9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 21^st October, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

Adoption of the Global Digital Compact and the importance of DPI for global cooperation

Source: The post adoption of the Global Digital Compact and the importance of DPI for global cooperation has been created, based on the article “How to realise the full potential of Digital Public Infrastructure” published in “Indian Express” on 21st October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- International Relations-Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses the Global Digital Compact’s adoption and the importance of digital public infrastructure (DPI) for global cooperation. It highlights India’s leadership in DPIs, the need for impact assessments, and the significance of data for understanding how these systems affect people’s lives and economies.

What is the Global Digital Compact?

1. The Global Digital Compact (GDC) was adopted on September 22, 2024, at a UN summit. It aims to ensure that technology benefits everyone globally.
2. It builds on the Universal Safeguards for Digital Public Infrastructure initiative started in 2023.
3. For detailed information on The Global Digital Compact (GDC) read this article here

How has India contributed to digital public infrastructures?

1. India, holding the G20 presidency, promoted digital public infrastructures (DPIs) to boost economic growth, especially in the Global South.
2. India leads with the world’s largest digital identity program, Aadhaar, and the most real-time digital payments, reaching 14.96 billion transactions in August.

What are the global impacts of DPIs?

1. The World Bank’s ID4D (Identity for Development) initiative supports digital identity systems in nearly 60 countries, enhancing global digital public infrastructure (DPI) adoption.
2. G2Px (Digitising government-to-person payments), a program for digitizing government-to-person payments, is active in 35 countries, improving financial accessibility.
3. India’s Modular Open Source Identity Platform (MOSIP) is assisting 11 countries in building secure digital identity systems.

What are the challenges and benefits of DPIs in India?

1. DPIs have significantly increased financial inclusion in India, raising the percentage of adults with bank accounts from 25% in 2008 to over 80% recently, with women owning 56% of these accounts.
   2. Digital transactions comprised nearly 50% of India’s GDP in 2022-23, facilitating access to credit through pre-approved loans via UPI.
2. However, understanding the exact impact of DPIs on income and social status is difficult due to limited data.

How Can India Improve Impact Assessments?

1. India can improve impact assessments by focusing on three areas: design, data, and dialogue.
2. DPIs should include built-in assessment mechanisms.
3. Reliable data collection and management are crucial, as is fostering dialogue among stakeholders like government, private sector, and civil society.

Question for practice:

Discuss how India’s leadership in digital public infrastructures (DPIs) has contributed to economic growth and financial inclusion.

The unveiling of a new statue of ‘Lady Justice’ in India and its significance

Source: The post the unveiling of a new statue of ‘Lady Justice’ in India and its significance has been created, based on the article “What does the new ‘lady justice’ statue signify?” published in “The Hindu” on 21st October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Judiciary

Context: The article discusses the unveiling of a new statue of ‘Lady Justice’ in India, which symbolizes a move towards decolonization and represents Indian traditions. It emphasizes urgent reforms needed in the judiciary, including timely appointments and better representation to ensure fair justice.

For detailed information on new statue of Lady Justice read this article here

What is the new ‘Lady Justice’ statue and what does it represent?

1. The new ‘Lady Justice’ statue was unveiled at the Supreme Court of India, symbolizing a shift towards decoloniality.
2. It is dressed in a saree, replacing the western attire of the original statue, aligning with Indian traditions.
3. The statue’s eyes are open, replacing the blindfold, to represent that justice in India is not blind but sees everyone equally.
4. It holds the Indian Constitution in one hand, symbolizing the supremacy of the Constitution in Indian jurisprudence, replacing the traditional sword.
5. The scales of justice are retained, symbolizing impartiality in delivering judgments.
6. This change emphasizes that the law should consider India’s social diversity and the upliftment of underprivileged sections.
7. The move reflects India’s effort to shed colonial symbols and build a justice system more relevant to its own cultural and constitutional values.

What is the historical significance of ‘Lady Justice’?

1. The ‘Lady Justice’ symbol originates from Roman mythology, representing Justitia, the goddess of justice.
2. She is typically depicted with a blindfold, scales, and a sword.
3. The blindfold, added during the Renaissance (14th century), was initially a satire on legal corruption but later symbolized impartiality during the Enlightenment (17th-18th century).
4. The scales signify fairness, requiring courts to weigh both sides of an argument.
5. The sword symbolizes the law’s authority, representing its power to protect or punish.
6. This symbol became prominent in India during British rule and was placed outside courtrooms.

What are the challenges faced by India’s judiciary?

India’s justice system faces challenges like high case pendency, with over five crore cases pending in various courts. The Supreme Court has recognized the problem but says resolving all cases within three years is unrealistic. Around 4.4 crore cases are pending in lower courts, while 60 lakh cases await judgment in High Courts.

For detailed information on Issues faced by the Indian judicial system read this article here

What urgent actions are needed for the judiciary?

1. Appointment of Judges: The process for appointing judges through the collegium is delayed, and the Memorandum of Procedure has not been finalized for eight years.
2. Representation Issues: Backward classes, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and religious minorities represent less than 25% of higher judiciary, and women less than 15%. Improving representation is needed.
3. Judicial Strength: High Courts operate at 60-70% capacity, contributing to delays. Filling vacancies quickly is crucial to reduce the backlog.
4. Priority Cases: Cases related to constitutional amendments and individual liberty should be prioritized for faster hearings.

Question for practice:

Discuss the symbolism of the new ‘Lady Justice’ statue and the reforms needed in India’s judiciary system.

GS PAPER - 3

Global Water Crisis Warning

Source: The post Global Water Crisis Warning has been created, based on the article “A major new report makes the case for water as a global common good?” published in “Indian Express” on 21st October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Environment — Conservation.

Context: The article discusses a report by the Global Commission on the Economics of Water, warning of a looming global water crisis. It highlights the urgent need for better water management to prevent severe food production losses and economic impacts, especially in poorer countries.

What is the Global Water Crisis Warning?

1. The Global Commission on the Economics of Water, set up by the Netherlands in 2022, released a report warning that the global water crisis could worsen if no action is taken.
2. The report predicts that demand for freshwater will exceed supply by 40% by 2030.
3. The report states that over half of the world’s food production could be threatened if water management does not improve.
4. It also warns that the global GDP could drop by 8% by 2050, with poorer countries losing up to 15%.
5. The report highlights that many developing countries already suffer from water stress. More than 1,000 children die daily, primarily in poor nations, due to the lack of safe water access.
6. The report points out that subsidies in agriculture lead to wasteful water use, and industries are rarely punished for water pollution.
7. Globally, 80% of industrial wastewater is not recycled.

What is the Solution Proposed by the Commission?

1. Global Pact for Water Conservation: The Commission recommends a worldwide agreement to better manage and conserve water resources.
2. Adaptation to Local Contexts: Countries should tailor the global recommendations to their specific situations. For example, resolving internal water disputes is crucial for a country like India before it can commit to international agreements.
3. View Water as a Global Common Good: This shift in perspective is crucial for sustainable water management and encourages collective responsibility.

What are the Challenges in India?

1. India faces significant groundwater depletion, as noted in a 2018 NITI Aayog report.
2. Internal water disputes are a major challenge that needs to be addressed before participating in global efforts to conserve water.

For detailed information on Water Crisis in India read this article here

Question for practice:

Discuss the key warnings and proposed solutions from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water regarding the looming global water crisis.

Need for climate finance is especially critical for developing countries

Source: The post need for climate finance is especially critical for developing countries has been created, based on the article “On climate finance to developing nations” published in “The Hindu” on 21st October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Environment — Conservation.

Context: The article discusses the need for climate finance, especially for developing countries. It highlights the challenges they face due to climate change and their need for external financial help. A new global target for climate finance will be set at COP29.

For detailed information on Climate Finance read this article here

What Are the Key Issues at COP29?

COP29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, is focused on climate finance. This means leaders will discuss money related to climate change, particularly helping developing countries that are vulnerable but have less money to cope with climate effects.

What Is Climate Finance?

1. Climate finance refers to funding aimed at supporting climate action, such as mitigation and adaptation projects.
2. It can come from public or private sources and be used domestically or internationally.
3. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) tracks climate finance from developed to developing countries.
4. In 2022, loans made up 69.4% of international public climate finance, with grants accounting for 28%.
5. Critics argue climate finance should be based on actual disbursals, not just commitments, and focus on new and additional funding, not reclassified aid.

Why Are Developing States More at Risk?

1. Geographical Location: Developing countries are often located in areas prone to extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, making them highly vulnerable to climate change effects.
2. Economic Dependency: Developing countries’ economies heavily rely on sectors like agriculture, which are highly sensitive to climate changes. Agriculture is directly impacted by shifting weather patterns.
3. Financial Constraints: Developing countries face higher costs of capital for climate technologies. According to the IEA, the cost of capital for solar photovoltaic and storage technologies is about twice as high in developing economies than in developed ones.
4. Other Factors: Competing developmental needs, such as providing electricity to 675 million people who lacked access in 2021 (IEA), limit their ability to invest in climate action.

How Much Does India Need for Its Climate Goals?

1. India has ambitious climate targets for 2030, including installing 500 GW of capacity from non-fossil fuels, producing five million metric tonnes of green hydrogen, and expanding electric vehicle use.
2. To meet these goals, India needs an estimated ₹40.8 lakh crore by 2030.
3. For renewable energy (450 GW by 2030), an additional ₹16.8 lakh crore is required.
4. The National Green Hydrogen Mission needs ₹8 lakh crore in investments.
5. Consumers must spend about ₹16 lakh crore to adopt electric vehicles.
6. Long-term, India needs ₹850 lakh crore from 2020 to 2070 to achieve net-zero emissions.

What Is the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG)?

1. The NCQG aims to establish a new annual climate finance target for developing countries.
2. It must focus on actual disbursals, not just commitments or promises of funding.
3. It should be new and additional, not reclassified from existing aid programs.
4. Public capital should include direct grants, mobilizing private finance through public funds.
5. Organically flowing private finance should not count.
6. An expert group estimates developing countries, excluding China, will need $1 trillion annually by 2030 to meet climate goals.
7. This target is crucial for balancing development and climate action in vulnerable nations.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges developing countries face in accessing climate finance and how the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) aims to address these challenges.

How can businesses worldwide promote inclusive growth and development?

Source: The post how businesses worldwide can promote inclusive growth and development has been created, based on the article “Essential business priorities in a changing world” published in “The Hindu” on 21st October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Economy-growth and development And Inclusive growth

Context: The article highlights how businesses worldwide can promote inclusive growth and development. It focuses on priorities like equitable development, food security, digital innovation, sustainability, and corporate governance. Businesses must collaborate and lead efforts for a better global economy.

For detailed information on Inclusive Growth read this article here

What role do businesses play in fostering growth and spreading developmental gains?

1. Promoting Inclusive Development: Businesses must prioritize equitable growth by offering tailored programs for skilling and upskilling workers. This is crucial, especially for women, to help them adapt to evolving industrial needs. On-the-job training and partnerships with academic institutions can enhance this.
2. Supporting Financial Inclusion: Brazil’s B-20 emphasized the need for diverse credit solutions. India’s Jan Dhan Yojana successfully opened over 530 million bank accounts, transforming financial transactions and serving as a model for global financial inclusion.
3. Expanding in Africa: Africa’s inclusion in the G-20 under India’s presidency presents new opportunities. Businesses can leverage Africa’s young population and rapid growth, integrating the continent into global value chains.
4. Ensuring Food Security: Businesses play a key role in promoting sustainable agriculture. Investments in precision farming and collaboration with governments help tackle food crises caused by extreme weather.
5. Advancing Digital Transformation: Businesses should harness AI in healthcare and climate change, while investing in STEM education and mentoring social tech startups for innovation and societal impact.
6. Prioritizing Sustainability: Businesses should aim for carbon mitigation and support the net-zero transition. This includes financing for small and medium enterprises, developing renewable energy, and adopting circular economy practices.

Why Is Corporate Governance Important?

1. Businesses must maintain high standards of corporate governance by adhering to ethical practices.
2. This builds trust with communities and governments, making it easier to operate globally.
3. Strong governance is essential for driving long-term growth and ensuring compliance with regulations.

What Role Does the B20 Global Institute Play?

1. The B20 Global Institute was initiated during India’s B20 leadership.
2. It aims to align policy suggestions for businesses across G-20 countries.
3. The institute will drive action agendas that enhance business competitiveness.
4. It will monitor outcomes on priorities like inclusive growth, food security, and sustainability.
5. The Institute ensures businesses contribute to achieving global aspirations, including integrating technology and promoting renewable energy to meet net-zero targets.

Question for practice:

Discuss how businesses can promote inclusive growth and development, focusing on priorities such as equitable development, financial inclusion, food security, and sustainability.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

World Bank Report Highlights Poverty and Climate Challenges

Source: This post on World Bank Report Highlights Poverty and Climate Challenges has been created based on the article “Extreme weather obstacle to an equitable world, as 3.53 billion people continue to live in poverty” published in Down to Earth on 21st October 2024.

Why in news?

According to the World Bank’s latest report, extreme weather will be a significant obstacle to achieving a more equitable world, with 3.53 billion people still living in poverty in 2024.

Findings of the report

1. Climate shocks, including extreme weather events, devastate livelihoods and trap vulnerable populations in a cycle of poverty.

These shocks are especially difficult to recover from, particularly for those living in low-income countries without access to adequate infrastructure and resources.

2. In 2024, 692 million people are living in extreme poverty, defined as subsisting on less than $2.15 per day.

When measured against the higher poverty standard of $6.85 per day, 43.6% of the global population or approximately 3.53 billion people are classified as living in poverty.

3. The slow progress in poverty alleviation reflects a “polycrisis” caused by factors such as the pandemic, slow economic growth, increased conflict, and climate change.

4. In 2024, South Asia is home to 1.48 billion poor people, while Sub-Saharan Africa has 1.11 billion poor people. Together, these regions account for 73% of the global poor.

5. By 2030, 7.3% of the world’s population could still be living on less than $2.15 a day, which is more than double the global goal of reducing extreme poverty to 3%.

6. Long-Term Poverty Reduction Goals: It could take over a century to lift individuals above the $6.85 per day threshold, according to current projections.

7. Rising Income Disparities: The World Bank’s report warns of growing income inequality, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, with many countries in these regions showing Gini index scores above 40.

8. High Inequality in Southern and Central Africa: Inequality is most pronounced in Southern and Central Africa, exacerbating the challenge of poverty reduction.

9. Climate Shocks and Economic Growth

i) Vulnerability to Extreme Weather: South Asia, with 88.1% of its population exposed to climate risks, and Sub-Saharan Africa, home to the highest number of people at severe risk, are particularly vulnerable to climate shocks such as floods, heatwaves, and cyclones.

ii) Need for Inclusive Economic Growth: The World Bank emphasizes the importance of inclusive economic growth to lift people out of poverty. This growth must be complemented by investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and access to markets.

10. Building Resilience to Climate Impacts

i) Targeted Climate Adaptation Strategies: Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia require targeted adaptation strategies to withstand the impacts of extreme weather. The report calls for stronger social protection systems, including healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

ii) Progressive Fiscal Policies: Countries must adopt progressive fiscal policies that increase domestic revenue while reducing inequality, ensuring that vulnerable populations benefit from economic growth.

iii) Strengthening Insurance Mechanisms: To protect vulnerable populations from falling deeper into poverty during climate disasters, the report recommends strengthening insurance mechanisms and other safety nets.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports and Index

Yars Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)

Source: This post on Yars Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) has been created based on the article “Russia tests readiness of Yars nuclear missile unit” published in The Hindu on 21st October 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, Russia’s Defence Ministry announced that it is testing the combat readiness of a unit armed with Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles in a region northwest of Moscow.

About Yars Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)

1. The RS-24 Yars also known as Topol-MR is a Russian intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) designed to bolster the country’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. It was introduced in 2007.

2. The Yars is an advanced version of the Topol-M missile, featuring improvements in range, mobility, and warhead capacity.

3. It plays a crucial role in Russia’s strategic nuclear forces, forming a backbone of its long-range strike capability.

Key Features of the Yars Missile:

1) The Yars missile can be deployed in two primary configurations:

i) Silo-based: Launched from hardened, underground silos, providing greater protection against enemy attacks.

ii) Mobile launchers: Mounted on large transporter-erector-launchers (TELs), giving the missile mobility and making it harder for adversaries to detect and destroy.

2. Range: The Yars missile has a range of up to 11,000 km (approximately 6,835 miles), enabling it to strike targets far beyond Russia’s borders, including most of Europe, the United States, and other strategic locations.

3. Warhead: The Yars is equipped with multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), meaning it can carry multiple nuclear warheads, each capable of striking different targets. This increases the missile’s lethality and makes it more challenging to intercept by missile defense systems.

4. Accuracy and Guidance: The Yars missile benefits from advanced guidance systems, making it highly accurate. Its MIRVs can deliver warheads with precision, ensuring a more effective strike against strategic enemy targets.

Strategic Importance

i) The Yars missile is a critical component of Russia’s nuclear triad which consists of land-based ICBMs, submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers.

ii) This triad provides Russia with a diversified and resilient nuclear deterrent, ensuring that it can retaliate in the event of an attack.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence 

Indo-Oman Naval Exercise (Naseem Al Bahr)

Source: This post on Indo-Oman Naval Exercise (Naseem Al Bahr) has been created based on the article “INDIAN NAVY – ROYAL NAVY OF OMAN MARITIME EXERCISE (NASEEM AL BAHR)” published in PIB on 21st October 2024.

Why in news?

The Indian Navy’s INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft participated in the Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with the Royal Navy of Oman’s vessel Al Seeb off the coast of Goa from October 13 to 18, 2024.

About Indo-Oman Naval Exercise (Naseem Al Bahr)

1. About: The exercise was held off the coast of Goa from 13 to 18 October 2024.

2. Exercise Participants: Indian Navy: INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft and Royal Navy of Oman (RNOV): Vessel Al Seeb.

3. Phases of the Exercise: 

i) Harbour Phase (13-15 October 2024): It involves professional interactions between the navies, including Subject Matter Expert Exchanges and planning conferences. Also involves sporting events and social engagements for relationship building.

ii) Sea Phase (16-18 October 2024):  Joint maritime operations included gun firings at inflatable surface targets and close-range anti-aircraft firings.

Ships performed complex naval manoeuvres and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS). Helicopter from INS Trikand conducted cross-deck landings and Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP) with RNOV Al Seeb.

Indian Navy’s Dornier aircraft provided Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data. Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb for a day to enhance interoperability.

Key Outcomes

1. Enhanced Interoperability: The exercise promoted mutual understanding and shared best practices between both navies.

2. Strengthened Collaboration: Fosters India’s commitment to cooperation with friendly nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

3. Successful Engagement: The exercise was a success in achieving its objectives of building stronger naval ties and operational cohesion between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.

UPSC Syllabus: Defence exercises 

ITU Kaleidoscope 2024

Source: This post on ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 has been created based on the article “ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 – Pioneering Innovation and Global Collaboration” published in PIB on 21st October 2024.

Why in news?

The 15th ITU Kaleidoscope Academic Conference will begin from tomorrow (October 21, 2024) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

About ITU Kaleidoscope 2024

1. About: ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 is an international conference organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations’ specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICT).

2. Kaleidoscope conferences are part of the ITU’s broader efforts to foster dialogue between the academic, research, and industry communities in ICT, driving innovation and collaboration in the development of global standards.

3. The 2024 Kaleidoscope conference will bring together researchers, academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and technical experts from around the world to explore innovative ICT solutions and discuss emerging trends and challenges.

4. These conferences focus on future technologies and trends, especially those that can have a significant impact on global communications networks and the standardization process.

5. Theme: Innovation and Digital Transformation for a Sustainable World

5. Goals: The main goals of Kaleidoscope 2024 are to:

i) Encourage collaboration between academia and industry to promote the development of international ICT standards.

ii)  Present the latest research and innovations that can shape the future of telecommunications.

iii) Address global challenges and ensure that advancements in ICT contribute to broader societal benefits.

6. ITU Kaleidoscope 2024 features:

i) Technical paper presentations: Academics and researchers present their work on relevant topics, with selected papers published in the conference proceedings.

ii) Keynotes and panel discussions: Industry leaders, policymakers, and academic experts discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities in ICT.

iii) Workshops and tutorials: Hands-on sessions that allow participants to delve deeper into specific technologies and applications.

Key Themes for ITU Kaleidoscope 2024

1. 5G and Beyond: The development of 5G networks and the future of mobile connectivity, including the integration of 6G, new spectrum management, and IoT technologies.

2. AI and Machine Learning: Exploring the role of artificial intelligence in telecommunications, network automation, and enhanced service delivery.

3. Cybersecurity and Privacy: Addressing security challenges in global ICT systems, including the protection of personal data, infrastructure security, and trust frameworks.

4. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): ICT’s role in supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and smart cities.

5. Quantum Communications: The impact of quantum computing and quantum cryptography on secure communications networks.

6. Digital Inclusion: Ensuring equitable access to digital technologies, addressing the digital divide, and promoting inclusive growth through ICT.

UPSC Syllabus: International organisation 

Sakura Programme 2024

Source: This post on Sakura Programme 2024 has been created based on the article “20 students from India to participate in Sakura Programme 2024” published in PIB on 21st October 2024.

Why in news?

The Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education (DoSEL), is sending a delegation of 20 school students and 2 supervisors to Japan to participate in the Sakura Programme 2024. They will join representatives from five other countries for the event, which will take place from 20 to 26 October 2024.

About Sakura Programme 2024

1. The “Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Program in Science,” known as the Sakura Science Programme has been implemented by Japan’s Science and Technology Agency (JST) since 2014.

2. India has been a participant since 2015, with students invited for short-term visits to Japan to experience its cutting-edge science, technology, and culture.

4. It is aligned with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes holistic and experiential learning, this program supports the NEP’s emphasis on integrated and enjoyable education.

5. Educational trips, like the Sakura Programme, are vital for exposing students to historical, cultural, social, and technological developments.

6. Under the programme, Japan offers an enriching environment for students’ intellectual growth and exploration of innovative practices.

5. Past Participation: India first joined the program in April 2016, and to date, 553 students and 85 supervisors from India have visited Japan through the initiative. The most recent batch participated in June 2024.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programmes 

Quad Naval Exercises

Source: This post on Quad Naval Exercises has been created based on the article “Quad partners take part in back-to-back naval war games” published in The Hindu on 21st October 2024.

Why in news?

The Quad nations India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S. have conducted back-to-back naval war games, reinforced their maritime collaboration and honed their operational capabilities, particularly in anti-submarine warfare.

About Exercise Malabar 2024

1. It was held from October 8 to 18, 2024, off the coast of Visakhapatnam. It began as a bilateral drill between India and the U.S. in 1992, now a key multilateral event.

2. Significance: The Indian Navy described this edition as the “most comprehensive” Malabar exercise to date, incorporating advanced and complex operational scenarios.

3. Phases: The exercise consisted of: Harbour Phase in Visakhapatnam and Sea Phase in the Bay of Bengal.

4. Objective: Focused on enhancing interoperability, mutual understanding, and addressing shared maritime challenges, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.

5. Participating Units includes India, Australia, Japan, U.S. and Special Forces from all four countries participated in advanced operations.

6. Exercises involved a range of surface, sub-surface, and air warfare activities, including: Surface weapon firings, Anti-air and air defense exercises, Seamanship evolutions and maritime interdiction operations and refueling at sea and ship-borne helicopter operations.

7. Exercise Malabar’s Strategic Role: It aimed at fostering cooperation, improving operational coordination, and enhancing maritime security across the Indo-Pacific.

8. Key Focus Areas:

i) Anti-Submarine Warfare: A major priority, given concerns about the growing presence of the Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean Region.

ii) Undersea Domain Awareness: Critical for ensuring security in this strategically important maritime domain.

About Exercise Kakadu 2024

1. It was hosted by the Royal Australian Navy from September 9 to 20, 2024.

2. Participation: It included nearly 3,000 personnel from 30 nations, with ships from 10 countries and aircraft from five nations. The Indian Navy deployed a P-8I MPA for this exercise.

3. Objective: Focused on regional maritime security, operational excellence, and showcasing new technologies and tactics in naval operations.

4. Strategic Importance of Kakadu: It demonstrates Australia’s commitment to international maritime partnerships and regional security.

5. Activities: It involved warfighting drills as well as humanitarian operations, highlighting a broad spectrum of naval capabilities.

UPSC Syllabus: Exercise in news