9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 23 November, 2024

Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 2

Combating Antimicrobial Resistance: Global and India Efforts

Source: The post Combating Antimicrobial Resistance: Global and India Efforts has been created, based on the article “How to fight back against the toughest diseases” published in “Indian Express” on 23rd November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context: The article discusses the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), its global impact, and India’s efforts to combat it. It highlights surveillance improvements, policy actions, and India’s need for better governance, investments, and research to strengthen AMR containment and save lives.

For detailed information on UN’s urgent call for action against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) read this article here

What is AMR and why is it a threat?

1. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microbes become resistant to drugs used to treat them. Drug-resistant infections are difficult to treat and cause many deaths.

2. In 2021, AMR caused 1.14 million deaths globally, with the highest burden in South Asia and Africa.
3. Older adults are most vulnerable, with deaths in those aged 70+ increasing by 80% between 1990 and 2021.
4. Projections by economist Jim O’Neill in 2014 estimated that AMR could cause 10 million annual deaths by 2050.

What steps were taken to address AMR globally?

1. In 2015, the WHO launched the Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS).
2. GLASS now includes 137 countries and provides standardized AMR data.
3. The Global Action Plan on AMR was adopted in 2015, and the UN passed a resolution on AMR in 2016.
4. The UNGA in 2023 committed to reducing AMR deaths by 10% by 2030 and called for $100 million in catalytic funding.

What has India done to combat AMR?

1. India launched its National Action Plan (NAP) on AMR in 2017.
2. It monitors AMR trends through national networks and has expanded to secondary-level hospitals.
3. The National Essential Diagnostics List mandates microbiology labs in district hospitals, improving local surveillance.
4. India also has AMR surveillance for livestock, poultry, and fisheries.

For detailed information on Increasing Antimicrobial Resistance in India read this article here

What challenges remain in India’s fight against AMR?

1. AMR surveillance lacks a national footprint, and governance mechanisms need strengthening.
2. Funding gaps and coordination issues slow the effective rollout of NAPs.
3. Efforts to monitor antimicrobial consumption must be sustained and expanded.

What more can India do to tackle AMR?

1. India should improve governance and accountability in its next NAP on AMR.
2. Investing in healthcare systems is crucial for infection control, vaccine uptake, and antimicrobial stewardship.
3. Developing new drugs, diagnostics, and vaccines through research is essential.
4. India needs ambitious actions to better protect public health and reduce the AMR burden.

Question for practice:

Discuss the global and Indian efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the challenges that remain in addressing it.

Adani’s Global Expansion and India’s Reputation

Source: The post Adani’s Global Expansion and India’s Reputation has been created, based on the article “Adani indictment in US damages global credibility of India Inc” published in “Indian Express” on 23rd November 2024

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

Context: The article discusses how the Adani Group’s global expansion, supported by the Indian government, has raised concerns over crony capitalism, corruption, and reliance on foreign finance. It criticizes the government’s involvement in backing the group’s questionable practices, damaging India’s global reputation.

What is the Adani Group’s global strategy?

1. The Adani Group has expanded globally, investing in projects from Australia to Greece, Bangladesh to Kenya, and beyond.
2. Its ventures, like ports and power projects, are supported by the Indian government as part of India’s geopolitical and geo-economic strategy.
3. For instance, the U.S. partnered with Adani, providing $533 million in financing for a port project in Sri Lanka to counter China’s influence.
4. An Indian diplomat even described this support as “geo-strategic,” using Adani’s projects to enhance India’s foreign policy goals.
5. However, critics argue that this has promoted crony capitalism, where political connections benefit certain businesses. The Indian government has been compared to South Korea’s chaebol model, supporting global expansion of large businesses with state backing. Critics argue that India’s version lacks accountability compared to South Korea.

How has crony capitalism evolved in India?

1. Crony capitalism in India began during the licence-permit-control era and later shifted to public-private partnerships and regulatory policies.
2. Political-business ties remain strong, with businesses relying on political support to secure contracts domestically and abroad.

What legal and financial issues has the Adani Group faced?

1. Unlike China, which uses its own funds to expand globally, Indian firms depend on Western financial markets.
   2. This dependence exposes them to foreign laws and legal risks, like anti-bribery regulations. A U.S. grand jury indictment highlights these issues.
   3. Similar concerns have arisen globally:
2. Sri Lanka: Reviewing an Adani power project.
3. Kenya: Plans to cancel an Adani airport expansion project.
4. Bangladesh: High Court ordered a probe into Adani’s power agreement.

What are the broader implications for India?

1. The government’s overt support for Adani has blurred the line between promoting national business interests and enabling unethical practices.
2. Indian firms like Tata and Infosys built strong global reputations through ethical practices and consistent effort. In contrast, Adani’s issues have harmed “Brand India,” undoing decades of progress in building the global equity of Indian businesses.
3. Critics call for action to restore trust and ensure ethical practices in business-government relations.

Question for practice:

Evaluate how the Adani Group’s global expansion, supported by the Indian government, has impacted India’s reputation and raised concerns over ethical business practices.

Challenges faced at the G-20 summit in Brazil

Source: The post challenges faced at the G-20 summit in Brazil has been created, based on the article “Urgent deadline: Poverty and climate change must be tackled urgently by the G-20” published in “The Hindu” on 23rd November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses the challenges faced at the G-20 summit in Brazil. It highlights unmet expectations on tackling global hunger, poverty, and climate justice. Conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine affected discussions. Developing nations urged better representation and climate action.

What were the key goals of the G-20 summit in Brazil?

1. The summit aimed to address global hunger, poverty, and climate justice.
2. Brazilian President Lula Da Silva emphasized taxing the super-rich, proposing a 2% wealth tax to generate over $200 billion.
3. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the struggles of the Global South, calling for better global representation.
4. The summit marked the third consecutive G-20 presidency by a Global South country after Indonesia (2022) and India (2023).

For detailed information on Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty read this article here

What challenges affected the summit’s focus?

1. Global Conflicts:
2. October 7 attacks on Israel and Gaza crisis diverted attention.
3. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine complicated forging consensus.
4. The declaration avoided mentioning Russia and only expressed “deep concern” over Gaza, lacking specifics on resolving conflicts.
5. Timing Issues:
6. Held close to COP29, expected to influence the COP29 discussions in Azerbaijan. Issues like climate financing and justice were anticipated to be priorities.
7. However, the U.S. presidential election results might impact future commitments, especially with Donald Trump’s administration likely disregarding climate goals.
8. Diluted Commitments:
9. Key topics like poverty and hunger lacked strong action plans.
10. Lula’s proposed 2% wealth tax on the super-rich was not adopted.

What is the role of the Global South in shaping future G-20 goals?

1. The quartet of Indonesia, India, Brazil, and South Africa must ensure the next summit prioritizes poverty, hunger, and climate issues.
2. South Africa will host the 2024 G-20, creating an opportunity to solidify these concerns.
3. COP30 in Brazil (2025) links G-20 outcomes to climate justice. With the U.S. hosting G-20 in 2026, the Global South must ensure concrete actions by then.

Question for practice:

Discuss the challenges faced by the G-20 summit in Brazil and their impact on addressing global issues like hunger, poverty, and climate justice.

GS PAPER - 3

Concerns about Big Tech’s dominance in AI

Source: The post concerns about Big Tech’s dominance in AI has been created, based on the article “Democratising AI needs a radically different approach” published in “The Hindu” on 23rd November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-Science and Technology – Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.

Context: The article highlights concerns about Big Tech’s dominance in AI due to high costs, data monopolies, and integrated services. It suggests shifting focus from “bigger is better” AI models to smaller, purpose-driven AI guided by theory, expertise, and progressive goals.

For detailed information on Regulating Big Techs In India read this article here

What is the concern about Big Tech’s dominance in AI?

1. High Computational Costs: Building deep learning models is expensive. For instance, the Gemini Ultra model cost $200 million to train, making it nearly impossible for smaller companies to compete.
2. Dependence on Big Tech: Smaller players rely on Big Tech for compute credits, deepening their dominance.
3. End-to-End Services: Big Tech offers integrated tools for tasks like data preparation and algorithm access, making their platforms more convenient and cost-effective.
4. Data Monopoly: Big Tech collects vast, continuous data streams across domains and geographies, creating a competitive edge. Open data initiatives often fail as Big Tech leverages public data more effectively.
5. Control Over Research: Big Tech now leads academic research, surpassing universities in publications and citations, influencing AI’s direction.
6. Missed Opportunities: Initiatives like the Global Development Compact fail to rethink the paradigm, reinforcing the “bigger is better” model without addressing systemic issues.

What is the Proposed Shift in AI Development?

1. Emphasis on Small AI: The shift suggests moving away from massive data-driven models, like Gemini Ultra, which costs about $200 million to train, towards smaller, targeted models that focus on specific societal needs.
2. Theory of Change: This approach advocates for AI development guided by causal relationships and hypotheses testing, rather than sheer data volume.
3. Domain Expertise: It prioritizes the use of domain knowledge and lived experiences to inform AI development, ensuring that models are relevant and effectively address real-world challenges.
4. Purpose-Driven Models: By focusing on specific goals, these smaller models can be more sustainable and democratic, offering alternatives to Big Tech’s monopolistic practices.

Question for practice:

Examine the concerns associated with Big Tech’s dominance in AI and the proposed shift towards smaller, purpose-driven AI models.

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

SC statement on Socialism and secularism in India and the Preamble Amendment

Source: This post on SC statement on Socialism in India and the Preamble Amendment has been created based on the article “Socialism in India means a welfare state not dictatorial dogma, says CJI Sanjiv Khanna” published in The Hindu on 23rd November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, the Supreme Court recently gave statement on a challenge to the inclusion of the terms “socialist” and “secular” in the Constitution’s Preamble, added by the 42nd Amendment during the Emergency era. However, the final judgement is still awaited. 

About the court’s observation

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna emphasized that:

i) Socialism in India signifies a welfare state ensuring equality of opportunity and is not akin to dictatorial ideologies.

ii) It accommodates both individualism and private sector growth alongside public sector contributions, as reflected in various constitutional Articles.

iii) Secularism is a fundamental aspect of the Constitution’s Basic Structure, alongside socialism and cannot be detached. The Preamble, amendable under Article 368 is an integral part of the Constitution and evolves to align with national welfare goals.

iv) The judgment reaffirmed that secularism which is rooted in principles like equality and fraternity and is intrinsic to the Constitution’s ethos and cannot be compromised.

v) In the previous judgements also, the court emphasized secularism is intrinsic to the Constitution’s Basic Structure with terms like ‘equality’ and ‘fraternity’ reflecting its essence.

Concept of socialism and secularism in Preamble

1. The concepts of socialism and secularism are explicitly mentioned in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. Both principles emphasize the democratic and inclusive framework of the Constitution. These terms were added through the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.

2. Socialism signifies the commitment to social and economic justice, aiming to reduce inequality in wealth, status, and opportunities.

3. Secularism ensures that the state treats all religions equally without favoring or discriminating against any faith.

Socialism and secularism in Indian Constitution

1. Fundamental rights: The Indian Constitution reflects its commitment to socialism and secularism through various provisions. Socialism is upheld via Fundamental Rights like Article 14 (equality before law), Article 21 (right to life and socio-economic rights), and Article 23 (prohibition of forced labor).

2. Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): It is also mentioned as Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) such as Article 38(1) (justice-based social order), Article 39 (equitable wealth distribution), Article 41 (right to work and education), and Article 46 (upliftment of weaker sections). Public sector undertakings and welfare schemes under Articles 39(b) and 39(c) further embody socialism.

3. Fundamental rights: Secularism is supported by Fundamental Rights like Article 15 (no religious discrimination), Article 25 (freedom of religion), Article 27 (no taxes for religious promotion), and Article 28 (restrictions on religious instruction in state institutions).

4. Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): Article 44 in the DPSP advocates a Uniform Civil Code, and Article 51A(e) emphasizes harmony beyond religious divides.

Read more: Supreme Court Declares Secularism as a Core Part of the Constitution

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and nation 

International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

Source: This post on International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) has been created based on the article “India to host global conference of cooperatives for the first time” published in The Hindu on 23rd November 2024.

Why in news?

India will host the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference for the first time.

About Global Conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

1. About: The Global Conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) will take place in New Delhi, India, from November 25–30, 2024.

2. Hosted by: It is being hosted by IFFCO with support from 18 ICA member organizations.

3. Focus: It is focused on cooperative-driven growth and prosperity, its theme is “Cooperatives Build Prosperity for All” with subthemes addressing policy, leadership, and the cooperative identity in the 21st century.

About International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

1. About: It is the leading nonprofit organization representing cooperatives. It is serving as a unified voice and platform for knowledge-sharing, expertise, and coordinated efforts focused on cooperatives worldwide.

2. Purpose: It was founded in 1895 to promotes the cooperative model as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional business practices.

3. Headquarter: The organization is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium and four regional offices for Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe.

3. Membership: Its members include national and international cooperative organizations from various sectors such as agriculture, banking, consumer goods, health, housing, and insurance. It includes over 306 organizations representing 105 countries among its members.

4. Structure: The ICA operates through a structured framework involving General Assembly, Board of Directors and Sectoral Organizations and Committees.

4. Objectives: The ICA’s primary mission is to advance the cooperative movement by:

1. Promoting Cooperative Principles: The ICA upholds the seven cooperative principles, which guide cooperatives worldwide.

2. Advocating for Cooperative Interests: It represents the interests of cooperatives to international institutions like the United Nations and other global entities.

3. Providing Resources and Support: The ICA offers research, training, and networking opportunities to help cooperatives thrive and expand their influence.

UPSC Syllabus: International organisation 

Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 

Source: This post on Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar has been created based on the article “82 Young Artists to be Conferred Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puruskar for the Years 2022 and 2023, Tomorrow” published in PIB on 23rd November 2024.

Why in news?

The Union Minister of Culture and Tourism conferred the prestigious Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for the years 2022 and 2023 to 82 young artists at a special ceremony.

About Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar

1. Initiated by: Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2006.

2. Objective: To honor and support young artists under 40 in music, dance, drama, folk/tribal arts, puppetry, and allied performing arts.

3. Eligibility: Artists below 40 years of age.

4. Fields Recognized: Music, Dance, Theatre, Traditional/Folk/Tribal Arts, Puppetry, and Scholarship in Performing Arts.

5. Recognition: Cash prize of ₹25,000, a plaque, and an angavastram.

6. Significance: Encourages young talents, preserving and promoting India’s diverse cultural heritage.

About Ustad Bismillah Khan

1. He was a classical musician to popularize shehnai in Indian classical music.

2. He was born on March 21, 1916, in Dumraon, Bihar, into a family of court musicians.

3. He is known for his devotion to Indian classical music and his ability to blend Hindustani classical ragas with the unique tonal quality of the shehnai.

4. His music was characterized by its purity, spiritual depth, and emotional intensity, often evoking a sense of devotion and tranquility.

5. He represented the Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb (the syncretic culture of Hindu-Muslim unity) through his music and persona.

6. He played at the All India Music Conference in Kolkata in 1937, earning wide recognition.  He also played shehnai at the Red Fort on August 15, 1947, marking India’s Independence and establishing a tradition. He performed there on every Independence Day until his death.

Achievements and Honors

1. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2001, becoming the third classical musician to receive India’s highest civilian honor.

2. Other major awards: He was also awarded with Padma Shri (1961), Padma Bhushan (1968) and Padma Vibhushan (1980).

UPSC Syllabus: Art and culture 

Key Highlights of Telecom Cybersecurity Rules

Source: This post on Key Highlights of Telecom Cybersecurity Rules has been created based on the article “Govt. notifies telecom cybersecurity rules” published in The Hindu on 23rd November 2024.

Why in news?

The central government has introduced telecom cybersecurity regulations to enhance the protection of India’s communication networks and services.

Key Highlights of Telecom Cybersecurity Rules

1. Key measures include specified timelines for telecom operators to report security incidents and disclose relevant details.

2. The central government or its authorized agency can request traffic data or other information (excluding message content) from telecom entities to ensure cybersecurity.

3. The primary objective of the Telecom Cybersecurity Rules is to safeguard India’s communication networks and services against cyber threats.

Rules regarding reporting Security Incidents

1. Appointment of Chief Telecommunication Security Officer (CTSO): Telecom entities are required to designate a Chief Telecommunication Security Officer (CTSO) responsible for overseeing cybersecurity measures within their organization.

2. Incident Reporting: Security incidents must be reported to the central authority within six hours of detection. The report should include details of the affected system and a description of the incident.

3. Detailed Follow-up Report: A detailed follow-up report must be submitted within 24 hours of the initial report.

This follow-up should include: The number of users impacted by the incident, the duration of the incident, the geographical area affected, the extent of the impact on network or service functionality and remedial measures taken or proposed to address the issue.

Government Oversight: The central government or an authorized agency has the authority to request traffic data and other non-message-related data from telecom entities to enhance cybersecurity measures.

Equipment Registration: Manufacturers of devices with International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers are required to register these IMEI numbers with the government before selling their equipment in India.

UPSC Syllabus: Governance

Nimoo Bazgo Power Station

Source: This post on Nimoo Bazgo Power Station has been created based on the article “Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal visits 45 MW NHPC Nimoo Bazgo Power Station” published in PIB on 23rd November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, the Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs visited Nimoo Bazgo Power Station.

About NHPC Nimoo Bazgo Power Station

1. It is a significant hydropower project situated in the high-altitude, challenging terrain of Ladakh.

2. Developed and operated by:  NHPC Limited

3. Location: located in the Leh District of the Union Territory of Ladakh.

4. Installed Capacity: 45 MW, contributing substantially to meeting the energy demands of the region.

5. Energy Source: The project utilizes the flow of the Indus River, a perennial source of water, making it an eco-friendly and renewable energy initiative.

6. Role in Development: As Ladakh undergoes rapid infrastructure and developmental transformation, this power station plays a pivotal role in ensuring a stable and green energy supply for both residential and commercial needs.

7. Contribution to Local Welfare: Under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the Power Station has been actively involved in supporting the local population.

The welfare programs focus on: Community development, infrastructure improvements, skill development, and Environmental conservation.

8. Strategic Importance: The project is crucial in aligning with India’s vision of renewable energy expansion and environmental sustainability.

It aids in reducing Ladakh’s dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to the region’s transformation into a carbon-neutral zone.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy