9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 10th August, 2024

Print Friendly and PDF

Dear Friends,

9 PM Brief is our prime initiatives for the preparation of current affairs. What we are providing in this initiative:

  • Ensure that all relevant facts, data, and arguments from today’s newspaper are readily available to you.
  • We have widened the sources to provide you with content that is more than enough and adds value not just for GS but also for essay writing.

It is our endeavor to provide you with the best content, and your feedback is essential for the same. We will be anticipating your feedback and ensure the blog serves as an optimal medium of learning for all the aspirants.

For previous editions of 9 PM BriefClick Here

For individual articles of 9 PM BriefClick Here

Download Factly and 9 PM Weekly Compilations | Arranged Subject-wise and Topic-wise

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Critical Need for a Population Census in India

Source-This post on The Critical Need for a Population Census in India has been created based on the article “No population Census — in the dark without vital data” published in “The Hindu” on 10 August 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-1- Population and Associated Issues, Poverty and Developmental issues, Urbanization, their problems and their remedies.

Context– India’s ten-year population Census has been delayed by over three years, causing major concerns. Some officials mistakenly believe that other methods can replace a full Census. However, a Census does much more than count people; it offers detailed information about where people live, family structures, and individual details, helping understand changes in the population.

What is the significance of Conducting Regular Census Data?

1) Survey Reliability– Without a recent census, surveys like the National Family Health Survey and Periodic Labour Force Survey are less reliable. They are based on outdated census data that’s over 15 years old.

2) Tracking Societal Changes: Over the past fifteen years, there have been significant changes in population size, demographics, education, jobs, health (including COVID-19), and living conditions. A census is essential to accurately understand these changes.

3) Policy Planning and Evaluation: Without accurate census data, it’s hard to properly assess how well government programs are working. The absence of a proper population denominator can lead to misleading evaluations of coverage and impact.

4) Demographic Dividend: A census is essential to understand India’s rapid demographic transition and the resulting demographic dividend. It provides important data on familial structures, locational distribution, and occupational composition.

5) Global Significance: India’s population has a big impact on global trends. Accurate census data is better than estimates based on projections and guesses.

6) SDG Indicators: –To effectively track Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we need detailed indicators for smaller regions. These indicators depend on accurate population counts, which are not possible without a census.

Read more- Delimitation Exercise- Explained Pointwise

What are the Concerns and Implications?

1) Caste Census Debate- The push for a caste Census might be driven more by political interests than by a real need for detailed demographic data. Despite long-term affirmative action policies, there hasn’t been a clear review of how education and job opportunities have changed for different castes.

2) Administrative Challenges- Conducting a Census is as challenging as organizing national elections. The real question is whether the delay is due to administrative issues or a deliberate choice to avoid revealing the true data. Delaying the Census may help the government claim progress based only on partial data, without accurate figures to measure it properly.

 Way forward– The scientific community must stress the importance of holding a Census soon and make it clear that surveys and administrative data cannot replace a thorough Census.

Question for practice

What is the significance of Conducting Regular Census Data?

GS PAPER - 2

How Should India Respond to the Present Bangladesh’s Political Crisis?

Source: The post how should India respond to the present Bangladesh’s political crisis has been created, based on the article “Express View: Delhi must reach out to Dhaka” published in “Indian Express” on 10th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-international relations-India and its neighbourhood- relations.

Context: The article discusses India’s response to political turmoil in Bangladesh, emphasizing support for the new leadership under Muhammad Yunus and the need for careful diplomacy. It advises against focusing solely on Hindu minority issues and urges understanding the student-led revolution.
For detailed information on Current political crisis in Bangladesh read Article 1, Article 2

What is India’s Position on Bangladesh’s Political Crisis?

  1. India has shown support for Muhammad Yunus and the interim government in Bangladesh by attending the swearing-in ceremony.
  2. India’s leadership encourages the protection of all citizens, especially minorities, amid violence.

How Should India Respond to the Present Bangladesh’s Political Crisis?

  1. Support New Leadership: India should explicitly support Muhammad Yunus and the interim government to help restore order and protect citizens’ rights, including minorities, in Bangladesh.
  2. Balanced Focus on Minorities: India should continue advocating for minority rights but avoid focusing exclusively on the Hindu minority. This approach will prevent complicating the situation and maintain healthy relations with the new regime.
  3. Engage with Student Movement: India must reach out to the student leaders who are driving the revolution. Understanding their goals is crucial for fostering a positive relationship with future leadership.
  4. Internal Policy Review: India should conduct an internal review to understand why it failed to anticipate the political upheaval in Bangladesh. This will help prevent similar oversights in the future.
  5. Long-Term Strategy: India should adopt a patient and empathetic approach. Supporting the aspirations of Bangladeshi student leaders can help stabilize the region and strengthen India-Bangladesh ties.

Question for practice:

Examine how India should respond to Bangladesh’s political crisis while maintaining a balanced focus on minority rights and engaging with the student-led movement.

Clarifying Justice: The Supreme Court’s Ruling on SC Sub-Quotas

Source: The post Clarifying Justice: The Supreme Court’s Ruling on SC Sub-Quotas has been created, based on the article “SC/ST Sub-quota red lines and red herrings” published in “Indian Express” on 10th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-Social Justice

Context: The article discusses the Supreme Court’s ruling on sub-quotas for Scheduled Castes. It clarifies misconceptions, emphasizing that the verdict supports social justice. The article also highlights concerns about potential misuse of sub-classification and the need for careful implementation.

For detailed information on SC verdict allowing for Sub-Classification of SCs and STs read this article here

What Specific Criticisms Are Addressed in this Verdict?

  1. Misconception of Diluting Reservation: Critics wrongly believe the verdict weakens the existing reservation system. However, the court emphasizes “substantive equality” and strengthens social justice for disadvantaged communities.
  2. Usurping Parliament’s Role: Some argue the court overstepped by handling sub-quotas. In reality, the court only clarified the legal permissibility, leaving implementation to legislative bodies.
  3. Lack of Empirical Evidence: The criticism that the court lacked data is incorrect. The 2011 Census provides detailed socio-economic data for SC communities, highlighting significant disparities in educational attainment among different sub-castes, like the Mazhabi Sikhs and Ravidasi in Punjab.

How Should the Verdict Apply to Scheduled Tribes?

  1. The Supreme Court’s verdict on sub-quotas for Scheduled Castes (SCs) should be carefully considered before applying it to Scheduled Tribes (STs).
  2. The internal differences within STs and the rationale behind their reservations differ from those of SCs.
  3. The case was primarily argued based on the social realities of SCs, not STs, making the direct application to STs potentially problematic.
  4. There cannot be two different interpretations of Articles 341 and 342 for SCs and STs.However, the specifics of ST reservations were not thoroughly examined in this case.
  5. The substantive application of this verdict to STs should be delayed until the Supreme Court can fully address the unique aspects of ST reservations.

What Are the Real Concerns with the Verdict?

1.There are concerns that the sub-classification allowed by the Supreme Court could be misused for political purposes, such as favoring certain communities aligned with the ruling party.

  1. The political parties has previously misused OBC sub-classification for political gain, raising fears of similar tactics with SC sub-quotas.
  2. There is a risk that sub-classification could reduce the number of eligible candidates for higher jobs, leading to positions being left vacant or transferred to the unreserved category.
  3. The sudden application of the “creamy layer” doctrine to SCs and STs is concerning because it wasn’t fully addressed in the court’s discussions and could reduce the pool of eligible candidates.

What Should Social Justice Focus on Now?

  1. Instead of opposing sub-quotas, efforts should focus on improving the current judgment and addressing long-term issues.
  2. Adjust reservations based on current population data and remove the 50 percent ceiling on reservations. Thus, ensuring representation matches the actual SC/ST population.
  3. Carefully apply the “creamy layer” concept to SCs/STs, avoiding reduction of eligible candidates.

Question for practice:

Examine how the Supreme Court’s ruling on SC sub-quotas aims to enhance social justice while addressing the criticisms of diluting reservation and usurping parliamentary authority.

GS PAPER - 3

Impacts of U.S. Slowdown on India

Source: The post impacts of U.S. slowdown on India has been created, based on the article “US RECESSION FEARS HYPED?” published in “Business Standard” on 10th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Economy

Context: The article discusses concerns about a possible U.S. recession due to rising unemployment but suggests it might just be a slowdown. It also explores how this could impact India’s economy, including trade, the rupee, and capital flows.

What is the Current Economic Situation in the U.S.?

  1. The U.S. economy is experiencing mixed signals, with unemployment rising to 4.3% in July, the highest since October 2021.
  2. Despite concerns, the U.S. Federal Reserve suggests the economy is not in a recessionary freefall.
  3. The economy grew 1.4% in Q1 and 2.8% in Q2 of 2024, indicating resilience.
  4. A potential slowdown is linked to the Federal Reserve’s tight monetary policy.
  5. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts U.S. growth at 2.7% in 2024, slightly higher than the 2.5% in 2023.

What Are the Impacts of U.S. Slowdown on India?

  1. Positive Impacts
  2. Lower Oil Prices: A U.S. slowdown could lead to a drop in global crude oil prices, easing India’s oil import bill and reducing inflationary pressures.
  3. Rupee Stabilization: With potential U.S. interest rate cuts, the Indian rupee, which closed at 83.97 against the dollar, might stabilize between 83-84, supported by lower oil import bills and capital flows.
  4. Increased Capital Inflows: Slower U.S. growth may prompt American investors to explore opportunities in India, potentially increasing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and portfolio investments.
  5. Negative Impacts
  6. Trade Surplus Reduction: A U.S. slowdown could diminish India’s trade surplus in goods and services with the U.S., which has been significant, with exports to the U.S. comprising 17-19% of India’s total exports over the past five years.
  7. Economic Growth Impact: India’s GDP growth forecast, already moderated to 6.5-7%, might face further pressure if global demand weakens due to a U.S. slowdown.
  8. Service Sector Challenges: The Indian IT sector could face challenges, as seen during the pandemic, with potential reductions in demand for services from the U.S.

How Did Past U.S. Recessions Impact India?

  1. During the 2008-09 U.S. recession, India’s GDP growth slowed to 3.3% from 7.7% the previous year, but it rebounded to 7.9% in 2009-10.
  2. Capital inflows to India dropped significantly to $9.1 billion in 2008-09 from $108 billion in 2007-08 but recovered to $53.6 billion in 2009-10.
  3. The rupee depreciated by 14.2% against the dollar in 2008-09.
  4. During the COVID-19 recession in 2020, India’s GDP contracted by 5.8%, but it recovered with 9.7% growth in the following year.

Question for practice:

Discuss how a potential U.S. economic slowdown could impact India’s economy, considering both positive and negative effects.

Challenges faced by female refugees

Source: The post challenges faced by female refugees has been created, based on the article “Refugee rights, the gendered nature of displacement” published in “The Hindu” on 10th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Internal security

Context: The article discusses the challenges faced by female refugees, particularly regarding mental health issues. It highlights the lack of adequate support and legal protections in India for these women, despite international conventions and India’s laws on disability rights.

For detailed information on Present Refugee Situation in India read this article here

What is the Present Situation of Displacement Worldwide?

  1. As of 2023, 11.73 crore people have been forcibly displaced globally due to conflict, persecution, and violence. Among these, 3.76 crore are refugees.
  2. Ongoing conflicts, like the Israel-Hamas war and Ukraine-Russia war, continue to increase displacement.
  3. Refugees face severe challenges, particularly women who comprise 46% of refugees in India.
  4. Women experience heightened risks of mental health issues, such as PTSD and depression.

For example, 72% of displaced women in Darfur, Sudan, reported mental health problems due to traumatic events and harsh camp conditions.

What are the Legal Protections for Refugee Women with Disabilities?

  1. The UNCRPD recognizes long-term mental impairments as ‘psychosocial disabilities’ and mandates equal rights for affected women.
  2. India’s Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, guarantees rights to those with mental illness. However, refugee women with psychosocial disabilities in India are often excluded from these protections.
  3. This exclusion violates their right to life under Article 21, as affirmed by the Supreme Court of India.

What are the challenges faced by female refugees?

  1. Sole Responsibility: Female refugees often bear sole responsibility for children and elderly family members, adding to their stress.
  2. Increased Risk of Abuse: They are highly vulnerable to gender-based violence, including sexual abuse and exploitation, especially in displacement camps.
  3. Mental Health Issues: Women refugees are more likely to suffer from mental health problems like PTSD and depression. For example, 72% of displaced women in Darfur, Sudan, reported PTSD and distress.
  4. Limited Healthcare Access: Refugee women in India have restricted access to healthcare, especially mental health services. They are mostly dependent on government hospitals, which are overcrowded and under-resourced.
  5. Legal Exclusion: Although India has laws protecting persons with disabilities, refugee women with psychosocial disabilities are often excluded from these protections.
  6. Social Stigma: They face social stigma and isolation, especially in patriarchal societies, making it difficult to access necessary services and support.

What Needs to Be Done to Improve the Situation?

  1. India should create a uniform legal framework for refugees, addressing their specific needs.
  2. This framework must integrate the provisions of international commitments, such as the UNCRPD, to protect the rights of refugees with psychosocial disabilities.
  3. Refugee women, who make up 46% of India’s refugee population, must be included in mental health policies.
  4. Disaggregated data on refugees’ health conditions is essential for effective policy-making and service delivery.
  5. The current exclusion of refugee women with psychosocial disabilities from India’s legal and healthcare systems needs urgent attention.
  6. Enhanced identification and registration processes for refugees with disabilities are necessary to ensure they receive appropriate support.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges faced by female refugees in India, particularly those with psychosocial disabilities.

U.S. court ruling against Google’s monopoly

Source: The post U.S. court ruling against Google’s monopoly has been created, based on the article “US antitrust ruling against Google and its implications for India” published in “Indian Express” on 10th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy

Context: The article discusses a U.S. court ruling against Google for violating antitrust laws by maintaining its monopoly in search services. It also examines how this ruling might affect ongoing similar cases in India, considering different market conditions and proposed regulations.

What Was the U.S. Court’s Ruling Against Google?

  1. U.S. court ruled that Google violated antitrust laws to maintain its monopoly over general search services and search ads.
  2. The judge highlighted Google’s strategy of making itself the “default” search engine, especially on smartphones and web browsers, by paying companies like Apple and Samsung billions of dollars.
  3. This “default” status gives Google a significant, unseen advantage over its competitors, as most users stick to the pre-set search engine.

How Does This Ruling Impact Google in India?

  1. Impact of U.S. Ruling in India: The U.S. court ruling against Google for antitrust violations primarily targets the American market but has implications for Google’s operations in India, where it faces similar legal challenges.
  2. CCI Action: In 2022, the Competition Commission of India fined Google Rs 1337.76 Crores for forcing pre-installation of its apps on Android devices, illustrating Google’s dominant position and similar anti-competitive issues as those identified in the U.S. ruling.

For detailed information on Antitrust cases against Google read this article here

  1. Choice for Users: Following the CCI verdict, Google altered its practices in India, allowing users to select their default search engine, showing a direct response to regulatory pressures that mirror actions likely influenced by global legal challenges.

What Are the Differences in Market Conditions Between the U.S. and India?

  1. Default Search Engine Impact: In the U.S., Google dominates as the default search engine on many devices. In India, Xiaomi, holding a 19.3% market share, uses the Opera browser, not Google, as the default on its phones.
  2. Regulatory Actions: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) fined Google Rs 1337.76 Crores in 2022 for mandatory pre-installation of Google apps on Android devices. Following this, Google allowed Indian users to choose their default search engine, showing a regulatory difference.
  3. Browser Preferences: Indian consumers experience different pre-installed search options, unlike the more uniform Google default in the U.S., impacting user choices differently in both markets.

What Does the Proposed Indian Competition Bill Say About Big Tech?

  1. The Draft Competition Bill, 2024, aims to regulate large tech companies in India, referred to as Systemically Significant Digital Enterprises (SSDEs).
  2. It imposes restrictions on SSDEs to prevent anti-competitive practices.
  3. Key provisions include barring these companies from favoring their products and services over others.
  4. The Bill also prohibits SSDEs from using or sharing users’ personal data without explicit consent.
  5. Big tech companies argue that these regulations would create significant compliance burdens. They claim it could shift their focus away from innovation and research.

Question for practice:

Examine the potential impact of the U.S. court ruling against Google on its operations and regulatory challenges in India, considering the differences in market conditions and the proposed Indian Competition Bill.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024

Source- This post on Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 has been created based on the article “Bill providing up to 4 nominees for bank account tabled” published in “Indian Express” on 10 August 2024.

Why in News?

Recently, The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was introduced in the Lok Sabha.

The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024

Purpose: The Bill aims to enhance banking governance, improve reporting consistency to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), and provide better protection for depositors and investors.

Objectives: It seeks to improve audit quality in Public Sector Banks and extend the tenure of directors (excluding the chairperson and whole-time director) in cooperative banks.

Key Provisions

i) Nominee Option: The Bill allows account holders to designate up to four nominees for their bank accounts and lockers.

ii) Simultaneous and Successive Nominations: It includes provisions for both simultaneous and successive nominations.

iii) Transfer to Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF): Unclaimed dividends, shares, interest, or redemption of bonds will be transferred to the IEPF. Individuals can claim these from the fund later.

iv) Amendments to Existing Laws: The Bill proposes amendments to several existing laws, including the RBI Act, 1934, the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the State Bank of India Act, 1955 and the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Acts of 1970 and 1980.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy

Modified Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana

Source- This post on Modified Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana has been created based on the article “Cabinet approves Amendment in “Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana” for providing financial support to Advanced Biofuel Projects using lignocellulosic biomass and other renewable feedstock” published in “PIB on 10 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved modifications to the Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana to align with the latest advancements in biofuel technologies and to attract increased investment in this sector.

About Modified Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana is a government scheme which aimed at promoting the production and use of advanced biofuels, specifically ethanol, to reduce environmental pollution, support farmers, create local jobs, and contribute to India’s energy security.

Recent Amendment and Extension:

The Union Cabinet has approved an amendment to this scheme, which includes:

i) Extending the timeline for the scheme by five more years, making it effective until the financial year 2028-29.

ii) Expanding the scope to include advanced biofuels made from lignocellulosic feedstocks, such as agricultural and forestry residues, industrial waste, synthesis gas, algae, etc.

iii) The amendment introduces eligibility for “Bolt on” plants and “Brownfield projects.” These are projects that can leverage existing facilities and technologies to produce advanced biofuels, making them more viable and cost-effective.

iv) The modified scheme emphasizes innovation, giving preference to projects that propose using new technologies and different types of feedstocks (raw materials used to produce biofuels).

Benefits of the Scheme:

i) For Farmers: The scheme provides farmers with a remunerative income by using their agricultural residues (such as leftover stalks after harvesting) as feedstock for biofuel production.

ii) For Environment: It helps reduce environmental pollution by using waste materials that would otherwise be burned or discarded.

iii) For Employment: Local employment opportunities are created through the setting up and operation of biofuel plants.

iv) For Energy Security: The scheme supports India’s goal of becoming more self-reliant in energy by promoting the use of domestically produced biofuels.

v) Development of technologies: The government’s focus is on supporting the development of technologies that convert surplus biomass and industrial waste into ethanol, a cleaner and more sustainable fuel alternative.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programme 

Clean Plant Programme (CPP)

Source- This post on Clean Plant Programme (CPP)  has been created based on the article “Cabinet approves the Clean Plant Programme under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture” published in “PIB on 10 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet recently approved the Clean Plant Programme (CPP) proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

About Clean Plant Programme (CPP)

CBC
Source:PIB
Aspects Details
About The Clean Plant Programme (CPP) aims to enhance the quality and productivity of fruit crops across the nation. It is a Initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Implemented by The programme will be implemented by the National Horticulture Board in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Core Components of the CPP 1. Clean Plant Centers (CPCs):  Nine world-class CPCs will be set up across India.
i) These centers will have advanced labs for diagnostics, therapy, and tissue culture.
ii) The CPCs will be located in regions suited for specific fruit crops, such as Grapes (Pune), Temperate Fruits like Apple, Almond, and Walnut (Srinagar & Mukteshwar), Citrus Fruits (Nagpur & Bikaner), Mango, Guava, Avocado (Bangalore), Mango, Guava, Litchi (Lucknow), Pomegranate (Sholapur) and Tropical/Sub-Tropical Fruits in Eastern India
2. Certification and Legal Framework: A strong certification system will be put in place to ensure that planting materials are produced and sold with full accountability. This system will be supported by regulations under the Seeds Act of 1966.
3. Enhanced Infrastructure: Large nurseries will receive support to develop the necessary infrastructure for multiplying clean planting materials efficiently.
Importance of the CPP 1. Sustainability: The programme aligns with initiatives like Mission LiFE and One Health, promoting eco-friendly farming practices.
2. Self-Reliance:
It reduces the need for importing planting materials, making India more self-sufficient.
3. Global Leadership:
CPP will help position India as a leading exporter of high-quality fruits, driving transformative changes in the horticulture sector.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programmes

Government Initiatives for Adoption of Green Steel Technologies

Source- This post on Government Initiatives for Adoption of Green Steel Technologies has been created based on the article “ADOPTION OF GREEN STEEL TECHNOLOGIES” published in “PIB on 10 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Government has implemented several measures to encourage the adoption of green steel technologies within the steel manufacturing sector. These initiatives focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the sustainability of steel production processes.

About Decarbonization Task Forces

1. 14 Task Forces have been established, involving industry experts, academia, think tanks, scientific and technical bodies, various Ministries, and other stakeholders.

2. Objective: These Task Forces are tasked with discussing and recommending strategies for decarbonizing the steel sector.

3. Key Focus Areas: Recommendations covered Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Green Hydrogen, Material Efficiency, transition from coal-based Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) to Natural Gas-based DRI, Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS), and the use of Biochar in steel production.

Government Initiatives for Adoption of Green Steel Technologies

1. National Green Hydrogen Mission: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The steel sector is a key stakeholder in promoting the use of Green Hydrogen in iron and steel making processes.

2. National Solar Mission: The National Solar Mission was launched in January 2010 by MNRE. This mission promotes solar energy use, which aids in reducing emissions by increasing renewable energy adoption in steel production.

3. Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme: The PAT scheme, under the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency, encourages the steel industry to reduce energy consumption by offering incentives.

4. Adoption of Best Available Technologies (BAT): The steel sector has incorporated several globally recognized Best Available Technologies (BAT) in modernization and expansion projects to enhance sustainability.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy

PM MITRA Parks

Source- This post on PM MITRA Parks has been created based on the article “PM Mitra Parks to ensure strengthening of local economy & textile ecosystem” published in “PIB on 10 August 2024.

Why in News?

The Government has approved the establishment of 7 PM MITRA Parks on Greenfield/Brownfield sites with world-class infrastructure, including plug-and-play facilities up to 2027-28.

About PM MITRA Parks

Aspects Description
About PM Mitra Parks aim to create world-class industrial infrastructure, attract large-scale investment, and encourage innovation and job creation within the sector.
A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) jointly owned by the Central and State Governments, will be established for each park.
Nodal Ministry The Ministry of Textiles will serve as the nodal ministry for this project.
Aim These parks aim to enhance the local economy and the textile ecosystem through significant infrastructure development and investment.

1. The Government of India has approved the establishment of seven PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks across the country.

2. The Government has approved the setup of 7 PM MITRA Parks.

3. Locations: The parks will be established in Tamil Nadu (Virudhnagar), Telangana (Warangal), Gujarat (Navsari), Karnataka (Kalaburagi), Madhya Pradesh (Dhar), Uttar Pradesh (Lucknow), and Maharashtra (Amravati).

4. The parks will be developed on both Greenfield and Brownfield sites, with world-class infrastructure, including plug-and-play facilities.

5. SPVs have been incorporated for 5 Greenfield sites in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. For the Brownfield sites in Maharashtra and Telangana, existing implementation arrangements will continue as per guidelines.

Investment and Economic Impact

i)  Each park is expected to attract an investment of approximately Rs. 10,000 crores, including both foreign and domestic investments.

ii) The investment is anticipated to boost the local economy and strengthen the textile ecosystem in these regions.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian economy

Lake Turkana

Source- This post on Lake Turkana has been created based on the article “Lake Turkana: First comprehensive survey in 50 years highlights key findings” published in “UNESCO on 10 August 2024.

Why in News?

The first comprehensive survey of Lake Turkana in 50 years, led by UNESCO and WFP, has revealed significant findings about the lake’s high fish potential, particularly in its central and northern regions.

About Lake Turkana

 Lake Turkana
Source: kanaga.com
Aspects  Description
About 1. Lake Turkana is also known as Lake Rudolf or the Jade Sea.
2. It is a vast, shallow lake located in the arid northern region of Kenya, with its northernmost section extending into Ethiopia.
3. It ranks as Africa’s 4th largest lake by surface area and holds the title of the world’s largest permanent desert lake.
4. Lake Turkana is Africa’s largest saline lake by volume and the 4th largest in the world.
5. The lake and its surrounding areas are known as Lake Turkana National Parks are recognized as World Heritage Sites.
River Three rivers Omo, Turkwel, and Kerio flow into Lake Turkana. The Omo River is the only perennial river, contributing 90% of the lake’s annual water inflow.
Climate 1. Lake Turkana is located in Kenya’s hot, arid region with sparse vegetation.
2. The climate is characterized by low annual rainfall (less than 250 mm), high temperatures, and strong winds.
3. Due to intense heat, the lake loses more water through evaporation than it gains from precipitation.
Flora 1. Intense heat and strong winds limit plant life around Lake Turkana, with thorn bushes as the dominant vegetation.
2. Dry grasslands appear during the wet season (March to May) and vanish in the dry months.
3.  The lake supports abundant plankton, including cyanobacteria and microalgae.
Fauna 1. Lake Turkana hosts 50 fish species, with 12 endemic, such as cichlids, barbs, catfish, and robber tetras; other species include tilapia, Nile perch, African knifefish, and African arowana.
2. Bird species around the lake include the little stint, common sandpiper, wood sandpiper, and white-breasted cormorant.
3. Mammals in the region include giraffes, zebras, rhinos, elephants, and cheetahs.

UPSC Syllabus: World Geography

Blog
Academy
Community