Current Affairs Compilations for UPSC IAS Prelims 2022

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

• Bridging the malnutrition gap, the Bemetara way
• PM Narendra Modi writes: G20 will reach the last mile, leave no one behind
• Kota suicides: Our children on the brink
• Chandrayaan 3 success: India’s role in democratising space

GS Paper 3

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Mains Oriented Articles

GS Paper 2

Bridging the malnutrition gap, the Bemetara way

News: The article talks about the significance of nutrition counseling and monitoring in India, showcasing the success of the “Potth Laika Abhiyaan” program in Bemetara, Chhattisgarh. This program substantially decreased malnutrition rates in specific children within nine months.

Why is nutrition security still a challenge?

Government Initiatives: Despite measures like mid-day-meals, the Public Distribution System, and POSHAN Abhiyaan, malnutrition persists.

Knowledge Gap: Many individuals lack the correct knowledge about proper eating and feeding practices.

Myths and Misconceptions: Misbeliefs about food, combined with increased access to highly processed foods, hinder proper nutrition.

Inconsistent Counseling: While various awareness programs exist, nutrition counseling hasn’t been uniformly implemented across states.

What’s happening in Bemetara?

Unexpected Malnutrition Levels: Despite its agricultural richness and relative affluence, Bemetara has a high number of Severe Acute Malnutritioned (SAM) children. As of December 2022, there were 3,299 SAM children, a figure mirroring that of Naxal-affected areas like Bastar.

Core Issue: The primary problem isn’t a lack of food access but insufficient knowledge about proper feeding practices.

Potth Laika Abhiyaan Introduction: This is a nutrition counseling program in place in 72 of the most affected Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) within Bemetara. It operates with technical support from UNICEF, Chhattisgarh.It involves teaching parents about balanced diets, handwashing, and dispelling myths, and local leaders take part while home visits track children’s progress.

Program Details: Ground staff from Health and Women and Child Development departments provide nutrition counseling. Every Friday, parents of SAM and Medium Acute Malnutritioned (MAM) children receive guidance in local language. They learn about balanced diets, the importance of handwashing, and are corrected on food-related myths.

Community Involvement: Local leaders, including sarpanchs and religious heads, have taken part in these counseling sessions. There are also door-to-door visits to monitor the progress of targeted children.

Significant Outcomes: Due to this approach, Within nine months, from December 2022 to July 2023 , 53.77% of targeted children improved their nutritional status.

What should be done to ensure nutrition security in India?

Expand Nutrition Counselling: Given the success in Bemetara, nutrition counselling needs to be consistently implemented across all states.

Uniform Implementation: States should uniformly institutionalize and implement nutrition awareness and counselling.

Training Field Staff: Proper training in nutritional counselling is essential for field staff to effectively guide communities.

Robust Monitoring: Alongside counselling, regular monitoring of children’s nutrition status is crucial.

Replicate Successful Models: Programs like Potth Laika Abhiyaan, which brought significant improvements in Bemetara, should be replicated in other districts and states.

Address Myths: Awareness campaigns should target and dispel dietary myths and misconceptions.

PM Narendra Modi writes: G20 will reach the last mile, leave no one behind

News– The articel explains how Indian G20 presidency can contribute towards a better world.

How the world order after pandemic has undergone significant transformations compared to the pre-pandemic era?

There is an increasing acknowledgment of the necessity to transition from an emphasis on GDP towards prioritizing the well-being of individuals.

There is a heightened acknowledgment of the significance of resilience and dependability within global supply chains.

There is a united call to enhance multilateralism by reforming international institutions on a global scale.

How India is promoting the voice of global south as the President of G20?

The Voice of Global South Summit had representatives from 125 countries. It marked one of the primary initiatives during our Presidency. It served as a significant effort to collect insights and concepts from the Global South.

Indian Presidency witnessed the largest-ever involvement of African nations and advocated for the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20.

How India G20 presidency can contribute for betterment of human lives across the world?

The Chennai High-Level Principles (HLPs) for a Sustainable and Resilient Blue Economy are primarily focused on preserving the health of our oceans.

Indian presidency will pave the way for the establishment of a global network dedicated to clean and environmentally friendly hydrogen, complemented by the creation of a Green Hydrogen Innovation Center.

In 2015, India introduced the International Solar Alliance. Now, through the Global Biofuels Alliance, India will extend our support to facilitate energy transitions that align with the principles of a circular economy.

The democratization of climate action is essential to propel the movement forward. Individuals can make lifestyle decisions with consideration for the planet’s long-term well-being. India has influenced the world with Lifestyles for Sustainable Environment (LiFE).

Ensuring food and nutritional security becomes paramount due to climate change. Millets can play a pivotal role in achieving this goal while promoting climate-smart agriculture.

During the International Year of Millets, India has introduced millets to global culinary preferences. Additionally, the Deccan High-Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition offer valuable guidance in this regard.

Technology holds transformative potential, but it must also be inclusive. India has demonstrated in recent years how technology can be harnessed to reduce inequalities.

The vast number of individuals worldwide who lack access to banking services or digital identities can achieve financial inclusion through the utilization of digital public infrastructure (DPI).

DPI, have garnered global recognition. Now, through the G20, India aim to assist developing nations in adopting, creating, and expanding DPI.

India’s status as the fastest-growing major economy is not coincidental. Our straightforward, scalable, and sustainable solutions have empowered marginalized and vulnerable populations to participate in our development journey.

Across various sectors, Indian women have taken prominent roles. They have shifted the narrative from women’s development to women-led development.

During our G20 Presidency, India is actively working to bridge the gender digital divide, diminish disparities in labor force participation, and promote greater involvement of women in leadership and decision-making roles.

What should be the way forward for G20 to ensure sustainable development?

This year marks the midpoint of the 2030 Agenda. There is growing concern that progress toward the SDGs is lagging behind.

The G20 2023 Action Plan on Accelerating Progress on SDGs will guide the future direction of the G20 in terms of SDG implementation.

Many nations in the Global South are in different stages of development. It is essential that climate action is pursued in tandem with these development stages.

Aspirations for climate action should be accompanied by tangible steps in climate finance and technology transfer.

It’s imperative to shift from a purely restrictive approach to a more constructive approach that emphasizes actions to combat climate change.

Kota suicides: Our children on the brink

News– Kota is getting attention due to high incidence of student suicides over the past decade or longer, with over 100 young lives lost during that period. This year city has recorded 23 suicides.

What are statistics related to suicide among young people?

Suicide is the leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 30, making India the global leader in this age group.

According to the National Crime Records Bureau, in 2020, a student committed suicide every 42 minutes. It equated to 34 student suicides daily. During the same year, 11,396 children below the age of 18 tragically took their own lives.

What are the causes behind increasing tendency among students towards suicidal thoughts?

It reveals the neglect of our society in addressing the emotional needs and vulnerabilities of our children.

Suicidal thoughts or actions result from a complex interplay of various factors. It includes biological, socioemotional, cultural, political, and issues related to social justice.

For young individuals, this complexity can manifest as developmental differences, parental and family expectations, and the discrimination or marginalisation based on caste, religion.

Why suicidal tendencies among stdents in Kota are on rise?

The coaching industry in Kota is estimated to be valued at a staggering Rs 12,000 crore. It prioritises its interests over student well-being.

Its primary concern is to extract maximum benefits from the thousands of students and their families, both financially and in terms of achieving exceptional results.

These results provide them with poster children for their full-page advertisements in national newspapers to attract more students.

To enhance competitiveness, they intensify the pressure through frequent testing, sharing the scores with parents, giving preferential treatment to high-achievers, and ignoring those students who struggle.

Helpless students find themselves trapped in  12-hour daily schedules, seven days a week, without any respite or relief. They have no one to turn to when they experience distress and self-doubt.

There are no mechanisms to accommodate individual differences, no safe spaces for students to share and support each other, and no compassionate, nurturing faculty members who will mentor students.

How is the government paying more attention towards mental health issues?

Prior to the onset of COVID-19, the annual budget allocated to the National Mental Health Programme was a mere Rs 40 crore. However, it has now increased more than threefold to Rs 134 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24.

The government of Rajasthan has taken proactive steps to address the crisis in Kota and has pledged to investigate and implement solutions.

What should be done?

Impulsive reactions and superficial solutions, such as installing fans with springs, using CCTVs, and resorting to punitive measures against scapegoats, will not lead to sustainable improvements.

There is a need for a more profound and sustained commitment involving all stakeholders, including parents, educators, influential institutions, policymakers, professionals, individuals with personal experiences, and young people.

Chandrayaan 3 success: India’s role in democratising space

News– The article explains the the issues related to consideration of space as “global common” and explain the international laws related to concept of “commons”.

Is outer space considered a “global common”?

Some individuals firmly reject the notion that outer space meets the criteria of a “global common”.

Others contend that it should be classified as “global common” in order to secure the freedom of access and benefits for developing nations.

The concept of “global commons” can be examined from two perspectives.

First perspective- It is related to geopolitical prespective. From these viewpoints, security institutions worldwide recognize domains beyond national borders as crucial connecting channels for the international order.

These domains include the high seas, airspace outside a nation’s territory, and outer space,

Some nations also acknowledge outer space as a critical for maintaining their security while upholding international law.

In essence, open access is vital for a nation’s security and economic interests.

Second perspective- The term “global common” is sometimes perceived as restrictive, primarily due to the economic and commercial implications associated with shared resources.

This perspective raises concerns about the potential overuse of these resources by some parties at the expense of others.

What is the meaning of term “global commons”?

The term “global common” is used to refer to areas on Earth that fall outside the jurisdiction of any single nation.

This concept is built upon the legacy of Grotius’s idea of “mare liberum” (free sea), which aimed to preserve the freedom of access and benefits for all.

The United Nations recognizes four “global commons,” including the high seas, the atmosphere, Antarctica, and outer space.

What the intrenational laws says about the concept of “commoms”?

The concept of “commons” is often linked with notions of shared ownership, public governance, or usage limitations.

Additionally, “commons” is occasionally connected with the concept of the “common heritage of mankind” (CHM), as articulated in Article 11(3) of the Moon Agreement of 1979.

CHM introduced a territorial status in which celestial bodies are not subject to national appropriation. Their fruits and resources are considered the property of all humankind. The principle of CHM extends beyond outer space.

In 1970, the UN General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution declaring that “the seabed and ocean floor, beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, along with the resources of the area, are the common heritage of mankind.”

This principle was incorporated as Article 136 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 1982.

In 1957, the United States and the Soviet ensured the adoption of UN General Assembly Resolutions 1721 A&B (XVI) on December 21, 1961.

Subsequently, they consistently adhered to its provisions. All nations with space capabilities have continued to adhere to this established precedent.

The principles outlined in the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 have evolved into customary international law.

Way forward for India-

India is currently at a significant juncture. It presenting an opportunity to actively shape the the future international framework for the management of space resources.

This process would necessitate a thorough examination of the Moon Agreement of 1979 (MA), which entered into force in 1984.

India has signed the MA but ratification is pending. It is also signatories to the Artemis Accords.

India has a history of robust international cooperation in space programs. It has engaged in both multilateral and bilateral collaborations with advanced spacefaring nations, as well as those aspiring to advance their capabilities.

India should now play a role in shaping an international framework for managing space resources.

GS Paper 3

How unemployment is measured?

News: The article talks about challenges and methods for measuring unemployment in India. It points out differences with developed countries due to India’s informal economy. It also mentions that varying definitions and time frames can result in different unemployment rates, and the 2020 lockdown’s impact on these rates may not be accurately reflected due to measurement methods.

What is unemployment?

Unemployment refers to when someone is out of a job, is ready to work, and is actively seeking employment. It doesn’t mean simply being without a job; one must also be searching for work.

To measure unemployment, the number of unemployed people is divided by the total labor force to get the unemployment rate.

In 2017, India’s unemployment rate was 6.1%, but by 2021-22, it decreased to 4.1%.

Comparatively, the U.S. had rates fluctuating between 3.5% in 2022 and 3.7% in 2023. The U.S.’s employment-to-population ratio was 60.8% in 2019 with an unemployment rate of 3.7%.

What are the different methods for measuring unemployment in India?

Methods for Measuring Unemployment in India:

Usual Principal and Subsidiary Status (UPSS):

Considers one’s main activity over the past year.

If someone worked for seven months and was unemployed for five, they are still considered employed under this method.

Current Weekly Status (CWS):

Focuses on an individual’s employment status over the past week.

A person is deemed employed if they’ve worked at least an hour in the past week.

This method often shows higher unemployment rates than UPSS because it captures short-term joblessness.

Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy Approach:

Classifies people based on their activity the day before the interview.

It often reports a higher unemployment rate but lower labor force participation rates because of its focus on daily activity.

What are the challenges for measuring unemployment in India?

Informal Economy:

Many Indians don’t have a single, year-round job.

People might work as a casual laborer one month and as a farmer another, making it hard to consistently classify their employment status.

Social and Cultural Norms:

Many women, particularly in rural areas, might be willing to work but aren’t actively searching due to societal constraints.

In a 2009-10 survey, 33.3% of rural women showed willingness to work if available within their household.

Varied Employment Definitions:

Methods like Usual Principal and Subsidiary Status (UPSS) and Current Weekly Status (CWS) have different time frames and criteria, leading to different unemployment rates.

For instance, UPSS considers someone employed if they worked seven months in a year, even if unemployed for five.

Lockdown Impact:

The 2020 lockdown greatly affected the Indian economy.

Its effects might not be accurately reflected in yearly unemployment rates, given the long-term (UPSS) and short-term (CWS) measures used.

Urban vs. Rural Dynamics:

Unemployment rates are often lower in rural areas due to the nature of agrarian work, even if joblessness exists.

For an expanse of blue, with air so clean

News: The article discusses the severe air pollution crisis, its health impacts, especially in Delhi. It highlights global efforts to combat air pollution crisis, and emphasizes the need for action and global attention to ensure clean air for all.

What’s the situation on air pollution?

Global Situation on Air Pollution:

The earth has entered what the UN Secretary-General calls the “era of global boiling”, emphasizing the urgent challenges of climate change.

Lung cancer deaths reached 10 million globally in 2020 (According to WHO) and could increase by 3.2 million by 2050 (according to Indian National Institute of Health).

India’s Situation on Air Pollution (with a focus on Delhi):

South Asia hosts nine of the world’s 10 most polluted cities; Delhi is a prime example.

Delhi’s air contains high levels of harmful pollutants like SO2, NOX, and particulate matter.

In 2019, air pollution was linked to 1.67 million deaths in India, making up 17.8% of total deaths.

What are the health impacts of air pollution?

Lung Cancer: 10 million deaths worldwide in 2020 were attributed to lung cancer, and this number could increase by 3.2 million by 2050.

Respiratory Ailments: Delhi’s polluted air, laden with pollutants like SO2, NOX, and high particulate matter, affects breathing and exacerbates respiratory conditions.

Cardiovascular Disorders: Polluted air increases the risk of heart diseases due to the inhalation of harmful particles.

Mental Health Issues: Air pollution has been linked to adverse mental health outcomes due to environmental stressors.

Vulnerable Groups at Risk: The air pollution toll is especially high for immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, children, and the elderly.

Staggering Death Rate: In 2019, 1.67 million deaths in India, which is 17.8% of the total deaths, were related to air pollution, highlighting the dire consequences on health.

What measures are being taken to combat the air pollution crisis?

Global Efforts to Combat Air Pollution:

Cities like Ljubljana, Accra, Seville, Bogota, and Medellin are adopting car-free zones, green spaces, and electrified public transportation.

China is transitioning to clean energy and e-mobility.

Indonesia launched a ‘Carbon Efficient Farming’ project to assess biomass and reduce CO2 emissions.

Thailand and Vietnam have initiated measures to decrease open straw burning.

UNESCO introduced a carbon tax on flights and is investing in emission reduction.

The World Air Quality Project provides real-time air quality data to residents.

The “Virtual Meetings” project, in collaboration with UNEP, promotes environmentally conscious digital work.

India’s Efforts to Combat Air Pollution:

The PUSA Decomposer, created by IARI, uses biotechnology to address agricultural pollution.

GRAP 3 (Graded Rapid Action Plan) is a state-level policy monitoring air quality in hotspots.

Green War Rooms have been established for a focused approach.

Innovative startups are transforming agricultural waste into useful products, reducing open field burning.

What should be done?

Acknowledge the Problem: Recognize the severe impacts of air pollution, as 10 million global deaths were due to lung cancer in 2020.

Implementation: Best practices for combating air pollution need to be effectively applied, not just discussed.

Learn from Successful Cities: Adopt methods from cities like Ljubljana and Bogota that have prioritized health and environment.

Prioritize Health: With 1.67 million deaths in India linked to pollution in 2019, health-focused policies are essential.

Innovative Solutions: Support startups converting agricultural waste into valuable products, reducing sources of pollution.

Global Collaboration: While UNESCO and UNEP have taken steps, a global cohesive effort is crucial.

Public Awareness: Educate the public on the importance of clean air and their role in the solution.

GDP: It All Comes Down To Demand

News: The article discusses India’s economic growth, highlighting the strong performance of key sectors. It also points out concerns like the weak monsoon, declining exports, skewed consumption patterns, and the need for more private investments.

What is the growth scenario in India?

India’s Growth Scenario:

GDP Growth: India recorded a 7.8% GDP growth in Q1 FY 23-24, suggesting a robust economic recovery.

Leading Sector: The services sector emerged as the primary growth driver, witnessing a substantial 10.3% increase. For instance, there was notable demand in travel, tourism, and financial services.

Manufacturing Uptick: The manufacturing sector experienced a revival, growing by 4.7%. This improvement came after the sector faced challenges due to high raw material costs, which have since decreased.

Construction’s Role: The construction sector is also on an upward trajectory, benefitting from the government’s emphasis on infrastructure development.

Domestic Spending: There’s a positive sign in domestic consumption, which went up by 4.9% in Q1 23-24. However, this surge is primarily seen in the higher income category.

Investment Landscape: The government currently spearheads investments. For instance, their capital expenditure surged by 59%, overshadowing private sector investment.

Export Challenge: India faces challenges in the export domain, with a decline of 7.7%, largely attributed to the global slowdown.

What are the major concerns to India’s economy?

Major Concerns to India’s Economy:

Weak Monsoon: The deficient monsoon is a concern, affecting agricultural growth. With a growth of just 3.5%, it might lead to higher food prices, impacting the broader economy.

Exports Decline: There’s a 7.7% contraction in exports in Q1 FY 23-24. The global slowdown, especially in merchandise exports, poses challenges to external trade.

Skewed Consumption: While domestic spending increased by 4.9%, consumption largely leans towards the higher income group, indicating a ‘K’ shaped recovery. This can lead to disparities in economic benefits.

Limited Private Investment: Even with promising signs, private sector investment remains restricted. The government is leading, but private sector involvement is essential for sustained growth.

External Threats: With global GDP growth projected to slow further, India faces potential challenges in exports and global economic ties.

Xi’s ‘one mountain, two tigers’ diplomatic puzzle

News– Chinese President Xi Jinping is skipping the G20 summit as India hosts world leaders in Delhi.

How Xi’s absence from the G20 summit in India shows his preference for non-western framework?

Mr. Xi has been a consistent attendee of nearly all G20 summits. It provided him with a global platform to promote China’s narrative.

However, in recent years, Mr. Xi has become convinced that profound changes not seen in a century are taking place. It signifies America’s diminishing role in the global order.

He is growing more optimistic about China’s rise as a powerful challenger to the United States.

There is a newfound dynamism in various alliances connected to China or where China plays a leading role.

A notable contrast can be observed between Mr. Xi’s absence at the Delhi G20 summit and his presence at the Brics summit in South Africa.

Mr. Xi perceives nations joining groupings such as Brics and SCO as a testament to China’s achievements in global affairs.

It is leading Mr. Xi believes that China can become a counterbalance, and form a China-led bloc opposed to US dominance.

Here, Mr. Xi aims to persuade developing nations that China alone holds the key to the “path of prosperity” after Covid pandemic.

Mr. Xi has committed to supporting sustainable development in the Global South. He has established a “South-South Cooperation Fund” totaling $4 billion and allocated a $10 billion fund by Chinese financial institutions to implement his Global Development Initiative.

How China’s grand vision clashes with India’s growing advocacy of issues related to the Global South?

During its tenure as the G20 presidency, India extended invitations to 125 nations for the “Voice of Global South” summit.

India has leveraged its G20 presidency to advocate for the acceleration of reforms within global financial institutions .

India is actively working to secure fertiliser and grain supply chains in light of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Under its G20 presidency, India appears to be gaining global acceptance. It is now perceived as a counterbalance to China.

During its G20 presidency, India hosted foreign delegations in regions such as Jammu & Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh. It is a diplomatic achievement.

How Xi’s recent behaviour will impact the broader India-China relations?

As India’s influence grows, the resolution of the border dispute between the two countries may become even more challenging.

Beijing has escalated tensions by renaming places in Arunachal Pradesh, and issuing stapled visas to its residents, and releasing a map that questions India’s territorial integrity.

China is facing internal challenges, including economic difficulties and rising unemployment. It may lead to increased assertiveness.

Mr. Xi is actively working to establish an alternative international framework and is investing more in alliances associated with China. Furthermore, China’s vision is now in competition with India’s outreach to the Global South.

Let us deploy fiscal federalism against climate change

News: The current climate governance in India is highly centralized, with the central government taking the lead in key areas. Centre is responsible for shaping state-level climate policies via initiatives like the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).

Although states have created their own plans (SAPCCs), they lack coordination, face funding constraints, and do not align with the Centre’s net-zero goal. Thus, there’s a need to strengthen fiscal federalism for climate change.

What can be done to enhance fiscal federalism for climate change?

Define Activities and Map Climate Finance Channels: India should expand its efforts to map the programs being carried out in different states along with the funding sources, building upon the initiatives by Niti Aayog to map programs that have connections to climate change.

Enhance Fund Allocation: A significant portion of funds should be allocated to states using fiscal federal mechanisms that are designated for climate-related initiatives and renewable energy projects.

Strengthen State Capacity: There is a need to strengthen institutional mechanisms for planning, executing, and overseeing various initiatives.

Currently, these mechanisms fall under the centralized administration of the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change.

Incentivize Climate Action: India can provide performance-based rewards to states that make significant progress towards climate goals. States that reduce emissions or increase renewable energy generation could be made eligible for additional grants.

Harmonize Policy: India should unify state-level climate policies and regulations to create a stable environment for businesses and investors. Central government can facilitate coordination and knowledge sharing among states to promote best practices.

Boost Data Gathering and Monitoring Systems: States should establish robust data systems for fiscal federalism to effectively address climate change.

This includes improving climate data quality, implementing monitoring frameworks, and fostering transparency. Standardized data collection and reporting formats can facilitate comparisons and informed decision-making.

Encourage Public-Private Partnerships: India can attract private investment in climate action by providing fiscal incentives, innovative financing models, and risk-sharing arrangements.

Partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil society can also help to mobilize resources and accelerate projects.

Enlarge the Finance Commission’s (FC) role: India’s fiscal federalism, managed by the FC, allocates finances between the central and state governments.

While the FC addresses disaster management and considers forest cover in its horizontal distribution formula, this measure falls short in addressing ecological challenges.

Hence, the upcoming 16th Finance Commission may develop a net-zero plan with medium-term funding structures for subnational levels. Future Commissions should also address this issue comprehensively, ensuring fairness among states.

Over 30% UPI frauds in 3 states

News: India recently reached a significant milestone of 10 billion Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions, indicating the growing popularity of digital payments. However, this increase has also led to an increase in fraud cases.

What are some of the findings of the fraud cases related to UPI/digital banking?

India has witnessed an increase in UPI frauds, with over 30% originating from Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and approximately 55% of all reported digital payment frauds being UPI-related.

The majority of these UPI frauds (50%) involve sums below ₹10,000, with an estimated average of 80,000 UPI frauds occurring each month in India.

A trend of fraudulent UPI apps, posing as authorized users, has emerged. These deceptive apps are employed for defrauding individuals through methods like phishing, malware, UPI ID spoofing, and device monitoring.

According to an RBI report, digital banking fraud surged from 3,596 cases with losses of approximately ₹155 crore in FY22 to 6,659 cases amounting to ₹276 crore in FY23.

Experts also warn that fraudsters may soon utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to cheat users. These evolving threats could make it more challenging to identify phishing emails.

What measures have already been taken to prevent digital frauds?

First, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has implemented a 24×7 monitoring system with an average response time of 24 hours to combat these threats.

Second, banks are mandated to provide Fraud Monitoring Returns within three weeks of detecting fraud, regardless of the amount involved.

Third, the RBI has issued third-party outsourcing guidelines to prompt the fintech ecosystem to invest in security and improve processes.

Fourth, bodies such as the Central Fraud Registry, Centralised KYC Registry, Central Payments Fraud Information Registry had been established to report information on data and fraud.

What more can be done to prevent digital banking frauds?

The following measures can be taken by users to prevent digital frauds:

1. Users should practice digital safety by safeguarding their UPI PIN, never sharing sensitive information such as OTP or UPI PIN, and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for enhanced security.
2. Reviewing transaction history for unauthorized activity is crucial.
3. Invest in reputable paid antivirus software, avoid malicious downloads, and use unique passwords for different platforms.
4. Report fraud incidents promptly to authorities, financial institutions, and regulators for swift action.
5. Digital forensics may be used to investigate and analyze IP addresses, email headers, and other digital traces to identify fraudsters.
6. Payments service providers, app developers, and operators should improve their technology to identify and prevent irregularities.
7. Set transaction limits based on user risk profiles and implement extra authentication for high-value transactions.
8. Use AI and ML algorithms to spot anomalies.
9. Ensure secure, updated Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) for UPI integration and invest in data encryption for user data protection.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Cabinet approves the Scheme titled Viability Gap Funding for development of Battery Energy Storage Systems(BESS)

Source: The post is based on the article “Cabinet approves the Scheme titled Viability Gap Funding for development of Battery Energy Storage Systems(BESS)” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

The Union Cabinet approves the Scheme for Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for development of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

What are Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)?

Battery storage or battery energy storage systems (BESS) are devices that enable energy from renewables, like solar and wind, to be stored and then released when the power is needed most.

India needs to develop BESS for making round-the-clock renewable energy supply possible.

What is Viability Gap Funding(VGF)?

Viability Gap Finance means a grant to support projects that are economically justified but not financially viable.

Viability Gap Funding is provided as a grant one-time or deferred with the objective of making a project commercially viable. 

What is the Scheme for Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for development of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)?

Aim: To harness the potential of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power with the aim to provide clean, reliable, and affordable electricity to the citizens.

Target: The scheme envisages development of 4,000 MWh of BESS projects by 2030-31.

Financial support: Up to 40% of the capital cost will be supported in the form of Viability Gap Funding (VGF).The entire viability gap funding (VGF) will be borne by the Central Government.

– The VGF shall be disbursed in 5 tranches linked with the various stages of implementation of BESS projects.

– To ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach the consumers, a minimum of 85% of the BESS project capacity will be made available to Distribution Companies (Discoms).

Significance: The scheme is in sync with India’s ambition to meet its 50% of energy requirements through renewable energy and non-fossil energy sources by 2030 and also help reduce carbon emission.

– Note: Solar energy has increased from 2.6 GW in 2014 to 71 GW at present while wind energy has increased from 21 GW (in 2014) to 40 GW.

India is meeting its 25% of energy demand from renewable energy, including from large hydro plants.

“TDB-DST supports M/s Eco Recycling Limited’s Innovative “Recycling on Wheels Smart ER” to address India’s E-waste Challenge

Source: The post is based on the article “TDB-DST supports M/s Eco Recycling Limited’s Innovative “Recycling on Wheels Smart ER” to address India’s E-waste Challenge” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

Technology Development Board (TDB) is supporting M/s Eco Recycling Limited with ₹6 crores for their innovative e-waste management project called ‘Recycling on Wheels Smart ER’ which has a total cost of ₹12 crores.

What is the “Recycling on Wheels Smart ER” Project?

Launched by: M/s Eco Recycling Limited.

Purpose: It is an innovative e-waste management project that focuses on improving e-waste management. 

The project’s workflow includes: 1) Pre-processing e-waste on a mobile facility 2) Scanning and serializing e-waste devices 3) Shredding the devices 4) Collecting shredded e-waste in secure bins and 5) Environmentally friendly disposal of the shredded e-waste.

Features of the project: The project serves Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and R&D centers filling a crucial gap in e-waste management in India.

– The project also offers skill development for informal sector workers and aligns with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) principles.

– In its second phase, the project aims to extract precious metals from the shredded waste, contributing to a circular economy.

Significance: The e-waste problem in India is a major concern with only 20% of the 3.2 million tonnes generated in 2019-20 being formally recycled.

– The project addresses this e-waste crisis in India while promoting environmental sustainability and improving livelihoods.

Indian Air Force and Drone Federation of India to co-host Bharat Drone Shakti 2023

Source: The post is based on the article “Indian Air Force and Drone Federation of India to co-host Bharat Drone Shakti 2023” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

Indian Air Force (IAF) is teaming up with the Drone Federation of India to co-host ‘Bharat Drone Shakti 2023’. 

What is Bharat Drone Shakti 2023?

Organized by: Indian Air Force (IAF) with the help of Drone Federation of India 

Aim: To present the full potential of the Indian drone industry with an impressive lineup of over 50 live aerial demonstrations.

– These demonstrations will encompass a diverse range of drone applications, including survey drones, agriculture drones, fire suppression drones, tactical surveillance drones, drone swarms and counter-drone solutions.

Significance: Bharat Drone Shakti 2023 will give a fillip to India’s commitment to becoming a global drone hub by 2030.

What is the Meher Baba Swarm Drone competition?

Launched in: 2018 by Indian Air Force(IAF) 

Aim: To encourage the development of swarm drones for the utilization of varied domains, including response to disaster relief operations.

– Note: Swarm drones consist of a number of drones controlled from the same station which can be programmed using an algorithm to carry out various tasks, including surveillance.

Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, says PM

Source: The post is based on the article “Engagement with ASEAN is an important pillar of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, says PM ” published in The Hindu on 7th September 2023

What is the News?

The Prime Minister has reached Indonesia to attend the 20th ASEAN-India summit and 18th East Asia Summit(EAS).

What is the ASEAN-India summit?

The ASEAN-India summit was started in 2002 in Cambodia.

The summit meetings hold high significance as they offer opportunities for leaders of participating countries to meet and gain from dialogue and interactions. 

Since 2002, India has not missed a single ASEAN-India summit. 

This year’s summit is India Prime Minister’s 9th Summit and the first one after the relations were elevated to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) level.

What is the East Asia Summit(EAS)?

The East Asia Summit (EAS) is the Indo-Pacific’s premier forum for strategic dialogue. 

It is the only leader-led forum at which all key Indo-Pacific partners meet to discuss political, security and economic challenges facing the region and has an important role to play in advancing closer regional cooperation. 

The summit comprises eighteen participating countries including ten ASEAN Member States (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation and the United States of America.

The first East Asia Summit (EAS) was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2005. 

In 2023, the Chair of the East Asia Summit is the Republic of Indonesia who is also the current ASEAN Chair.

Conference on Transnational Grid Interconnections for One Sun, One World, One Grid held in New Delhi

Source: The post is based on the article “Conference on Transnational Grid Interconnections for One Sun, One World, One Grid held in New Delhi” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

The conference on “Transnational Grid Interconnections for One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG)” was held in New Delhi.

The conference was organized by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a ‘Maharatna’ company under the Ministry of Power.

What is One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) Initiative?

Origin: The idea for the One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative was put forth by the Prime Minister of India at the First Assembly of the ISA in 2018. 

Launched in: It was jointly launched by the Prime Minister of India and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during the ‘Accelerating Innovation and Clean Technology Deployment’ event at the World Leaders Summit held on 2 November 2021 during COP26.

Vision: The vision behind the OSOWOG initiative is the mantra that “the sun never sets”.

Aim: To aid in developing a worldwide grid through which clean energy can be transmitted anywhere, anytime (use power at night in one part of the world from solar energy generated on the other side of the world where it is day time). 

How will the OSOWOG Initiative be implemented?

OSOWOG is divided into three main phases:

In the first phase, the Indian grid would be connected to the grids of Middle East, South Asia and South-East Asia to develop a common grid. This grid would then be used to share solar energy as per need, in addition to other renewable energy sources.

The second phase would connect the functional first phase to the pool of renewable resources in Africa.

The third phase would look at achieving true global interconnection.The idea will be to integrate as many countries as possible to create a single power grid of renewable energy.This can then be accessed by all countries.

How will the OSOWOG Initiative help the world become more sustainable?

All participants in the initiative will focus on attracting effective investments in renewable energy sources by utilizing technology, finance and skill.When all stakeholders coordinate, it is expected to bring down project cost, lead to higher efficiencies and increased asset utilization for all involved.

The initiative may also have a spillover effect as the cost effective source of energy production could be used in other areas such as poverty alleviation, provision of drinking water, sanitation facilities and food security.

Union Minister launches the Malaviya Mission – Teachers Training Programme by University Grants Commission

Source: The post is based on the article “Union Minister launches the Malaviya Mission – Teachers Training Programme by University Grants Commission” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

The Union Minister for Education has launched the Malaviya Mission.

What is the Malaviya Mission?

Malaviya Mission is a Teachers Training Programme by the University Grants Commission.

Aim: To provide tailored training programmes for teachers and to improve the capacity building of faculty members in higher educational institutions.

– To improve the quality of teachers’ training, build leadership skills in teachers and help realize the goals of National Education Policy (NEP).

Features: The mission will ensure continuous professional development and help in building capacities of 15 lakh teachers of HEIs through 111 Malaviya Mission centers (formerly known as Human Resource Development Centers (HRDCs))

– The capacity building under the Mission will be mapped to the credit framework to ensure career progression pathways for educators.

Themes: The themes identified for course curriculum for Capacity building of Faculty Members in HEIs include: Multidisciplinary Education, Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), Academic Leadership, Research and Development, Skill Development, Student Diversity among others.

– The three main themes that were discussed during India’s G20 Presidency: deployment of technology in the use of education, achieving sustainable development goals and women-led development are also to be incorporated in the Teachers Training Programmes. 

Free dementia support line and online memory clinic launched in India

Source: The post is based on the article “Free dementia support line and online memory clinic launched in India” published in The Hindu on 7th September 2023

What is the News?

Dementia India Alliance (DIA), a non-profit, family carer-centered organization has launched a National Dementia Support Line and DemClinic.

What is DemClinic?

DemClinic will be the first national comprehensive expert-led cognitive assessment platform for the elderly. 

The initiative is aimed at supporting families and persons with dementia through post-diagnostic care and support.

What is ‘The Blue Button Movement’?

It will be organized by Dementia India Alliance (DIA) on September 21 to mark World Alzheimer’s Day. 

The blue button is a symbol of awareness and support for people affected by dementia.

This campaign will include the formation of a human chain symbolically resembling the blue button like a shield or a coat of arms, unifying and encouraging people to recognize the impact of dementia, empathize and take proactive steps to support patients. 

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a term for several diseases that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily activities.

Dementia is caused by many different diseases or injuries that directly and indirectly damage the brain.Alzheimer disease is the most common form and may contribute to 60–70% of cases.

Currently more than 55 million people have dementia worldwide, over 60% of whom live in low-and middle-income countries. Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases.

Dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death and one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people globally.

Explained | The global push to make ecocide a crime

Source: The post is based on the article “Explained | The global push to make ecocide a crime” published in The Hindu on 7th September 2023

What is the News?

Mexico is considering passing a law to make ecocide a crime.

What is Ecocide?

Ecocide is derived from Greek and Latin.It translates to ‘killing one’s home’ or ‘environment’. 

Such ‘killing’ could include port expansion projects that destroy fragile marine life and local livelihoods; deforestation; illegal sand mining; polluting rivers with untreated sewage.

Legal Definition of ecocide: There is no accepted legal definition of ecocide, but a Stop Ecocide Foundation in 2021 prepared a definition of ecocide.

– It has defined Ecocide as the unlawful or wanton acts committed with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment being caused by those acts.

Commonly cited examples of ecocide include: deforestation during the Vietnam War, the destruction of the environment during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, deforestation in Indonesia and the Amazon rainforest, oil pollution in the Niger Delta and the Chernobyl disaster. 

The term ‘ecocide’ was popularized by Olof Palme when he accused the United States of ecocide at the 1972 UN Conference on the Human Environment.

Is ecocide covered under International Law?

At present, the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) deals with four atrocities: genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression. 

– The provision on war crimes is the only statute that can hold a perpetrator responsible for environmental damage albeit if it is intentionally caused and during wartime situations.

Why should ecocide be criminalized?

Over a third of the earth’s animal and plant species could be extinct by 2050. Unprecedented heat waves have broken records worldwide. Changing rainfall schemes have disrupted flood and drought patterns.

Deforestation of the Amazon, deep-sea trawling or even the catastrophic 1984 Bhopal gas disaster could have been avoided with ecocide laws in place.

Ecocide laws could also double up as calls for justice for low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected by climate change.

Which countries have criminalized ecocide?

Ecocide is a crime in 11 countries, with 27 other nations mulling laws around criminalizing environmental damage that is wilfully caused and harms humans, animals and plant species. 

The European Parliament voted unanimously this year to enshrine ecocide in law.

What has been India’s stance on ecocide?

Some Indian judgments have used the term ‘ecocide’ in passing, but the concept hasn’t fully materialized in law.

– In Chandra CFS and Terminal Operators Pvt. Ltd. v. The Commissioner of Customs and Ors (2015), the Madras High Court noted: the prohibitory activities of ecocide have been continuing unbridledly by certain sections of people by removing the valuable and precious timbers.

– In an ongoing case, T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad vs Union of India & Ors, the Supreme Court called attention to an “anthropogenic bias” and argued that “environmental justice could be achieved only if we drift away from the principle of anthropocentric to ecocentric”.

Hence, there is a need for India to align the existing environmental legislations with the concept of ecocide.

One more critical challenge is to tackle problems of liability and compensation.For instance, the survivors of Bhopal gas tragedy are still fighting for compensation.

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

7 PM Editorial of the day: India and Bharat Debate –Explained, pointwise