Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

• Santiniketan chronicles: Unesco tag adorns the idyllic haven

GS Paper 2

• Taking India back to the drawing board
• Politicising exchanges
• An economic corridor, the Israel link and the geopolitics
• Fukushima N-wastewater controversy
• Not Just Oil- New momentum in ties between India and Saudi Arabia could be a game changer
• Gap between law and justice
• Covert action is a troublesome but often useful tool of statecraft

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 1

Santiniketan chronicles: Unesco tag adorns the idyllic haven

News: Santiniketan was recently granted UNESCO World Heritage site status. It’s now the 41st site in India and the third in West Bengal to receive this prestigious recognition.

The other two World Heritage sites in West Bengal are Sundarbans National Park and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway as part of Mountain Railways of India.

What is Santiniketan?

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Visva-Bharati was declared an institution of national importance in 1951 and evolved into a central university through an Act of Parliament.

After the inclusion of Santiniketan in the UNESCO World Heritage site List, Visva-Bharati became the only living institution to receive this prestigious tag.

How did Santiniketan achieve the UNESCO World Heritage site status?

Santiniketan’s UNESCO World Heritage nomination initially in 2009 faced rejection by International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). In 2021, a revised nomination was prepared with simplifications.

Moreover, in order to achieve UNESCO recognition, sites must have outstanding universal value (OUV) and meet at least one of the 10 selection criteria.

Hence, to meet UNESCO criteria, the focus shifted from “gurukul” and “tapoban” traditions to highlighting ensemble art, architecture, and Pan-Asian culture, making it more tangible for recognition.

The revised proposal positioned Santiniketan as a symbol of India’s new modernity.

Further, during the period of independence struggle and revivalism, Santiniketan shifted away from Western influences, embracing Indian crafts, local materials, and folk and classical Indian art.

This fusion created a harmonious blend of Balinese, Burmese, Chinese, and Japanese traditions in this living heritage site.

What challenges does Santiniketan face now after it has attained UNESCO World Heritage site status?

The challenge now is preserving this status. For this, strict conditions must be upheld, and haphazard construction should be avoided to prevent a situation like Dresden.

Dresden lost its UNESCO status in 2009 when it built a four-lane bridge within its cultural landscape.

Further, ICOMOS conducted an onsite visit to Santiniketan two years ago, resulting in strict regulations against construction within the ashram area.

However, the presence of physical barriers has sparked debates, as it appears to contradict Tagore’s concept of openness.

Therefore, preserving the serene atmosphere of Patha-Bhavana, where classes take place under the shade of mango trees, remains a priority.

Must Read: Tagore’s home Santiniketan added to UNESCO World Heritage List and For Santiniketan, Unesco World Heritage status has been a decade-long wait

What lies ahead?

Balancing tourism and preserving its educational mission is a challenge for Santiniketan. Therefore, to manage this, it’s considering phasing visitor entry and preparing to welcome tourists with new signage while also maintaining its educational vibrancy and rich heritage.

GS Paper 2

Taking India back to the drawing board

News– The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2023, which promises 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha, and in the Legislative Assemblies of States sheds the spotlight on the delimitation of electoral constituencies.

What are past delimitation exercises taken by the government?

Since the 1970s, the number of Lok Sabha seats has remained unchanged. The Constitution (Forty-Second Amendment) Act of 1976 froze the delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies based on the 1971 Census, up until the Census 2001.

In 2001, this deadline was extended to 2026 through an amendment to Article 82 by the Constitution (Eighty-Fourth Amendment) Act.  Boundaries of electoral constituencies were redrawn in 2002. But, the total number of Lok Sabha seats remained the same.

What are issues in conducting a fresh delimitation?

The freeze on delimitation- It was imposed in 1976 to address the concerns of states actively involved in population control. They were facing the possibility of a reduction in their Lok Sabha seats.

The allocation based on the 1971 Census remains unchanged despite India’s significant population growth since then.

Using 1971 figures to represent the present population contradicts the principles of the Constitution and distorts the essence of representative democracy.

Issues related to federalism and the representation of states- The northern states have experienced faster population growth compared to the southern states.

This means that Members of Parliament (MPs) from northern states represent more voters than their counterparts in the south.

The delimitation has significant implications for both individual voters and states. Southern states may potentially lose some of their parliamentary seats once the delimitation exercise is completed based on current population figures.

Population data for the delimitation- The 2021 Census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Union Home Minister has indicated that the next Census and subsequent delimitation will take place after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Recent examples- The recent delimitation process in Assam highlighted widespread concerns about altering district boundaries and renaming constituencies, potentially impacting the representation of specific communities.

For more reading- Delimitation

Politicising exchanges

News– Recently, Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur cancelled his visit to China to protest the last-minute denial of entry to three Indian Wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh.

Why is denial of entry to athletes a cause of concern?

The three athletes were granted the necessary accreditation to travel along with the rest of the Indian team to the Games.

The decision to prevent the athletes from travelling is punitive because digital accreditations, not visas, were required for their travel.

What are other examples of China using the sporting event as a tool of foreign policy to counter India?

China has issued stapled visas to Indian citizens from Arunachal Pradesh. In July, three wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh who were supposed to participate in the World University Games in Chengdu received stapled visas.

In February of the previous year, Beijing selected the commander of the People’s Liberation Army involved in the Galwan Valley clash as one of the torchbearers for the Winter Olympics.

Why is China indulging in such types of practices?

The recent action by China highlights the ongoing lack of trust in bilateral relations and the absence of effective communication channels to address long-standing issues.

As per Indian stand, normalizing relations will not be possible until the disengagement process along the Line of Actual Control is completed and peace is restored in border areas.

An economic corridor, the Israel link and the geopolitics

News– The 2023 summit of the G-20 under India’s presidency went exceptionally well given the group’s limited economic approach to the complex issues that the world faces

How India achieved significant success at this year’s G20 summit in early September?

Incorporation of the African Union into the G-20.,

A concrete proposal for clean energy cooperation through a biofuel alliance.

A substantial increase in aid for Asia-Africa initiatives.

the development of an economic corridor called “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.” It will link India, West Asia, and Europe through an ambitious rail and shipping network.

An unprecedented presence from the Middle East.

Issuance of the Delhi Declaration- India was able to develop consensus for declaration despite the current fragmented international order and power dynamics.

It refrains from explicitly naming Russia for its actions in Ukraine. However, it provides reference to the principles outlined in the United Nations charter and emphasises territorial sovereignty.

What is the significance of “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor”?

This has the potential to reshape the geopolitics of the future. Its significance goes beyond merely challenging China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

U.S. President Joe Biden has described it as a “real big deal,” acknowledging its transformative impact on all parties involved and the global landscape.

Why did Israel not receive such an invitation during the G20?

It could have been challenging to arrange a meeting between Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Mr. Netanyahu without diplomatic normalisation.

President Biden might have preferred an event without Mr. Netanyahu due to domestic political considerations, as he had avoided meeting him for the past eight months.

Fukushima N-wastewater controversy

News– Recently, the Japanese government revealed its intentions to gradually release over one million tonnes of contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.  It has raised a concern among the public, both domestically and internationally.

What are the concerns of the public?

Various methods have been employed to treat the contaminated water. One of them is the Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), which eliminates 62 types of radioactive materials. However, tritium is not removed during the treatment process.

As per the Japanese government, the concentration of tritium in the treated water does not exceed international standards set by the IAEA. The concentration of tritium in the treated water is six times lower than the World Health Organization’s limit.

The chemical extraction of tritium from wastewater is virtually impossible because tritium is chemically identical to hydrogen.

There is evidence suggesting that even exposure to low levels of radiation can have adverse effects on both human health and the environment.

Tritium is readily absorbed by living organisms and rapidly distributed throughout their bodies via the bloodstream. Moreover, it can cross the placenta. It can lead to developmental issues in babies if ingested by pregnant women.

Releasing the water appears to be the only viable option due to limited space around the Fukushima plant and the potential for leaks. Storing the water elsewhere throughout the country would significantly increase both costs and the risk of leaks.

How is this affecting regional politics?

The Japanese Prime Minister and South Korean President publicly consumed seafood after the wastewater discharge began. This public act aimed to bolster public trust in the water treatment process.

Transparency concerning the treatment and release process has been crucial, especially in Japan’s relations with South Korea.

For both Mr. Kishida and Mr. Yoon, the water discharge presents more of a geopolitical challenge than a health issue. Historical tensions still strain their relations today. However, both leaders have been working to improve relations.

Japanese authorities have engaged with regional counterparts, such as South Korea, China, and Russia, to discuss the wastewater treatment and release plan since 2021.

Why has China adopted a hardline stance?

China’s response to the wastewater issue should be viewed within a broader geopolitical context.

Recent Japan-China relations have been impacted due to China expanding its military presence in the South China Sea. This has fueled nationalist sentiments on both sides, making the wastewater issue significant.

China is also monitoring the deepening relationship between South Korea and Japan. China is uncomfortable with the growing closeness between South Korea and Japan. It aims to exploit the strategic divisions between the two.

Not Just Oil- New momentum in ties between India and Saudi Arabia could be a game changer

News: The article discusses growing friendly relations between India and Saudi Arabia. It mentions a recent visit by the Saudi Crown Prince to India, leading to many agreements between the two countries. Saudi Arabia is investing in India’s energy and technology sectors. This improved relationship benefits both nations.

What are the new developments in India-Saudi relations?

Enhanced Bilateral Ties: The Saudi Crown Prince, Muhammad bin Salman, recently visited India, marking his second state visit in four years, highlighting strengthened relations.

Economic Collaboration: The nations have seen trade soar to $52.75 billion in 2022-23, with Saudi Arabia investing $50 billion in energy projects in India, including a Maharashtra refinery.

Strategic Initiatives: India and Saudi Arabia have proposed the IMEC (India-Middle East-European Corridor) to rival China’s Belt-Road-Initiative, aiming to enhance port-railroad connectivity between India, the Gulf countries, and the European Union.

Agreements Concluded: Eight major MoUs were signed in diverse areas like finance, technology, and desalination during the bilateral meet.

Investment in Technology: Saudi Arabia is diversifying its investments, pledging another $50 billion, and plans to open a Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund office in Gujarat International Fin-Tech City.

How does this relationship benefit both countries?

Benefits to India:

Stable Trade Partner: With trade at $52.75 billion in 2022-23, Saudi Arabia is a significant partner for India.

Enhanced Energy Security: Saudi Arabia has been a reliable source of crude oil for India, addressing its energy needs.

Foreign Capital Influx: Saudi Arabia’s commitment to investing $50 billion in energy projects and another $50 billion in different sectors bolsters India’s economy.

Benefits to Saudi Arabia:

Economic Diversification: Collaborating with India supports Saudi Arabia’s 2030 vision to develop a post-oil economy.

Enhanced Global Reach: The proposed IMEC project and BRICS induction would increase Saudi Arabia’s global influence and connectivity.

Access to Skilled Workforce: Saudi Arabia values the role of Indian expatriates in its development.

Gap between law and justice

News: This article is talking about new criminal law Bills in India. The government says these will strengthen law and order by reducing crime. But the article argues that the law focuses too much on individuals and ignores social reasons for crime. It claims real change needs broader reforms in the whole criminal justice system, not just laws.

Why is the new bill not the solution to crime?

Overemphasis on Individual Responsibility: The new bill focuses predominantly on blaming and punishing individual offenders, overlooking the socially rooted nature of crimes.

Ignorance of Societal and Environmental Factors: The legislation doesn’t consider the significant influence of socio-economic status, social upbringing, education, and environmental factors on a person’s decision-making process and risk-taking behavior.

Lack of Broader Institutional Reform: The article suggests that the bills fail to address the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the entire criminal justice system, including police, investigation mechanisms, criminal courts, and support services.

Reproduction of Existing Provisions: Many provisions in the new bills are just reproductions of existing laws, indicating a lack of genuine innovation or a real overhaul in the approach to criminal law or criminal justice.

Political Motivation: The article implies that the bills are more of a populist move, with the actual motivation being deeply political in nature, offering an illusion of strict action from the state without addressing the real problems that plague the criminal justice system.

Covert action is a troublesome but often useful tool of statecraft

News: This article discusses accusations that India was involved in a targeted killing in Canada, highlighting that many countries use covert actions like this. It suggests that whether such actions are acceptable depends on their effectiveness and management of consequences. The article urges India and Canada to resolve their differences diplomatically for mutual benefit.

Was India involved in a targeted killing in Canada?

The article discusses allegations against India, suspecting its involvement in the targeted killing of Hardeep Singh Nijar in Canada.

However, there’s not sufficient public information to conclusively confirm India’s role in this incident.

The situation has led to tensions between India and Canada, with Canada raising concerns and India denying involvement.

A.S. Dulat, a former Indian intelligence chief, has clearly stated that Indian intelligence officers are opposed to such actions and do not engage in assassinations.

Are covert actions acceptable?

State Practices: Many sovereign states, including democracies, use covert actions to safeguard their interests.

Historical Data:

Israel has carried out over 1800 covert operations.

The U.S. executed 48 targeted killings under George W. Bush and 353 during Obama’s tenure.

Morality vs Effectiveness: The realist perspective values the effectiveness of covert actions over their moral implications. The actions are risky and require careful management to avoid unintended consequences.

Indian Intelligence Stance: India, as represented by former R&AW chief A.S. Dulat, claims a strong opposition to targeted killings and asserts that they do not engage in assassinations.

Global Perspective: Many states, including those not labeled as ‘rogue’, have been involved in covert actions to protect their interests, indicating a broader acceptance or practice of such actions globally.

What should be done?

Diplomatic Engagement: The article explicitly suggests that India and Canada need to engage diplomatically to reconcile their differences and rebuild trust.

GS Paper 3

The Job Question – on unemployment data

News: This article says India’s economy recovered well after the pandemic with a 9.1% rise in GDP. But, jobs, especially for women and young graduates, didn’t see the same recovery. Many women are in unpaid, self-employment roles. Youth unemployment is high, especially for educated people, suggesting many jobs are not quality. The article suggests this issue needs attention for India’s future development.

How has India’s economy recovered?

Economic Recovery

India’s GDP rose 9.1% in 2021-22, marking a sharp recovery and surpassing pre-Covid levels to ₹149.25 lakh crore.

Employment Trends

The unemployment rate fell to 6.6% in 2021-22, over two percentage points lower than 2019-20, showing increased employment post-Covid.

Employment data showed an increase in both men and women working post-Covid.

Women’s Employment

While more women are working, many are in self-employment and unpaid roles, indicating a structural deterioration in job quality for women.

Youth Unemployment

The unemployment rate for educated youth is over 20% until the age of 29, highlighting the lingering issue of job scarcity and quality for the young population.

Why addressing employment issues crucial for India’s development?

Importance of Women’s Employment: Addressing women’s employment is crucial as many are relegated to self-employment and unpaid work, reflecting structural deterioration in women’s job quality.

Youth Unemployment Concerns: Addressing this issue is vital to harness the potential of the young population.

Economic Stress: The 2% lower inflation-adjusted monthly earnings in 2021-22 compared to 2017-18 signal underlying economic stress, necessitating attention to job quality and opportunities.

Contribution to Development: Addressing these employment concerns is indispensable for leveraging the contribution of women and the youth, critical components for propelling India towards becoming a developed economy.

Swift death of the ‘Green Consensus’

News: This article discusses how, between 2020-2023, global leaders aimed for “green growth” in economic recovery plans to combat climate change. However, by late 2023, this consensus seems fragile and potentially reversible due to various challenges and shifting political priorities in several countries.

How does the green growth consensus build after the pandemic?

Global Leaders’ Agreement: After the pandemic, leaders worldwide leaned into greener recovery packages. For instance, Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act in the U.S. allocated almost $370 billion for clean energy.

China’s Green Push: President Xi Jinping targeted newer, less carbon-intensive sectors. By 2023, China stood responsible for nearly half of the world’s low-carbon spending. The nation’s ambition was for carbon emissions to peak before 2030.

European Union’s Roadmap: The EU quickly approved a $1.2 trillion roadmap for green investments over the next decade, funded by new carbon tariffs on imports and member states’ contributions.

Developing Countries’ Initiatives: Countries like India, South Africa, Indonesia, and Vietnam initiated reforms. Notably, India aimed to triple its renewable energy by 2030 and targeted carbon neutrality by 2070.

Private Sector’s Participation: Businesses worldwide focused on decarbonisation. Investments favored projects with high environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scores.

What are the challenges to the green growth consensus?

U.S. Political Turmoil: The United States faces the risk of having a climate-sceptic leader by 2025, which could reverse current green policies. The Inflation Reduction Act is also potentially weakened by compromises and lacks a carbon tax.

European Implementation Issues: Europe faces difficulties in green policy execution. Germany is reopening coalfields due to the Russian invasion, and there’s a delay in the implementation of many provisions of the Green Deal due to objections from various sectors.

UK Policy Reversals: The United Kingdom, after a narrow election victory, has reversed many green policies, prioritizing voter appeasement over environmental considerations.

China’s Re-evaluation: China is revisiting coal power due to power shortages and geopolitical conditions, approving new coal plants rapidly.

Depth of Global Commitment: The global commitment to green growth is questioned, as it seems the focus is more on economic growth and job creation, revealing a hesitancy to make genuine sacrifices for climate action.

Managing flows – Govt’s dependence on foreign funds should be limited

News: JP Morgan’s recent announcement about including Government of India (GoI) bonds in its emerging market government bond index has generated significant excitement in financial markets and the government.

What does this mean for Indian bonds?

JP Morgan’s decision to include Government of India (GoI) bonds in its emerging market government bond index is expected to result in $24 billion being deployed in GoI bonds, as India will have a weighting of 10% in the index.

As more assets track this index over time, the inflow of funds is likely to grow, and other indices may also consider inclusion GoI bonds over time, encouraging even active fund managers to increase allocation to GoI bonds.

What implications does this hold for the Indian economy?

The increase in demand for GoI bonds will reduce the borrowing cost for the government. Lower yields on GoI bonds could also benefit states and corporations by reducing their borrowing costs.

Additionally, the influx of foreign capital can help finance the current account deficit. These inclusions in international indices, which attract passive investment flows, are considered stable.

Moreover, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) began issuing GoI bonds to non-resident investors via the fully accessible route after a reference in the Union Budget 2020-21 indicated that certain bond categories would be fully open to foreign investors.

What are the risks associated?

There are risks associated with tapping foreign savings to finance the fiscal deficit, even if the debt is denominated in the domestic currency:

Increased volatility in bond and currency markets: Even passive flows can exhibit significant volatility at times of macroeconomic instability. This could lead to heightened volatility in both bond and currency markets.

Upward pressure on the currency: An increased level of debt flows could also put upward pressure on the currency, affecting the competitiveness of India’s tradable sector.

As a result, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may need to be more vigilant and intervene in the market to manage volatility.

What can be the way ahead?

First, if the idea is to lower the cost of money, it can be achieved by reducing the general government budget deficit, which will reduce the demand on domestic savings and bring down the cost of money and inflation.

Second, the fiscal deficit is usually higher in India than in its peers, which can crowd out the private sector. Increased foreign investment should not be seen as a way to run higher deficits. Instead, the government should be more disciplined.

Third, India needs to import capital for investment, but it has favored direct equity investment due to its advantages. Any shift from this stance should be carefully considered.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Hoysala temples on UNESCO heritage list: What sets the ‘Sacred Ensembles’ apart, what stories they tell

Source: The post is based on the article “Hoysala temples on UNESCO heritage list: What sets the ‘Sacred Ensembles’ apart, what stories they tell”  published in Indian Express on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

Three Hoysala-era temples in Karnataka made it to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, under the collective entry of ‘Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas’.

What are Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas?

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What makes Hoysala Temples architecture stand out?

Use of Soapstone: Hoysala temples are known for their intricate sculptures, and this is made possible by the use of soapstone, which is easy to carve.These sculptures depict various subjects, including animals, daily life scenes and stories from epics and Puranas, providing insights into the society of that era.

Unique Confluence of Styles: Hoysala architecture combines three distinct architectural styles – mainstream Dravidian architecture (seen in Pallava and Chola temples), Vesara style (a variant of Dravida style from Chalukya and Rashtrakuta temples), and North Indian Nagara style. This blend of styles was influenced by the Hoysalas military expeditions to different regions, bringing in diverse artistic influences.

Star-Shaped Platforms: Hoysala temples are typically constructed on star-shaped platforms, and they comprise multiple structures within the complex.The walls and pillars are adorned with intricate sculptures, often with rich narratives and descriptions.

Artistic Signatures: A distinctive feature of Hoysala temples is that sculptors and masons left their names and sometimes additional details on the temple structures, providing historical insights into the craftsmen behind these remarkable creations.

Transition to Hinduism: These temples were constructed during a period when Jainism was prevalent in the region, signifying a shift towards Hinduism in the Hoysala dynasty.

What makes the three Hoysala temples on UNESCO list special?

The three Hoysala temples on the UNESCO list are particularly special due to their exceptional preservation and artistic significance:

Chennakesava Temple at Belur: This temple is renowned for its 46 unique pillars (except for four in the central bay) and its intricate sculptures.One of the sculptures, “Darpana Sundari” (lady with the mirror), is believed to be modeled after Queen Shantala Devi.

Kesava Temple in Somanathapura: This temple has a distinctive 16-point star-shaped design and houses three shrines dedicated to Keshava, Janardhana, and Venugopala.Unfortunately, the Keshava statue is now missing.

Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu: Despite its current ruined state, this temple is considered one of the highest achievements of Hoysala architecture.The infinite wealth of sculpture over the exterior of this temple makes it one of the most remarkable monuments of the world and a repository of religious thought expressed in plastic form.

– Halebidu was raided by Malik Kafur, a general of the then Delhi Sultan Alauddin Khalji.

National Education Policy 2020 | Multiple entry, exit option in higher studies may not suit India: House panel

Source: The post is based on the article “National Education Policy 2020 | Multiple entry, exit option in higher studies may not suit India: House panel”  published in The Hindu on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education has released a report titled ‘Implementation of the National Education Policy, 2020 in Higher Education’.

The committee has advised the Union government to hold discussions with stakeholders before implementing the option of multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME) under the national education policy(NEP). 

What is Multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME)?

Source: The Hindu

National education policy(NEP) proposes Multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME).

The system allows students to drop their course and resume it at a later stage as and when they desire or deem it worth pursuing. 

This arrangement will prove to be helpful for those students who cannot continue their studies due to financial, social or any other reason and desire to resume their studies when the conditions become favourable in due course of time.

What are the challenges in implementing MEME according to the Parliamentary Standing Committee?

Predicting Student Flow: MEME looks like a flexible system which is being operated by western educational institutions effectively.But it might not work well in the country.

– This is because in India, with its high population, it is challenging for institutions to predict how many students may exit or join midway.This uncertainty could disrupt the pupil-teacher ratio.

Uneven Distribution of Institutions: The uneven geographical distribution of higher educational institutions, especially in rural areas could create obstacles in implementing MEME effectively.

What are the recommendations given by the committee to implement MEME effectively?

Develop comprehensive guidelines and a well-defined framework for MEME options, including specific eligibility criteria, credit transfer mechanisms providing a clear road map for students pursuing different exit points.

Conduct wider consultations with universities, institutions, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to address the challenges and difficulties associated with MEME implementation.

How is the Kerala Government implementing MEME?

The Kerala government has decided not to implement MEME in colleges and universities in the State. 

The curriculum document of the State had said that the government would allow multiple entry, but exit will be allowed either after three years with a degree or after four years with honours degree.

India and UN launch global capacity building initiative

Source: The post is based on the article “India and UN launch global capacity building initiative”  published in The Hindu on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

India and the United Nations have jointly launched ‘India-UN Capacity Building Initiative’.

What is India-UN Capacity Building Initiative?

Aim: To build the capacity of countries in the Global South by sharing India’s development experiences, best practices, and expertise through capacity-building and training programs.

Under the initiative, the UN-India team and the Gates Foundation will collaborate, utilizing India’s technical and economic cooperation platform to share India’s development experiences and best practices worldwide.

– The initiative will also put into action the development goals established during India’s G20 Presidency, including the G20 Action Plan for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing technology and digital infrastructure.

Significance: The initiative represents a significant step in accelerating progress toward the SDGs through South-South Cooperation, demonstrating India’s commitment to strengthening its development partnership with the Global South.

What is Global South?

The Global South broadly comprises countries in the regions of Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia (excluding Israel, Japan, and South Korea), and Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand), which are generally characterized by relatively low levels of economic and industrial development.

India Achieves Major Sanitation Milestone As 75% Villages Are Now ODF Plus under Swachh Bharat Mission – Grameen

Source: The post is based on the article “India Achieves Major Sanitation Milestone As 75% Villages Are Now ODF Plus under Swachh Bharat Mission – Grameen”  published in PIB on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

India has achieved a significant milestone under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase II, with 75% of its villages now attaining the ODF Plus status. 

What is Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase II?

Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen (SBMG) was launched in 2014.

It is the world’s largest sanitation campaign that led to the construction of over 100 million individual household toilets over a five-year period, taking sanitation coverage from 39% in 2014 to 100% in 2019. 

More than 6 lakh villages declared themselves Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2nd October, 2019.

Having achieved ODF status SBM-G Phase II was launched in 2020-21 with the objective of transforming all the villages from ODF to ODF Plus.

An ODF Plus village is one which has sustained its Open Defecation Free (ODF) status along with implementing either solid or liquid waste management systems.

The major components of the Phase-II of SBM-G are Sustaining Open Defecation Free Status (ODF-S), Solid (Bio-degradable) Waste Management, Plastic Waste Management (PWM), Liquid Waste Management (LWM), Faecal Sludge Management (FSM), GOBARdhan, Information Education and Communication/Behavior Change Communication (IEC/BCC) and Capacity Building.

SBM-G Phase-II has set the ambitious target of making all villages ODF Plus by 2025. 

What is the status of Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase II?

Three-fourth of the total villages in the country i.e 75% villages have achieved ODF Plus status under Phase II of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen).

The top performing States/UTs which have achieved 100% ODF Plus villages are – Andaman & Nicobar Islands, D&N Haveli, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Tripura. 

Among States/UTs – Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Dadra Nagar Haveli & Daman Diu, Jammu & Kashmir and Sikkim have 100% ODF Plus Model villages.

Fourth Gender Samvaad was co-organized by Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission ((DAY-NRLM) and Institute for What Works to Advance Gender Equality (IWWAGE)

Source: The post is based on the article “Fourth Gender Samvaad was co-organized by Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission ((DAY-NRLM) and Institute for What Works to Advance Gender Equality (IWWAGE)”  published in PIB on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

The fourth Gender Samvaad was co-organized by Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural Development and Institute for What Works to Advance Gender Equality (IWWAGE).

What is Gender Samwaad?

Gender Samvaad is co-organized by Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) and Institute for What Works to Advance Gender Equality (IWWAGE).

Aim: To establish a shared platform to generate awareness on DAY-NRLM’s gender interventions across the country with a focus on hearing voices from the states and of SHG members.

What is Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)?

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) was launched in 2011 by the Ministry of Rural Development.

It aims at mobilizing about 9-10 crore rural poor households into Self Help Groups (SHGs) in a phased manner and provide them long-term support such that they diversify their livelihoods, improve their incomes and quality of life.

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What is the Institute for What Works to Advance Gender Equality (IWWAGE)?

IWWAGE is an initiative of LEAD, an action-oriented research centre of IFMR Society (a not for profit society registered under the Societies Act).

Aim: To build on existing research and generate new evidence to inform and facilitate the agenda of women’s economic empowerment. 

IWWAGE is supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Defence Board discusses plan for second Vikrant-like carrier

Source: The post is based on the article “Defence Board discusses plan for second Vikrant-like carrier”  published in The Hindu on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

The Defence Procurement Board (DPB) recently discussed the Navy’s proposal for a second Vikrant-like aircraft carrier, but the proposal has not yet received clearance. 

The final approval will be sought from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by the Defence Minister.

Which are the aircraft carriers currently operated by the Indian Navy?

INS Vikrant (IAC-1): 

INS Vikrant is India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC).It was commissioned in September 2022.

It is a 262-meter-long carrier.It has a full displacement of close to 45,000 tonnes which is much larger and advanced than her predecessor. 

The ship is powered by four Gas Turbines totaling 88 MW power and has a maximum speed of 28 Knots.It has an overall indigenous content of 76%.

The ship is capable of operating an air wing consisting of 30 aircraft.

The ship is also using a novel aircraft-operation mode known as STOBAR (Short Take- Off but Arrested Landing).

It is also equipped with a ski- jump for launching aircraft, and a set of ‘arrester wires’ for their recovery onboard.

INS Vikramaditya- Indian Navy’s Biggest Ship:

Russia’s refurbished Admiral Gorshkov was commissioned into the Indian Navy as INS Vikramaditya at Severodvinsk, Russia in 2013. 

It is a state-of-the-art ship, capable of operating a versatile range of high-performance aircrafts, such as the MiG 29K fighters, KM 31 AEW helicopters, multi-role Seakings and utility Chetaks. 

The ship is over 285 meters long and 60 meters wide, making it the biggest ship in the Indian Navy.

With over 1,600 personnel on board, INS Vikramaditya is literally a ‘Floating City’.

The ship is capable of operations up to a range of over 7,000 nautical miles or 13000 kms. The ship also has the ability to carry over 30 aircrafts.

Arogya Manthan 2023 to mark 5 years of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and 2 years of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission

Source: The post is based on the article “Arogya Manthan 2023 to mark 5 years of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and 2 years of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission”  published in PIB on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

The National Health Authority (NHA), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) is organizing ‘Arogya Manthan’ to celebrate five years of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) and two years of Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).

What is Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)?

AB-PMJAY was launched in 2018.It is the world’s largest Government funded health assurance scheme.

It provides health assurance of up to Rs.5 Lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary healthcare hospitalizations.

It is a completely cashless and paperless scheme.The benefits under AB-PMJAY are portable across the country.

There is no cap on family size, or age or gender.The beneficiary families under the scheme have been identified from the Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC) of 2011 on the basis of select deprivation and occupational criteria across rural and urban areas. 

What is Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission(ABDM)?

ABDM was launched in 2021.It aims at creating a secure online platform based on open, interoperable digital standards. 

This will enable access and exchange of health records of citizens with their consent through services such as the issuance of Health ID, Healthcare Professionals Registry, Health Facility Registry and Health Records. 

This will boost the adoption of digital technologies in healthcare, thereby making quality healthcare more accessible and affordable.

NASA’s OSIRIS-REx: First-ever asteroid sample to drop on Earth

Source: The post is based on the article “NASA’s OSIRIS-REx: First-ever asteroid sample to drop on Earth”  published in Indian Express on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration(NASA) is preparing for the final phase of the OSIRIS-REx mission as the spacecraft is set to drop a capsule containing samples from the asteroid Bennu on Earth.

What is the OSIRIS-REx Mission?

Source: Al Jazeera

OSIRIS-REx stands for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security, Regolith Explorer.The mission was launched by NASA in 2016.

Aim: To travel to a near-Earth asteroid named Bennu and bring a small sample back to Earth for study.

Significance: It is the first U.S. mission to successfully collect a sample from an asteroid.

– Note: Japan is the only other country to bring back asteroid samples.It gathered samples of about a teaspoon in a pair of asteroid missions.

What is Asteroid Bennu?

Click Here to read

Why is the OSIRIS-REx Mission important?

Samples like the one carried by the OSIRIS-REx mission are important because asteroids like Bennu can act as “time capsules” for the earliest history of our solar system. 

They can also preserve chemical signatures from a long time ago when the universe was a younger place.In fact, it is even possible that they contain samples of the ancient building blocks of life.

Aadhaar unreliable in ‘hot, humid’ India: Moody’s

Source: The post is based on the article “Aadhaar unreliable in ‘hot, humid’ India: Moody’s”  published in The Hindu on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

Global rating major Moody’s Investors Service has released a report titled “Decentralized Finance and Digital Assets”.

What are the key findings of the report?

Source: The Hindu

Moody has acknowledged Aadhaar as the world’s largest digital ID program that assigns unique numbers to over 1.2 billion Indian residents using biometric and demographic data.

However, Moody has raised some concerns over Aadhar such as:

Biometric issues: Aadhar often results in service denials and the reliability of biometric technologies especially for manual laborers in hot, humid climates, is questionable.

– These remarks assume significance in view of the government’s adoption of Aadhaar for routing direct benefit transfers to beneficiaries of official welfare schemes and in particular, the use of Aadhaar-based payments for labourers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme.

Centralized Identification system: Aadhaar is a centralized identification system.This leads to the concentration of sensitive information with specific entities and increases the risks of data breaches.Hence, that’s why Moody has favoured adoption of decentralized ID (DID) systems.

– In decentralized ID (DID) systems, personal data is saved in a user’s digital wallet and identity verification takes place not via a single, centralized institution but on a decentralized digital ledger such as a blockchain.This increases privacy and reduces the amount of personal information held by intermediaries.

– For instance, Estonia, known for its fully digitalized public services has embraced SSI [Self-Sovereign Identity] to grant citizens complete control over their digital identities.

– However, digital IDs, centralized or not can have negative social repercussions, since they may strengthen group identities and political divides, particularly if offered by technology and social media companies with significant monopolistic influence.

Mali, Niger, Burkina sign mutual defence pact

Source: The post is based on the article “Mali, Niger, Burkina sign mutual defence pact”  published in The Hindu on 24th September 2023

What is the News?

Military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have signed a mutual defense pact called Liptako-Gourma Charter.

What is Liptako-Gourma Charter?

Liptako-Gourma Charter was signed between military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

The charter establishes the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).The charter aims to establish an architecture of collective defence and mutual assistance for the benefit of the population.

This alliance will be a combination of military and economic efforts between the three countries.

Under this alliance, any attack on one or more signatory states will be considered an attack on all signatories.

Note: Liptako-Gourma region is where the Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger borders meet.The region has been ravaged by armed rebellion in recent years.

Why has this Liptako-Gourma Charter been signed?

The Sahel region has been the site of an ongoing jihadist insurgency since 2011, which has led to many conflicts in the region, such as the Mali War and the Boko Haram insurgency.All three countries states have also experienced military coups in recent years.

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

7 PM Editorial of the day: [Yojana September 2023 Summary]Women Empowerment-Explained Pointwise