Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

• Climate finance must get beyond greenwishing and greenwashing
• M Venkaiah Naidu on One Nation One Election: Together, for the greater good
• Silent killer – India must get more people to keep blood pressure under control
• Bench Strength – CJI must move fast to create permanent constitution benches

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

Climate finance must get beyond greenwishing and greenwashing

News: The article discusses the requirement for practical and accessible investment solutions to combat climate change. It highlights the importance of profitable, liquid investments such as ETFs in climate-resilient real estate, green commodities, and inflation-proof assets. The article emphasizes the use of digital, tokenized assets to include unbanked populations, with the aim of achieving genuine impact and avoiding empty, unfulfilled green promises, especially with CoP-28 approaching.

Why is there a need for practical and accessible investment solutions to fight climate change?

Climate Change Affects All: It is impacting both poor and rich countries, creating an urgent need for broad-based resilience and adaptation strategies.

Unlocking Private Sector Resources: Scalable solutions require substantial commitments from the private sector, with many current climate-centric investments being illiquid and tightly wound up in private-equity funds.

Inclusion of Ordinary Investors: Many current climate investments are inaccessible to ordinary investors and savers who are the most exposed to climate-driven food, water, and energy insecurity.

Need for Diversified Solutions: Diversified, liquid, and profitable investment solutions like ETFs in climate-resilient sectors can mobilize capital effectively and are essential for inclusivity, including the unbanked global population.

How can climate investments be made accessible?

Developing Liquid Investments: Create climate investments that are liquid and profitable like ETFs, which are easily accessible to individual and institutional investors.

Encouraging Investment in Climate-Resilient Real Estate: Invest in weather-proof, stable geographies. Using Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and ETFs can help secure reliable returns from these investments.

Investing in Green Commodities: Focus on commodities essential for renewable energy and electric vehicles, like copper and lithium, to avoid greenflation and supply bottlenecks.

Offering Inflation-Proof Assets: Include assets like short-term and inflation-indexed sovereign bonds and gold in portfolios to provide a hedge against inflation and geo-economic risks.

Creating Tokenized Assets: Develop digital, tokenized representations of climate investment solutions to include unbanked populations, ensuring they are backed by real-world assets.

What solutions are offered?

Digital assets must be backed by real-world physical and financial assets to be a viable solution, avoiding speculation risks and preserving liquidity.

M Venkaiah Naidu on One Nation One Election: Together, for the greater good

News– The concept of One Nation, One Election has been a topic of debate for several years.

What are arguments in favour of One Nation, One Election?

The Election Commission of India proposed synchronised elections in 1983 and 1999.

In 2018, the NITI Aayog introduced the concept of One Nation, One Election.

Financial burden- The Indian electoral system involves large costs during each election cycle. India’s election machinery is in constant operation due to elections at various levels of government throughout the year.

The expenses associated with conducting elections, security of polling stations, deploying security forces, and logistics are substantial. In addition to the financial costs, there are logistical challenges and a strain on human resources.

Impact on governance- Frequent elections demand a significant workforce. It includes police personnel, administrative staff from various departments, and educators like teachers and lecturers.

This disrupts regular government functions and delays development projects. It also impacts the academic calendars of schools and colleges.

Political polarization- Regular elections often contribute to political polarization since politicians are constantly engaged in election campaigning. They prioritize short-term gains over long-term policy planning.

Earlier experience- India had experienced simultaneous elections during specific periods. Notably, elections held in 1952, 1957, and 1962, as well as in 1967 followed the One Nation, One Election principle.

What are the advantages of One Nation, One Election?

Improved governance– Reduced election frequency would minimize disruptions in government operations. It will allow bureaucrats and elected officials to focus more on governance.

Promote national interest- it promotes cooperation among political parties. When elections are synchronized, parties would be compelled to seek common ground and consensus on vital national and state-level matters.

This could lead to more collaborative policymaking and a better, unified understanding of issues.

Political participation- Such an approach would alleviate voter fatigue and encourage more active participation in elections. Voters frequently face multiple elections in a single year, which can lead to weariness, apathy, and potential disengagement.

Silent killer – India must get more people to keep blood pressure under control

News: Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first report on hypertension.

What are the key findings of the report?

Globally: Hypertension is a global issue, affecting one in three individuals, and it is often inadequately controlled in four out of five cases.

This highlights the lack of effective measures taken by countries to manage this major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.

Uncontrolled blood pressure, even below 140/90, is risky, especially for people with diabetes, obesity, and habits like tobacco and alcohol use.

India: In India, the WHO report from 2019 data shows that 188 million adults aged 30-79 have hypertension, but only 37% are diagnosed, 30% are treated, and just 15% have their hypertension under control.

Women seem to have slightly better rates of diagnosis, treatment, and control compared to men.

Stroke rates in India are high, with a fatality rate of 18%-42%. In 2019, heart attacks were the top cause of death and disability in the country.

Must Read: WHO releases report on global impact of high BP

What are the reasons behind rising hypertension cases in India?

Research indicates that consuming more than five grams of salt daily is linked to 17%-30% of hypertension cases.

Although member States are obligated to achieve a 30% reduction in average population salt intake by 2025, India has not fully adopted the WHO’s recommendations to reduce salt consumption.

A 2021 study in four Indian States found high salt and sugar levels in packaged foods, highlighting the importance of mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labels, food reformulation to reduce salt, and public awareness efforts.

What steps has India undertaken to address hypertension?

India has made progress in managing hypertension through the India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI).

As of March 2021, 48% of patients at primary health centers and 55% at health wellness centers achieved blood pressure control under this program.

Hence, expanding this initiative and maintaining effective blood pressure control should be the essential goals.

Bench Strength – CJI must move fast to create permanent constitution benches

News: Chief Justice of India Chandrachud has proposed the establishment of permanent constitution benches with varying strengths in the Supreme Court. This reform has been needed for a long time and should be prioritized.

How will the establishment of permanent constitution benches fulfill their purpose?

Article 145(3) mandates that any case involving a significant constitutional question must be heard by a panel of at least five judges.

Currently, there are 306 cases awaiting decisions from such five-judge benches and 135 cases awaiting nine-judge benches. This shows the importance of larger benches.

An example of importance of larger bench is the 13-judge bench in the Kesavananda Bharati case established the “basic structure” doctrine, which has had a lasting impact on Indian law.

Read More: SC to get permanent Constitution bench

What made this reform challenging to implement until now?

Establishing permanent constitution benches in India’s Supreme Court has been challenging due to its extensive caseload of over 80,000 cases.

Unlike the US Supreme Court, which primarily deals with constitutional matters, India’s court handles a diverse range of cases, often seen as a “people’s court.”

Further, when a nine-judge bench is formed to hear a constitutional matter, it takes up 26% of the court’s sanctioned strength of 34 judges.

Hence, challenge exists in balancing everyday legal concerns with constitutional issues, which requires a systematic approach rather than the Supreme Court simply prioritizing cases.

What more can be done to reduce the burden on the Supreme Court?

First, the subordinate courts in India need to take on more of the responsibility for hearing cases, especially cases involving bail.

The Supreme Court of India has repeatedly found that the subordinate courts are not understanding the scope of its orders, which is putting more pressure on the Supreme Court.

Second, expanding the scope of Indians’ fundamental rights also requires the establishment of more constitution benches in the Supreme Court.

GS Paper 3

Propelling India’s development the right way

News: The article focusses on India’s progress in space and technology since the 1960s, despite initial skepticism.

Technological advancement hasn’t eradicated poverty and inequality in the country. India needs to continue state support for technology and make economic growth inclusive by improving access to education for all.

How did India progress in space research?

Initiation in the 1960s: India began its journey into space research during the 1960s. At that time, many viewed this move as overly ambitious and even reckless for a young, struggling nation.

ISRO’s Establishment: Before the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) was set up in 1969, India had a significant space science program. This was coordinated by the Department of Atomic Energy, founded in the early 1950s.

Global Recognition: Over the years, India’s persistence in space research bore fruit. Notably, it became the first nation to land a rover on the moon’s south pole. Following this success, India embarked on a mission to study the sun.

Vision of Pioneers: Leaders like Vikram Sarabhai envisioned using satellites for diverse applications, such as building a nationwide telephone system and offering agricultural and health education.

What are the major hurdles for India’s progress in space and technology?

Persisting Inequalities: India’s enduring societal inequalities have hindered broad-based development and access to higher education for the underprivileged, impacting economic and industrial growth.

Lack of Effective Intervention: The state’s inability to effectively intervene and implement successful programs, like land redistribution, has perpetuated the disadvantages faced by oppressed communities.

Underinvestment in Education: The country’s consistent underinvestment in basic education has replicated historical inequalities in the labor market, with privileged groups predominantly accessing better-paying jobs.

Misdirected Investments: Some argue that focusing on capital- and technology-intensive industries, being a labour surplus country, was a misdirection of resources.

Long Gestation Period for Technologies: The time required for new technologies to fructify, and the initial effort needed are substantial, causing reliance on unwavering public funding.

What should be India’s path forward?

Reinstate State Support: India should renew efforts with state support to develop technological and industrial capabilities in emerging fields like semiconductors and biotechnology.

Promote Inclusive Growth: The country must intensify efforts to make economic growth inclusive, with a focus on making education, especially higher education, accessible to the dispossessed.

Revaluate Investment Focus: A reevaluation of investment focus is crucial; the emphasis should be on sectors that align with India’s comparative advantages and global needs.

Correct Past Mistakes: India needs to recognize and correct past errors in abandoning planning for industrial growth and misjudging the role of industrial policy in a globalised economy.

Address Persisting Inequalities: Tackling enduring inequalities and ensuring broader social development are essential for leveraging the nation’s full potential in technology and industry.

Unlocking MSME potential- Digital tools are crucial for expanding their reach and unleashing growth

News: The article discusses the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in India, including access to finance and technology. It highlights a study showing that using e-commerce platforms can help these businesses reach a wider customer base and improve sales, especially those that are more productive and export-oriented. However, there is a need to address inequities and barriers preventing some MSMEs from adopting such digital platforms.

Why do MSMEs join e-commerce platforms?

Broader Customer Base: MSMEs get access to a wider range of customers, extending their market reach beyond geographical limitations.

Improved Sales: Many enterprises reported experiencing an increase in their total sales after integrating with e-commerce platforms.

Enhanced Profit Margins: MSMEs noted improvements in profit margins post-integration with digital platforms.

Innovation and Investment: Joining these platforms fostered innovation at the firm level, and many businesses invested in training, new equipment, machinery, and software.

New Products Launching: Integrated MSMEs reported the introduction of new products and improvements in existing product designs.

What are the challenges faced by MSMEs in India?

Access to Opportunities: Many MSMEs find it hard to access new markets and customers, which limits their growth.

Adoption of E-commerce: Informational barriers and limited capabilities prevent some MSMEs from integrating with e-commerce platforms, which could have expanded their market reach and improved profitability.

Skilled Labour: MSMEs face difficulties in finding and training skilled employees to leverage new business practices and technologies.

Inequality in Adoption: The selective adoption of e-commerce and digital technologies is creating inequities between integrated and non-integrated MSMEs, impacting overall industrial structure and competitiveness.

What should be done?

Invest in Technology: There should be investments in technology to help firms adopt e-commerce successfully.

Enhance Digital Skills: Providing training in digital skills is crucial for utilizing e-commerce platforms effectively.

Address Information Barriers: Efforts should be made to address informational barriers that prevent MSMEs from adopting new technologies.

Provide Support Services: Offering enterprise support, training, and infrastructure services will enhance the competitiveness of non-integrated MSMEs.

Enhance Access to Financial Services: Improving access to financial services will enable more MSMEs to benefit from e-commerce adoption.

Digital forensics: India’s opportunity

News: The author is discussing the growing importance of digital forensics, which involves analyzing digital devices to find evidence. He points out that while it is crucial for investigating crimes and protecting sensitive information, India is currently lagging in this field. However, new laws and a growing awareness are pushing developments in this sector in India, leading to opportunities for growth and advancements in digital forensic technology and practices.

What is digital forensics?

Digital forensics is a field focused on recovering and investigating information on digital devices and preserving it as evidence.

It’s not just for solving crimes anymore; companies, like banks, use it to protect against threats.

What is the importance of digital forensics?

Solves Crimes & Protects Information: It unearths critical information, serving as a tool for finding evidence in criminal investigations and corporate threat protection.

Extensive Applicability: Used by various sectors like banks to plug security gaps, and by R&D labs to safeguard designs and patents.

Market Growth: The field is growing swiftly, expecting to reach $30.78 billion by 2030, reflecting its rising importance.

Enhancing Security: Its development and application are critical in enhancing the security measures in place, helping to safeguard sensitive information in various sectors.

How is India responding to digital forensics needs?

Educational Progress: Gujarat initiated India’s first forensic science university in 2008, evolving into the National Forensic Sciences University.

Development of Tools: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing has developed India’s first tool for computer digital forensics.

Encouraging Startups: An Ahmedabad-based startup is working on creating India’s first digital forensics tool for smartphones.

Legal Framework Enhancement: The DPDP Act, 2023, has prompted advancements in digital forensics to meet legal obligations and avoid penalties.

Lab Notifications: The government is working to notify more labs as examiners of electronic evidence under the IT Act.

Improving Training: There’s an emphasis on implementing standardised graded awareness and training programmes for the police, prosecution, and judiciary.

Shyam Saran writes: BRICS is growing – and that doesn’t hurt India’s interests

News– The recent BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa witnessed the joining of five major emerging economies.

What are some facts about BRICS expansion?

The group was formed in 2009. Initially it consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining a year later.

Six new members have been added: Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

There is also interest from several developing countries to join. It may lead to further expansions.

Initially, there were indications that India and Brazil were not particularly enthusiastic about such an expansion.

India was concerned that an expanded membership may bolster China’s influence within the group.

However, it appears that the selection of new members was driven more by political compromise than by agreed-upon criteria.

Except for Iran, the new members have significant relationships with the West.

Why do developing countries want to join BRICS?

They want to protect themselves in an increasingly uncertain world characterised by shifting political and security dynamics. There is a prevailing concern about their vulnerability to US sanctions.

There may be an expectation that China will lead a shift towards an alternative global currency. It reflects growing frustration among developing countries that their interests and aspirations continue to be overlooked by developed nations.

International institutions such as the UN and multilateral financial institutions like the IMF and the World Bank remain dominated by the G7. Major emerging economies are demanding a greater say in global governance.

What are the achievements of BRICS?

It has established the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB). However, it conducts its business in US dollars, despite the group’s stated objective of diversifying away from the dominant US currency.

BRICS has also created a contingency reserve that member countries can tap into in case of balance of payments issues.

What is the comparison between BRICS and G7?

Unlike the G7, BRICS lacks a strong ideological alignment and cohesiveness. The G7 has evolved over five decades. In contrast, BRICS has a relatively short history of just 15 years.

It faces more internal disagreements among its members as compared to G7. The rivalry between India and China is a notable example.

The G7 is a closely-knit security alliance. All its members are part of NATO and Japan is a US treaty alliance. In contrast, BRICS countries do not share a unified security perspective.

Why Western countries claim BRICS undermining the established international order created by the West are hollow?

Western nations themselves have been gradually weakening and disregarding the rules and norms of this order.

This includes the gradual sidelining of the United Nations, the adoption of protectionist trade measures, and an attempt to shift the responsibility for a more sustainable energy transition onto developing nations.

The application of the principles of the “liberal international order” has become selective.

It is essential for the G7 to engage with these emerging powers to formulate a new set of mutually acceptable international rules.

What are the options for India?

For India, a policy of active participation in multiple international groups has proven to be wise. Joining an expanded BRICS does not conflict with India’s interests.

India does not need to make an exclusive choice between BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the Quad, and regular engagement with the G7.

These engagements broaden India’s diplomatic options and contribute to help India in an increasingly polarised global landscape.

A light-bulb moment for the Indian fan market

News– The article explain the issue of energy efficiency of ceiling fans for sustainable energy transition

Why ceiling fans are crucial for energy transition in India?

India has an objective of achieving a 45% reduction in harmful emissions per unit of GDP by 2030 compared to 2005. It necessitates a significant decrease in the energy used for economic activities.

Approximately one-third of all electricity consumed in India is attributed to households. The ceiling fans constitute around 25% of household electricity usage, according to a 2020 survey by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW).

The India Cooling Action Plan predicts that the number of fans in operation in India could double to one billion by 2038.

What are efforts by the government to improve the energy efficiency of ceiling fans?

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency mandated the Standards and Labelling (S&L) program for ceiling fans in May 2022. This marked a significant shift from the voluntary program introduced in 2009.

However, ‘5-star’ rated fans are priced at twice the cost of regular, unrated fans. It is posing a substantial barrier to adoption in India’s price-sensitive market.

To address this challenge, the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) is planning an initiative aimed at selling 10 million ‘5-star’ ceiling fans.

This program aspires to revolutionize the fan market in a manner similar to LED lamps under the UJALA program.

What should be the way forward for sustainable and advantageous transformation of the ceiling fan market?

Maintain a technology-neutral policy- Ceiling fans offer a broader range of technologies, each with its own advantages and trade-offs.

A policy that accommodates multiple specifications would be more cost-effective in the long term.

A technology-neutral demand aggregation policy should allow manufacturers to offer various technologies to consumers, fostering competition and ensuring cost-effective market transformation.

Strike a balance between price reduction and quality management- The significant price pressure on LED bulbs during the UJALA program led to the entry of lower-quality products into the market.

While replacing a light bulb is relatively easy and inexpensive, replacing a ceiling fan is inconvenient and costly.

Low-quality products could erode consumer trust in the new technology, prompting them to revert to traditional fans.

Development of high-quality domestic manufacturing capabilities- India has overlooked the importance of maintaining the quality of local manufacturing and reducing reliance on imported components.

India can capitalize on its extensive domestic market to achieve economies of scale for both finished products and components.

It is crucial to update Indian quality and performance standards to align with international benchmarks, ensuring that domestic manufacturers remain competitive.

More resources to enhance the standard and labeling program- It is estimated that at least 30% of India’s ceiling fan market operates informally. This segment is expected to be slow in adopting new technologies and will likely continue selling less efficient fans.

Therefore, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency and its State-designated agencies should leverage their market monitoring authority to ensure that products carrying genuine energy performance labels reach consumers.

Ethanol – a saviour that gives savings

News– The article explains the case of ethanol blending in India

Why are biofuels the need of the day?

Global crude oil prices are on the rise again. It is near the $100 per barrel mark. India’s reliance on crude oil and related products for imports reached 87.3% in FY2023. It constitutes 25.8% of the nation’s total import expenditure.

India has the world’s third-largest demand for crude oil and its derivatives. There is substantial potential for further growth in consumption.

Data from the International Energy Agency indicates that over the past decade, as much as 20 percent of India’s overall primary energy supply has been derived from biomass.

What are efforts made by the government for promoting ethanol blending?

India initiated its ethanol blending program in 2003. However, progress was limited for more than a decade.

In 2022, India’s blending program achieved a significant milestone by reaching 10 percent ethanol blending in petrol.

Plans are to increase the blending ratio to 20 percent (E20) by the fiscal year 2025-26. In 2022, ethanol producers supplied nearly 430 crore litres of ethanol.

What are the challenges in case of ethanol blending?

Approximately 60 percent of India’s petrol demand is attributed to two-wheelers. The remaining 40 percent comes from four-wheelers.

In a 2021 study focused on urban India by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water, nearly 55 percent of respondents expressed a desire and need to own a four-wheeler.

A report from NITI Aayog also predicted a 45 percent growth in petrol demand by 2030 compared to 2021. In such a scenario, blending alone can only achieve a minor reduction in overall petrol demand.

Most of India’s ethanol supply for the blending program is derived from first-generation production, utilizing sugars from food crops.

Investments have been slow in case of second-generation (2G) ethanol production technologies. There are 12 such facilities in various stages of planning and construction, but they are unlikely to contribute significantly to the demand for ethanol.

The cultivation of food crops relies on fertilisers and water. It requires heavily subsidised energy, such as natural gas and electricity, for production.

Climate change concerns suggest that both rainfall and crop yields will experience significant variations. It will make  India vulnerable to supply disruptions.

What is the way forward?

India needs a well-defined research and development strategy for second-generation (2G) technologies before scaling up ethanol production.

The primary policy focus should be on slowing down overall petrol consumption in the economy and addressing private demand for petrol.

A targeted promotion of electric vehicles in public transportation and pricing mechanisms for the use of private vehicles in urban areas could facilitate the transition to higher levels of biofuels.

Investments and the capacity is needed to allocate the necessary raw materials for domestic ethanol production.

Biofuels and flex-fuel vehicles, which can primarily run on biofuels, need to be considered.

Following articles have been covered in the 7 PM Editorial-

1. Inflation management: Time to explore an alternative paradigm [Live Mint]

7 PM Link- Inflation Management in India-Present Challenges-Explained Pointwise

2. Don’t Wait For The Law To Do What You Should [Times of India]

7 PM Link- Women Reservation Bill-Explained Pointwise

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Panel suggests GPS trackers to reduce overcrowding in prisons

Source: The post is based on the article “Panel suggests GPS trackers to reduce overcrowding in prisons”  published in The Hindu on 21st September 2023

What is the News?

The Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs has released a report titled ‘Prison-Conditions, Infrastructure, and Reforms’.

What has been the status of Prisons in India?

According to the Prison Statistics published by the National Crime Record Bureau for 2021, there are 1,319 prisons in India with a total capacity of 4,25,609 prisoners.The actual inmates are 5,54,034 which shows that the occupancy capacity rate is 130.2%. 

Of the total inmates, the number of undertrial prisoners is 4,27,165 and the number of convicted prisoners is 1,22,852. 

The occupancy of women prisoners has been increased and the prisons are understaffed by approximately 30% of the required strength.

Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of undertrial prisoners, accounting for 21.21% of the country’s total while Delhi has the highest percentage of undertrial prisoners, comprising 91% of its total inmate population.

Prisons are understaffed by approximately 30% of the required personnel.

What are the key recommendations given by the Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs?

Use of Technology: Bail is often denied for three primary reasons: concerns that the undertrial prisoner might influence or intimidate witnesses, attempt to flee the country or commit additional crimes.

– To overcome this problem, the panel said that technology can be used to produce cost-effective bracelets or anklet trackers that can be worn by the prisoners who have procured bail and are out of prison on bail.

– However, this method should be used on a voluntary basis after procuring the consent of inmates.

Overcrowding of jails: The panel recommended that prisoners from overcrowded jails may be transferred to other jails with vacant cells in the same State or other States. 

Lack of jamming capability: The panel highlighted the inadequate jamming capabilities in many State Prison Departments, with some only able to block 2G and 3G network signals.This lack of jamming technology has led to the frequent smuggling of mobile phones into prisons, posing a potential security hazard.

India wins bid to host 17th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement

Source: The post is based on the article “India wins bid to host 17th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement”  published in PIB on 21st September 2023

What is the News?

India has won the bid to host the prestigious International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (ICCC) at New Delhi in 2027.

What is the International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement(ICCC)?

International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement(ICCC) is the largest and most prestigious event of its kind which reviews the progress of research in the area of Cement and Concrete. 

The congresses have been held generally at intervals of four to six years since 1918.

The 9th Congress was organized at New Delhi in 1992 by National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM) and the present 16th ICCC is being held at Bangkok, Thailand.

What is the National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM)?

National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM) is an apex Research and Development organization under the administrative control of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Purpose: It is dedicated to research, technology development & transfer, education & industrial services for cement, allied building materials & construction industries.

Significance: NCCBM has a proven track record of executing biennial NCB International Seminars/Conferences of similar magnitude, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.

India’s Cement Industry:

India is the fifth largest economy and is likely to become third largest by the next five years.

India’s cement industry is second largest in the world with installed cement capacity of 600 million tonnes. 

The cement industry in India plays a key role in the circular economy framework in the country by utilizing various industrial wastes and is having one of the lowest CO2 footprints and most energy efficient in the world. 

ICG Pollution-Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prahari’ carries out Pollution Response Table-Top exercise with Thai officials at Khlong Toei Port in Bangkok

Source: The post is based on the article “ICG Pollution-Control Vessel ‘Samudra Prahari’ carries out Pollution Response Table-Top exercise with Thai officials at Khlong Toei Port in Bangkok”  published in PIB on 21st September 2023

What is the News?

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, has embarked on an overseas deployment to ASEAN countries.

This initiative was announced during the ASEAN Defence Minister Meeting Plus meeting in Cambodia in November 2022.

During this deployment, the ship is scheduled to make port calls in Bangkok(Thailand), Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), and Jakarta(Indonesia).

What is Samudra Prahari?

Indian Coast Guard’s Samudra Prahari is a specialized Pollution Control Vessel.

Key Features: The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art pollution response and control equipment including containment equipment like Hi-Sprint Booms and river booms to prevent spread of oil spill, oil spill recovery devices such as skimmers and side sweeping arms and storage devices in the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone.

– The ship is capable of unhindered oil recovery operations with storage capacity of 500 KL.

– The vessel is designed to operate twin-engine Advanced Light Helicopters and to operate and embark Chetak helicopter. 

– The ship also has unmanned machinery operation capability also.

Government comes out with a new set of National Awards in the field of Science, Technology and Innovation known as “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar’’

Source: The post is based on the article “Government comes out with a new set of National Awards in the field of Science, Technology and Innovation known as “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar”  published in PIB on 21st September 2023

What is the News?

The Government of India has come out with a new set of National Awards in the field of Science, Technology and Innovation known as “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar’’.

What are Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Awards?

Objective: To recognize the notable and inspiring contribution made by the scientists, technologists, and innovators individually or in teams in various fields of science, technology and technology­ led innovation.

Eligibility: Scientists/ technologists/innovators working in government, private sector organizations or any individual working outside any organization, who have made distinguished contributions in terms of path-breaking research or innovation or discovery in any field of science, technology, or technology- led innovation shall be eligible for the awards. 

– People of Indian Origin staying abroad with exceptional contributions benefiting the Indian communities or society shall also be eligible for the awards. 

Categories: The awards shall be given in following four categories:

– Vigyan Ratna(VR) award will recognize lifetime achievements & contributions made in any field of science and technology.

– Vigyan Shri (VS) award will recognize distinguished contributions in any field of science and technology.

– Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) award will recognize & encourage young scientists up to the age of 45 years who made an exceptional contribution in any field of science and technology.

– Vigyan Team (VT) award to be given to a team of three or more scientists/ researchers/ innovators who have made an exceptional contribution working in a team in any field of science and technology.

Domains: The awards shall be given in the 13 domains, namely Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mathematics & Computer Science, Earth Science, Medicine, Engineering Sciences, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Technology & Innovation, Atomic Energy, Space Science and Technology, and Others.

Committee: All nominations received for the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar awards shall be placed before the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Committee (RVPC) to be headed by the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to Government of India and comprising Secretaries of Science Departments, members of Science and Engineering Academies and some distinguished scientists and technologists from different fields of science and technology.

Nominations and awards ceremony: The nominations for the awards will be invited every year on 14th January which would remain open till 28th February (National Science Day) every year. 

– These awards shall be announced on 11th May (National Technology Day) every year.The Award Ceremony for all categories of awards will be held on 23rd August (National Space Day).All Awards will have a Sanad & a medal.

China, U.S. and India absent at U.N.’s Climate Ambition Summit

Source: The post is based on the article “China, U.S. and India absent at U.N.’s Climate Ambition Summit”  published in The Hindu on 22nd September 2023

What is the News?

The Climate Ambition Summit (CAS) held in New York, as part of the United Nations General Assembly has been concluded.

What is the Climate Ambition Summit?

Convened by: The United Nations Secretary-General at United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Purpose: The Summit represents a critical political milestone for demonstrating that there is collective global will to accelerate the pace and scale of a just transition to a more equitable renewable-energy based, climate-resilient global economy. 

Criteria for speaking at the summit: The criteria for countries to be considered for a speaking slot at the summit were that they would be expected to 1) present updated pre-2030 Nationally Determined Contributions (as agreed in Glasgow) 2) updated net-zero targets 3) energy transition plans with commitments to no new coal, oil and gas 4) fossil fuel phase-out plans 5) more ambitious renewable energy targets 6) Green Climate Fund pledges and 7) economy-wide plans on adaptation and resilience.

What are the key highlights from the Climate Ambition Summit?

The summit was marked by the absence of major economies whose actions significantly influence the future of global emissions.

For instance, China, the U.S and India — which collectively account for about 42% of global greenhouse gas emissions and are the top three emitters in that order — were all absent from the summit.

India’s neighbours Sri Lanka, Nepal and Pakistan were among the listed speakers at the summit.The European Union, Germany, France and Canada also attended the summit.

What is India’s last Climate pledge?

India last updated its climate pledges in 2022.Its pledges were: 1) reducing emissions intensity — or the volume of emissions per unit of gross domestic product (GDP) — by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030, a 10% increase from what it agreed to in 2015 2) meet 50% of its electric power needs from renewable, non-fossil fuel energy sources — up from 40% committed at the Paris agreement and 3) create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of Co2-equivalent [GtCO2e] through additional forest and tree cover by 2030.

Government launches Innovative Mobile Application and Web Portal for General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES) to Revolutionize Farming Practices

Source: The post is based on the article “Government launches Innovative Mobile Application and Web Portal for General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES) to Revolutionize Farming Practices”  published in PIB on 21st September 2023

What is the News?

Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare(DA&FW) has launched the mobile application and the web portal for GCES (General Crop Estimation Survey).

What is the General Crop Estimation Survey(GCES)?

Estimates of crop production are obtained by multiplying the area under crop and the yield rate. 

The yield rate estimates are based on scientifically designed crop cutting experiments conducted under the General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES). 

What are the key features of the mobile application and the web portal for GCES (General Crop Estimation Survey)?

Comprehensive Information: The portal and the app provide a comprehensive repository of yield estimation including village wise GCES plan and plot details where the crop cutting experiments are conducted, post harvesting crop weight and driage weight of the crop.

Geo-referencing: Geo-referencing is one of the key features of the mobile application, which enables the primary worker to draw the boundary of the experimental plot and upload photos of the plot as well as of the crops through it.This feature will ensure transparency and accuracy of the data as well.

What are the key challenges addressed by GCES Web Portal and Mobile Application?

Delay in Reporting: Till date data collection, compilation and yield estimation is a completely manual process which causes delay in reporting by states. 

– In the new process, the field data will be collected using GPS enabled mobile application and will be stored in the server which ensures on time reporting of crop statistics.

Transparency: GPS enabled devices provide precise latitude and longitude coordinates for data collection points. This information ensures that data is linked to specific geographic locations, leaving no room for ambiguity or manipulation of data regarding where it was collected.

Rajya Sabha clears women’s reservation bill unanimously

Source: The post is based on the article “Rajya Sabha clears women’s reservation bill unanimously”  published in The Hindu on 22nd September 2023

What is the News?

Parliament has passed the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023 or the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

The Bill seeks to reserve one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.

What are the key provisions of Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023?

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What is the participation of women in Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies?

Parliament: Women’s representation in Lok Sabha has increased from 5% in the first Lok Sabha to 15% in the current Lok Sabha.

Currently, 15% of Lok Sabha MPs and 13% of Rajya Sabha MPs are women.

The highest proportion of women representatives elected to Lok Sabha so far was in the 2019 elections, but it was nearly 15% of total membership while the highest proportion of women representatives to Rajya Sabha stood at 12.7% in 2014.

Among parties with more than 10 seats in Lok Sabha, 42% of Biju Janata Dal(BJD) MPs and 39% of Trinamool Congress(TMC) MPs are women. In Rajya Sabha, 17% of Indian National Congress (INC) MPs are women.

State Assemblies: No state has more than 20% women representation in its Assembly .Chhattisgarh has the highest representation with 18% women MLAs while Himachal Pradesh has just one woman MLA and Mizoram has none.

Rare metal Vanadium, key for batteries, discovered in India’s Gujarat

Source: The post is based on the article “Rare metal Vanadium, key for batteries, discovered in India’s Gujarat”  published in All India Radio on 22nd September 2023

What is the News?

Vanadium, a rare metal, has been discovered from the Gulf of Khambhat in Gujarat.

What is Vanadium?

Vanadium is a medium-hard, steel-blue metal.It rarely exists as a free element in nature but can be found in about 65 different minerals, including magnetite, vanadinite, carnotite and patronite. 

Largest Producer: Brazil is the world’s largest exporter of vanadium followed by Russia and South Africa.Brazil alone is responsible for nearly one-quarter of the metal’s global export market.

– China has the highest vanadium reserves in the world 

Applications of Vanadium:

Vanadium is used primarily as an alloying element in Iron & Steel Industry as it imparts toughness and strength to steel.

Modern applications of vanadium include its use as vanadium secondary batteries for power plants and rechargeable vanadium redox batteries(VRB) for commercial applications. 

– The main advantages of vanadium redox batteries(VRB) are 1) It can offer almost unlimited capacity simply by using sequentially larger storage tanks 2) can be left completely discharged for long periods of time with no ill effects 3) can be recharged by replacing the electrolyte if no power source is available to charge it 4) suffers no permanent damage if the electrolytes are accidentally mixed and 5) has also been shown to have the least ecological impact of all energy storage technologies.

Defence and aerospace: Vanadium holds significant importance as a crucial raw material in strategic domains like defense and aerospace. 

– For example, alloys combining vanadium with titanium and aluminum are employed in the manufacturing of components for jet engines and high-speed aircraft frames.

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

7 PM Editorial of the day: Inflation Management in India-Present Challenges- Explained Pointwise