9 PM UPSC Current Affairs Articles 29 April, 2024

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Mains Oriented Articles

GS PAPER - 1

Promises made by political parties for migrant workers in India: Making space for migrants in manifestos

Making space for migrants in manifestos

Source: The post promises made by political parties for migrant workers in India has been created, based on the article “Making space for migrants in manifestos” published in “The Hindu” on 29th April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 1-population and associated issues; urbanisation, their problems and their remedies.

News: The article discusses the promises made by political parties in their election manifestos concerning migrant workers in India. It highlights their plans to address the needs and challenges faced by migrants, such as employment, social security, and legal rights, while noting some overlooked issues.

For details information on India’s migration issues read Article 1, Article 2,

What are the challenges faced by migrants?

Migrants often lack proper documentation, making them invisible and unable to access government services.

Migrants are misunderstood about the benefits of registration on platforms like e-Shram.

Migrant workers, typically daily wagers, face exploitative work conditions.

Critical needs such as healthcare, housing, and education for migrant children are often overlooked in policy planning.

The specific challenges faced by women and young migrants, such as safety and sanitation, are not adequately addressed.

What promises have political parties made for migrants in India?

BJP’s Promises:

Utilization of the e-Shram portal to better connect with and support migrant workers. This comes after the establishment of a national database of unorganized workers as directed by the Supreme Court.

Enhancement of Special Train Services for migrants, aiming to maintain these services throughout the year to facilitate easier movement across states.

Implementation of digital technologies in post office savings, and social security measures, although there are concerns about digital literacy and infrastructure.

Congress’ Promises:

Introduction of a law to regulate migrant employment and ensure fundamental legal and social security rights.

Proposal to increase the wage under MGNREGA to ₹400 per day, with plans to maintain it as the national minimum wage.

Launch of an urban employment scheme that could benefit urban migrants and enforcement of ‘Same Work, Same Wages‘ to prevent gender-based wage discrimination.

What are the shared challenges noted in both manifestos?

Overlooked Critical Areas: Both manifestos fail to address essential services such as healthcare, housing, water, sanitation, and legal aid for migrants.

Education for Migrant Children: The need for educational support for children of migrants is not specifically tackled in either manifesto.

Public Health Inclusion: Neither party has detailed plans for integrating migrants into public health schemes, which is crucial for their well-being.

Inadequate Specificity for Women and Youth: There is a lack of focused initiatives addressing the unique challenges faced by women and young migrants in both manifestos.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges faced by migrant workers in India and the promises made by political parties in their election manifestos to address these challenges.

GS PAPER - 2

Viksit panchayats offer us a pathway to Viksit Bharat

Viksit panchayats offer us a pathway to Viksit Bharat

Source: The post Viksit panchayats offer us a pathway to Viksit Bharat has been created, based on the article “Viksit panchayats offer us a pathway to Viksit Bharat” published in “Live mints” on 29th April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Polity-devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

News: The article highlights the crucial role of Gram Panchayats (GP) and Sarpanches in advancing India’s development, emphasizing the decentralization of power and the use of digital tools for better governance. It also stresses the importance of empowering women leaders to enhance public services and meet development goals by 2047. Viksit panchayats offer us a pathway to Viksit Bharat

What is the Concept of Viksit Bharat?

Concept of Viksit Bharat: Inspired by Rabindranath Tagore’s vision in “Gitanjali,” Viksit Bharat aims for India to become a developed nation by 2047, emphasizing a society where knowledge is free and everyone is dignified.

Rural Focus: With 64.1% of the population in rural areas governed by Gram Panchayats, the development in these regions is vital.

Empowering Local Governance: States with greater power devolution like Kerala and Karnataka have shown better socio-economic outcomes through programs like Kudumbashree and the GP Human Development Index, exemplifying effective local governance.

How Important are Gram Panchayats in Achieving Viksit Bharat?

Central Role in Development: Gram Panchayats are crucial for grassroots empowerment, directly impacting India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Decentralization of Authority: Effective decentralization, where local bodies like Gram Panchayats have the autonomy to plan and implement projects, correlates with improved socio-economic development.

Policy Support: The GP Development Plan (GPDP) encourages local stakeholder involvement, enhancing the efficiency and relevance of development initiatives.

Digital innovations such as Aadhaar, UPI, Co-win, ABHA, and the Universal Citizen Interface are transforming citizen services. These tools help Sarpanches make informed decisions and align local development plans with state and national schemes.

How are women empowered through local governance?

Constitutional Mandate: The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act mandates a 33.3% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, ensuring women’s participation in local governance.

Impactful Leadership: Empowered women leaders at the grassroots have driven significant societal changes. For example, Jyoti Behar Devi, a Sarpanch from Jharkhand, successfully banned alcohol in her panchayat and promoted livelihood opportunities. Anita Devi from Bihar transformed her vehicle into an ambulance, reducing home deliveries from 65% to 8% by improving healthcare access.

What should be done?

Empower Gram Panchayats: As seen in Kerala and Karnataka, where devolution of powers has boosted socio-economic development, similar strategies should be implemented nationwide.

Implement Local Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs): Aligning projects with community needs through GP Development Plans.

Customize Good Governance Models: Scale models like Andhra Pradesh’s ‘village secretariat’ for streamlined governance and improved service delivery across different regions.

Build Competent Leadership Teams: Develop strong leadership and organizational structures within Gram Panchayats to ensure the timely delivery of quality services, mirroring successful team dynamics seen at higher levels of governance.

Question for practice:

Discuss the role of Gram Panchayats in advancing India’s development, focusing on decentralization, digital tools, and the empowerment of women leaders.

Economic Significance of Universities for local economies

Economic Significance of Universities for local economies

Source: The post economic Significance of Universities for local economies has been created, based on the article “Universities can drive economic expansion around campus towns” published in “Live mints” on 29th April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2 – Governance – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education.

News: The article discusses how universities significantly boost local economies by attracting students who spend money on tuition and living expenses. Economic Significance of Universities for local economies

What role do universities play in local economies?

Economic Contribution: Universities attract substantial fees from students. For example, Indian students at Boston University and Northeastern University contribute approximately ₹1,990 crore annually to Boston’s economy through tuition and other university fees.

Support for Local Businesses: The influx of students fuels local businesses such as shops, eateries, and accommodation services. This is particularly evident when students are present during the academic year, and the contrast is stark during summer breaks when many businesses experience a downturn.

Attraction of International Students: International students contribute significantly. In the U.S., Indian students alone account for about $19 billion annually. This kind of spending power benefits not just the universities but the local economies extensively.

How significant is the contribution of international students?

Financial Impact: International students contribute significantly to the economies of host countries. For instance, in the U.S., Indian students alone bring in approximately $19 billion annually.

Per Capita Earnings: This contribution translates into substantial per capita earnings from international students. Every American earns an average of $57 annually from Indian students, while every Canadian earns about ₹1,600 monthly.

What opportunities are missed in India?

International Student Deficit: India experiences a significant international student deficit, sending 1.33 million students abroad but receiving only around 47,000.

Economic Benefits Not Captured: This disparity means India misses out on economic benefits like those seen in the U.S., where Indian students contribute approximately $19 billion annually.

Underutilized Local Economic Growth: With more international students, Indian towns could see increased spending on education, living expenses, and local services, similar to economic activities around universities in countries like the U.S. and Canada.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the presence of international students at universities influences local economies.

GS PAPER - 3

Significance of aircraft carrier

Significance of aircraft carrier

Source: The post Significance of aircraft carrier has been created, based on the article “The significance of carrier aviation” published in “The Hindu” on 29th April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Science and technology- indigenisation of technology

News: The article discusses the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, detailing its design, capabilities, and the significance of its indigenous construction. It also mentions India’s plans for another carrier, the challenges and global trends in carrier and submarine development.

For details information on Indian aircraft carriers (IAC) read Article 1, Article 2

What is the significance of INS Vikrant?

Indigenous Design and Construction: INS Vikrant, commissioned in 2022, is India’s first aircraft carrier built domestically, marking a significant achievement in indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.

Innovative Material Use: The decision to develop and use DMR-249 steel, a warship-grade steel produced in India, for INS Vikrant set a precedent. This material is now utilized for the construction of all warships in India, enhancing the nation’s self-reliance in naval defense manufacturing.

Enhanced Naval Capabilities: Equipped to operate 30 aircraft, including MiG-29K jets and various helicopters, INS Vikrant enhances India’s naval power and operational flexibility.

Economic Impact: The carrier’s construction involved approximately 500 MSMEs and 12,000 employees from ancillary industries, boosting local employment and technological development.

Strategic Significance: INS Vikrant’s commissioning allows India to project power and maintain a credible naval presence, supporting maritime security across the Indian Ocean Region.

What is the future of Indian aircraft carriers?

Expansion Plans: India is planning a second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-II), similar to INS Vikrant but with updated technologies, ensuring continuity in naval capabilities.

Technological Advancements: The new carrier will incorporate lessons learned from INS Vikrant, featuring modifications for improved performance.

Strategic Continuity: The IAC-II aims to replace INS Vikramaditya, maintaining India’s vision of operating two active carriers simultaneously, which is crucial for regional security and naval dominance.

Long-Term Vision: Despite the high costs and long construction times, India remains committed to its aircraft carrier program to uphold its status as a major maritime power.

What are the global trends in carrier and submarine development?

Global Expansion: Many nations are expanding or upgrading their carrier fleets. The U.S. is launching super carriers, the U.K. has introduced new carriers, and France and Russia are planning new builds.

Technological Shifts: Countries are integrating advanced technologies into carriers and submarines, emphasizing enhanced capabilities and stealth.

Carrier Conversion: Japan is converting helicopter carriers to operate F-35 jets, showing a trend toward versatile, multi-role platforms.

China’s Accelerated Growth: China is rapidly expanding its carrier fleet, having commissioned its first carrier, Liaoning, in 2012. It has since launched two more, with the third, Fujian, introduced in 2022, and a fourth, potentially nuclear-powered, soon to be unveiled.

Question for practice:

Discuss the significance of INS Vikrant for India’s naval capabilities and its future plans for aircraft carriers.

Need of Climate Friendly Agriculture

Need of Climate Friendly Agriculture

Source-This post on Need of Climate Friendly Agriculture has been created based on the article “To ensure a hunger-free nation, protect soil” published in “The Indian Express” on 29 April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-3- Issues related to Direct and Indirect Farm Subsidies and Minimum Support Prices.

Context– Earth Day was first observed on 22 April 1970 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Since then, many conferences of Parties (COPs) meetings have been held, with the latest being COP 28 in Dubai, UAE, in November-December 2023. This is significant because agriculture was included in the agreement for the first time.

However, India, unlike many G20 countries such as the US and China, did not sign the agreement. The government believed that signing it would require substantial changes in agricultural policies and farming practices. Need of Climate Friendly Agriculture

What are the reasons for the biodiversity loss in India?

1) The increasing human population is a major cause of biodiversity loss on Earth. Humans took over 200,000 years to reach one billion by 1804. The next billion was added in only 123 years by 1927. And now, in less than 100 years, the population has surged from two billion to over eight billion.

This rapid growth has led to the clearing of forests for farming to prevent mass famines and starvation deaths. However, this has resulted in the loss of several species and genetic diversity.

What are the inappropriate policies adopted in agriculture that have harmed the planet?

1) Depleting organic carbon content of the soil-The heavy subsidization of chemical fertilizers, especially urea, has caused imbalanced use of nitrogen (N), phosphate (P), and potash (K) leading to depletion of soil’s organic carbon.

As per the expert, the ideal level of soil organic carbon (SOC) should be between 1.5 to 2 percent. However, more than 60 percent of Indian soils have SOC levels of less than 0.5 percent.

2) Groundwater depletion & emission of carbon– The ground water level in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan is depleting rapidly. This is due to free power for irrigation, fixed prices for crops, and unrestricted purchase of rice, which have encouraged excessive use of groundwater.
This has caused an environmental crisis in these areas, with the water level dropping each year and rice fields releasing carbon at a high rate of nearly 5 tons per hectare.

3) Loss of crop diversity-Faulty agricultural policies are leading to the loss of crop diversity. For ex- in 1960, only 4.8 % of Punjab’s farmland was used for growing rice. Today, it’s over 40 % displacing crops like maize, millets, pulses, and various oilseeds.

Read more- Technologies for sustainable agriculture development

What should be the way forward?

1) Direct Income Transfer-There should be a shift from heavily subsidizing the prices of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to directly giving income to farmers and allowing the market to determine the prices of these nutrients.
However, this requires early preparations such as updating farmers’ land records, knowing the crops they grow, their irrigation methods, and so on.

2) Planet positive policies– There is a need to make food systems resilient to climate change, improve soil health, stop groundwater depletion, significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, and reward biodiversity with green credits.

Question for practice

List the inappropriate policies adopted in agriculture that have damaged the planet?

On Inheritance Tax

On Inheritance Tax

Source-This post on Bad ideas in taxation has been created based on the article “What makes wealth and inheritance taxes bad for India’s economic progress” published in “Business Standards” on 29 April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus- GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy and issues relating to Planning, Mobilization of Resources, Growth, Development and Employment.

Context– The article warns against popular demands for advancing wealth redistribution in India, that is taking wealth from the rich and giving it to the poor. According to the author, it could lead to sustained poverty and economic failure.

The mechanism to ensure this redistribution is levying Wealth tax and inheritance tax. However, these have not been very helpful in reducing poverty. They’ve already been tested in India before and hence shouldn’t be brought back. On Inheritance Tax

What are the arguments against imposition of wealth and inheritance tax in India?

1) Complexity in tax collection-In India, there was an estate duty from 1953 to 1985, with rates as high as 85%, but it wasn’t collected much. Taxes on estates or inheritances are common in many advanced economies, but they contribute only 0.5% of tax revenues on average in OECD countries. However, collecting this small amount requires complex procedures, thus it is not economical.

2) Negligible tax revenue– Wealth tax was introduced in India in 1957.However, it has only brought in Rs 800 crore by 2012-13. Thus, it was scrapped in 2015. Wealth tax exists in four OECD countries but doesn’t bring in much tax revenue there either.

3) Diversion of focus– Imposing these taxes lead to a loss of focus on the core business of establishing a sensible tax system in India. Furthermore, tax administration in India lacks fairness, adherence to the rule of law, and suffers from the arbitrary power of tax officials.

4) Disincentive to work hard-The first response to more taxation is to work less. If wealth and inheritance are penalized, people will work less hard to create wealth. This is harmful for the country.

5) Incentivize tax avoidance strategies– People may rearrange their affairs to pay fewer taxes. Instead of leaving assets in a will, they may give them to chosen heirs while alive. This changes behavior and makes it harder for the government to collect taxes. Some parents may prefer to keep updating their wills instead of giving assets to their children early to avoid taxes.

6) Relocation of business activities-It leads to relocation of business activity to friendly jurisdictions such as Dubai, Sri Lanka, Cayman Islands, Singapore, or Ireland. This hampers tax revenues.

A detailed article on Inheritance Tax in India can be read here.

What should be the way forward?

There should be more emphasis on growth rather than wealth redistribution because sustained economic growth is crucial for poverty reduction. The author suggests focusing on raising the median income instead of redistributing wealth, as wealth redistribution might slow down economic growth.

Question for practice

What are the arguments against imposition of wealth and inheritance tax in India?

A Global Plastics Treaty

A Global Plastics Treaty

Source-This post on “Urgent Call: A Global Plastics Treaty” has been created based on the article “The planet’s plastic problem: why we need a global plastics treaty” published in “The Indian express” on 29 April 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper 3 – Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

News– Recently negotiators and observers from 175 countries gathered in Ottawa, Canada, to discuss the world’s first global treaty aimed at reducing plastic pollution. This is the fourth set of talks since 2022 when the UN Environmental Assembly decided to create a binding treaty on plastic pollution by 2024’s end. A Global Plastics Treaty

What may be the provisions of the treaty?

1) The treaty could provide guidelines on how wealthy nations can assist poorer ones in achieving their plastic reduction goals.

2) It could prohibit specific types of plastic, plastic items, and chemical additives, as well as establish legally binding targets for recycling and the use of recycled materials in consumer products.

3) It could include provisions for a smooth transition for waste pickers and workers in developing countries who rely on the plastic industry for their livelihoods.

Why is a legally binding global plastic treaty required?

1) Increase in plastic production– Since the 1950s, global plastic production has increased a lot. It rose from 2 million tonnes in 1950 to over 450 million tonnes in 2019. If left unchecked, it’s set to double by 2050 and triple by 2060.

2) Slow decomposition rate- In a study published by The Lancet in 2023, it was found that nearly 6 billion tonnes of plastic currently pollute the planet. Only a small fraction of plastic has been recycled so far, and because it takes anywhere from 20 to 500 years to decompose, it poses a significant environmental challenge.

3) Impact of Plastic Pollution on Ecosystems and Health– A lot of plastic waste ends up in rivers and oceans, breaking down into tiny particles called microplastics or nano plastics. These particles carry over 16,000 chemicals that can harm ecosystems and living things, including humans. These chemicals disrupt the body’s hormones, leading to issues like cancer, diabetes, and reproductive disorders.

4) A Major Contributor to Climate Change– Plastic production and disposal are adding to climate change. As per OECD report, in 2019, plastics produced 1.8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, which is about 3.4% of global emissions. Around 90% of these emissions come from making plastic, which relies on fossil fuels.

Read more- The UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution

What are the challenges before the adoption of a legally binding treaty?

1) Resistance from oil producing countries– Since the first talks in Uruguay in November 2022, oil-producing countries such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Iran have resisted putting caps on plastic production. They’re using various delay tactics, like arguing over procedures, to disrupt productive discussions. They have also asked for narrowing the scope of the treaty.

2) Polarizing negotiations– There’s a coalition of about 65 nations, called the “High-Ambition Coalition,” aiming to address plastic production. This coalition, comprising African nations and most of the European Union, aims to eliminate plastic pollution by 2040 whereas certain oil producing countries do not endorse restrictions on plastic production. This leads to a lack of consensus on legally binding treaties.

4) Opposition by Fossil fuel and chemical corporations– The fossil fuel industry, which provides 99% of the materials for plastics, considers plastics crucial. They, along with the chemical industry, resist cutting plastic production, claiming that the problem lies in waste, not plastic itself. These corporations are trying to weaken the treaty and have sent many lobbyists to the Ottawa negotiations.

Question for practice

Highlight the significance of the legally binding global plastic treaty? What are the roadblocks to the treaty?

Prelims Oriented Articles (Factly)

Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme

Source-This post on Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme is based on the article “Centre accords AEO status to gem and jewellery sector” published in “The Hindu” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) stated that the government has granted Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status to the gem and jewellery sector.

About Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme

1. About (AEO) programme: It  is an voluntary compliance programme which was introduced in 2011 as a pilot project by the Customs department.

2. Function under: The AEO  programme is under the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards to secure and facilitate global trade.

3. Aim: The aim is to enhance international supply chain security and facilitate movement of legitimate goods.

4. How this programme works: Under this programme, an entity engaged in international trade is approved by the Customs as compliant with supply chain security standards, and granted AEO status and certain benefits.

5. Features: 

a) It aligns with WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement: India’s AEO Programme aligns with the commitments outlined in  WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.

b) It bolsters and streamlines cargo security: The program empowers Indian Customs to bolster and streamline cargo security by closely collaborating with key stakeholders in the international supply chain, including importers, exporters, logistics providers, custodians or terminal operators, custom brokers, and warehouse operators, as stated by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes (CBIC).

c) It contributes to enhance the business environment: It aimed at improving the business environment by simplifying export processes across various sectors, resulting in significant time and cost savings for exporters.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian economy, Programmes

Network as a service (NaaS)

Source-This post on Network as a service (NaaS) is based on the article “Internet economy should embrace NaaS” published in “The Financial Express” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

India’s internet economy is rapidly advancing as more and more people connect through the digital bandwagon. Network-as-a-service (NaaS) offers the potential to enhance the everyday user experience.

About Network-as-a-service (NaaS)

Network-as-a-service NaaS
Source: Cloudflare.com

1. About NaaS: Network-as-a-service (NaaS) is a cloud service model where customers lease networking services from cloud providers.

2. Features: 

a) With NaaS, customers can manage their own networks without the need for maintaining physical networking infrastructure.

b) By utilising  software-based networking functions, NaaS vendors enable companies to establish fully virtualized networks without hardware which are solely relying on internet connectivity.

c) It serves as a modern alternative to traditional networking configurations like VPNs, MPLS connections, and on-premise hardware such as firewall appliances and load balancers which is significantly impacting enterprise networking architecture.

3. Advantages of NaaS: Naas provides several advantages:

a) Greater customization and flexibility: Cloud-based networks offer greater customization and flexibility. This allows IT teams to reconfigure networks on demand through software.

b) Easy capacity expansion: NaaS provides scalability advantages over traditional hardware-based services. It  enables easy capacity expansion through vendor subscriptions.

c) Access from anywhere:  Cloud-based networks offer remote access from any device with an internet connection which potentially eliminating the need for VPNs.

d) Low maintainence: Cloud providers handle network maintenance, including software and hardware upgrades, reducing the burden on enterprises.

e) Enhanced security: NaaS bundles networking and security services and this leads to tighter integration and enhanced network security.

f) Economical: Utilizing cloud services often results in cost savings by eliminating the need for purchasing and maintaining hardware, leveraging the vendor’s existing infrastructure.

4. Challenges of NaaS: 

a) Compatibility issues may arise due to the NaaS vendor’s infrastructure not being compatible with legacy systems like older hardware or on-premise applications.

b) Migration complexities exist in enterprises with on-premise data centers, where transitioning to a NaaS model may be challenging.

c) Vendor lock-in risk is a concern as reliance on a specific service provider can lead to significant repercussions if their infrastructure fails or prices increase.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology

India’s Chinese import bill up 2.3 times in 15 years

Source-This post on India’s Chinese import bill up 2.3 times in 15 years is based on the article “Up 2.3 times in 15 years, India’s Chinese import bill to rise further ” published in “The Hindu” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

According to a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). India’s imports from China crossed $101 billion in 2023-24 from about $70 billion in 2018-19.

Findings of the report

India’s Chinese import bill up 2.3 times in 15 years
Source: The Hindu

1. India’s imports from China crossed $101 billion in 2023-24 from about $70 billion in 2018-19.

2. Over the past 15 years, China’s share of India’s industrial goods imports surged from 21% to 30%. Also, imports from China have increased 2.3 times faster than India’s total imports during the same period.

3. China is the top supplier in eight major industrial sectors, including machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.

Status of India’s import from china

1. Almost 42% of India’s textile and clothing imports and 40% of its machinery imports in the the first 10 months of 2023-24 came from China, while that number was 38.4% for electronics, telecom and electrical products.

2. China accounted for 29.2% of chemicals and pharmaceuticals imports into India. Also, 25.8% of plastic product imports and 23.3% of automobile sector inbound shipments is from China.

3. India displayed a lower reliance on China in the case of iron, steel, and base metal imports. 

What is the concern related to trade with china?

1. Cumulative trade deficit: During the period between 2018-2019 and 2023-24, India’s exports to China remained stagnant at approximately $16 billion annually, while imports experienced a significant surge. This has led to a cumulative trade deficit surpassing $387 billion over the span of six years.

2. Imports in major industrial product categories has increased:  In 2023-24, India’s total merchandise imports amounted to $677.2 billion, with a significant portion sourced from China. Specifically, China’s share of imports in major industrial product categories has increased substantially over the past fifteen years, reaching over 70% for certain products.

3. Strategic implications: The study suggests a critical need for India to reassess its import strategies to mitigate economic risks, strengthen domestic industries, and reduce reliance on single-country imports, particularly from geopolitical competitors such as China.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian economy 

Biohacking

Source-This post on Biohacking is based on the article “Biohacking and the race to become superhuman” published in “The Hindu” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The latest trend in biohacking has garnered widespread attention online, particularly after Bryan Johnson, the founder of KernelCo and Blueprint, announced his annual investment of $2 million to reduce his biological age.

About biohacking

biohacking
Source: Dr. Axe

1. About Biohacking: It involves altering one’s biology, often through self-experimentation and technology.

2. Aim: It aims at improving physical and cognitive functions, optimizing health, and reaching individual objectives.

3. Categories of Biohacking: There are various categories and mechanism for biohacking:

a) Age biohacking: Age biohacking particularly focuses on cellular senescence. It is gaining popularity among individuals aged 35 to 50 who start experiencing signs of aging. Many people are interested in maintaining cellular health and regeneration to mitigate aesthetic and bodily changes associated with aging.

b) Energy biohacking: This method focuses on conserving energy by prioritizing proper rest and sleep. Stress relief practices also fit within this category.

c) Intertwining food and biohacking: Intertwining food and biohacking synergizes to enhance aspects like digestion, weight loss, and metabolic efficiency. This approach capitalizes on individuals’ understanding of managing what, how, and when to eat, facilitating optimization of dietary habits for better health outcomes.

d) Diet and nutrition biohacking: It include the consumption of supplements for blood sugar, continuous glucose monitors, use of metabolism monitoring devices, intermittent fasting practices etc.

3. Biohacking is popular among sports enthusiasts seeking a performance edge. A recent study suggests that even a single high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session can enhance brain neuroplasticity, facilitating the rewiring or alteration of neural connections.

4. Although certain biohacking methods may seem radical, others such as meditation and intermittent fasting are well-established practices that have proven to be effective over time.

5. Regulations status associated with biohacking in India: Currently, India lacks specific regulations directly addressing biohacking.

a) While the FSSAI introduced regulations for nutraceuticals in 2016 however their enforcement is uncertain.

b) The CDSCO has guidelines concerning the production and distribution of biological products like vaccines and gene therapies but these do not comprehensively address all biohacking practices.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology ( Health)

Accreditation by the GANHRI

Source-This post on Accreditation by the GANHRI is based on the article “NHRC accreditation status faces review in Geneva this week” published in “The Hindu” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The meeting of the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) of the UN-recognised Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) worldwide will be held on 1st May 24.

About A’ status accreditation

Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) of the UN-recognised Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI)
Source: The hindu

1. About status accreditation: ‘A’ status accreditation provides NHRC with international recognition and protection. It allows participation in decision-making within GANHRI, the Human Rights Council, and other UN mechanisms.

2. Evolution of GANHRI Accreditation System: The GANHRI accreditation system is overseen by the Sub Committee on Accreditation (SCA) with the support of OHCHR. It has evolved to include periodic reviews, an appeals process, and enhanced transparency, contributing to global strengthening of NHRI accreditation.

3. Permanent observer on the SCA: The National Institutions and Regional Mechanisms Section in the UN Human Rights Office is a permanent observer on the SCA and serves as the secretariat to the GANHRI and its SCA.

4. Mandates:

a) Compliance with Paris Principles: NHRC’s accreditation is based on adherence to the UN-mandated Paris Principles and this ensures international recognition and protection.

b) Participation in Decision-Making: Accreditation entails NHRC’s involvement in decision-making processes of GANHRI, the Human Rights Council, and other UN mechanisms.

c) Rigorous Review Process: The accreditation process involves a thorough assessment against criteria set out in the Paris Principles, focusing on NHRC’s mandate, autonomy, independence, pluralism, resource adequacy, and investigative powers.

5. The Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) to GANHRI recently deferred the re-accreditation of India’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for a year.  Without accreditation, NHRC will be unable to represent India at the UN Human Rights Council.

6. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is gearing up to advocate for the Union government’s human rights procedures at a gathering in Geneva. The outcome of this meeting is anticipated to determine whether India’s human rights body will maintain its “A status” accreditation.

UPSC Syllabus: Governance

New corporate governance charter for startups

Source-This post on New corporate governance charter for startups is based on the article CII brings out new corporate governance charter for startups” published in “The Economic times” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has launched a corporate governance charter for startups.

About corporate governance charter for startups

1. About: Corporate governance charter was launched for startups to provide suggestions on corporate governance tailored for startups and offer guidelines suitable for different stages of a startup.

2. Launched by: It was launched by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

3. Aim: It will aim to enhance governance practices.

4. Role of the charter:

a) The CII Charter is crafted to assist startups in addressing governance requirements throughout their journey, spanning from establishment to public listing.

b) The tool allows startups to measure their governance progress, with score changes indicating improvements in governance practices as assessed against the scorecard from time to time.

c) The guidance provided to startups will be structured across four key stages: inception, progression, growth and going public.

Each stage emphasises particular governance principles that may need extra focus during that phase of the startup journey.

About Corporate governance:

1. Corporate governance in India is a set of rules, practices and processes by which a company is guided and controlled.

2. It ensures that the company is run in a fair manner to achieve the best interests of everyone associated with it.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian economy

Liquid Nitrogen For Preserving Food

Source-This post on Liquid Nitrogen For Preserving Food is based on the article “Liquid nitrogen can be used only to preserve food, stress food safety officials” published in “The Hindu” on 28th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Food Safety department has issued an order on the use of liquid nitrogen used for preserving food.

About liquid nitrogen

liquid nitrogen
Source: India Today

1. About Liquid nitrogen: It is the liquefied form of the element nitrogen, which is produced commercially by compressing and cooling nitrogen gas to a point below its evaporation point of about − 196 °C [− 320 °F]. 

2. Its uses: Liquid nitrogen can be used for the following purposes:

a) It is used for freezing, chilling and packing food. It helps to keep the food fresh for several months.

b) It is used to freeze tumors, causing the cells to freeze and subsequently perish. It is also being used for cryopreservation of biological samples (sperm, eggs, animal genetic samples).

c) Furthermore, it has also been used as a method for cooling concrete.

3. Threats associated with it: Experts have raised few concerns regarding the use of liquid nitrogen for consumption.

a) Exposure to it can cause organ or body part scorching, which resembles to frostbite.

b) It leads to damage in areas such as the lips, tongue, throat, lungs, and stomach which may potentially results in lesions or tissue burns.

c) If ingested, it may cause stomach perforation, and inhalation can produce CO2 which could potentially lead to unconsciousness and even fatality.

4. Measures undertaken:

a) The Food Safety Department directed Designated Officers and Food Safety Officers to enforce the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 against any Food Business Operator using liquid nitrogen directly with food items such as biscuits, ice creams, and wafer biscuits.

b) It must be completely evaporated from food or drinks before they are served.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology (health)

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