9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 25 November, 2024
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Mains Oriented Articles
GS PAPER - 3
Delhi’s severe air pollution and its solution
Source: The post Delhi’s severe air pollution and its solution has been created, based on the article “Three solutions for clean air” published in “Indian Express” on 25th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3-Environment
Context: The article discusses Delhi’s severe air pollution, highlighting stubble burning, transport, and local sources as causes. It suggests crop diversification, stronger EV policies, and innovative technologies like smog towers to reduce pollution and improve public health and sustainability.
For detailed information on Air Pollution In Delhi- Reasons and Solutions read this article here
What is the main cause of air pollution in Delhi?
- Delhi experiences severe air pollution, especially in November, with the AQI often surpassing 400. This is due to slow wind velocity and pollutants such as PM 2.5 stagnating in the air.
- Stubble Burning: According to IITM, Pune, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana contributed 35.18% to Delhi’s PM 2.5 levels on November 1, 2024.
- Transport Sector: Delhi’s transport sector added 19% to the pollution.
- Other Sources: Contributions include: Residential areas: 3.9%; Industries: 4.6%; Construction: 2.4%; Road dust: 1.4%; Neighboring areas: 30-35%
What should be done?
- One solution is diversifying crops in Punjab and Haryana, where 1 to 1.5 million hectares of paddy could switch to crops like pulses or millets. This change could reduce groundwater depletion and greenhouse gas emissions, as paddy is highly water-intensive and receives large subsidies. If farmers receive better incentives and support for crop diversification, it could reduce pollution and enhance sustainability.
- Implementing Delhi’s Electric Vehicles (EV) policy more aggressively could help. The policy targets 25% of all new vehicle registrations as EVs by 2025. However, a lack of charging infrastructure remains a hurdle, with only 1,919 charging stations available. Expanding this infrastructure is crucial for reducing emissions from the transport sector.
- Innovative technologies like vacuum cleaning towers, or smog towers, could capture pollutants directly from the air. Placing these towers at major traffic intersections and highly polluted areas could significantly improve air quality.
Question for practice:
Discuss the major causes of air pollution in Delhi and the potential solutions to address them.
Global negotiations for a treaty to end plastic pollution
Source: The post global negotiations for a treaty to end plastic pollution has been created, based on the article “Why the world needs a global plastic treaty” published in “Indian Express” on 25th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.
Context: The article discusses the upcoming global negotiations in Busan to create a treaty to end plastic pollution. It covers the growing plastic crisis, its environmental and health impacts, the negotiations’ goals, and India’s position, which focuses on production limits, financial support, and national solutions.
For detailed information on The UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution read this article here
Why is a global plastic treaty needed?
- Rising Plastic Production: Global plastic production doubled from 234 mt in 2000 to 460 mt in 2019 and may reach 700 mt by 2040 (OECD report).
- Ineffective Recycling: Less than 10% of plastic has been recycled, while it takes 20–500 years to decompose (The Lancet, 2023).
- Environmental Impact: 400 mt of annual plastic waste pollutes rivers and oceans, breaking into harmful microplastics.
- Health Risks: Plastic chemicals cause cancer, diabetes, and reproductive disorders (UNEP studies).
- Climate Change: Plastic contributed 3.6% of global GHG emissions in 2020, with emissions rising 20% by 2050 (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory).
- India’s Role: India accounts for 20% of global plastic emissions (9.3 mt annually), far more than Nigeria (3.5 mt), Indonesia (3.4 mt) and China (2.8 mt).
For detailed information on Global Plastics Treaty read Article 1, Article 2
What are the key issues in the treaty negotiations?
- Production Caps: Oil and gas-rich countries like Saudi Arabia, Russia, and India oppose limits on plastic production, citing it as beyond the treaty’s scope. Countries like Rwanda and the EU propose ambitious targets, such as a 40% reduction by 2040.
- Finance and Technology: Countries differ in funding methods. UNEP urges mobilizing private and public finance. India demands financial aid, technology transfer, and infrastructure assessment for waste management.
- Just Transition: Talks address the impact on workers and communities dependent on plastic production, highlighting the need for fair solutions.
What is India’s stance on the treaty?
- India opposes restrictions on polymer production, stating it is beyond the UNEA’s 2022 resolution mandate.
- It calls for decisions on harmful chemicals to be based on scientific studies and prefers domestic regulation.
- India seeks financial and technical assistance, including technology transfer, for implementing treaty provisions.
- It highlights the need to assess financial resources and infrastructure for waste management.
- India banned 19 single-use plastic items in 2022 but advocates for nationally driven regulations.
Question for practice:
Examine the key issues in the global treaty negotiations to address plastic pollution and India’s stance on these issues.
Increasing number of satellites leads to pollution in the upper atmosphere
Source: The post increasing number of satellites leads to pollution in the upper atmosphere has been created, based on the article “Why satellite space junk may be bad news for the environment” published in “Indian Express” on 25th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- space pollution and Science and Technology-Awareness in the fields of Space
Context: The article discusses how the increasing number of satellites leads to pollution in the upper atmosphere when they burn up. This pollution harms the ozone layer, impacts atmospheric chemistry, and can trigger environmental changes that threaten life on Earth.
For detailed information on Long-feared space junk has become an imminent threat read this article here
What Is the Status of Satellite Pollution?
- Over 10,000 satellites currently orbit Earth. This number may rise to 100,000 by the 2030s and could reach half a million later on.
- When satellites end their life cycle, they burn up and release pollutants into the atmosphere.
- Research by NOAA shows that 10% of particles in the stratosphere contain metals like aluminum from satellite debris.
- The emissions from satellites increased from 3.3 billion grams in 2020 to 5.6 billion grams in 2022.
Why Is Satellite Pollution a Concern?
- Impact on the ozone layer: Pollutants like aluminum oxide deplete the ozone layer, which protects Earth from harmful UV rays. This is alarming, especially after the Montreal Protocol successfully reduced ozone-depleting chemicals like CFCs.
- Atmospheric impacts: Pollutants like soot from rockets warm the atmosphere by absorbing solar energy. Metals from spacecraft, such as copper, can trigger chemical reactions and promote cloud formation, further altering atmospheric balance.
- Even small changes in atmospheric chemistry can disrupt Earth’s environment, which evolved over billions of years. Scientists fear these disruptions could harm life on Earth, making satellite pollution a pressing global issue.
Question for practice:
Examine how the increasing number of satellites contributes to pollution and its effects on Earth’s atmosphere.
Impact of Air Pollution and NCAP’s Effectiveness
Source: The post Impact of Air Pollution and NCAP’s Effectiveness has been created, based on the article “After a health emergency, toxic air foretells an economic one” published in “The Hindu” on 25th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-environment-pollution
Context: The article discusses the severe impact of air pollution on health in India, highlighting increased deaths and chronic diseases due to poor air quality. It criticizes the inadequate response of the National Clean Air Programme and calls for stronger, health-focused actions and policies.
For detailed information on India’s severe air pollution crisis read this article here
What is the impact of air pollution on health in India?
- Lung Damage: Doctors observed that human lungs, naturally pink at birth, turn black with pollution. Teenagers’ lungs now resemble those of lifelong smokers, showing the deep impact of polluted air.
- Premature Deaths: Nearly 2 million lives were lost in 2021 due to pollution-related diseases. Air pollution is India’s leading environmental cause of premature deaths.
- Chronic Respiratory Issues: Exposure to air pollution causes lifelong respiratory problems, including asthma and impaired lung development in children. This diminishes health and quality of life over a lifetime.
- Non-Communicable Diseases: Poor air quality is linked to hypertension, diabetes, and strokes. Early exposure to pollutants predisposes people to chronic illnesses.
- Inequality in Impact: Low-income communities living near pollution sources face the worst effects. They lack resources to shield themselves from pollution, deepening the health crisis.
- Economic Costs: Pollution increases hospitalizations and healthcare expenses, adding financial burdens on families. It also reduces productivity by causing missed work and school days.
For detailed information on Air Pollution and Mortality in Indian Cities read this article here
Is the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) effective?
- Goal and Targets: The NCAP, launched in 2019, initially aimed to reduce particulate matter pollution by 20-30% by 2024. This target was revised to a 40% reduction by 2026.
- Lack of Effective Implementation: Experts criticize NCAP for its weak implementation. It is seen as a policy of intent with limited on-ground impact.
- Monitoring vs. Emission Reduction: Some experts point out that NCAP focuses on monitoring pollutants but lacks strong efforts to reduce emissions.
- Challenges with Uniform Policy: Experts suggest that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work. Regional strategies targeting specific sources like stubble burning or industrial emissions are needed.
- Structural Challenges: Economist highlights that NCAP is ineffective without reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Public Health Link: Experts urge integrating public health into pollution control, making it a central focus of the NCAP.
For detailed information on What challenges does the NCAP face read this article here
What Should be Done?
- Stronger NCAP Implementation: Move beyond monitoring to strict enforcement, focusing on health outcomes. Tailor strategies regionally, targeting specific sources like stubble burning and industrial emissions.
- Health-Centric Policies: Link air pollution to public health crises. Recognize pollution as a cause of death certificates.
- Community Involvement: Encourage local actions like limiting waste-burning and idling vehicles near schools, as campaigns like “My Solution to Pollution” suggest.
- Unified Regulatory Body: Establish a central agency to regulate air quality effectively.
Question for practice:
Discuss the effectiveness of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in addressing the health and environmental impacts of air pollution in India.
Financial challenges in urban infrastructure development
Source: The post financial challenges in urban infrastructure development has been created, based on the article “India’s urban infrastructure financing, needs and reality” published in “The Hindu” on 25th November 2024
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- infrastructure
Context: The article discusses India’s urban growth challenges, highlighting the need for ₹70 lakh crore by 2036 for infrastructure. It emphasizes weak municipal finances, low tax collection, underutilized funds, declining PPPs, and suggests reforms, better planning, and private sector collaboration.
For detailed information on Urban Local Bodies In India read this article here
What are the financial challenges in urban infrastructure development?
- India’s urban population will rise from 400 million to 800 million in three decades. To meet infrastructure needs, ₹70 lakh crore is required by 2036. However, government investment in 2018 was only ₹1.3 lakh crore annually, much lower than the needed ₹4.6 lakh crore.
- Stagnant Contribution to GDP: Share of Municipal finances has remained at 1% of GDP since 2002, reflecting limited growth despite rising urban needs.
- Low Revenue Self-Sufficiency: Municipalities’ share of their own revenue sources declined from 51% to 43%, reducing self-sufficiency. They rely more on grants and transfers from central and state governments, which increased from 37% to 44%.
- Poor Tax Collection: Many cities collect a small fraction of potential tax revenues. For example, Bengaluru and Jaipur collect only 5-20% of potential property taxes.
- Low Property Tax Revenue: Property tax collection is ₹25,000 crore, a mere 0.15% of GDP, far below its potential.
- Cost Recovery Gaps: Revenue from services like water supply and waste management covers only 20-50% of their costs, leading to funding gaps.
- Unutilized Funds: About 23% of total municipal revenue remains unspent, with major cities like Hyderabad and Chennai spending only 50% of their budgets in 2018-19.
- Decline in PPP Investments: Public-private partnership (PPP) investments dropped from ₹8,353 crore in 2012 to ₹467 crore in 2018, reducing private sector involvement in infrastructure development.
What reforms are needed for sustainable urban development?
- Strengthen Municipal Autonomy: Increase financial and administrative powers for municipalities to better manage and allocate resources. Current revenue generation is low, with municipalities only collecting 43% of their own revenue.
- Develop a Robust Pipeline of Projects: Plan for 600-800 projects annually with about 15% investment potential from PPPs to meet the ₹70 lakh crore requirement over 20 years.
- Decouple Project Preparation from Financial Assistance: This ensures projects are sustainable and well-planned, addressing past issues where only 50% of capital budgets were utilized in major cities like Hyderabad and Chennai.
- Leverage Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Improve public services, especially transportation, by adopting modern digital solutions.
- Capture Land Value in Transport Projects: Integrate metro and rail projects with urban development to increase land value and improve city design and efficiency.
Question for practice:
Examine the factors contributing to the financial challenges faced by municipalities in India and the proposed measures to address these challenges.
Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)
6GHz Spectrum
Source: This post on 6GHz Spectrum has been created based on the article “Why India’s 6Ghz spectrum dilemma is affecting PS5 Pro console launch in India?” published in The Hindu on 25th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, Sony launched the PlayStation 5 Pro in major global markets but excluded India. India’s unresolved 6GHz spectrum issue may limit the adoption of WiFi 6E and WiFi 7, potentially slowing advancements in wireless communication technologies.
About the 6GHz Spectrum
1. The 6GHz spectrum refers to the frequency band ranging from 5,925 MHz to 7,125 MHz.
2. It has gained global attention due to its potential to dramatically enhance wireless communication technologies, particularly WiFi and 5G networks.
3. The band offers a vast expanse of unlicensed spectrum that, if utilized efficiently, could provide faster speeds, reduced latency, and improved network performance.
The Role of 6GHz in WiFi
1. WiFi 6E, an extension of the WiFi 6 standard, was introduced to harness the benefits of the 6GHz spectrum.
2. This technology enables routers to operate in a less congested frequency band, offering significant advantages:
3. Higher Speeds: Theoretical maximum speeds can reach up to 9.6 Gbps.
4. Reduced Congestion: With more channels available, devices experience less interference and congestion compared to the crowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
5. Low Latency: Ideal for applications like gaming, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR).
The Status of 6GHz in India
India has yet to de-license the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi, primarily because the band is currently allocated to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for satellite communication.
1. Telecom Operators’ Interest: Telecom companies have expressed interest in using the 6GHz spectrum for 5G and 6G technologies, competing with tech companies advocating for its allocation to WiFi.
2. Government Consideration: India is exploring a balanced approach, possibly following Australia’s model of de-licensing a portion of the spectrum for WiFi while reserving the rest for other uses.
3. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Japan, and the UAE have de-licensed the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi use, paving the way for WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 technologies.
Implications of the 6GHz Spectrum in India: The delay in de-licensing the 6GHz spectrum has several consequences:
1. Technology Accessibility: Devices like the PlayStation 5 Pro that rely on advanced WiFi standards requiring 6GHz spectrum may face delayed launches or incompatibility in India.
2. Ecosystem Development: The absence of 6GHz may limit the adoption of WiFi 6E and WiFi 7, potentially slowing advancements in wireless communication technologies.
3. Consumer Choices: Despite the regulatory hurdles, devices sold in India can be programmed to operate without connecting to the 6GHz band, as seen with Apple and Samsung smartphones.
UPSC Syllabus: Indian economy
Nayi Chetna 3.0
Source: This post on Nayi Chetna 3.0 has been created based on the article “Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to launch Nayi Chetna 3.0 – Pahal Badlaav Ki, A National Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence on 25th November 2024 in New Delhi” published in PIB on 25th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, the third edition of the national campaign against gender-based violence, Nayi Chetna 3.0 – Pahal Badlaav Ki was launched.
About the Campaign Overview
1. Organized by: The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) under the Ministry of Rural Development
2. Duration: It is a month-long campaign which will run from 25th November to 23rd December 2024 across all Indian States and Union Territories.
3. Led by: DAY-NRLM’s extensive Self-Help Group (SHG) network
4. Aim: The campaign aims to amplify awareness and encourage grassroots-level action to combat gender-based violence.
5. The initiative embodies the spirit of Jan Andolan or people’s movement. This year’s campaign operates under the slogan, “Ek Saath, Ek Awaaz, Hinsa Ke Khilaaf” (United Voice Against Violence).
6. Nayi Chetna 3.0 adopts a whole-of-government approach. It will involve collaboration among nine key Ministries and Departments including Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of School Education and Literacy, etc
7. Key Objectives: Its objectives include:
i) Raising awareness about all forms of gender-based violence.
ii) Mobilizing communities to speak out and demand accountability.
iii) Facilitating access to support systems for timely intervention and assistance.
iv) Empowering local institutions to take decisive action against violence.
8. Goals for Nayi Chetna 3.0: The third edition aims to build on past successes by mobilizing communities and institutions to:
i) Generate widespread awareness about gender-based violence.
ii) Foster collective action at the grassroots level.
iii) Drive convergence among government ministries and community stakeholders.
iv) Create a sustainable and informed movement for gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Achievements from Previous Campaigns
Since its inception, the Nayi Chetna campaign has made remarkable progress in mobilizing communities:
First Edition: Reached 3.5 crore people nationwide with active support from multiple line ministries.
Second Edition: Engaged 5.5 crore participants across 31 States and Union Territories, conducting over 9 lakh awareness activities on gender-based violence.
Haj Suvidha App 2.0
Source: This post on Haj Suvidha App 2.0 has been created based on the article “Union Minister for Minority Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju addresses the Conference of Chairpersons of State & UT Haj Committees ; launches Haj Suvidha App 2.0” published in PIB on 25th November 2024.
Why in news?
The Conference of Chairpersons of State and UT Haj Committees took place on 23rd November 2024.
Launch of Haj Suvidha App 2.0
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1. Shri Kiren Rijiju launched the Haj Suvidha App 2.0 during the event.
2. It is for better convenience and safety of Indian pilgrims.
2. New features include the selection process for pilgrims, air travel details with boarding passes, a navigation system featuring Mina maps, and access to medical history and health advisories.
Focus Areas for Haj 2025
1. Infrastructure Upgrades: It was announced that modern buildings equipped with lifts will be secured in Aziziya and other areas near the Haram.
2. Improved Transportation: Latest model buses will be introduced for travel between Makkah, Madinah, and the Mashaer region.
3. Enhanced Medical Support: A robust medical support system will be established to assist pilgrims.
4. Personalized Assistance: The ratio of Khadim-ul-Hujjaj has been improved from one Khadim for every 200 pilgrims to one for every 150 pilgrims, allowing for quicker resolution of issues and better assistance. State Haj Inspectors will also play a key role in providing prompt support.
UPSC Syllabus: Governance
MeitY Announces e-Toycathon
Source: This post on MeitY Announces e-Toycathon has been created based on the article “MeitY Announces Electronic Toy Hackathon (e-Toycathon) during the convocation ceremony of 1st batch of 15 Young Engineers” published in PIB on 25th November 2024.
Why in news?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) hosted the convocation ceremony on November 23, 2024, in Delhi. The event marked the graduation of the first batch of 15 engineers trained under the Electronic Toys Project.
About the Electronic Toy Hackathon (e-Toycathon)
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1. Aim: to foster innovation and creativity in electronic toy development.
2. The initiative seeks to further strengthen the Indian toy industry by leveraging electronics and IT solutions.
3. Plans were discussed to formalize the program on a larger scale, enabling more students to benefit.
4. MeitY proposed setting up a Center of Excellence (CoE) for electronic toys with support from STPI, MSH, and other institutions. The CoE is expected to encourage entrepreneurship and startup culture in the toy industry.
About the Electronic Toys Project
1. Aim: The project aims to develop electronic and IT-based control and automation solutions for the toy industry.
2. Focus: It focuses on building a robust ecosystem for the Indian toy industry by creating indigenous prototypes and skilled professionals.
3. The initiative gives priority to young engineers from underrepresented communities, including SC/ST and the North-Eastern Region (NER).
About the Training Program
1. The program lasted one year, split into two six-month phases. The first phase involved hands-on training at C-DAC Noida’s toy labs, and the second phase focused on industry-based training to create toy prototypes.
2. Participants received a monthly stipend of ₹25,000 during the program.
3. Engineers were selected from across India, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity.
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
“#AbKoiBahanaNahi” National Campaign
Source: This post on #AbKoiBahanaNahi national campaign has been created based on the article “Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi to launch National campaign “#AbKoiBahanaNahi” tomorrow” published in PIB on 25th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, “#AbKoiBahanaNahi” national campaign was launched by Union Minister for Women and Child Development.
The campaign is launched in conjunction with the ‘Nayi Chetna 3.0 campaign,’ spearheaded by the Ministry of Rural Development, to amplify the call to action for ending gender-based violence and ensuring no one is left behind.
About the Campaign
1. Name: #AbKoiBahanaNahi (No More Excuses)
2. Objective: To mobilize public, government, and stakeholders to take actionable steps to end gender-based violence.
3. Collaborative Effort: Jointly spearheaded by the Ministries of Women and Child Development and Rural Development, with support from UN Women.
4. 16 Days of Activism: The campaign aligns with the global observance from 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to 10th December (Human Rights Day).
5. UN Global Campaign:It builds on the United Nations’ #NoExcuse initiative to spotlight the growing violence against women and demand accountability.
6. Broader Goals
i) Raise Awareness: Revitalize national and global commitments to combating gender-based violence.
ii) Encourage Accountability: Focus on shared responsibility among governments, organizations, and citizens.
iii) Highlight Urgency: Emphasize the immediate need to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
Key Highlights of the Campaign
1. Zero Tolerance: Promotes a national stance against any form of gender-based violence.
2. Film Release: Launch of a film under #AbKoiBahanaNahi to stress accountability and inspire citizens to pledge against violence.
3. Call to Action: Urges every individual and stakeholder to actively contribute to ending violence against women and girls.
UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and Programs
6th Meeting of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee
Source: This post on 6th Meeting of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee has been created based on the article “6th meeting of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement Joint Committee held in New Delhi” published in PIB on 25th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, the 6th Meeting of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee was held in New Delhi.
About 6th Meeting of ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee
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1. Discussions were conducted across eight Sub-Committees under the AITIGA Joint Committee, focusing on topics such as market access, rules of origin, SPS measures, standards and technical regulations, customs procedures, economic and technical cooperation, trade remedies, and legal and institutional provisions.
2. Indian and ASEAN Chief Negotiators also held a separate meeting to establish mutual understanding and plan the way forward on key topics.
ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA)
1. The ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is a key trade pact signed between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and India.
2. It aimed at strengthening economic ties and facilitating the flow of goods across borders.
3. It was signed on 13 August 2009 in Bangkok, Thailand. The agreement came into effect in January 2010.
Objectives of AITIGA
1. Boosting Trade and Economic Integration: AITIGA seeks to reduce barriers to trade and investment, fostering economic integration between the ASEAN region and India.
2. Enhancing Market Access: By lowering or eliminating tariffs on a wide range of products, the agreement enables better market access for goods originating from ASEAN countries and India.
3. Promoting Mutual Growth: The agreement is designed to support the economic development of both parties by leveraging their complementary strengths and resources.
Key Features of AITIGA
1. Tariff Reduction: Under the agreement, India and ASEAN member states committed to gradually reducing or eliminating tariffs on over 90% of goods traded.
2. Tariff liberalization is categorized into different tracks: fast-track reduction, normal track, and sensitive track, tailored to ensure a balance between liberalization and protecting sensitive industries.
3. Rules of Origin: Goods must meet specific criteria to qualify for preferential treatment, ensuring they are substantially produced or processed within the participating countries.
4. Comprehensive Coverage: The agreement covers trade in goods across various sectors, including agriculture, electronics, chemicals, textiles, and machinery.
Special Provisions for Least Developed Countries (LDCs): Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam receive more flexible timelines and special concessions to help them integrate into the trade framework.
Read more: India-ASEAN Relations- Cooperation and Challenges
UPSC Syllabus: International relations