unemployment rates in India?

Higher educational level among youth– Youth unemployment has increased significantly from 2011-12 to 2021-22, nearly doubling during this period.

As educational attainment improves, more educated individuals are less inclined to accept unskilled jobs.

Expansion of social security measures- The government has increased the distribution of food under the National Food Security Act.

This reduces the pressure on individuals to immediately seek employment. It allows them more time to “search for work,” which contributes to the increase in the unemployment rate.

Additionally, direct cash transfers to farmer households and certain vulnerable population groups have also served as support mechanisms.

Therefore, the rise in unemployment can be attributed to structural changes in the economy.

Our inflation index lens is hazy but clear enough

News– In the latest official release for August, it was reported that inflation had eased to 6.8% year-on-year from the previous 15-month high of 7.4% in July.

Why are doubts being raised on accuracy of CPI data?

The basket of goods and services monitored by the CPI has not been refreshed in approximately a decade. But, our consumption habits may have evolved.

India is primarily a nation with modest means. Food items make up a substantial portion of the basket. When combined with beverages and tobacco, food items constitute nearly half of the index.

The rest is composed of categories like clothing and footwear, fuel and lighting, housing, and miscellaneous items.

A general formula that was appropriate a decade ago, based on India’s consumption expenditure survey of 2011-12, may no longer be as accurate.

In emerging economies, as incomes rise, the proportion of food expenses in monthly budgets usually decreases, while other expenditures increase. Today, even low-income earners are known to pay telecom bills.

As the last major consumption survey conducted in 2017-18 was discarded by the government due to discrepancies. There is a lack of a clear understanding of consumption patterns for revising the CPI basket.

Why is CPI index still relevant for showing inflation trends?

CPI data may not depict a clear picture of inflation scenario. But, it does not diminish its usefulness. An updated index may not significantly alter inflation readings.

The inflation index doesn’t need to reflect absolute truth as an indicator of trends. What matters is not the clarity of the picture but the direction and pace of its change.

As long as a central bank can grasp price fluctuations and stabilizations, there is no need to doubt CPI index.

Banking investments – New norms will impart stability

News: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently released updated investment norms for the banking sector, aiming to enhance regulatory oversight.

The new framework aligns with global standards and best practices, aiming for a balanced approach to recognizing gains and losses in fair value.

About the New Guidelines

The new guidelines require banks to categorize their entire investment portfolio into three categories: Held-to-Maturity (HTM), Available for Sale, and Fair Value through Profit and Loss (FVTPL).

This will exclude investments in joint ventures and subsidiaries while securities held for trading will fall under the FVTPL subcategory.

The new framework introduces a dedicated trading book for banks and eliminates the previous limit on the held-to-maturity (HTM) portion of the investment portfolio.

This change will give banks more flexibility in managing their investments, boosts demand for corporate bonds, and improve earnings stability.

However, banks must be cautious with their investment portfolios under the new rules, as freely moving securities in and out of the Held-to-Maturity (HTM) category won’t be allowed.

Reclassification will be strict, needing approvals from the bank’s board and the RBI, which will be seldom granted.

Additionally, in any fiscal year, the sale of HTM securities cannot exceed 5% of the portfolio’s opening value without RBI approval.

The new framework also includes detailed rules for securities transfers between categories and clear guidelines for categorizing and valuing securities.

Banks must establish an investment fluctuation reserve, which can be included in Tier-II capital and enhances the banking system’s capacity to absorb losses.

Overall, this framework is expected to enhance disclosure, contributing to greater stability in the banking system.

Why were the new guidelines needed?

The current regulations for valuing investments in banks have been old and in place since 2000.

Further, RBI’s decision to come up with new guidelines has been due to the lessons learnt from the US, where inadequate investment regulation contributed to bank crises.

Although Indian banks aren’t facing the same risks, revising the regulatory framework based on experience will improve the Indian banking regulatory structure.

Protecting floodplains is the need of the hour

News: The author discusses the increasing problem of floods in India due to climate change and poor land management. Many areas are being constructed upon, reducing floodplain space. Other countries use better flood management strategies, which India could learn from. Strong political action is needed to protect the environment and prevent further disasters.

Why are floods becoming more frequent in India?

Climate Change Impact: Due to global climate shifts, there’s an increase in intense and frequent floods in India. For instance, the 2013 floods in Uttarakhand, the 2014 floods in Kashmir, and the 2015 floods in Chennai highlight the growing problem.

Rapid City Expansion: Cities in India are expanding quickly and without proper planning. This haphazard growth disregards the natural topography, increasing flood risks. The devastating Chennai floods in 2015 are a prime example of this.

Occupation of Floodplains: Building on floodplains reduces the river’s capacity to contain water. Encroachments, especially in regions like Uttarakhand, contribute to increased flood risks. The 2013 floods in Uttarakhand were partly due to such activities.

Environmental Neglect: While India has protective environmental laws, they aren’t always enforced. Encroachments on floodplains, like in Chennai, underline the negative impact of this oversight.

What are the initiatives taken by India to handle floods?

Disaster Management Act, 2005: India primarily relies on this Act to address flood management, although it’s designed to handle multi-hazard risks and doesn’t focus exclusively on floods.

National Green Tribunal Directive: After the 2013 Uttarakhand floods, a 2015 directive from the National Green Tribunal barred construction within 200 m along the banks of the Ganga to protect floodplains.

Uttaranchal River Valley (Development and Management) Act, 2005: This Act intends to regulate mining and construction in river valleys. However, violations are common, impacting the environment.

Central Policy Measures: While India has central policies for floodplain protection, they are non-binding on states, leading to inconsistent enforcement.

What should be done?

Embrace Flood Risk Management: Adopt strategies from countries like Germany, the U.K., and the Netherlands that focus on flood risk management rather than just flood protection.

Regulate Construction on Floodplains: Strictly implement directives like the one from the National Green Tribunal, which barred construction within 200m along the Ganga banks.

Ensure Environmental Impact Assessments: Proper evaluations must be conducted before permitting constructions, especially in flood-prone areas.

Holistic Climate Change Adaptation: Integrate various laws concerning land use, water body preservation, and environmental impacts into a coherent strategy.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Behind Libya’s catastrophic flooding: Extreme weather, vulnerable geography, and crumbling infrastructure

Source: The post is based on the article “Behind Libya’s catastrophic flooding: Extreme weather, vulnerable geography, and crumbling infrastructure”  published in Indian Express on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

More than 5,000 people have died and thousands more are missing after devastating floods swept through the Libyan port city of Derna.

Where is Derna?

Derna is a port city in eastern Libya.It lies on a narrow coastal plain on the Mediterranean under steep mountains running along the coast.

What factors contributed to the devastating floods in Libya’s eastern region Derna?

Extreme Weather: The flooding occurred due to exceptional rainfall.For instance, Al-Bayda and Derna, typically receiving minimal rain, experienced a record-breaking rain.

– This extreme weather was caused by Storm Daniel, also known as Cyclone Daniel, originating in Greece.As it moved across the Mediterranean Sea, it transitioned into a “medicane,” gaining strength from abnormally warm sea surface temperatures. 

– Higher temperatures, likely a consequence of global warming, intensified the storm, resulting in more powerful winds and heavier rainfall.

Vulnerable Geography: Derna, a coastal city with approximately 1 lakh inhabitants suffered the most destruction. 

– The city’s location at the end of a valley and bisected by the Wadi Derna, a seasonal river typically protected by dams, made it susceptible to flooding. 

– Cyclone Daniel’s impact caused the collapse of dams outside the city, leading to flash floods down Wadi Derna that inundated the city.

Crumbling Infrastructure: The collapse of the dams highlighted Libya’s dilapidated infrastructure, worsened by a decade-long conflict between rival factions. 

– Political turmoil shifted focus away from maintaining and developing critical infrastructure, including dams, desalination plants, electrical grids, and roads.Neglect of infrastructure throughout the country left it in disrepair.

– Libya’s lack of flood-resilient structures, roads, and early-warning systems further exacerbated the catastrophe as flooding is rare in the region.

Government of India and World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) Collaborate to Strengthen One Health Approach for Pandemic Preparedness

Source: The post is based on the article “Government of India and World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) Collaborate to Strengthen One Health Approach for Pandemic Preparedness”  published in PIB on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying in partnership with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has organized a multi-sectoral workshop “Risk-based management of spillover events in wildlife in India” at Hyderabad.

What is One Health approach?

One Health is an approach to designing and implementing programmes, policies, legislation and research in which multiple sectors communicate and work together to achieve better public health outcomes. 

The One Health approach is critical to addressing health threats in the animal-human-environment interface.

The areas of work in which a One Health approach is particularly relevant include: food safety, control of zoonotic diseases, laboratory services, neglected tropical diseases, environmental health and antimicrobial resistance.

WHO is a member of the One Health Quadripartite along with the Food and Agriculture Organization, World Organisation for Animal Health and United Nations Environment Programme. 

The 4 organizations work together to promote multi-sectoral responses to public health threats originating in the animal-human-environment interface and to provide technical advice on how to reduce these risks.

What are the initiatives taken by India on One Health approach?

Standing Committee on Zoonoses: It was established in 2006 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).The purpose of this committee was to provide the Union and the State governments guidance and recommendations on challenges related to zoonoses.

Consortium on One Health: The Department of Biotechnology launched India’s first consortium on One Health in October 2021. It brings together 27 organizations from several ministries and plans to assess the burden of five transboundary animal diseases and 10 select zoonotic diseases. 

One Health pilot project: In 2022, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy (DAHD) – in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Confederation of Indian Industry has launched One Health pilot project in Karnataka and Uttarakhand. 

– This initiative intends to strengthen intersectoral collaborations through capacity-building, with the goal of improving livestock health, human health, wildlife health, and environmental health.

India is also currently preparing for a wider ‘National One Health Mission’ to be spearheaded by the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor.The idea behind this mission is to coordinate, support, and integrate all existing One Health initiatives in the country.

Transfer of personal data under UN treaty will be under domestic laws: India

Source: The post is based on the article “Transfer of personal data under UN treaty will be under domestic laws: India”  published in The Hindu on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

United Nations member states are negotiating the UN Cybercrime Convention to counter cybercrimes.

This convention has been under negotiation for three years and is expected to be ratified at the UN General Assembly in 2024.

What is India’s stand on the negotiations on the UN Cybercrime Convention?

Firstly, India has proposed changes in provisions related to the transfer of “personal data” in the Draft UN Cybercrime Convention.

They suggested that the transfer of personal data under the convention should be governed by  domestic laws rather than other international laws.

– Note: India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act says that personal data can be processed “in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India or security of the state” for “fulfilling any obligation under law”.

The Act requires firms to disclose to users the identity of other firms to which their data would be entrusted for processing, but they are explicitly exempted from disclosing or sharing of such data in the case of lawful interception of data.

Secondly, India has asked for the deletion of a clause encouraging state parties to establish bilateral or multilateral arrangements to facilitate the transfer of personal data.

Thirdly, India has agreed to the clause in the convention that state parties may transfer personal data to a third country only with the prior written authorisation of the original transferring state party.

Fourth G20 Global Partnership For Financial Inclusion Meeting is scheduled to be held in Mumbai

Source: The post is based on the article “Fourth G20 Global Partnership For Financial Inclusion Meeting is scheduled to be held in Mumbai”  published in PIB on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

The Fourth G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) Meeting is being held in Mumbai 

What is Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion(GPFI)?

Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion(GPFI) was officially launched in 2010 in Seoul,South Korea.

It is an inclusive platform for all G20 countries, interested non-G20 countries and relevant stakeholders.

Purpose: To carry forward work on financial inclusion, including implementation of the G20 Financial Inclusion Action Plan, endorsed at the G20 Summit in Seoul.

GPFI’s efforts include helping countries put into practice the G20 Principles for Innovative Financial Inclusion, strengthening data for measuring financial inclusion, and developing methodologies for countries wishing to set targets.

The first G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) meeting under India’s G20 Presidency was held in 2023 in Kolkata,West Bengal. 

For sickle cell patients, an elusive disability certificate

Source: The post is based on the article “For sickle cell patients, an elusive disability certificate”  published in The Hindu on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

The Union government has been publicizing its campaign to ‘eradicate’ sickle-cell disease by 2047.

But there are some issues the government is facing in the issuance of disability certificates to sickle-cell disease (SCD) patients.

What is Sickle-cell disease(SCD)?

Click Here to read

What are the issues the government is facing in issuance of Disability certificates to sickle-cell disease patients?

Delay in issuance of Disability certificates: The Indian government has been delaying the issue of permanent disability certificates to individuals with sickle-cell disease (SCD) aged five and above.

– This issue has been stuck in three different Union Ministries for nearly three years.The Health Ministry is responsible for setting the criteria, the Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry issues the certificates and the Tribal Affairs Ministry is keen on ensuring certificates for those suffering from chronic anemia and SCD-related complications.

Duration of Disability certificates: Sickle cell disease was added to the list of disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.At that time, patients could only get disability certificates with a one-year validity.

– However, patients complained about the cumbersome procedure for renewal of the certificates. Eventually, the validity of the certificates was increased to three years.

– But now there is a demand for the need for permanent disability certificates because of the progressive nature of the disease.

IAF chief takes delivery of first C-295 transport aircraft in Spain

Source: The post is based on the article “IAF chief takes delivery of first C-295 transport aircraft in Spain”  published in The Hindu on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

Indian Air Force(IAF) has received the first C-295 MW transport aircraft from Airbus.

What is a C-295 MW aircraft?

C-295 is a new-generation tactical airlifter in the light and medium segment.

The aircraft will replace the ageing Avro aircraft of the Indian Air Force.

It has been designed and built by Airbus, a European multinational aerospace corporation.

Key Features:

C-295 is capable of carrying up to nine tonnes of payload or as many as 71 troops at a maximum cruise speed of about 480 kilometre.

The aircraft can also be used for air-to-air refuelling of choppers and fixed-wing aircraft.

It can operate from short, soft, rough and unprepared airstrips unlike the Avro.

Besides essentially being a transport aircraft, it can also be modified for intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance with a multi-mission radar that can be weaponized to conduct effective close air support operations. 

India-Airbus deal for C295 aircraft:

In 2021, India signed a deal with Airbus Defence and Space to procure 56 C295 aircraft.

Under the agreement, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in ‘fly-away’ condition from its final assembly line in Seville, Spain within four years and the subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) in India as part of an industrial partnership between the two companies. 

Significance: It is the first project of its kind in which a military aircraft will be manufactured in India by a private company.It is also the first time that the C295 aircraft will be manufactured outside of Europe.

Cabinet approves eCourts Phase III for 4 years

Source: The post is based on the article “Cabinet approves eCourts Phase III for 4 years”  published in PIB on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the eCourts Project Phase III.

What is eCourts Project?

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Phase I of the project was implemented during 2011-2015. 

Phase II of the project started in 2015 under which 18,735 District & Subordinate courts have been computerized so far.

What is the aim of eCourts Project Phase III?

Type: Central Sector Scheme 

Aim: To create a unified technology platform for the judiciary which will provide a seamless and paperless interface between courts, litigants, and other stakeholders.

Duration: Four Years (2023 onwards) 

Key Features of the project: Phase 3 of the eCourts project will see:

Digitisation of entire court records, both legacy and pending cases.

A tripartite agreement will be signed between State governments, the Centre and the 25 High Courts under which maintenance, upkeep, and replacement of equipment will be the responsibility of respective States while the funds and the required hardware will be provided by the Centre.

Establishment and expanding the scope of virtual courts for hearing of cases by creating a robust digital infrastructure.

Integration of duty holders such as courts, jails, police stations, and forensic laboratories with the InterOperable Criminal Justice System (ICJS).

Add Artificial Intelligence into the judicial system and introduce features like Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for analysis of case pendency and forecasting future litigation as well.

Citizens who do not have access to technology can access judicial services from eSewa Kendras, thus bridging the digital divide.

What are the expected benefits of eCourts Project Phase III?

Judicial processes will become more environment-friendly by minimizing paper-based filings and reducing the physical movement of documents.

Virtual participation in the court proceedings will help in reducing costs associated with court proceedings such as travel expenses for witnesses, judges, and other stakeholders.

Expansion of eFiling will reduce the time and effort required to file documents thereby minimizing human errors.

Enhanced accuracy and transparency in court proceedings

Konark Wheel replica serves as backdrop of PM welcome handshake with G20 leaders

Source: The post is based on the article “Konark Wheel replica serves as backdrop of PM welcome handshake with G20 leaders”  published in Hindu Business Line on 12th September 2023

What is the News?

A replica of the Konark Wheel from the Konark Sun temple in Odisha served as the backdrop of the Prime Minister’s welcome handshake with G20 leaders as they arrived at Bharat Mandapam.

What is the Konark Wheel?

Konark Wheel was built during the 13th century under the reign of King Narasimhadeva-I of the Ganga dynasty.

The wheel with 24 spokes is also adapted into India’s national flag and embodies ancient wisdom, advanced civilization, and architectural excellence. 

The rotating motion of the wheel symbolizes time or the Kalachakra as well as progress and continuous change in the universe. 

As a symbol of the wheel of democracy, it reflects the resilience of democratic ideals, and commitment to progress in society.

Konark Wheel sculpture is featured on the recent Rs 10 currency notes.The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced the Rs 10 currency note in 2018.It showcases a profile portrait of Mahatma Gandhi on the front, while the reverse side highlights the exquisitely carved Konark wheel.

What is Konark Sun Temple?

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What are essential components of ‘National Strategy for Robotics’?

Source: The post is based on the article “What are essential components of ‘National Strategy for Robotics’?”  published in Business Standard on 12th September 2023

What is the News?

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology(MeitY) has invited public comments as well as inputs from stakeholders on the draft “National Strategy for Robotics(NSR)”.

Note: According to the World Robotics Report 2022, India ranks 10th globally in terms of annual industrial installations of robots.

What is the Draft National Strategy for Robotics(NSR)?

Aim: To strengthen all pillars in the innovation cycle of robotic technology, while also providing a robust institutional framework for ensuring the effective implementation of these interventions.

Objectives: To make India a global robotics leader by 2030.

– To build upon the mandates of the Make in India 2.0 plans, which identify robotics as one of the 27 sub-sectors to further enhance India’s integration in the global value chain.

Nodal Agency: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) will serve as the nodal agency for robotics, overseeing the NSR through the ‘National Robotics Mission’ (NRM).

Core sectors: The strategy has identified manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and national security as the four core sectors to prioritize robotics automation.

Measures: The strategy proposes fiscal and non-fiscal interventions by the NRM for upscaling innovation in robotics.These interventions will be specifically aimed at developing funding mechanisms for robotics start-ups as well as promoting exports.

Major recommendations:

– Create a strong regulatory framework led by the Robotics Innovation Unit (RIU) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

– Establish Centers of Excellence (CoEs) in Robotics for both foundational and applied research. Encourage private sector involvement in priority sectors for experimental prototyping and initial commercialization.

– Provide support to startups, leverage research potential in higher education institutions, and develop dedicated robotics industrial zones.

– Initially, the central government should be a major buyer of Indian-made robotic systems. This can be achieved through a Public Procurement Policy for Robotics, which incentivizes domestic production by giving preference to suppliers with a minimum local content requirement.

What are the main challenges in India’s robotics sector?

Import Dependence: India relies heavily on importing robotics components, mainly from China and Japan.

Expensive Hardware: The cost of robotics hardware components is high.

Limited Research and Development: Insufficient investments in research and development hinder progress.

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