Important Reports and Index

Source- This post on Global Report on Food Crises 2024 (GRFC) is based on the article “Global Report on Food Crisis (GRFC) report” published in “Down to Earth” on 24th March 2024.

Why in the News?

According to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crisis (GRFC), nearly 282 million people faced high levels of acute food insecurity in 59 countries in 2023.

About Global Report on Food Crisis (GRFC)

1. About: The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024 is published annually by the Food Security Information Network (FSIN).

2. Launched by: It is launched by the Global Network Against Food Crises which is a collaboration involving United Nations agencies, the European Union, the United States Agency for International Development, and non-governmental organizations working to address food crises.

3. Key findings from GRFC 2024: The report examined a population of 1.3 billion across 59 countries in 2023.

a) For the fifth consecutive year, the number of people experiencing acute food insecurity increased. This means they faced severe food shortages that threatened their lives or livelihoods, regardless of the causes or duration.

b) Nearly 282 million people in 59 countries suffered from high levels of acute food insecurity in 2023.

c) Conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic shocks were identified as the main drivers worsening food crises worldwide.

d) Conflict and insecurity were the primary causes in 20 countries which is directly impacting 135 million people, notably in places like the Gaza Strip and Sudan.

e) The Gaza Strip faced the most severe food crisis in the past eight years while Sudan also experienced a significant crisis, with almost a third of its population requiring emergency food assistance.

f) Extreme weather events affected 18 countries, with over 72 million people experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity.

g) The ten countries with the most severe food crises in 2023 were the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Yemen, the Syrian Arab Republic, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar.

h) There were positive developments in 17 countries in 2023, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine, where the food situation improved.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports 

Source-This post on Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee is based on the article “Pivotal fourth session of negotiations on a global plastics treaty opens in Ottawa” published in “UNEP official website” on 24th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution opened in Canada’s capital, Ottawa.

About Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee

1. About: a) In March 2022, during the fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly, a landmark resolution was adopted to establish an international legally binding instrument (ILBI) addressing plastic pollution, particularly in marine environments. 

b) The INC has been scheduled to convene five times by the end of 2024 to formulate the specific content of the ILBI.

2. Aim: This instrument aims to encompass the entire life cycle of plastic, covering aspects such as production, design, and disposal.

3. Goal of the global plastics treaty: The goal of the global plastics treaty is to establish a framework of global standards concerning accountability, responsibilities, financing, material/chemical standards, and import/export restrictions, along with setting targets.

4. Implementing Agency: Countries will be responsible for implementing policies aligned with these global standards to achieve the set targets.

5. Focus- Their focus is on reducing unnecessary plastic usage while still employing it for critical purposes such as renewable energy.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment (International treaties)

Source-This post on Workers and the climate change risk has been created based on the article “More than 70% global workers exposed to climate change risks: ILO” published in “Business Standard” on 23 April 2024.

Why in the news?

As per the report of International Labour Organization (ILO), over 70% of workers worldwide face climate change risks, leading to hundreds of thousands of deaths yearly.

Key Findings of ILO report

1) ILO in its report titled “Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate” observed that many workers are already facing climate change risks at work, and these numbers may increase in the future.

2)  There is a need to review current laws or make new rules and advice in the backdrop of rising number of natural hazards due to climate change.

3) The number of workers facing rising temperatures has increased by about 5% in the last 20 years to 70.9%, the report found. It also mentioned other climate risks, like UV radiation and air pollution, affecting around 1.6 billion people each.

4) Air pollution leads to about 860,000 work-related deaths yearly for outdoor workers. Excessive heat causes around 18,970 occupational deaths annually, while UV radiation causes roughly 18,960 deaths due to non-melanoma skin cancer.

5) The report mentions that technologies aimed at combating climate change, such as solar panels and lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, can sometimes pose new risks because they contain harmful chemicals.

6) The report highlighted that the working poor, those in informal jobs, seasonal workers, and employees of small businesses will be the most affected by these changes.

Read more-ILO Report: “A Call for safer and healthier working environments

UPSC Syllabus-Index/Reports.

Source- This post on the World Cybercrime Index has been created based on the article “India ranks number 10 in cybercrime, study finds” published in “Economic Times” on 11 April 2024.

Why in the news?

Recently, an international team of researchers has compiled the ‘World Cybercrime Index’.

About World Cybercrime Index

1. The ‘World Cybercrime Index’ identifies the globe’s key cybercrime hotspots by ranking the most significant sources of cybercrime at a national level.

2. The index was developed through a collaborative effort between the University of Oxford and UNSW Canberra.

3. It is based on data collected from a survey involving 92 top global experts in cybercrime, who specialize in intelligence and investigations related to cyber activities.

4. It ranks roughly 100 countries and identifies key hotspots according to various categories of cybercrime.

5. The five major categories of cybercrime assessed by the study were technical products/services, attacks and extortion, Data/identity theft, Scams, cashing out/money laundering.

6. Key findings from the World Cybercrime Index:

a) Russia tops the list with the highest cybercriminal threat, followed by Ukraine, China, the USA, Nigeria, and Romania.

b) The United Kingdom (UK) ranks at number eight in terms of cybercrime threat.

c) India was ranked 10th in cybercrime, mostly involving scams that trick people into making advance payments.

d) The study indicated that certain types of cybercrime were linked to specific countries. For ex- the U.S.A was predominantly connected with data and identity theft crimes, whereas crimes involving technical products or services frequently traced back to China.

e) The study also found that countries that are cybercrime hubs “specialise” in particular categories. For ex- Russia and Ukraine are highly technical cybercrime hubs, whereas Nigerian cybercriminals are engaged in less technical forms of cybercrime.

f) The worldwide economic impact of cybercrime is projected to significantly increase over the next four years, escalating from $9.22 trillion in 2024 to $13.82 trillion by 2028.

Read more: Cyber attacks and Cyber Security in India 

UPSC Syllabus: Index and reports

Source– This post on IPEF’s Clean Economy Investor Forum  is based on the article “Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) to organise Clean Economy Investor Forum in Singapore” published in “PIB” on 10th April 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, the IPEF organized a Clean Economy Investor Forum in Singapore.

About IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum

1. The IPEF Clean Economy Investor Forum is one of the initiatives under the IPEF. The Forum aims to mobilize investments into sustainable infrastructure, climate technology and renewable energy projects.

2. It brings together the region’s top investors, philanthropies, financial institutions, innovative companies, start-ups and entrepreneurs.

3. Managed by: Invest India (India’s National Investment Promotion Agency).

What are opportunities for the Indian industry?

The Forum will have opportunity for the Indian industry in the two following track:

a) Climate Tech Track: This track is open for top climate tech companies and startups from member countries, including India, to present their innovations to global investors. It focuses on recognizing leading enterprises in climate technology.

b) Infrastructure Track: This track highlights ready-to-invest sustainable projects in energy (solar, wind, hydrogen), transport (EVs, charging stations), and waste management, to be showcased at the 2024 Forum in India.

About Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF)

1. The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is an economic initiative launched by U.S.A President Joe Biden in 2022.

2. Objective: It provides a platform for countries in the region to collaborate on advancing resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth, and aims to contribute to cooperation, stability and prosperity in the region.

3. Members: It has 14 partners – Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, U.S.A and Vietnam.

4. Nodal agency: Department of Commerce for the IPEF engagements

5. The IPEF comprises four pillars of cooperation namely: Trade, Supply Chain, Clean Economy and Fair Economy.

Read more: IPEF agreement

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations

Source– This post on Glycaemic index is based on the article “Strong link between high glycaemic index diet and diabetes, says study” published in “The Hindu” on 9th April 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently a study has found that consuming low glycaemic index diets might prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

About Glycemic index (GI) and Glycemic load (GL)

1. The glycemic index (GI) ranks foods containing carbohydrates according to their effect on blood glucose levels after eating.

2. High Glycemic Index (GI) foods are digested and absorbed by the body quickly, leading to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. For ex- Sugary foods and beverages, white bread, potatoes, and white rice.

3. Low and medium GI foods are digested more slowly, causing a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels. For ex- Fruits and vegetables, pulses, and whole grains like porridge oats.

Glycemic Index and Glycemic load advantages

1.The glycemic index (GI) is beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes as consuming low GI foods aids in managing blood glucose levels. 

2. The glycemic load (GL) evaluates the quality and quantity of carbohydrates in a particular food item and the amount of carbohydrate consumed in one serving.

Findings of the study

a) People with the highest Glycemic Load (GL) intake faced greater diabetes risks than those with the lowest.

b) The link between glycemic index (GI) and diabetes risk was notably stronger in individuals with higher body mass indexes (BMIs).

UPSC Syllabus: Index, Report and Summits.

Source-This post on Nuclear power is key to development-IIM Ahmedabad Study is based on the article “Nuclear power is key to development, says study” published in “The Hindu” on 4th April 2024.

Why in the News?

A recent study by academics at IIM Ahmedabad stated that India must prioritize investment in the energy sector and expand related infrastructure if it aims to become a developed nation by 2047 and achieve net zero emissions by 2070.

About the IIM Ahmedabad Study

1. Funded by– Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India.

2. Methodology applied:
a. The authors used mathematical models to figure out how much energy from different sources would be needed by 2030 and 2050 to achieve net zero emissions by 2070.
b. They also considered scenarios where India’s population reaches a human development index similar to Western European countries and the cost of energy access decreases.

What are the key findings of the Study?

1. Their calculations revealed that in the best-case scenario, emissions in 2070 would decrease to 0.55 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide, achieving a ‘net zero’ outcome.

2. This would require nuclear power to increase five times from current levels to 30 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and 265 GW by 2050.

3. Between 2020 and 2070, India would require approximately Rs.150-200 lakh crore to fund these transformations.

Note– Currently, according to the Central Electricity Authority, solar energy constitutes 16% of India’s installed generation capacity, while coal accounts for 49%. Meanwhile, nuclear energy only makes up 1.6%.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source-This post on India risking ‘squandering’ demographic dividend: World Bank is based on the article “South Asia, India risk squandering demographic dividend: World Bank” published in “The Hindu” on 2nd February 2024.

Why in the News?

The World Bank, in its latest regional update titled “Jobs for Resilience”,  has stated that the South Asia region, including India and its neighbours, is not generating sufficient jobs to support its youthful populations.

This puts the South Asia region demographic dividend at risk, despite experiencing the world’s fastest economic growth, which is projected at 6.0-6.1% for 2024-25.

What observations has the World Bank made?

1. Decline in employment ratio:
a. The World Bank has observed that India failed to match its job creation with the expanding working-age population from 2000 to 2023.
b. Consequently, India experienced a more significant decline in its employment rate compared to any other nation in the region, except Nepal, until 2022.
c. In 2023, South Asia’s employment ratio was 59%, compared to 70% in other emerging markets. The World Bank has highlighted that South Asia was the only region where the proportion of employed working-age men decreased over the past two decades.

2. Low female participation– The employment rates for women in several South Asian countries, including India, rank among the lowest globally, at less than 40%.

3. Affected sectors– The poor employment patterns in the area mainly affected non-agricultural sectors like manufacturing and services.

4. Recommended Actions– The Bank has suggested boosting job creation by promoting women’s participation in the economy, enhancing trade openness, and enhancing educational standards.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports and Indices

Source: This article on the Food Waste Index Report 2024 is based on “Households across the world waste 1 billion meals a day, says UN report” which was published in “The Hindu” on 29^th March 2024.

Why in news?

Food Waste Index Report 2024, was launched by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme).

Findings of the report

1) According to the Food Waste Index Report 2024, households across the globe wasted over one billion meals a day in 2022.

2) Whereas, 783 million people struggled with hunger and a third of humanity faced food insecurity.

3) In 2022, 1.05 billion tonnes of food waste generated (including inedible parts) which amounts to 132 kilograms per capita and almost one-fifth of all food available to consumers.

4) Out of the total food wasted in 2022, 60% happened at the household level, with food services responsible for 28%, and retail 12%.

5) Many low- and middle-income countries continue to lack adequate systems for tracking progress to meet Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 of halving food waste by 2030, particularly in retail and food services.

6) It was found that food waste is not a “rich country problem”. Difference between average levels of household food waste for high-income, upper-middle, and lower-middle-income countries, was just 7 kg per capita.

8) Hotter countries appear to generate more food waste per capita in households. It is potentially due to higher consumption of fresh foods with substantial inedible parts and a lack of robust cold chains.

9) The report found that food loss and waste generated “8%-10%” of annual global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (almost five times that of the aviation sector).

The cost of both food loss and waste for the global economy was at $1 trillion.

10) As compared to urban areas, rural ones generally wasted less food, due to “greater diversion of food scraps to pets, livestock, and home composting”.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports

Source-This post on World Air Quality Report 2023 is based on the article “Delhi World’s Most Polluted Capital Again, India Has 3rd Worst Air Quality: Report” published in “ABP News” on 19th MARCH 2024.

Why in the News?

According to the World Air Quality Report 2023, Delhi was identified as the city with the poorest air quality.

About World Air Quality Report 2023

1. Published by– Swiss organisation IQAir.

2. Data collection – The data encompassed information from 7,812 sites across 134 countries, regions, and territories.

Key findings

1. India ranked third in terms of air quality, with an average annual concentration of particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) at 54.4 micrograms per cubic meter.

2. India ranked lower than only two of its neighboring countries, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

3. Bangladesh had the highest pollution level globally, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 79.9 micrograms per cubic meter, while Pakistan ranked second with 73.7.

4. It also named Delhi as the world’s most polluted capital city for the fourth year in a row.

5. Begusarai in Bihar was identified as the most polluted metropolitan area globally.

6. India has ten of the top 11 most polluted cities globally, with the remaining one being Lahore in Pakistan.

7. 96 percent of India’s population faces PM2.5 levels that exceed the WHO annual guideline by more than seven times.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment/Reports & Indices

Source-This post on Employment status in India is based on the article “No major change in employment status or wages in 10 years” published in “The Hindu” on 18th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, a report by Bahutva Karnataka shows that the share of self-employed workers increased, while the share of those in formal employment remained low.

Findings of the report

i) Minimum wage: Many households still earn less than the proposed National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW). In 2019, an expert committee recommended the NFLMW to be at least ₹375 per day and ₹3,050 per week.

ii)  Widening Wage inequality: Widening Wage inequality has widened the gap between the rich and the poor.

a) According to World Inequality Database 2022, the top 1% and 10% of the population held 22% and 57% of the national income, respectively, while the bottom 50% held 12.7%.

b) There is negligible increase in wage earnings when adjusted for inflation.

iii) Low Formal Employment: The share of employment in the formal sector remained below 25%. The share of formal employment with social security and other advantages attached to it has remained stagnant.

iv) Increase in Self-Employment: The number of self-employed individuals has increased substantially.

a) The share of those who were self-employed remained above 50% by 2022-23.

b) The share of self-employed women was the highest in the share of employment. It also saw the highest growth of 8% points from 56.5% in 2011-12 to 64.3% in 2022-23.

v) Unpaid Labor: The report indicates an increase in the proportion of women working unpaid in family enterprises or farming. This increase indicates a lack of other remunerative job opportunities and stagnating household income.

vi) Gender Disparities Persist: Despite greater engagement in self-employment, disparities between genders remains. Women are frequently engaged in unpaid labour or informal work due to limited opportunities in the formal sector.

vii) Economic Stagnation Impact: Economic stagnation has resulted in restricted growth in formal sector employment. This drives many people, particularly women, to pursue self-employment and unpaid labour as alternative sources of income.

Read more: Present Status of Unemployment In India

UPSC Syllabus: Economy (Reports) 

Source-This post on INFAAR 2019-22 Report: First national report on AMR surveillance in India’s fisheries, livestock sectors is based on the article “FAO publishes first national report on AMR surveillance in India’s fisheries, livestock sectors” published in “DownToEarth” on 11th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) released surveillance data of the Indian Network for Fishery and Animal Antimicrobial Resistance (INFAAR) for 2019-22.

INFAAR 2019-22 Report is the first national report on AMR surveillance in India’s fisheries and livestock sectors.

What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is the resistance of microorganisms (bacteria, virus, parasites and fungi) to an antimicrobial agent (antibiotics, fungicides, antiviral agents and parasiticides), to which they were first sensitive.

What are the key findings of the report?

Data collection:
a. The (INFAAR) collected data from 2019-2022, covering 3 aquaculture systems (freshwater, brackish-water and marine) and major food-producing animals.
b. Resistance was profiled for Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (CONS), Escherichia coli, Aeromonas species Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio sp.

1. Resistance pattern in fisheries sector:
a. Isolates of Staphylococcus aureus exhibited high resistance against penicillin across all systems.
b. Freshwater fish displayed significant resistance to ciprofloxacin (54.8%), while marine samples showed higher resistance to cefotaxime (54.1%).
c. Significant resistance was also observed in shrimp samples against ampicillin.

2. Resistance pattern in livestock sector:
a. E. coli and Staphylococcus isolates from various livestock were tested for antimicrobial resistance profiles. Increased resistance, especially in E. coli and Staphylococci, was noted in the livestock sector.
b. Isolates from poultry showed higher resistance rates to various antibiotics compared to those from other food animals.

UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology/Reports & Indices

Source– This post on India was the top arms importer in 2019-2023: SIPRI is based on the article “India world’s top arms importer between 2019-23: SIPRI” published in “The Hindu” on 12th March 2024.

Why in the News?

According to the latest data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India was the world’s leading arms importer for the period 2019-2023. India’s arms imports saw a 4.7% increase compared to the period from 2014 to 2018.

What are the key findings?

1. Russia remains India’s top supplier– Russia is still India’s main arms supplier, making up 36% of imports. However, it’s the first time since 1960-1964 that Russia’s deliveries comprised less than half of India’s arms imports in a five-year period.

Note– After Russia, France (33%) stands as India’s second-largest arms supplier, while the US (13%) ranks as the third-largest provider of weapons to India.

2. Asia and the Middle East are the leading importers– In 2019-2023, nine of the top ten arms importers, including India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, were from Asia, Oceania, or the Middle East.

3. Increase in European arms imports
a. The report shows a notable 94% rise in European arms imports from 2014-2018 to 2019-2023 which is likely due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
b. In 2019-2023, European countries imported over half of their arms, 55%, from the U.S., which increased from 35% in 2014-2018.

4. U.S. and France top arms exports– The United States, the biggest arms supplier globally, experienced a 17% increase in exports from 2014-2018 to 2019-2023. Meanwhile, France became the world’s second-largest arms supplier, with exports growing by 47%.

About Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)

About– It is an independent international institute headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, dedicated to researching conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament.

Vision– A world in which sources of insecurity are identified and understood, conflicts are prevented or resolved, and peace is sustained.

Established in 1966

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source-This post on Democracy Report 2024 is based on the article “India ‘one of the worst autocratisers’: V-Dem report on democracy” published in “The Hindu” on 11th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The 2024 Democracy Report shows that India, previously labeled as an “electoral autocracy” in 2018, has worsened across many measures, confirming India’s status as a major autocracy.

About the Report

Released by– V-Dem Institute at Sweden’s University of Gothenburg

Data collection– This report is a joint effort that engages 4,200 scholars representing 180 countries. It draws from 31 million datasets spanning 1789 to 2023 and covers 202 countries.

Democracy Assessment Parameters– The report classifies countries into four regime types using the Liberal Democratic Index (LDI): Liberal Democracy, Electoral Democracy, Electoral Autocracy, and Closed Autocracy.

What are the key findings of the report?

India’s Performance
a. India is at rank 104 in Liberal Democratic Index (LDI), India ranks in the bottom 40-50% among the 179 countries reviewed.
b. It has slipped further down in the Electoral Democracy Index, to 110.
c. India is at rank 92 in Liberal Component Index.

Spreading of autocratization globally

1. The report notes a global trend of increasing autocratization, affecting 42 countries and 2.8 billion people, or 35% of the world’s population.

2. The report indicates that South and Central Asia has become the second most autocratic region globally. In regional terms, Bhutan stands as the sole liberal democracy.

3. India, with 18% of the world’s population, holds about half of the population in countries experiencing autocratization.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source-This post on Zero-food children has been created based on the article “Report turns spotlight on India’s ‘zero-food children” published in “The Hindu” on 8 March 2024.

Why in the news?

A recent study had ranked India as having the third-highest percentage of children who had not eaten any food for 24 hours.

About Zero-food children

It refers to those children who did not consume any animal milk, formula, or solid or semi-solid food during the last 24 hours.
This category is critical because, at approximately six months of age, breastfeeding alone is insufficient to meet the nutritional needs of a child.

Findings of recent studies

1) As per the study published recently in the peer-reviewed JAMA Network Open journal, India ranks third highest globally, with 19.3% of children not receiving food, following Guinea (21.8%) and Mali (20.5%). In terms of numbers, India has the highest number of zero-food children at more than six million.

2) As per the study of Lancet Discovery Science, Uttar Pradesh alone accounts for 28.4% of zero-food children in India followed by Bihar (14.2%), Maharashtra (7.1%), Rajasthan (6.5%), and Madhya Pradesh (6%).

What are the steps taken by government to curb malnutrition in India?

1) Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme: It was launched in 1975 to provide food, preschool education, primary healthcare, immunization, health checkups, and referral services to children under 6 years old and their mothers.
2) Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): It is a Centrally Sponsored DBT scheme with a cash incentive of ₹ 5000/- (in three instalments) being provided directly in the bank/post office account of Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers.
3) National Nutrition Mission (NNM): The government of India has launched the National Nutrition Mission (NNM), also known as POSHAN Abhiyaan, to eradicate malnutrition by the year 2022.
4) Anaemia Mukt Bharat Abhiyan: The mission was launched in 2018 to accelerate anaemia decline by one to three percentage points annually.
5) Mid-day Meal (MDM) scheme: It aims to improve nutrition levels among school children in addition to increasing enrolment, retention, and attendance.
6) National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013: It ensures food and nutrition security for the most vulnerable section of society.

UPSC Syllabus-Index & Reports.

Source-This post on World Poverty Clock: Key findings is based on the article “Less than 3% of India’s population now living under extreme poverty: World Poverty Clock” published in “The Hindu Businessline” on 2nd March 2024.

Why in the News?

According to recent data from the World Poverty Clock, India has made significant progress in reducing extreme poverty. Less than 3% of India’s population now lives below the poverty line.

This accomplishment is in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1.1 of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030.

What are the key findings of the World Poverty Clock?

1. The clock uses a daily income limit of $2.15 to present its findings.

2. Accordingly, the number of people in India living in extreme poverty decreased to about 3.44 crore in 2024 from 4.69 crore in 2022, making up 2.4% of the total population.

Note– The $2.15 per day poverty line, also called the extreme poverty line, represents national poverty lines in numerous poorest countries. It measures progress toward the World Bank’s goal of reducing extreme poverty to under 3% by 2030.

Niti Aayog recent paper on poverty

1. A recent paper by NITI Aayog, titled ‘Multidimensional Poverty in India since 2005-06,’ states that multidimensional poverty dropped significantly from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23. This led to 24.82 crore individuals escaping multidimensional poverty over nine years.

2. The paper studied how much multidimensional poverty existed in India between 2005-06 and 2022-23.

What is World Poverty Clock?

1. About– The World Poverty Clock offers real-time poverty forecasts until 2030 for almost every country globally.

2. Funding– Supported by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany.

3. Working mechanism:
a. The Clock illustrates the global count of individuals living in extreme poverty. It categorizes them by age, gender, and whether they reside in rural or urban areas.
b. Every second, some individuals rise out of poverty while others slip into it, and the Clock registers all these changes.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source-This post on Global Resource Outlook 2024 is based on the article “UNEA-6: Extraction & use of world’s resources has grown three times more in 50 years” published in “Down to Earth” on 1st March 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, the Global Resource Outlook 2024 report has been published by UNEP.

Key findings of the report

1. Production and consumption of resources:

i) The consumption and use of resources is largely driven by demand in upper income countries. 

ii) Global production and consumption of material resources has grown more than three times over the last 50 year.

2. Extraction and processing of material resources

i) The extraction and processing of material resources accounts for over 55 per cent of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and 40 per cent of particulate matter poisoning the environment.

ii) The extraction and processing of agricultural crops and forestry products accounts for 90 per cent of land-related biodiversity loss and water stress and a one- third of GHG emissions.

iii) The extraction and processing of fossil fuels, metals and non-metallic minerals including sand, gravel and clay account for 35 per cent of global emissions. 

3. The report predicts that resource exploitation could increase by almost 60 per cent from 2020 levels by 2060 from 100 to 160 billion tonnes.

4. The report shows global inequality where low-income countries consume six times lesser materials compared to wealthy nations.

5. The report highlights that upper middle-income countries have more than doubled their resource utilization over the past five decades to facilitate their own infrastructure growth.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Source-This post on Lancet study on Global Obesity rates is based on the article “Obesity rates going up across the world: Lancet study” published in “The Hindu” on 29th February 2024.

Why in the News?

According to Lancet study on Global Obesity rates, the obesity rates among children and adolescents worldwide have increased four times from 1990 to 2022. Meanwhile, obesity rates among adults have more than doubled.

What are the key findings of the Study?

Study conducted by– NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).

Note– NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC) is a global network of health scientists offering thorough and prompt data on risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs)

Worldwide Figures– More than one billion people worldwide are living with obesity. Specifically, in 2022, there were 159 million children and adolescents, as well as 879 million adults, who were obese.

India’s findings

1. Children and adolescents– The obesity rate for girls rose from 0.1% in 1990 to 3.1% in 2022, while for boys, it increased from 0.1% to 3.9%.

Note– In terms of obesity rates among girls and boys, India ranked 174th globally in 2022.

2. Adults– Among women, the obesity rate surged from 1.2% in 1990 to 9.8% in 2022, while among men, it rose from 0.5% to 5.4%.

Methodology used:
a. More than 1,500 researchers from 190+ countries analyzed weight and height data from over 220 million individuals aged five and older.
b. They used body mass index (BMI) to study global changes in obesity and underweight from 1990 to 2022.

Significance of the study:
a. This discovery is important given India’s existing high rates of non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.
b. Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing these diseases, including Type 2 diabetes in teenagers, at an early age.

Note– Obesity, as per the World Health Organization (WHO), refers to an excessive accumulation of fat that can be harmful to health. A body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is classified as obese.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices/Science & Technology

Source-This post on Report on Status of Leopard in India is based on the article “Leopard numbers show 8% rise from 2018 to 2022” published in “The Hindu” on 29th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, the Environment Ministry, in collaboration with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), unveiled the fifth cycle of leopard population estimation in India.

Key findings of the Fifth cycle of leopard population estimation in India

1. Population Estimate:
a. India’s leopard population is estimated at 13,874, showing stability compared to the previous count. The numbers rose by 8% from 12,852 in 2018 to 13,874 in 2022.
b. However, this only covers 70% of leopard habitat, with the Himalayas and semi-arid regions not included in the survey.

2. Region-wise Trends– In Central India, the leopard population remains stable or shows slight growth, whereas in the Shivalik hills and Gangetic plains, there is a decline in population.

3. State-wise distribution:
a. The highest number of leopards were reported in Madhya Pradesh (3,907), followed by Maharashtra (1,985), Karnataka (1,879) and Tamil Nadu (1,070).
b. The tiger reserves or locations with the highest leopard populations include Nagarajunasagar Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh, followed by Panna and Satpura in Madhya Pradesh.

4. Survey Methodology– The study targeted forested habitats across 18 states with tiger populations, employing foot surveys and camera traps. It captured over 4,70,81,881 photographs, resulting in 85,488 images of leopards.

About Leopard

Habitat: In India, the leopard is found in all forest types, from tropical rainforests to temperate deciduous and alpine coniferous forests. It is also found in dry scrubs and grasslands, the only exception being deserts and the mangroves of Sundarbans.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Species in news)/Reports & Indices

Source-This post on Grey Zone Warfare is based on the article “Grey-zone warfare latest entry in lexicon of warfare, says Chief of Defence Staff” published in “The Hindu” on 24th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, at the Raisina Dialogue, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan made a statement regarding grey-zone warfare, specifically in reference to China.

What is Grey Zone Warfare?

1. Grey Zone Warfare is a strategy where a country tries to gain an advantage without openly going to war.

2. It involves tactics like cyberattacks, misinformation, and economic pressure to weaken an opponent.

3. China has been skillfully using this strategy, especially against India and neighboring countries.

What are China’s Grey Zone Tactics against India?

1. South China Sea Activities- China employs naval and civilian vessels to assert its control over the South China Sea. It causes tensions with neighboring countries, including India.

2. Constructing infrastructure in border areas– China builds infrastructure and establishes villages close to India’s borders. It reinforces its territorial assertions and gains strategic benefits.

3. Investments in digital technologies- China directs investments into apps, media, and various digital platforms within India. This presence in the digital sphere holds the potential to mold public perceptions and narratives.

What is Raisina Dialogue?

1. About- Raisina Dialogue is India’s flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-strategy.

2. Organized by– Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation(ORF).

3. Started- It was inaugurated in 2016. 2024 is the 9th Edition.

4. Theme for 2024- Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create.

5. Chief Guest- Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

UPSC Syllabus- International Relations/Summits

Source-This post on Munich Security Conference 2024 has been created based on the article “Munich Security Conference 2024: India is non-west but not anti-west, says EAM S Jaishankar” published in “WION” on 18 February 2024.

Why in the news?

World leaders have gathered for the Sixtieth (60th) Munich Security Conference, amidst the growing concerns about a continued war in Ukraine and threats to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) cohesion.

About Munich Security Conference

Description– It is the world’s leading forum for debating international security policy. It is often referred to as the ‘Davos of Defence’.

Objective– Its objective is to build trust and contribute to the peaceful resolution of conflicts, by sustaining a continuous and informal dialogue within the international security community.

Venue– It has been held in Munich, Germany, since 1963.

Frequency of conference– The conference is held annually in February.

Key features-
1) It is a venue for diplomatic initiatives to address the world’s most pressing security concerns.

2) It brings together security experts, politicians, military leaders and the defence industry from around the world.

3) It publishes the Munich Security Report. This is an annual report about figures, maps and research on crucial security challenges.

What is North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)?

Description– It is a transatlantic security alliance of 31 like-minded North American and European countries.

Origin- It was established by the North Atlantic Treaty (also called the Washington Treaty) on April 4, 1949.

Objective– Its objective is to protect peace and to guarantee the territorial integrity, political independence, and security of the member states.

Headquarters– Brussels, Belgium.

Most important article of the treaty– Article Five (V)– If an armed attack occurs against one of the member states, it should be considered an attack against all members. This article forms the core of the Alliance, a promise of collective defence.

Read more about- North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

UPSC Syllabus-International relation & summits.

Source– This post on First-ever Digital India futureSKILLS has been created based on the article “Ministry of Electronics & IT to hold first-ever Digital India futureSKILLS summit in Guwahati on Thursday” published in “PIB” on 14 February 2024.

Why in the news?

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), is hosting the first-ever FutureSKILLS Summit in Guwahati on February 15, 2024.

About First-ever Digital India futureSKILLS Summit

Read more about- Skill Development

UPSC Syllabus- National Summits.

Source-This post on World Governments Summit 2024  is based on the article “Prime Minister’s participation in World Governments Summit 2024” published in “PIB” on 14th February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, Prime Minister Modi has attended the World Government Summit 2024 in the UAE as a guest of honor. He was a guest of honor at the summit in 2018 as well.

What is World Governments Summit?

1. About– It is an annual event where leaders, policymakers, experts, and thinkers from around the world meet to discuss and tackle important global issues.

2. Started– It started in 2013 under the leadership of the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE.

3. Location– It takes place every year in Dubai, UAE.

4. Summit activities focus– The Summit in its diverse activities explores how governments can use innovation and technology to solve global challenges for humanity in the future.

5. 2024 Theme: Shaping the Future Governments.

6. The summit agenda will also focus on six main themes:
a. Government Acceleration and Transformation
b. Artificial Intelligence and The Next Frontiers
c. Reimagining Development and Future Economies
d. Future Societies and Education
e. Sustainability and The New Global Shifts
f. Urbanization and Global Health Priorities

UPSC Syllabus- Index/reports/Summits

Source-This post on World Sustainable Development Summit has been created based on the article “Text of the Vice-President’s speech – World Sustainable Development Summit 2024, TERI” published in “PIB“on 7 February 2024.

Why in the news?

Vice-President of India has recently inaugurated the World Sustainable Development Summit in Delhi in February 2024.

About World Sustainable Development Summit

Introduction-It is an annual flagship multistakeholder convening. This was previously called as Delhi Sustainable Development Summit.

Established in – 2001.

Organized by – The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).

Parties involved – Ministries of Earth Sciences, New and Renewable Energy and Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Objective – To mobilize opinion-makers to address issues concerning sustainable development and climate change.

NOTE-It is the only independently convened international summit on sustainable development and environment, based in the Global South.

Key facts about World Sustainable Development Summit-2024

1) Main theme – Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice.

2) Topics for Discussion  – Integrating SD, nature-based solutions, adaptation and resilience, sustainable consumption and lifestyles, addressing the energy trilemma, and climate action.

3) Important publication-“Vasundhara Magazine” – Its 14th edition titled ‘EquiClimate’, based on the theme ‘Climate Injustice: Vulnerabilities of the Vulnerable’ will be introduced.

4) Awareness generation -“Cool it for the climate” – As a behaviour change campaign, it organizes a poster-making competition for school students aimed to promote simple sustainable practices.

About The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)

Established-It was established in 1974 as an information centre on energy issues.

Introduction-It is a leading think tank dedicated to conducting research for sustainable development of India and the Global South.

Areas of work-It is an independent, multi-dimensional organization, with capabilities in research, policy, consultancy, and implementation.

Objectives-1) Promoting efficient use of resources
2) Increasing access to and uptake of sustainable inputs and practices
3) Reducing the impact on environment and climate

Headquarter-It is headquartered in New Delhi.

UPSC Syllabus-Summits.

Source- This post on RBI Report-Finance of Panchayat Raj Institutions has been created based on the article “Higher autonomy of panchayats leads to better health outcomes” published in “The Hindu” on 5 February 2024.

Why in the news?

RBI has recently released “Finance of Panchayat Raj Institutions” report highlighting the significance of financial autonomy of Panchayats.

Key findings of the report

1) RBI study noted that panchayats earn only 1% of their income through taxes, with the rest being sourced from Central and State grants.

2) The report noted that Panchayats having more functional and financial autonomy perform well on health, nutrition and sanitation.

Chart 1 shows this relationship, that is, the higher the score on health, nutrition, and sanitation parameters, the lower the IMR.(Infant mortality rate). For example-Kerala has a high score and low IMR.

3) RBI uses devolution index prepared by MoPRs (ministry of Panchayat Raj) to checks whether these better-performing States also have greater autonomy at the panchayat level.(Chart-2). For example-Tamil Nadu has high devolution score and low IMR.

4) Chart 1 and 2 when read together shows that panchayats having higher devolution of power fare well in health outcomes in rural areas.

NOTE – The devolution index rates a State based on three parameters:-

1) The transfer of subjects such as drinking water, rural housing, family welfare, and women and child development under the control of panchayats.

2) The transfer of functionaries, that is, how many positions were filled by panchayats on their own.

3) The transfer of finances, that is, power of panchayats to raise its own funds and autonomy in decision-making.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports and Indices

Source-This post on RBI report on Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) is based on the article “Panchayats earn only 1% of their revenue through taxes” published in “The Hindu” on 24th January 2024.

Why in the News?

According to a report by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on the finances of Panchayati Raj Institutions for 2022-23, local taxes and fees contributed only 1.1 percent to Panchayats’ total revenue.

What are the key findings of the report?

1) Decline in Panchayat average revenue – According to the report, the average revenue per Panchayat (including taxes, non-taxes, and grants) stood at 21.2 lakh in 2020-21, increased to 23.2 lakh in 2021-22, and then slightly declined to 21.23 lakh in 2022-23.

2) Panchayat own revenue sources:
a. During the study period, the Panchayats’ own revenues (Local taxes and fees) accounted for merely 1.1 percent of their total revenue.
b. Non-tax revenue, primarily from Panchayati Raj programmes and interest earnings, constituted 3.3 per cent of the total revenue receipts.

3) Grant reliance:
a. Panchayats rely heavily on property taxes, fees, fines, and grants, with approximately 95% of their revenue coming from grants provided by higher levels of government.
b. Specifically, 80% of the revenue was from Central government grants; only 15% was from State government grants.

4) Low Expenditure:
a. The average Panchayat expenditure dropped from 17.3 lakh in 2020-21 to 12.5 lakh in 2022-23, mainly due to higher spending during the pandemic.
b. Goa, Karnataka, Odisha, Sikkim, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu recorded the highest average Panchayat expenditures.
c. The revenue expenditure of panchayats accounts for less than 0.6% of the gross state domestic product across all states.

What are the source of Finance for PRIs?

1) Grants from the Central Finance Commission (tax devolution) and other grants provided by the Central Government.

2) Revenue collected by the State government on behalf of local bodies (State Finance Commissions Transfer), including tolls, taxes, duties, and fees, as well as grants-in-aid.

3) As per Article 243-H, PRIs are empowered to levy, collect, and distribute taxes, duties, tolls, and fees.

UPSC Syllabus- Polity and Nation/Report & Indices

Source-This post is based on the article “Corruption index: India ranks 93 among 180 nations” published in “The Indian Express” on 31st January 2024.

Why in the News?

According to the latest report by Transparency International, India secured the 93rd position out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2023.

What is Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)?

What are the key findings of the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2023?

1) India’s rank worsened– In 2023, India secured the 93rd position among 180 countries, whereas in 2022, it held the 85th rank. India attained an overall score of 39 in 2023, slightly down from its score of 40 in 2022.

2) Top performer in Asian region– Singapore topped the Asian region with a score of 83, ranking fifth in the Index.

3) Other South Asian countries– Pakistan is ranked 133, While Sri Lanka is ranked 115 and Afghanistan is ranked 162.

4) Top rankers– Denmark at the top, followed by Finland, New Zealand and Norway.

5) Lowest rank – At rank 180 was Somalia with the lowest score of 11.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source-This post is based on the article “India’s multidimensional poverty rate down to 11.28% in 2022-23 from 29.17% in 2013-14” published in “The Indian Express” on 16th January 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, NITI Aayog has released a discussion paper ‘Multidimensional Poverty in India since 2005-06’.

What are the key findings of the NITI Aayog discussion paper?

Note: The discussion paper utilizes MPI data (MPI, 2023, released in July 2023) derived from the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS) conducted in 2015-16 and 2019-21, along with NFHS-3 data from 2005-06, to analyze long-term poverty trends. You can also say that it is an updated version of previously released Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index 2023.

1) India has registered a significant decline in multidimensional poverty in India from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23 (a reduction of 17.89 percentage points).
– In numbers about 24.82 crore people escaped multidimensional Poverty in last 9 years.

2) Uttar Pradesh topped the list with 5.94 crore people escaping poverty followed by Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.

3) The paper reveals a faster decline in the poverty headcount ratio from 2015-16 to 2019-21 (10.66% annual rate) compared to the period 2005-06 to 2015-16 (7.69% annual rate).

4) All 12 indicators of MPI have recorded significant improvement during the entire study period.

5) India is poised to achieve single-digit poverty rates by the year 2024.

6) India is likely to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1.2 (reducing multidimensional poverty by at least half) much ahead of 2030.

What is National Multidimensional Poverty Index(MPI)?

1) The National MPI is a metric used to evaluate poverty in a country by considering multiple dimensions beyond income or consumption expenditure.

2) Indicators- The index is based on three equally weighted dimensions – health, education and standard of living – which in turn are represented by 12 indicators.
– However, the National MPI covers 12 indicators while global MPI covers 10 indicators.

3) Methodology– The National MPI by Niti Aayog uses the Alkire Foster methodology to assess the decline in poverty rates.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source-This post is based on the article “Income inequality shrinks, Mobility on the Rise : SBI Research Report” published in “PIB” on 8th January 2024.

Why in the News?

According to SBI Research latest report, there has been a reduction in income inequality in India, signaling a favorable shift towards upward mobility and the expansion of the middle class.

What are the findings of the report?

1) Increasing tax base- The report, citing CBDT data, notes a continuous expansion in the Income Tax base. The number of tax filers increased to 74 million in AY 2022-23 from 70 million in AY 2021-22.

2) Decline in Gini Coefficient- Gini Coefficient(a measure of income inequality) has declined from 0.472 during Assessment Year 2014-15 to 0.402 for AY 2022-23.

3) Share of Top earners declined – The share of top earners with incomes exceeding Rs 10 crores and Rs 100 crores has decreased from 2013-14 to 2020-21.

4) Improving upward mobility – The drop in income inequality stems from significant upward mobility.  More than 36% of individuals originally in the lowest income bracket in FY14 have transitioned to higher income levels. It led to a notable 21% increase in their earnings from FY14 to FY21.

5) The report indicates rising female labour force participation.

6) Evident shifts in income levels for MSMEs and evolving consumption patterns in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic debunk the myth of K-shaped growth.

What is Gini coefficient?

1) The Gini coefficient, derived from the Lorenz curve, serves as an indicator of income or wealth inequality.

2) The coefficient ranges from 0 (0%) to 1 (100%), 0 representing perfect equality (where every resident in a country has the same income) and 1 representing perfect inequality (one resident earned all income and the rest earned nothing). Higher the value of Gini coefficient, higher the inequality.

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy

Source-This post is based on the article “SC report exposes severe gaps in accessibility for people with disabilities at courts across India” published in “The Hindu” on 10th January 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, the Supreme Court’s Centre for Research and Planning report highlights infrastructure deficiencies in Indian district courts. It raised concerns about obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities in seeking justice.

What are the findings of the report?

1) It highlighted that only 30.4% of court complexes have separate disabled-friendly toilets.

2) It reported that over half of the district court complexes nationwide lack ramps, while only 25.2% are equipped with wheelchairs.

3) It also highlighted that only 5.1% of district courts incorporate tactile paving to aid individuals with visual disabilities in navigating the court premises.

4) The report disclosed an infrastructure gap of 4,250 courtrooms across India. Only 20,831 courtrooms have been operational out of a sanctioned strength of 25,081 judges in the district judiciary.

Note- The report indicated that 73.5% of court premises are owned by the judiciary, 13.3% by the state government, 2.6% (626 courtrooms) are rented, and 10.6% are under construction.

What is the Centre for Research and Planning of the Supreme Court?

It is the Supreme Court’s in-house think tank,

Aim: Strengthening the knowledge infrastructure of the Supreme Court.

Mandate- To conduct cutting-edge research on fundamental jurisprudence, principles, doctrines of law, and judicial reforms, aiming to enhance justice delivery and uphold Judicial Independence.

UPSC Syllabus – Reports & Indices

Source- This post is based on the article “One-fifth of district courts in country lack separate toilets for women, says SC report” published in “The Hindu” on 3rd January 2024.

Why in the News?

Recent Supreme Court Report ‘State of the Judiciary‘ highlights the absence of women’s restrooms in almost 20% of District Court complexes nationwide.

What are the Key Findings of the Report?

1) Citing data from the National Judicial Data Grid, it highlighted that almost 20% of district court complexes in the country lack separate toilets for women.

2) It emphasized the need for women-friendly toilets, noting that just 6.7% have sanitary napkin vending machines.

3) It noted that court toilets have broken doors and inadequate water supply. It also highlighted the absence of a designated maintenance service in some cases.

4) It also highlighted lack of toilets for transgender individuals in most district courts, underscoring the importance of having “gender-inclusive toilets” in every court complex.

UPSC Syllabus – Polity and Nation/Reports & Indices

Source– This post is based on the article “Shri Piyush Goyal releases the “Logistics Ease Across Different State (LEADS) 2023” published in “PIB” on 16th December 2023.

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has released the Fifth edition of the LEADS annual exercise.

What is LEADS ranking ?

What are the Key Highlights of the 2023 LEADS Report?

The report includes 11 states and 2 UTs encompassing coastal, landlocked, North Eastern States and UTs.

Performance Highlights from LEADS 2023:

What is Logistics Performance Index of the World Bank?

Click Here to read

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy/ Reports and Indices

Source: The post is based on the article “Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP): NITI Aayog releases the 1st Delta Ranking of ABP” published in “PIB” on 7th December 2023

Why in the News?

NITI Aayog has released the first Delta Ranking of the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP).

Note- It has also released the Aspirational District Programme (ADP) rankings for the month of October, 2023. Rayagada (Odisha) and Jamui (Bihar) have achieved the first and second ranks respectively. 

What is the Delta Ranking of the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)?

1) The Delta Ranking is a core strategy of the Programme based on the spirit of competitive and cooperative federalism.

2) It is calculated on the basis of performance of blocks and progress achieved in the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

3) Tiriyani Block in Telangana has secured the top position and Kaushambi Block in Uttar Pradesh ranked second.

4) The top rankers of ABP and ADP will be displayed on the Wall of Fame at NITI Aayog. It will display the projects undertaken by the blocks and districts to improve their indicators.

What is the Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP)?

What is the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP)?

Click Here to read

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes in News

Source: The post is based on the article “Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023: Road fatalities rise in India, despite global drop” published in “The Hindu” on 14th December 2023

Why in the News?

Recently, the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 has been released.

What is the Global Status Report on Road Safety?

Released by: World Health Organization (WHO) 

Aim: To detail the scale of global road traffic deaths and progress in advancing laws, strategies and policies to reduce them around the world. 

Key Findings of the report:

1) Global Decline in Road Traffic Deaths: Between 2010 and 2021, road traffic deaths worldwide dropped by 5% to 1.19 million annually.

2) Countries making progress: Around 108 UN member countries reported a decrease in road traffic deaths. 10 countries achieved above 50% reduction in deaths. 35 countries reduced fatalities by 30-50%.

3) India: India, on the other hand, saw a 15% increase in road traffic fatalities rising from 1.34 lakh in 2010 to 1.54 lakh in 2021.

3) Impact on age groups: Road crashes remain a major cause of death among youth (5-29 years) and the 12th leading cause of deaths among all age groups.

4) Population Growth vs Road Fatalities: In the last decade, the global population increased by about 14 billion or 13% but road traffic deaths decreased by 5%. Therefore, the road fatality rate per 100,000 people has seen a reduction.

5) Vehicle Growth Impact: The global motor vehicle fleet increased by 160%. Therefore, the annual fatality rates per 1 lakh vehicles dropped from 79 deaths to 47 deaths marking a 41% reduction.

6) Higher road deaths in Low and Middle Income Countries: Nine in 10 deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries which is disproportionately higher when set against the number of vehicles and roads they have.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports in News

Source: The post is based on the article “Food Security and Nutrition Report 2023: 74% Indians could not afford healthy diet in 2021” published in “The Hindu” on 13th December 2023

Why in the News?

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has released a report titled “Asia Pacific Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2023: Statistics and Trends”.

What is the Asia Pacific Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition 2023 Report?

Released by: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

Aim: To inform stakeholders on progress towards ending hunger, achieving food security and improving nutrition.

– The report is a glimpse of the progress in meeting Sustainable Development Goals and World Health Assembly (WHA) Global Nutrition Targets 2025.

Key Findings of the report:

Asia-Pacific Region:

1) During the pandemic and the “5Fs” crisis (food, feed, fuel, fertiliser, and finance), the Asia Pacific region experienced troubling statistics.

2) About half of the world’s undernourished people live in the Asia-Pacific region, with more women than men being food insecure.

3) Southern Asia has highest prevalence of undernourishment at 15.6 percent.

India:

1) Affordability of Healthy Diet: In 2021, over 74% of Indians (76.2% in 2020) could not afford a healthy diet.

2) Undernourishment: 16.6% of India’s population is undernourished, facing economic and social costs.

3) Prevalence of Child Malnutrition:
a. Stunting (low height for age): 31.7% of children under the age of five.
b. Wasting (low weight for height): 18.7% (the highest rate in the region)
c. Overweight: 2.8%.

4) Low Birth Weight: 27.4% (highest regional prevalence in the region)

5) Anaemia: 53% of women aged 15-49 had anaemia in 2019 (largest prevalence in the region)

6) Exclusive Breastfeeding: India has a higher prevalence (63.7%) of exclusive breastfeeding in infants (0-5 months) compared to the world average (47.7%).

UPSC Syllabus: Reports in News

Source– This post is based on the article “India Infrastructure Report 2023 released” published in “PIB” on 5th December 2023.

Why in the News?

Shri Venkaiah Naidu, former Vice-President of India, has released The India Infrastructure Report 2023 on Urban Planning and Development.

What is India Infrastructure Report?

1) The report focused on wide range of various complex issues related to urban planning and development along with solutions to make Indian cities sustainable.

2) It is a collaborative effort of the IDFC Foundation, Infrastructure Development Corporation (Karnataka) Ltd. (iDeCK) and the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA).

What are the Key highlights of the India Infrastructure Report 2023?

1) Role of digital technology– The report highlights the transformative role of digital technology in shaping India’s urban landscape with focus on areas like smart cities.

2) Financing urban development– It examines the financial dimensions of urban development, with a special emphasis on public-private partnerships (PPPs). The report also analyses the financial sustainability of urban local bodies.

3) Component of effective urban governance- Report focuses on transient-oriented development, regulation of floor space and land prices, etc.

4) It also laid out a roadmap on how to improve the existing cities through urban redevelopment which merited the attention of planners and policy-makers.

What is the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA)?

1) NIUA, established in 1976, is a Central Autonomous Body under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

2) It has been bridging the gap between research and practice on issues related to urbanization and suggest ways and mechanisms to address urban challenges in the country

UPSC Syllabus- Governance/ Reports and Indices

Source– This post is based on the article “Glaciers shrank 1 m a year in a decade: WMO” published in “The Hindu” on 6th December 2023.

Why in the News?

A recent report by World Meteorological Organisation ‘The Global Climate 2011-2020: A Decade of Acceleration’ highlights the impact of climate change from 2011-2020.

What re the Key highlights of the report?

1) The 2011-2020 decade, despite being the warmest recorded, saw the lowest number of deaths from extreme events. The decade marked the first since 1950 without a single short-term event causing 10,000 deaths or more.

2) Improved early warning systems, forecasting, and disaster management contributed to the decrease in casualties. India benefited from improved cyclone forecasting, enhancing preparedness and evacuation measures

3) The ozone hole visibly showed signs of recovery for the first time during this decade.

4) Glaciers globally shrank by approximately 1 meter per year on average from 2011 to 2020.
– Greenland and Antarctica lost 38% more ice from 2011 to 2020 compared to the 2001-2010 period.

5) While heatwaves were responsible for the highest number of human casualties, tropical cyclones caused the most economic damage.

6) Public and private climate finance nearly doubled during the decade. But it needed to increase by at least seven times by the end of 2011-20 to achieve climate objectives, including limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

What is WMO?

Click Here to read

UPSC Syllabus- Reports/Indices

Source- This post is based on the article “One-third of all 2022 suicides were of daily wage earners, farmers, says NCRB report” published in “The Hindu” on 4th December 2023

Why in the News?

Recently, NCRB has released the annual Crime in India report and the Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India (ADSI) report for 2022.

What are the Major Findings of the Crime in India report?

Increase in Cyber Crimes
1) It indicated a 24% surge in cyber crimes across India compared to 2021.

2) Bengaluru ranked the highest in cyber crimes. OTP and online bank frauds were the most common cybercrimes reported in the city

3) Cybercrime cases in Delhi almost tripled in 2022 . Most of the crimes related to offences such as publication and transmission of content depicting children in sexually explicit acts in electronic form.

Increase in crimes against SC and ST
1) It showed overall increase in crimes and atrocities committed upon Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)

2) Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan continued to figure at the top with the highest incidents of crimes and atrocities committed upon SCs and STs.

3) Mizoram, which had reported no cases of atrocities against either SCs or STs in 2021, reported 34 cases of atrocities in 2022.

Source– This post is based on the article “Union Minister For Jal Shakti Releases Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report For The Country For The Year 2023.” published on “PIB” on 1st December 2023.

Why in the News?

The Union Minister of Jal Shakti has released the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report for the entire country for the year 2023.

What is Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report?

1. Aim– To determine the prevailing status of groundwater resources and the impact of ongoing groundwater management practices.

2. Conducted jointly by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs.

3. Previously carried out in 1980, 1995, 2004, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2017, 2020 and 2022

What are the Highlights of Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report 2023?

1. Increase in ground water recharge: Total annual ground water recharge is 449.08 billion cubic meters (BCM), marking an increase of 11.48 BCM compared to 2022.

2. Increase in annual ground water extraction: Total annual ground water extraction for the entire country is 241.34 BCM.

3. Decrease in stage of groundwater extraction level: Currently stands at 59.23%.

Note- Stage of groundwater extraction is a measure of annual ground water extraction for all uses (irrigation, industrial and domestic uses) over annual extractable ground water resource

4. Out of total 6553 assessment units–
– 736 units (11.23%) have been categorized as ‘Over-exploited’ (where the annual ground water extraction is more than annual extractable ground water resource), witnessing a decline.
– 4793 units categorized as ‘Safe’

What are the initiatives taken by government to improve ground water resources?

1. Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal): Its a Rs. 6000 crore Central Sector Scheme, undertaken with World Bank assistance, for ensuring sustainable management of ground water resources.

2. Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA): Launched in 2019, it aims to promote water conservation and water resource management in 256 water stressed districts in the country through targeted interventions

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source: The post is based on the article “ILO Report: “A Call for safer and healthier working environments”” published in “The Hindu” on 28th November 2023

Why in the News?

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a report titled “A Call for safer and healthier working environments”.

The report will be discussed at the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work.

What are the key findings of the ILO report?

What is the International Labour Organization (ILO)?

Which are the ILO conventions ratified and not ratified by India?

Other ILO Conventions not ratified by India:
1) Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 (No. 155)
2) Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 2006 (No.187)

What is the 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work?

UPSC Syllabus: Reports in News

Source– This post is based on the article “The OECD Report on Climate Finance” published in “The Hindu” on 21 November 2023.

Why in the News?

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has published a new assessment report on climate finance ahead of the UN climate summit (COP28) in Dubai, UAE.

What is OECD?

Click Here to read

What is Climate Finance?

Click Here to read

What are the Key Findings of the Report?

UPSC Syllabus- Environment & International Organisations

Source: The post is based on the article “Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023:India Slides Sharply, Worst Among the BRICS Group” published in “The Wire” on 15th November 2023

Why in the News?

The Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023 has been released.

What is the Global Talent Competitiveness Index?

What are the key rankings of Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2023?

What are the reasons for India’s fall in GTCI 2023?

1) India’s business sentiment decline affected talent attraction domestically and internationally. This impacted ‘External Openness’ and ‘Internal Openness’ rankings.

2) Challenges persist in aligning available skills with market demands. This resulted in lower rankings for ‘Employability’ and ‘Vocational and Technical Skills’.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports/Index in News

Source: The post is based on the article “Logistics Performance Index (LPI):11 Stakeholder Ministries/Departments meets on Measures Taken and Action Plan for Improving India’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) Ranking” published in “PIB” on 18th November 2023

Why in the News?

Several Ministries recently held discussions on measures taken and action plans needed for improving India’s ranking in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI).

What is the Logistics Performance Index(LPI)?

What are the measures India is taking to improve its Logistics Performance Index(LPI) ranking?

1) PM Gati Shakti initiative: Launched in 2021, it is a national master plan for multimodal connectivity. It aims to reduce logistics costs and boost the economy by 2024-25.

2) National Logistics Policy (NLP): It was introduced in 2022 to solve transport issues, optimize manufacturing efficiency, and speed up last-mile delivery in the logistics sector.

3) Land Port Management System (LPMS): It was implemented by the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) to digitize operations and facilitate a secure electronic flow of information between all stakeholders at the Integrated check posts (ICPs). It has been successful in reducing the dwell time from 57 days to less than 24 hours.

– Note: Dwell time refers to the amount of time a ship or cargo spends at a port or terminal before being loaded or unloaded onto a vessel.

4) Ministry of Railways: It discussed railway initiatives including 100% electrification of railway tracks , increased CAPEX of INR 2.6 lakhs in FY24 and Eastern and Western dedicated freight corridors.

5) Ministry of Ports: It has taken several initiatives such as automation of weightbridges, improving scanning facilities at the ports and simplifying processes by creating Standard Operating Procedures (SoPS) across all the ports.

UPSC Syllabus: Index/Reports in News

Source– This post is based on the article “India’s heft in MSCIEM index: what it means” published in “Live mint” on 17th November 2023.

Why in the News?

India’s weightage on the MSCI Emerging Markets(EM) index will rise after inclusion of nine Indian stocks.

What is MSCI Emerging Markets Index?

How India performed in the Index?

1. India included in the index in 1994.

2. After inclusion of nine Indian stocks, India’s current representation in MSCI EM index will reached to 131 stocks.

3. India, has the second-highest weightage in the index after China’s.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Indices

Source: The post is based on the article “Innovation Handshake: India and US launch ‘Innovation Handshake’ to deepen bilateral tech ties” published in “Business Standard” on 17th November 2023

Why in the News?

India has signed a memorandum of understanding(MoU) with the US on “Enhancing Innovation Ecosystems through an Innovation Handshake”.

What is an Innovation Handshake?

What is US-India Commercial Dialogue?

Commercial Dialogue(CD) is a dialogue at Ministerial level between India and the U.S.It involves regular government-to-government meetings to be held alongside private sector meetings.

Aim: To facilitate trade and maximize investment opportunities across a broad range of economic sectors.

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations

Source: The post is based on the article “9th India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023 to be held at Faridabad, Haryana” published in “PIB” on 16th November 2023

Why in the News?

The 9th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023 will be held at Faridabad, Haryana.

What is the India International Science Festival(IISF)?

UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology

Source: The post is based on the article “World Governance Index: Need for World Bank’s governance indicators to be transparent” published in “Indian Express” on 16th November 2023

Why in the News?

Chief Economic Advisor has raised concerns over the use of Worldwide Governance Index Indicators in ratings assessment by credit ratings agencies. He has called for the World Governance Index to be more transparent and less subjective.

What is the World Governance Index?

What are the concerns of India related to the World Governance Index?

1) The World Bank compiles the World Governance Index Indicators using data from think tanks and organizations like Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Project and Freedom House. However, India has argued that these indicators have methodological problems as they are based on subjective opinions of some experts who do not have presence on the ground. For instance, US-based Freedom House has given India a score of 66 out of 100 and tagged it ‘partly free’. EIU 2022 Democracy Index ranked India at 46 and classed it as a ‘flawed democracy’. 

2) These indicators are then used by global rating agencies to assess governance levels while deciding on countries’ credit ratings. A lower credit rating increases the borrowing cost for countries. Hence, that’s why India has called for the World Governance Index to be more transparent and less subjective.

UPSC Syllabus: Index/Reports in News

Source– This post “THE INDO-PACIFIC REGIONAL DIALOGUE 2023” is based on the article “The Apex-level International outreach of the Indian Navy towards a prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific” published in “PIB” on 14 November 2023.

Why in the News?

The annual apex-level international conference of the Indian Navy – the Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD) – will be held in New Delhi from 15 to 17 November 2023.

What is Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue (IPRD)?

UPSC Syllabus- IR(Summits)

Source: The post is based on the article “State of Application Security Report: Digital infra gaps drive surge in cyberattacks in India” published in “Business Standard” on 15th November 2023

Why in the News?

According to the State of Application Security Report, India has witnessed a 70% rise in cyberattacks in the third quarter (Q3) in 2023.

What is the State of Application Security Report?

Released by: Indusface, an app security solutions firm

Key Findings of the report:

1)India has experienced over 1.6 billion cyberattacks in the second quarter of 2023. This is an increase of 70% over the previous quarter.

2)Bot attack: It is a type of cyberattack that uses automated scripts to disrupt a site, steal data, make fraudulent purchases, or perform other malicious actions. India, US and UK emerged as top victims of bot attacks.

3)Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS): It is an attack where cybercriminals significantly increase traffic to the target website using an army of the compromised computers in order to deny service to the regular visitors to a site. This makes the website unavailable to the user, causing losses to the service provider. The top victims of DDoS attacks were India, the United States and Germany.

Why is India vulnerable to cyberattacks?

UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology (Reports)

Source: The post is based on the article “NDC Synthesis Report: World is severely off track to limit planet-heating emissions” published in “The Hindu” on 15th November 2023

Why in the News?

The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Synthesis Report has been released.

What is the NDC Synthesis Report?

Released by: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC)

Purpose: The report has analyzed the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) of 195 Parties to the Paris Agreement.

Key Findings of the report:

1)If the current Nationally Determined Contributions(NDC) are implemented, global greenhouse gas emissions are set to increase 9% by 2030, compared to 2010 levels. 

2)This is a marginal improvement over last year’s assessment, which found countries were on a path to increase emissions by 10.6% by 2030, compared to 2010 levels.

3)But the studies have clearly indicated that emissions need to be cut by 43% by the end of 2030 compared to 2010 levels to meet the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.  

What is the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC)?

UPSC Syllabus: Environment (Reports and Indices)

Source: The post is based on the article “World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH): India will host 33rd Conference of  WOAH Regional Commission for Asia and Pacific” published in “PIB” on 14th November 2023

Why in the News?

India is set to host the 33rd Conference of the WOAH Regional Commission for Asia and the Pacific at New Delhi.

What is the WOAH Regional Commission for Asia and the Pacific?

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has set up five Regional Commissions to express specific problems facing its Members in the different regions of the world.

The Regional Commission for Asia and the Pacific is one of them. It organizes a Conference once every two years in one of the countries of the region.

These conferences aim to develop technical items and foster regional cooperation for the control of animal diseases.

The 33rd conference is being hosted by the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying at New Delhi.

What is the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)?

UPSC Syllabus: International Organisations

Source: The post is based on the article “Open Doors 2023 report: India Reached An All-Time High In International Student Enrollment In The USA” published in “The Hindu” on 14th November 2023

Why in the News?

The Open Doors 2023 Report on International Educational Exchange has been released.

What is the Open Doors 2023 Report?

Released by: U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and the Institute of International Education (IIE)

Aim: To provide comprehensive information on international students studying at higher education institutions.

Key Findings of the report:

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations and Reports and Indices

Source: The post is based on the article “IQAir report: Delhi most polluted city in world” published in “The Hindu” on 14th November 2023

Why in the News?

IQAir has released the Air Quality Index(AQI).

What is the Air Quality Index(AQI)?

What are the key findings of the IQAir Air Quality Index(AQI)?

1)Most Polluted City: Delhi was the most polluted city in the world. It was followed by Lahore, Pakistan.

— Note: Air pollution in parts of Delhi was 30 times the safe limits prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO) contributed in part by the firecrackers.

2)Other Indian Cities in top 10 polluted cities: Kolkata was fourth on the list, followed by Mumbai in ninth place.

3)Cleanest City: Mexico City was declared the cleanest city in the world.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment

Source: The post is based on the article “INDUS-X: First INDUS-X Investors Meet held in Delhi ahead of 2+2 Indo-US Ministerial Dialogue” published in “PIB” on 9th November 2023

Why in the News?

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has organized the first INDUS-X Investors Meet at New Delhi.

What is INDUS-X?

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations

Source: The post is based on the article “Production Gap Report :World will overshoot 2030 fossil fuel limit by twice over” published in “The Hindu” on 9th November 2023

Why in the News?

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has published the Production Gap Report 2023.

What is the Production Gap Report?

What are the key findings of the Production Gap Report 2023?

(1) Under the Paris Agreement, countries have committed to a long-term goal of limiting average global temperature to less than two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and even try to limit them further to 1.5 degrees Celsius. 

(2) However, the report analyzed the 20 major fossil fuel producing countries.

(3) It found that these countries plan to produce more than double the amount of fossil fuels in 2030 than would be consistent with limiting warming to 1.5°C and 69% more than that would be consistent with 2 degrees Celsius.

What are the recommendations given by the Production Gap Report 2023?

(1) Increase transparency in the plans, projections and support for fossil fuel production.Align those plans with national and global climate goals;

(2)Aim for a near total phase-out of coal production and use by 2040 and a combined reduction in oil and gas production and use by three-quarters by 2050 from 2020 levels.

UPSC Syllabus- Environment (Reports and Indices)

Source– This post ” State of Climate Services Report for 2023” is based on the article “Health sector poorly equipped to prevent heat hazards & impacts of other extreme weather events, says WMO report” published in “DownToEarth” on 07 November 2023.

Why in the News?

A report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) indicated that the health sector is inadequately prepared to safeguard people from the effects of heat and other extreme weather events.

What is World Meteorological Organisation?

What is State of Climate Service report ?

What are the Key findings of the 2023 report?

Climate Change impact on Health
(1) Health of the most vulnerable countries and populations will be impacted by the extreme weather events resulting from climate change, including heatwaves, droughts, floods and wildfires.
(2) Around 50 per cent of excess mortality resulting from climate change by the year 2050 will occur in Africa (least emitter of global Green house Gas Emissions), according to the WMO report.

Lack of infrastructure and ineffective utilisation of Data.
(1) Less than 25 percent health ministries utlises the climate information & services to monitor climate-sensitive health risks.
(2) Around 74 per cent of the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) provide data services for the health sector but it was not utilised effectively for the health sector.
(3) 85 percent of nations lack a formal agreement between the Ministry of Health and National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS)s to facilitate data sharing and collaboration.
(4) Only 26 countries have climate-informed, heat-health early warning systems.

Way Forward

As Petteri Taalas, secretary-general of the WMO wrote in the report there is limited cooperation and most government agencies dealing with health and climate need to develop and strengthen their partnerships.

UPSC Syllabus- Reports & Index

Source: The post is based on the article “India’s hypertension map: How different states, regions fare” published in “Indian Express” on 8th November 2023

Why in the News?

The recent analysis of the National Family Health Survey(NFHS) data has revealed substantial disparities in the prevalence, diagnosis, treatment and control of hypertension within Indian states and districts.

What is Hypertension?

What are the key findings of the data on Hypertension in India?

What is the significance of this district wise data on Hypertension?

Understanding the district-wise data helps state governments in allocating resources more effectively, identifying regions needing additional care or facilities.

What should be done to control Hypertension in India?

According to the WHO report on Hypertension, nearly 4.6 million deaths can be averted in India by 2040 if just half of the hypertension patients are able to control their blood pressure.

In line with this, the Government of India has launched an ambitious initiative to put 75 million people with hypertension or diabetes on treatment by 2025.

UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology (Health)

Source: The post is based on the article “Global TB Report: India had highest number of TB cases globally in 2022” published in “Indian Express” on 8th November 2023

Why in the News?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released the Global TB Report 2023.

What are the key findings of the Global TB Report 2023?

Globally:

India:

UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology (Diseases), Reports and Indices

Source– This post “National Coal Index” is based on the article”National Coal Index Increases by 3.83 points in September” published in “PIB” on 7th November 2023.

Why in News?

The National Coal Index (NCI) has increased first time since April 2023.

What is National Coal Index?

What does the upward movement of the National Coal index indicates?

(1) It indicates rising demand of coal because of upcoming festive season and winter in the country.
(2) It will encourage coal producer to take maximum benefit by further scaling-up domestic coal production to meet the growing energy demands.

UPSC Syllabus- Indian Economy (Reports & Index)

Source: The post is based on the article “World Local Production Forum”published in “PIB” on 7th November 2023

Why in the News?

The Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers is participating in the 2nd World Local Production Forum (WLPF) at The Hague, Netherlands.

What is the World Local Production Forum(WLPF)?

UPSC Syllabus: International Summits

Source: This post “Hunger hotspot” is based on the article”Hunger Hotspots: FAO-WFP early warnings on acute food insecurity | June-November 2023 Outlook” in “World food programme Report” on 29 May 2023.

Why in News?

FAO and WFP have warned that acute food insecurity is likely to deteriorate further in 18 hunger hotspots – comprising a total 22 countries – during from June to November 2023.

What is World Food programme?

The World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization. It was established in 1961. The aim of the organisation is to save lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity.

About the report

What are the key findings of the Report?

(1) Hotspots with highest concern- Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan and Yemen remain hotspots of highest concern for the June to November 2023 outlook.
Haiti, the Sudan and Sahel region (Burkina Faso and Mali) have been included in this category for this edition, increasing the level of concern from very high in the last edition.

(2) Hotspots with very high concern- The Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Pakistan and the Syrian Arab Republic are hotspots of very high concern, and the alert is also extended to Myanmar in this edition.

(3) Other countries that Requires monitoring- Democratic Republic of Korea, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Venezuela, Colombia, Gambia and Senegal.

Factors causing food insecurity in these hotspots

(1) Violence- Population displacement, abandonment of agricultural land, loss of life and assets, disruption of trade and cropping and loss of access to markets caused by conflicts can worsen food insecurity.

(2) Natural Hazards- Extreme weather conditions and climate variability are likely to affect several parts of the world during the outlook period.

(3) Poor humanitarian access- Humanitarian access is limited in various ways, including administrative/bureaucratic impediments, movement restrictions, security constraints and physical constraints related to the environment.

Upsc Syllabus- Food security(Report)

Source: This post “Adaptation Gap Report 2023” is based on the article”Adaptation gap in developing countries widening even as extreme weather events worsen: UNEP“ published in “Down To Earth” on 2nd November 2023.

Why in News?

Recently, The Adaptation Gap Report 2023 was issued by the United Nations Environment Programme(UNEP). According to the report, the world is underprepared, under invested and lacks the necessary planning for adaptation to climate change.

What is UNEP?

What is Adaptation Gap Report ? What are the findings of 2023 Report?

Key observations of the report
(1) Slowed climate Adaptation progress
(a) Countries need financing of $215 billion to $387 billion every year to adapt to climate change. But they have been receiving only $21.3 billion.
(b) The adaptation finance needs of developing countries are 10-18 times greater than what they have been receiving.

(2) Increasing Loss and damages
(a)A recent study indicates that the 55 most climate-vulnerable economies alone have already experienced losses and damages of more than US $500 billion in the last two decades.

Recommendations of the report
(1) Invest in adaptation and mitigation- Every billion invested in adaptation against coastal flooding leads to a USD 14 billion reduction in economic damages.

(2) COP 28 must deliver new momentum on adaptation and loss and damage –Policymakers, multilateral banks, investors and the private sector must ensure the same

UPSC syllabus- Environment

Source: The post is based on the article “NITI weighs discontinuing key water report launched 5 years ago” published in “Indian Express” on 6th November 2023

Why in the News?

NITI Aayog is said to have marked the Composite Water Management Index’ report for the year 2018-19 and 2019-20 for “internal use” after having publicly released the previous editions.

What is the Composite Water Management Index?

What does the latest Composite Water Management Index report say?

The latest Composite Water Management Index report maps the performance of states for 2018-19 and 2019-20.According to the report: 

1. Water scarcity is a “national problem”. 

2. The average annual per capita water availability is expected to reduce to 1,486 cubic meters per person per year by 2021 from 1,545 cubic meters per person per year in 2011.

– Note: As per the annual water availability norms, the availability value of less than 1,700 cubic meter/person/year indicates water shortage. Water availability below 1,000 cubic metre/ capita/ year is considered as “scarcity”.

3. Gujarat tops the list with continuous improvements year on year. It is closely followed by Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh in terms of performance.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports/Index

Source: The post is based on the article “Prime Minister inaugurates World Food India 2023” published in “PIB” on 3rd November 2023

Why in the News?

The Prime Minister has inaugurated the second edition of the ‘World Food India 2023’ in New Delhi.

What is World Food India 2023?

What are the key focus pillars of World Food India 2023?

1. Shree Anna (Millets): Leveraging India’s Super Food for the World: Millets are ancient grains that have been part of India’s rich heritage for millennia.They are super foods that provide high nutrition, gluten-free options, climate resilience, and eco-friendliness.

– The United Nations has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023) with the aim of increasing the production and consumption of millets worldwide.

2. Exponential Food Processing: Positioning India as the Global Hub: India has a vision to become a global hub for food processing and create a competitive advantage for itself in the world food market. Financing Agri Food Value Chains, especially supporting MSMEs, is a key focus area.

3.Strategic Segments: Unlocking Potentials for Growth: India is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of food products.

– India leads the world in the production of milk, bananas, mangoes, papayas, guavas, ginger, okra and buffalo meat. It ranks second in the production of rice, wheat, potatoes, garlic, cashew nuts.

4.Creating an Inclusive and Efficient Ecosystem: Removing barriers and establishing a coordinated framework for inclusive opportunities. In line with this, government has allowed 100% FDI under the automatic route in food processing industries in India

5.Sustainable Development for Prosperity: Embracing sustainable practices, renewable energy and eco-friendly agricultural and food processing methods for a more sustainable future.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy (Food Processing Industry)

Source: The post is based on the article “Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems 2023” published in “The Hindu” on 3rd November 2023

Why in the News?

The sixth edition of the Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems (ASICS) 2023 report has been released.

What is the Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems (ASICS) 2023 report?

Released by: Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy, a non-profit institution

Aim: To highlight the challenges and constraints faced by the Local Governments in Indian Cities.

Key Highlights from the report:

UPSC Syllabus: Polity and Governance

Source: The post is based on the article”India won’t meet UN targets to reduce premature mortality from major non-communicable diseases: ICMR-NCDIR“published in “DownToEarth” on 25 october 2023.

Why in the news?

According to an analysis by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India will likely miss reaching targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations-mandated Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) to reduce premature deaths from four major Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD)

What are the details of the ICMR study ?

What are the results of the ICMR study ?

(1) Decrease in premature mortality rate- The premature mortality rate of the four major non-communicable diseases is projected to decrease by 13.9 per cent from 2010 to 2025 in India.

(2) Decrease in premature deaths as compared to the SDG target- The premature deaths due to these four NCDs in India is projected at 15.6% from 2015 to 2030. However, the SDG target is to reduce 33% from 2015 to 2030.

(3) Higher UPoD among males- UPoD was higher among males, particularly around the age of 44, owing to risk factors such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption. (The WHO has defined the unconditional probability of dying (UPoD) from the four NCDs between the ages of 30 and 69 as the progress indicator for monitoring the reduction in premature mortality)

(4) Possible timeline of achieving the WHO and UN target- The target of 25 per cent (WHO) and 33 per cent (SDG) could possibly be reached by 2039 and 2053 in India.

(5) Regions of majority of deaths- Majority of these premature deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, resulting in productivity loss and economic impact.

What are the government initiatives to tackle this issue?

(1) National Program for Noncommunicable Diseases
(2) The National Tobacco Control Program
(3) The Eat Right India movement
(4) The National Health Policy of 2017,
(5) The National multi-sectoral action plan for prevention and control of Common NCDs 2017-2022.

Upsc syllabus – Science and Technology (Health)

Source: The post is based on the article “53 accidents, 19 deaths per hour in road crashes in 2022: Road Transport Ministry” published in “The Hindu” on 2nd November 2023

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways(MoRTH) has released a report titled ‘Road accidents in India -2022’.

What are the key findings of the report?

What do other reports say on Road Accidents in India?

According to the Save Life Foundation’s analysis, India ranks among the top 20 worst countries for road crashes.

According to the World Road Statistics 2022 from the International Road Federation, India was followed by China and the United States in terms of the total number of road fatalities.

UPSC Syllabus: Reports

Source: This post is based on the article “Bletchley Declaration” published in “Business standard” on Thursday November 2 2023.

Why in news ?

Twenty-nine countries such as the US, the UK, China, Australia, Brazil and India, along with the European union have agreed to work together to prevent “catastrophic harm, either deliberate or unintentional” which may arise from artificially intelligent computer models and engines.

What is Bletchley Declaration?

Central objective- The central objective of the Bletchley Declaration is to address risks and responsibilities associated with frontier AI in a comprehensive and collaborative manner.  The document emphasizes the necessity of aligning AI systems with human intent and urges a deeper exploration of AI’s full capabilities.

Member countries
Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Saudi, Arabia, Netherlands, Nigeria, The Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the United States of America, and the European Union.

Significance

It was marked by an agreement which resolved to establish “a shared understanding of the opportunities and risks posed by frontier AI”. It includes: 

1) Identifying misuse: Acknowledgment of the substantial risks from potential intentional misuse or unintended issues of control of frontier AI — especially cybersecurity, biotechnology, and disinformation risks. 

2) Identifying risks: The declaration noted the potential for serious harm, deliberate or unintentional, stemming from the most significant capabilities of these AI models, as well as risks beyond frontier AI, including those of bias and privacy. 

3) Focusing on international cooperation: These risks are “best addressed through international cooperation”. As part of the agreement on international collaboration on frontier AI safety, future summits will be held annually.  

4) It highlights the importance of safeguarding human rights, transparency, explainability, fairness, accountability, regulation, safety, human oversight, ethics, bias mitigation, privacy, and data protection.

Challenges
• It reflects the complex negotiations between nations with conflicting interests and legal systems, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union and China.

Upsc syllabus : GS 2-International relations

Source: This post is based on the article “In FSSAI index, nearly all major states slip on food safety compared to 2019” published in “ Indian Express” on 1^st November 2023.

Why in the News?

Recently Food safety and standards authority of India (FSSAI) published its fifth consecutive State Food Safety Index. This index is used to measure the performance of states across various parameters of food safety.

What is state food safety index? What is new parameter?

It is an index developed by FSSAI. It helps to measure to performance of states on five significant parameters of food safety. These include compliance, Human resources and institutional data, Food testing- infrastructure and surveillance, training & capacity building and consumer empowerment.

A new parameter is included in 2023 index “Improvement in SFSI rank”. The index is a dynamic quantitative and qualitative benchmarking model that provides an objective framework for evaluating food safety across all states/ UTs.

What is the parameter wise performance of large states ?

Key findings of the State food safety index

(1) After adjusting for a new parameter included in the 2023 index, 15 out of 20 states recorded lower 2023 scores compared to 2019.
(2) 19 out of 20 large states — including Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh — recorded a drop in their 2023 scores from 2019.
(3) The worst drop has been recorded in the ‘Food Testing Infrastructure’ parameter, where the average score for all large states dropped to 7 points out of 17 in 2023 from 13 points out of 20 in 2019.
(4) The only parameter which recorded significant improvement was ‘Training and Capacity Building’, which was given the least weightage of 8 per cent in 2023 (10 per cent in previous years).

UPSC syllabus-Science and Technology (Health)

Source: The post is based on the article “Union Finance Minister inaugurates the first Global Conference on Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM) in New Delhi” published in “PIB” on 31st October 2023

Why in the News?

The Union Minister for Finance has inaugurated the Global Conference on Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM) in New Delhi.

What is the Global Conference on Cooperation in Enforcement Matters (GCCEM)?

What is the World Customs Organisation (WCO)?

UPSC Syllabus: Economy

Source: The post is based on the article “International Migration Outlook 2023: Nearly half a million Indians migrated to OECD countries in 2021” published in “Down To Earth” on 30th October 2023

Why in the News?

The International Migration Outlook 2023 has been released.

What is the International Migration Outlook 2023?

Released by: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

Aim: To analyze the migration trends worldwide.

Key Highlights from the report:

UPSC Syllabus: International Relations

Source: The post is based on the article “World Energy Outlook 2023: Substantial cut likely in India’s CO2 emissions by 2050” published in “TOI” on 27th October 2023

Why in the News?

The International Energy Agency(IEA) has released the World Energy Outlook 2023.

What is the World Energy Outlook 2023?

Released by: International Energy Agency(IEA)

Aim: To provide in-depth analysis and strategic insights into every aspect of the global energy system.

Key Highlights from the report:

Globally: 

1.Fossil fuel share in the global energy supply is projected to reduce from around 80% to 73% by 2030. 

2.Investment in clean energy has risen by 40% since 2020.

3.In 2020, one in 25 cars sold was electric.in 2023, this is now one in 5. 

India:

India is expected to have the highest growth in energy demand over the next three decades.

But India’s industrial sector will emit 30% less CO2 by 2030 and passenger cars will emit 25% less CO2 per kilometer driven.

This is due to the government policies in addressing climate commitments through increased efficiency and new technologies.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: Renewable Energy

Source: The post is based on the article “Global Tax Evasion Report 2024” published in “EU” on 27th October 2023

Why in the News?

The European Union Tax Observatory has released ‘Global Tax Evasion Report 2024’.

What is the Global Tax Evasion Report 2024?

Released by: European Union Tax Observatory

Aim: To discuss tax evasion, the Global Minimum Tax (GMT) and measures to combat tax evasion.

Note: Tax evasion is the illegal act of not paying owed taxes to the government by under-reporting income, hiding money offshore or inflating deductions to reduce tax liability.

Key highlights of the report: 

Key recommendations of the report:

1.Global Minimum Tax for Billionaires: Proposes a global minimum tax of 2% on billionaires’ wealth to increase government revenue and reduce wealth inequality.

2.Reform Corporate Taxation: Reform international agreements on minimum corporate taxation by implementing a 25% tax rate and eliminating tax competition loopholes.

3.Unilateral Measures for Tax Collection: Implement unilateral measures to collect taxes from multinational companies and billionaires if global agreements fail.

4.Global Asset Registry: Work towards establishing a Global Asset Registry to enhance the fight against tax evasion.

5.Strengthen Economic Substance and Anti-Abuse Rules: Strengthen the application of economic substance and anti-abuse rules to deter tax avoidance and evasion.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: Taxation- Indian Economy

Source: The post is based on the article “ISA to release report on global adoption of solar technology in November” published in “The Hindu” on 26th October 2023

Why in the News?

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) will for the first time compile and release a ‘Global solar stocktake report’.

What is the Global solar Stocktake Report?

To be released by:  International Solar Alliance(ISA)

Inspired by:‘Global Stocktake’ of the United Nations Conference of Parties

Aim: To take stock of the progress made by countries in the solar energy sector.

Focus of the report: In 2020, there was about $300 billion invested in solar, and in 2022, it was around $380 billion. But most of the manufacturing is in China.The stocktake will explore ways to diversify this manufacturing.

What is a Global Solar Facility?

To be Launched by: International Solar Alliance(ISA)

Aim: To help reduce the remaining constraints related to contracts and financing for solar energy projects.

Focus area: To expand solar installations in Africa and then expand it to West Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Funds: It will have three funds: 1) payment guarantee fund 2) Insurance fund to mitigate project risks and 3) Investment fund for technical assistance.

How much gigawatts of solar photovoltaic panels have been installed globally?

As of 2022, global solar photovoltaic installations have reached 1,133 gigawatts (GW) with 191 GW added in 2022.

China accounts for about a quarter of this total solar photovoltaic installations followed by the United States.

India is also among the top five countries globally with 62 GW of installations.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: International Organizations

Source: The post is based on the article “Losses from extreme events over 31 years were $3.8 trillion” published in “The Hindu” on 25th October 2023

What is the News?

The Food and Agriculture Organization(FAO) has released a report titled ‘The Impact of Disaster on Agriculture and Food Security’.

What are the key findings of the report?

Warmest Decade: In 2023, we saw the end of the warmest decade on record with a lot of extreme weather and disasters.These disasters were made worse by conflicts and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rising Disaster Frequency: Over the past 50 years, the number of extreme disaster events has increased significantly.

– In the 1970s, there were about 100 disasters per year, but in the last 20 years, it’s gone up to about 400 annually globally.

Impact on Agriculture: Agricultural activities and livelihoods depend on environmental conditions, natural resources, and ecosystems.

– But the agriculture sector is facing threats from hazards such as flooding, water scarcity, drought, and environmental degradation. 

– For instance, in Pakistan, exceptional monsoon rainfalls in 2022 led to nearly $4 billion in damages to the agricultural sector.

Agriculture losses due to disasters: Over the last 31 years, extreme events have caused around $3.8 trillion in losses to agriculture.

– Droughts are the biggest threat to agriculture, causing over 65% of losses.

– Floods, storms, cyclones, and volcanic activities each account for around 20% of losses.

Region wise differences: Asia has the highest economic losses from disasters (45%). Oceania experienced the lowest losses from disasters.

Source: The post is based on the article “PM unveils long-term blueprint for India’s maritime economy” published in “The Hindu” on 18th October 2023

What is the News?

The Prime Minister has inaugurated the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 in Mumbai.

What is the Global Maritime India Summit?

Organized by: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Aim: To boost the Indian maritime economy by promoting global and regional partnerships and facilitating investments.

The first Maritime India summit was held in 2016 in Mumbai while the Second Maritime Summit was held virtually in 2021.

What are the key highlights from the Global Maritime India Summit 2023?

Amrit Kaal Vision 2047: It is a 25-year blueprint for the Indian maritime blue economy. 

– The plan outlines strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing port facilities, promoting sustainable practices and facilitating international collaboration.

Tuna Tekra all-weather deep draft terminal: It is going to be built at Deendayal Port in Gujarat.

– The port will be developed through a public-private partnership(PPP) mode.

– The port will handle modern vessels with a capacity exceeding 18,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

– It will also serve as a key entry point for Indian trade along the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).

Source: The post is based on the article “1st P20 Summit hosted by India has been the most successful P20 Summit ever: Lok Sabha Speaker” published in “PIB” on 16th October 2023

What is the News?

The Prime Minister inaugurated the 9th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit(P20) in New Delhi.

What is the P20 Summit?

Parliament 20(P20) Engagement Group was started during Canada’s G20 Presidency in 2010.

The group is led by Speakers from Parliaments of G20 countries.

Aim: To bring a parliamentary dimension to global governance, raise awareness, build political support for international commitments and ensure that these are effectively translated into national realities. 

Who hosted the 9th P20 Summit?

Hosted by: Parliament of India in cooperation with Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)

Theme: ‘Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future’. 

The summit hosted discussions on four subjects: 1) Accelerating SDGs 2) Sustainable Energy Transition 3) Women led Development and 4) Transformation in Peoples’ Lives through Public Digital Platforms. 

What is the Inter-Parliamentary Union(IPU)?

Click Here to read

Source: The post is based on the article “World Health Summit 2023” published in “PIB” on 16th October 2023

What is the News?

India’s Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare attended the World Health Summit 2023.

What is the World Health Summit?

World Health Summit is the unique international strategic forum for global health

Founded in: 2009 on the occasion of the 300th anniversary of Berlin’s Charité Hospital.

Held under: It is held under the patronage of the German Chancellor, President of the Republic of France, President of the European Commission and Director-General of the World Health Organization(WHO).

Held at: annually held in Berlin, Germany 

Aim: To set the agenda for a healthier future by inspiring innovative solutions for better health and wellbeing for all.

Theme for 2023: “A Defining Year for Global Health Action.”

What are the key highlights from the Health Minister’s address at the World Health Summit 2023?

Union Minister highlighted the steps taken by India to reduce the prevalence and impact of Non-communicable diseases (NCDs).Some of these steps are: 

National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD): It was launched under the National Health Mission (NHM) in 2010. It aims to strengthen infrastructure, human resource development, health promotion, early diagnosis, management and referral. 

75/25 initiative: It is aimed at screening and providing standard of care for 75 million individuals with hypertension and diabetes by 2025.

Budget 2023-24: The Outcome Budget document of the Union Budget for 2023-2024 has included hypertension and diabetes treatment as output indicators for the first time. 

Population-Based Screening(PBS): It is organized under the umbrella of Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC) across Ayushman Bharat- Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWC). 

– The individuals in the age groups of 30 years and above are targeted for risk assessment and screening of common NCDs (hypertension, diabetes, oral cancer, breast cancer and cervical cancer).

National NCD portal: It is being used for prevention, control, screening and management of common NCDs. 

– Primary-level information is captured through this portal at public health facilities for reporting and monitoring individual-wise screening and compliance of treatment for NCDs. 

Source: The post is based on the article “Periodic Labour Force Survey(PLFS) Annual Report 2022-2023 Released” published in “PIB” on 10th October 2023

What is the News?

The National Sample Survey Office(NSSO) has released the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Annual Report 2022-23.

What is the Periodic Labour Force Survey(PLFS)?

Launched in: 2017 by National Sample Survey Office(NSSO)

Objectives: To estimate the key employment and unemployment indicators (viz. Worker Population Ratio(WPR), Labour Force Participation Rate(LFPR), Unemployment Rate(UER)) in the short time interval of three months for the urban areas only in the ‘Current Weekly Status’ (CWS).

– To estimate employment and unemployment indicators in both ‘Usual Status’ (ps+ss) and CWS in both rural and urban areas annually.

Click Here to read more about PLFS

What are the key findings of PLFS Annual Report 2022-23?

Labour Force Participation Rate(LFPR): It increased significantly over the last six years, from 36.9 per cent in 2017-18 to 57.9 percent in 2022-23.

– In rural areas, LFPR increased from 50.7% in 2017-18 to 60.8% in 2022-23 while for urban areas it increased from 47.6% to 50.4%. 

– LFPR for male in India increased from 75.8% in 2017-18 to 78.5% in 2022-23 and corresponding increase in LFPR for females was from 23.3% to 37.0%.

Worker Population Ratio (WPR): In rural areas, WPR increased from 48.1% in 2017-18 to 59.4% in 2022-23 while for urban areas it increased from 43.9% to 47.7%. 

– WPR for male in India increased from 71.2% in 2017-18 to 76.0% in 2022-23 and the corresponding increase in WPR for females was from 22.0% to 35.9%.

Unemployment Rate (UR): India’s unemployment rate dropped to a six-year low in the financial year July-June 2022-23 to 3.2 per cent.

– In rural areas, UR decreased from 5.3% in 2017-18 to 2.4% in 2022-23 while for urban areas it decreased from 7.7% to 5.4%. 

– UR for male in India decreased from 6.1% in 2017-18 to 3.3% in 2022-23 and corresponding decrease in UR for females was from 5.6% to 2.9%.

Source: The post is based on the article “India expanding censorship regime, creating uneven playing field: study” published in “The Hindu” on 6th October 2023

What is the News?

Freedom House, a Washington-based non-profit organization has released a report titled “Freedom on the Net 2023: The Repressive Power of Artificial Intelligence”.

What is the Freedom on the Net report?

Freedom on the Net is an annual study of human rights in the digital sphere. 

The report assesses internet freedom in 70 countries, accounting for almost 89 percent of the world’s internet users. 

This report covered developments between June 2022 and May 2023. 

What are the key findings of the Freedom on the Net report?

Source: The Hindu

Global Internet Freedom Decline: Internet freedom has declined globally for the 13th consecutive year.Out of 70 countries assessed, 29 have witnessed a deterioration in online human rights, while only 20 have shown improvements.

Worst country for Internet Freedom: China was ranked as the world’s worst environment for Internet freedom for the ninth consecutive year.Myanmar emerged as the world’s second most repressive country for online freedom.

– Iran also experienced a significant increase in digital repression, including Internet shutdowns and social media blockages during anti-government protests.

Legal Consequences for Online Expression: A record 55 countries saw individuals facing legal repercussions for online expression.

– The number of countries imposing arrests and long prison terms for online activities has risen from 18 in 2014 to 31 in 2023.

Elections as Triggers: Elections often serve as triggers for digital repression.Incumbent leaders frequently criminalize speech, block independent news sites, and control information to influence election outcomes.

What are the key findings of the report related to India?

India’s Censorship measures: India has incorporated censorship including the use of automated systems, into the country’s legal framework. 

– The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules require large social media platforms to use AI-based moderation tools for broadly defined types of content — such as speech that could undermine public order, decency, morality, or the country’s sovereignty, integrity, and security, or content that officials had previously ordered removed.

Censorship methods adopted by India: The report evaluates countries on five censorship methods — Internet connectivity restrictions, blocks on social media platforms, blocks on websites, blocks on VPNs, and forced removal of content.

– India engaged in all forms of censorship methods except one (VPN blocking).

Digital Freedom score: India received a score of 50 on a scale of 1 to 100 for Digital freedom where ‘100’ represented highest digital freedom.Iceland had the highest Internet freedom with a score of 94.

Source: The post is based on the article “India retains 40th rank in the Global Innovation Index 2023” published in “PIB” on 28th September 2023.

What is the News?

Global Innovation Index 2023 has been published by the World Intellectual Property Organization.

What is the Global Innovation Index?

Click Here to read

What are the key findings of Innovation Index 2023?

Source: Economic Times

Top Five countries: Switzerland, Sweden, the United States, the United Kingdom and Singapore are the world’s most innovative economies in 2023.

India: India has maintained its 40th rank in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2023. In 2015, India stood at the 81st spot and has been rising in the past eight years.

– India ranked first among the 37 lower-middle group of income and first among the 10 economies in Central and South America.

– India holds top rankings in key indicators such as: ICT services exports (5th rank), flow of venture capital (6), graduates in science and engineering (11) and global corporate R&D investors (13).

– The areas where India needs to improve a lot are infrastructure (84th rank), business sophistication (57) and institutions (56).

Source: The post is based on the article “Greater one-horned rhinos thriving in India Nepal despite poaching threat Report” published in “The Week” on 26th September 2023.

What is the News?

The State of the Rhino Report, 2023 has been released by US-based International Rhino Foundation(IRF).

The report comes ahead of World Rhino Day, an annual global celebration of the five rhino species and their conservation on September 22.

What are the key findings of State of the Rhino Report, 2023?

Source: International Rhino Foundation(IRF)

Threats: Habitat loss, poaching and climate change continue to threaten the existence of all five rhino species.

– Rhino populations that were once considered less threatened have seemingly become the primary target of poaching efforts which are orchestrated by highly organized, transnational criminal syndicates.

Impact of Climate Change: In Africa, climate change-induced drought is causing myriad detrimental impacts.

– In Asia dramatically increased precipitation and longer monsoon periods could cause more direct deaths of rhinos and humans alike.

– Changing weather conditions and landscapes can also trigger an increase in invasive plant species, crowding out or overtaking native rhino food plants and causing general habitat degradation.

Greater One Horned Rhino: Greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) reside primarily in India and Nepal, though there is a population that occasionally crosses into Bhutan. 

– Bhutan, India and Nepal work together to implement a trans-boundary management strategy for the greater one-horned rhino. 

– Thanks to this collaboration and strict government protection and management, the greater one-horned rhino population has steadily increased over the last century, and has grown about 20% over the last decade. 

Deaths of Greater One Horned Rhino: After reporting no poaching deaths in 2022, India has recorded two deaths of Greater One-Horned Rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) until September 2023.

– The deaths were reported from Manas National Park and Kaziranga National Park. 

Source: The post is based on the article “Aadhaar unreliable in ‘hot, humid’ India: Moody’s”  published in The Hindu on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

Global rating major Moody’s Investors Service has released a report titled “Decentralized Finance and Digital Assets”.

What are the key findings of the report?

Source: The Hindu

Moody has acknowledged Aadhaar as the world’s largest digital ID program that assigns unique numbers to over 1.2 billion Indian residents using biometric and demographic data.

However, Moody has raised some concerns over Aadhar such as:

Biometric issues: Aadhar often results in service denials and the reliability of biometric technologies especially for manual laborers in hot, humid climates, is questionable.

– These remarks assume significance in view of the government’s adoption of Aadhaar for routing direct benefit transfers to beneficiaries of official welfare schemes and in particular, the use of Aadhaar-based payments for labourers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme.

Centralized Identification system: Aadhaar is a centralized identification system.This leads to the concentration of sensitive information with specific entities and increases the risks of data breaches.Hence, that’s why Moody has favoured adoption of decentralized ID (DID) systems.

– In decentralized ID (DID) systems, personal data is saved in a user’s digital wallet and identity verification takes place not via a single, centralized institution but on a decentralized digital ledger such as a blockchain.This increases privacy and reduces the amount of personal information held by intermediaries.

– For instance, Estonia, known for its fully digitalized public services has embraced SSI [Self-Sovereign Identity] to grant citizens complete control over their digital identities.

– However, digital IDs, centralized or not can have negative social repercussions, since they may strengthen group identities and political divides, particularly if offered by technology and social media companies with significant monopolistic influence.

Source: The post is based on the article “National Education Policy 2020 | Multiple entry, exit option in higher studies may not suit India: House panel”  published in The Hindu on 25th September 2023

What is the News?

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education has released a report titled ‘Implementation of the National Education Policy, 2020 in Higher Education’.

The committee has advised the Union government to hold discussions with stakeholders before implementing the option of multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME) under the national education policy(NEP). 

What is Multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME)?

Source: The Hindu

National education policy(NEP) proposes Multiple entry and multiple exit (MEME).

The system allows students to drop their course and resume it at a later stage as and when they desire or deem it worth pursuing. 

This arrangement will prove to be helpful for those students who cannot continue their studies due to financial, social or any other reason and desire to resume their studies when the conditions become favourable in due course of time.

What are the challenges in implementing MEME according to the Parliamentary Standing Committee?

Predicting Student Flow: MEME looks like a flexible system which is being operated by western educational institutions effectively.But it might not work well in the country.

– This is because in India, with its high population, it is challenging for institutions to predict how many students may exit or join midway.This uncertainty could disrupt the pupil-teacher ratio.

Uneven Distribution of Institutions: The uneven geographical distribution of higher educational institutions, especially in rural areas could create obstacles in implementing MEME effectively.

What are the recommendations given by the committee to implement MEME effectively?

Develop comprehensive guidelines and a well-defined framework for MEME options, including specific eligibility criteria, credit transfer mechanisms providing a clear road map for students pursuing different exit points.

Conduct wider consultations with universities, institutions, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders to address the challenges and difficulties associated with MEME implementation.

How is the Kerala Government implementing MEME?

The Kerala government has decided not to implement MEME in colleges and universities in the State. 

The curriculum document of the State had said that the government would allow multiple entry, but exit will be allowed either after three years with a degree or after four years with honours degree.

Source: The post is based on the article “Panel calls for revising rules of construction around protected ASI monuments”  published in The Hindu on 23rd September 2023

What is the News?

The Department Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport Tourism and Culture has called for revising rules of construction around protected Archaeological Survey of India(ASI) monuments.

What are the rules of construction around protected ASI monuments?

​​The prohibited and restricted area provision was introduced in 2010 through an amendment to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958. 

It prohibits and regulates all activities like mining and construction around 100 metres and 300 metres. 

What are the observations made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport Tourism and Culture on this?

The committee has observed that the provision of 100-metre prohibited area and 300-metre regulated area around all monuments protected by the ASI has pitted the local community against these heritage structures in many places as they find it difficult to carry out necessary repair work of their residential spaces.

The committee has asked the government to revise the rules to make them realistic.It has also recommended rationalizing the application of such rules based on the historical significance of the monuments.

The committee has also recommended that the list of all 3,691 ASI-protected monuments be rationalized and categorized based on their national significance, unique architectural value and specific heritage content.

Source: The post is based on the article “India wins bid to host 17th International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement”  published in PIB on 21st September 2023

What is the News?

India has won the bid to host the prestigious International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement (ICCC) at New Delhi in 2027.

What is the International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement(ICCC)?

International Congress on the Chemistry of Cement(ICCC) is the largest and most prestigious event of its kind which reviews the progress of research in the area of Cement and Concrete. 

The congresses have been held generally at intervals of four to six years since 1918.

The 9th Congress was organized at New Delhi in 1992 by National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM) and the present 16th ICCC is being held at Bangkok, Thailand.

What is the National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM)?

National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM) is an apex Research and Development organization under the administrative control of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

Purpose: It is dedicated to research, technology development & transfer, education & industrial services for cement, allied building materials & construction industries.

Significance: NCCBM has a proven track record of executing biennial NCB International Seminars/Conferences of similar magnitude, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.

India’s Cement Industry:

India is the fifth largest economy and is likely to become third largest by the next five years.

India’s cement industry is second largest in the world with installed cement capacity of 600 million tonnes. 

The cement industry in India plays a key role in the circular economy framework in the country by utilizing various industrial wastes and is having one of the lowest CO2 footprints and most energy efficient in the world. 

Source: The post is based on the article “Union Health Minister addresses annual meeting of the Friends of the UN Inter-Agency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health”  published in PIB on 19th September 2023

What is the News?

The Union Health Minister addressed the annual meeting of the Friends of the UN Inter-Agency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health on the occasion of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly.

What is the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force on NCDs (UNIATF)?

UNIATF was established by the UN Secretary-General in 2013 and placed under WHO’s leadership. 

Its role is to bring the United Nations system and other intergovernmental organizations together to support governments to meet the NCD-related SDG targets which includes mental health.

The Task Force supports governments to meet high-level commitments made at the United Nations General Assembly and the World Health Assembly, including the WHO Global NCD Action Plan 2013–2030. 

The task force reports each year to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

What are the key highlights from the Union Health Minister address to UNIATF?

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant global health problem, responsible for about 74% of all deaths worldwide, and in India, they account for 63% of all deaths.This places immense pressure on healthcare systems and has a substantial socioeconomic impact.

India’s approach towards tackling NCDs includes implementing the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD).The strategy aims to provide standard care to 75 million people with hypertension and diabetes by 2025.

For every individual, a single Ayushman Bharat Health Account Number (ABHA-ID) is being maintained and tracking of every single individual with NCDs is done through National NCD Portal. 

Ayushman Bharat has introduced Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) that offer population-level interventions for the prevention, screening, control, and management of five common NCDs i.e., hypertension, diabetes, oral cancer, breast cancer and cervical cancer. 

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana provides health assurance/ insurance coverage for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. Rs. 5 lakh coverage per family per year is provided to over 600 million beneficiaries.

Source: The post is based on the article “Fourth G20 Global Partnership For Financial Inclusion Meeting is scheduled to be held in Mumbai”  published in PIB on 14th September 2023

What is the News?

The Fourth G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) Meeting is being held in Mumbai 

What is Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion(GPFI)?

Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion(GPFI) was officially launched in 2010 in Seoul,South Korea.

It is an inclusive platform for all G20 countries, interested non-G20 countries and relevant stakeholders.

Purpose: To carry forward work on financial inclusion, including implementation of the G20 Financial Inclusion Action Plan, endorsed at the G20 Summit in Seoul.

GPFI’s efforts include helping countries put into practice the G20 Principles for Innovative Financial Inclusion, strengthening data for measuring financial inclusion, and developing methodologies for countries wishing to set targets.

The first G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) meeting under India’s G20 Presidency was held in 2023 in Kolkata,West Bengal. 

Source: The post is based on the article “President of India to Inaugurate ‘First Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights’ at ICAR Convention Centre, NASC Complex, New Delhi”  published in PIB on 12th September 2023

What is the News?

The President of India will inaugurate the first ‘Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights’ (GSFR) at the ICAR Convention Centre, National Agricultural Science Centre Complex in New Delhi.

What is the Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights'(GSFR)?

Organized by: Secretariat of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (International Treaty) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Rome.

Hosted by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in collaboration with Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Authority, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) among others.

Aim: To contribute to the understanding of the challenges and opportunities of implementing farmers’ rights by the signatory countries and other stakeholders. 

Significance: India is hosting its first ‘Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights’.

– Note: India has been the first country in the world to include Farmers’ Rights in the context of Plant Variety Registration through its Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Act, 2001.

Source: The post is based on the article “G20 document prepared by World Bank lauds India’s progress” published in PIB on 9th September 2023

What is the News?

The G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion document prepared by the World Bank has lauded the transformative impact of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in India over the past decade under the Central Government.

What is Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI)?

Click Here to read

What did the World Bank document say about India’s Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI)?

World Bank document discusses the significant achievements and impact of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in various areas:

Financial Inclusion: India’s DPI particularly the JAM  (short for Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile) Trinity, has greatly improved financial inclusion, increasing the adult inclusion rate from 25% to over 80% in just six years.This progress would have taken decades without DPI.

Government to Person (G2P) Payments: India’s digital G2P system, built on DPI, has facilitated the transfer of $361 billion directly to beneficiaries through various government schemes, resulting in significant savings.

UPI (Unified Payments Interface): UPI transactions in May 2023 alone exceeded 9.41 billion.For the fiscal year 2022–23, the total value of UPI transactions was nearly 50 percent of India’s nominal GDP.

DPI Benefits for the Private Sector: DPI has increased efficiency for private organizations by reducing complexity, costs, and processing times.This has had positive effects on sectors such as SME lending, depreciation costs and fraud detection.

Lower KYC Compliance Costs: The India Stack has digitized and simplified KYC procedures, reducing banks’ compliance costs from $0.12 to $0.06 and making it more profitable to serve lower-income clients.

Cross-Border Payments: The UPI-PayNow interlinking between India and Singapore, operationalized in February 2023, promotes faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border payments.

Account Aggregator (AA) Framework: India’s AA Framework, regulated by RBI, enables individuals and enterprises to share data securely and with consent. There are 1.13 billion cumulative accounts enabled for data sharing.

Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture (DEPA): DEPA empowers individuals to control their data and share it across providers, fostering innovation and competition without heavy investments in client relationships.

Source: The post is based on the article “Conference on Transnational Grid Interconnections for One Sun, One World, One Grid held in New Delhi” published in PIB on 6th September 2023

What is the News?

The conference on “Transnational Grid Interconnections for One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG)” was held in New Delhi.

The conference was organized by Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a ‘Maharatna’ company under the Ministry of Power.

What is One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) Initiative?

Origin: The idea for the One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG) initiative was put forth by the Prime Minister of India at the First Assembly of the ISA in 2018. 

Launched in: It was jointly launched by the Prime Minister of India and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during the ‘Accelerating Innovation and Clean Technology Deployment’ event at the World Leaders Summit held on 2 November 2021 during COP26.

Vision: The vision behind the OSOWOG initiative is the mantra that “the sun never sets”.

Aim: To aid in developing a worldwide grid through which clean energy can be transmitted anywhere, anytime (use power at night in one part of the world from solar energy generated on the other side of the world where it is day time). 

How will the OSOWOG Initiative be implemented?

OSOWOG is divided into three main phases:

In the first phase, the Indian grid would be connected to the grids of Middle East, South Asia and South-East Asia to develop a common grid. This grid would then be used to share solar energy as per need, in addition to other renewable energy sources.

The second phase would connect the functional first phase to the pool of renewable resources in Africa.

The third phase would look at achieving true global interconnection.The idea will be to integrate as many countries as possible to create a single power grid of renewable energy.This can then be accessed by all countries.

How will the OSOWOG Initiative help the world become more sustainable?

All participants in the initiative will focus on attracting effective investments in renewable energy sources by utilizing technology, finance and skill.When all stakeholders coordinate, it is expected to bring down project cost, lead to higher efficiencies and increased asset utilization for all involved.

The initiative may also have a spillover effect as the cost effective source of energy production could be used in other areas such as poverty alleviation, provision of drinking water, sanitation facilities and food security.

Source: The post is based on the article “Government proposes in SC tech panel to evaluate carrying capacity of 13 Himalayan States”  published in The Hindu on 5th September 2023

What is the News?

The Ministry of Environment and Forest and Climate Change suggested steps to assess the accurate carrying capacity of 13 Himalayan States.

What is Carrying Capacity?

The carrying capacity is the maximum population size that an ecosystem can sustain without getting degraded.

What are the suggestions given by the Central Government to assess the carrying capacity of 13 Himalayan States?

The Union government has urged the Supreme Court to issue directives to all 13 Himalayan states and Union territories for immediately assessing the carrying capacity of mountainous regions.

These 13 Himalayan states and UTs include Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Assam and West Bengal.

States could constitute committees headed by their respective Chief Secretaries to collect information on the load-carrying capacity of their hill stations, cities and eco-sensitive zones.

The Centre will then form a 13-member technical committee headed by the Director of the GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment to evaluate the information collected by the States.

What is the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE)?

The National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). 

The mission is aimed at evolving management measures for sustaining and safeguarding the Himalayan glaciers and mountain ecosystem. 

The measures include enhanced monitoring of the Himalayan ecosystem through establishment of the monitoring network, promoting community based management, human resource development and strengthening regional cooperation.

Source: The post is based on the article “Gujarat Declaration’ underlining outcome of the first WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit 2023 released”  published in PIB on 4th September 2023

What is the News?

The first WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit was held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The World Health Organization (WHO) released the outcome document of the summit in form of “Gujarat Declaration’.

What is the first WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit?

Click Here to read

What are the key points of the Gujarat Declarations?

Gujarat declaration reaffirmed global commitments towards indigenous knowledges, biodiversity and traditional, complementary and integrative medicine.

The key action points outlined in the declaration are:

Health and Well-being: Scale up evidence-based traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) for universal health coverage and Sustainable Development Goals.Use science and technology to validate TCIM’s contribution to health and well-being.

Global Health Leadership: Expand multi-regional collaborations through the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre and Respect Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge on health.

Research and Evidence: Mobilize research funding for TCIM and strengthen research capabilities.

Universal Health Coverage and Health Systems: Integrate TCIM into national health systems and adapt laws and policies for TCIM safety and accessibility.

Digital Health and AI: Develop digital health resources, including AI, for TCIM.

Biodiversity and Sustainability: Support UN biodiversity agreements and Indigenous Peoples’ involvement.

Human Rights, Equity, and Ethics: Recognize and protect Indigenous Peoples’ rights and knowledge.Incorporate ethical practices in TCIM.

Source: The post is based on the article “The northern plains of India is the most polluted region”  published in The Hindu on 4th September 2023

What is the News?

The Air Quality Life Index 2021 has been released.

What is the Air Quality Life Index?

Released by: Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) 

Purpose: It is a pollution index that quantifies the relationship between long-term exposure to particulate pollution and life expectancy.

What are the key findings of the Air Quality Life Index?

Pollution and Life expectancy: Pollution remains the foremost external threat to human health around the world.

– Its impact on life expectancy rivals that of smoking, surpassing alcohol use, unsafe water, and even exceeding car crash injuries.

– If the world were to permanently reduce fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) to meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guideline, the average person would add 2.3 years onto their life expectancy.

South Asia: South Asia is home to the four most polluted countries in the world and nearly a quarter of the global population.

– Between 2013 to 2021, particulate pollution in South Asia surged by 9.7%, which is estimated to reduce life expectancy in the region by an additional six months.

Most polluted countries in the world: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan where 22.9% of the global population lives are the four most polluted countries in the world.

– In Bangladesh, people potentially lost an average of 6.8 years of life due to air pollution not meeting WHO guidelines.In contrast, the average person from the U.S. lost just 3.6 months.

China: China stands out due to its success in reducing pollution by a staggering 42.3% from 2013 to 2021 and extending the average life expectancy of its population by 2.2 years.This reduction can be attributed to the country’s policy initiatives to combat pollution in 2014.

India: India is the second-most polluted country in the world in 2021.

– The average Indian resident is set to lose 5.3 years of life expectancy if WHO guidelines remain unmet.In contrast, cardiovascular diseases reduce the average Indian’s life expectancy by about 4.5 years, while child and maternal malnutrition reduces it by 1.8 years.

– Delhi is the world’s most polluted city.If the PM2.5 level in Delhi is reduced to meet the WHO guideline, a resident in Delhi could gain 11.9 years in life expectancy.

– Northern plains, which is home to over half a billion people and 38.9% of India’s population, is the most polluted region. 

– The northern plains include the States and Union Territories of Bihar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.

– In the northern plains, the average resident is set to lose about 8 years of life expectancy if pollution levels persist and policies do not succeed in reducing pollution to levels as prescribed by the WHO.

Source: The post is based on the article “PM congratulates RBI Governor for being rated “A+” in the Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards 2023”  published in PIB on 2nd September 2023

What is the News?

The Prime Minister has congratulated RBI Governor Shri Shaktikanta Das for being  rated “A+” in the Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards 2023.

What is Global Finance Central Banker Report Cards 2023?

The Central Banker Report Cards has been published annually by Global Finance since 1994.

Purpose: It grades the central bank governors of 101 key countries, territories and districts, including the European Union, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the Bank of Central African States and the Central Bank of West African States.

Parameters: The grades are based on a scale from A to F for success in inflation control, economic growth goals, currency stability, and interest rate management, according to a statement by Global Finance magazine. 

– An ‘A’ represents an excellent performance and an ‘F’ stands for an outright failure.

Note: Recently, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das was also awarded the “Governor of the Year” at the Central Banking Awards 2023 in London.

– Central Banking is a London-based international economic research journal. 

– Shaktikanta Das is the second RBI governor to receive this award after Raghuram Rajan, who was given the title in 2015.

Source: The post is based on the article “Omission of disability-related questions from NFHS-6 shows that disability remains misunderstood”  published in Indian Express 1st September 2023

What is the News?

The Government of India has decided to omit disability-related questions from the sixth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6).

What is the National Family Health Survey(NFHS)?

Click Here to read

When was disability related questions included in the NFHS Survey?

The questions on disability were included for the first time in the NFHS-5 which was carried out during 2019-21.

Based on the NFHS-5 report, it was observed that disability prevalence was only 1% for rural areas and 0.9% for urban areas.

However, National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) estimates for the year 2018 showed 2.3% for rural areas and 2% for urban areas.

Why has NFHS-6 decided to omit disability-related questions?

According to the Ministry of Health, the disability related questions are not included in NFHS-6 as the disability data will not change very fast and there is no reason to collect this data every time.

This decision has been criticized as the persons with disabilities make up around 2.21% of India’s population, totaling about 2.68 crore people according to the 2011 Census.

The Census data does not fully represent the current disabled population due to population growth over the past decade and the limited categories of disabilities recognized in the Census.

What are the other issues faced by disabled people in government policy making?

Limited Understanding of Disability: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation) report on ‘Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) in India — A Statistical Profile: 2021’ refers to only eight categories of disabilities. 

– It fails to acknowledge and account for the 21 categories of disabilities recognised in law after the enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWDA).

Invisible disability not acknowledged: Niti Aayog’s visionary blueprint, ‘Strategy for New India @ 75’, which delineates the government’s goals for 2022-23, recognises the challenges posed due to a lack of detailed data in drafting policies for persons with disabilities. 

– However, the document lacks measures for those with invisible disabilities such as mental health conditions. 

Source: The post is based on the article “In India, 74% can’t afford a healthy diet: UN agency report”  published in The Hindu on 31st August 2023

What is the News?

The ‘State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World’ (SOFI) 2023 report has been released with the theme “Urbanization, agrifood systems transformation, and healthy diets across the rural-urban continuum”.

What is the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World(SOFI) Report?

SOFI is an annual flagship report jointly prepared by: Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Food Programme (WFP) and World Health Organisation (WHO).

Aim: To inform on progress towards ending hunger, achieving food security and improving nutrition and to provide an in-depth analysis of key challenges for achieving this goal in the context of the SDG.

What are the key findings of the SOFI 2023 related to India?

Source: The Hindu

Healthy diet: India has the lowest cost of a healthy diet among BRICS nations and neighboring countries.However, a significant portion of the population can’t afford it due to stagnant or decreasing incomes. 

– For instance, meal costs in Mumbai increased by 65% in five years, while salaries/wages only grew by 28%-37%. 

Healthy diet in terms of Purchasing Power Parity(PPP): In India, a healthy diet costs 3.066 PPP dollars per person per day, the lowest among the countries considered. 

– PPP stands for ‘Purchasing Power Parity’.In simple terms, 1 PPP dollar in the United States should buy the same amount of goods and services as 1 PPP dollar in, say, India or Brazil. 

Share of the population that is unable to afford a healthy diet in 2021: In India, 74% were not able to afford a healthy diet, the fourth highest share among the nations considered. 

Change in the cost of a healthy diet over the years across regions: Between 2019 (before the COVID-19 pandemic) and 2021, the expense of maintaining a healthy diet increased by almost 9% in Asia — the highest across regions.

Change in the number of people unable to afford a healthy diet over time across regions: Between 2019 and 2021, Asia and Africa saw the highest growth in the number of people who could not afford a healthy diet. 

– In Asia, South Asia had the highest number of people (1.4 billion) and the highest share (72%) who could not afford a healthy diet.

Source: The post is based on the article “Ministry of Jal Shakti Releases the 6th Census Report On Minor Irrigation (MI) Schemes”  published in PIB on 28th August 2023

What is the News?

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has released the 6th Census Report on Minor Irrigation (MI) Schemes.

What are Minor irrigation(MI) schemes?

Minor irrigation (MI) schemes are defined as those structures either in ground water or in surface water category having Culturable Command Area (CCA) up to 2,000 ha.

Minor irrigation schemes are categorized into six types: (1) Dug wells/dug-cum-bore wells (2) Shallow Tube wells (3) Medium Tube wells and (4) Deep tube wells comes under the category of Ground water schemes whereas (5) Surface flow schemes and (6) Surface lift schemes comes under the category of Surface water schemes. 

What is the Census Report on Minor Irrigation (MI) Schemes?

The Government of India has been conducting census of minor irrigation schemes. So far, five censuses have been conducted with reference year 1986-87, 1993-94, 2000-01, 2006-07 and 2013-14 respectively.

The census is conducted under the centrally sponsored scheme “Irrigation Census”. 

The 6th minor irrigation census with reference year 2017-18 was completed in 32 States/ UTs. For the first time, information about the gender of the owner of the MI scheme was also collected in case of individual ownership.

What are the key findings of the 6th Census Report on Minor Irrigation (MI) Schemes?

Minor irrigation schemes: There are 23.14 million minor irrigation schemes in India spread over 695 districts. Of these 21.93 million (94.8%) are groundwater and 1.21 million (5.2%) are surface water schemes.

– Dug wells have the highest share in MI schemes followed by shallow tube wells, medium tube wells and deep tube wells.

State wise: Uttar Pradesh possesses the largest number of MI schemes in the country (17.2%) followed by Maharashtra (15.4%), Madhya Pradesh (9.9%) and Tamil Nadu (9.1%). 

Increase in MI Schemes: There has been an increase of about 1.42 million in MI schemes with their number standing at 23.14 million during 6th MI Census as compared to 21.7 million in 5th Census.

Ownership of minor irrigation schemes: 96.6% of minor irrigation schemes are under private ownership whereas 3.4% are under public ownership. Therefore, most minor irrigation schemes are owned by individuals or groups of farmers.

The most notable finding was that 18.1% of minor irrigation schemes are owned by women. 

Source: The post is based on the article “State of birds: Most species show dip, Indian Peafowl among those flourishing”  published in Indian Express on 28th August 2023

What is the News?

The State of India’s Birds, 2023 has been released.

What is the State of India’s Birds Report, 2023?

State of India’s Birds Report ​​is an assessment of the distribution range, trends in abundance and conservation status of 942 of India’s 1,200 bird species.

Published by: State of India’s Birds Partnership, a group of 13 governments (including SACON, WII, ZSI) and non-governmental organizations.

What are the key findings of the State of India’s Birds, 2023?

Source: Hindustan Times

Decline in birds: Of the 338 species that had enough data to assess for long-term trends, 60% of the species showed long-term declines.

– Birds that feed on vertebrates and carrion (including raptors and vultures) have declined greatly, suggesting harmful pollutants in their food resources, a decline in prey availability, or both.

Endemic Birds: Birds endemic to the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka biodiversity hotspots have rapidly declined in India over the past few decades. India is home to 232 endemic species, found nowhere else in the world.

Birds that live in open habitats are severely impacted: Open habitats in India have been severely compromised by the spread of invasive, drought tolerant woody plants, as well as wind turbines and power lines, impacting several bird species. Of particular note is the Great Grey Shrike, which has suffered a worrisome long-term decline of more than 80%.

Three Indian Bustard species face imminent extinction: The three bustard species that breed in India – the Great Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican and Bengal Florican – face imminent extinction.

Migratory birds under greater threat than resident species: Birds face many dangers during migration, from extreme weather events, to predation, starvation, and hunting/illegal killing.

Long-distance migrants have declined the most, by over 50% followed by short-distance migrants.

Some bird species are in abundance: Several species like the Indian Peafowl, Rock Pigeon, Asian Koel, and House Crow are thriving and increasing in both abundance and distribution.

– For instance, there has been a 150% increase in the abundance of peafowl across the country over the past decades.

What are the major threats to birds in India highlighted in the report?

The major threats are: Climate Change, Urbanization, Monocultures, Energy Infrastructure, ecosystem degradation and environmental pollutants.

Source: The post is based on the article “7th GEF Assembly: Global Biodiversity Framework Fund ratified”  published in Down To Earth on 25th August 2023

What is the News?

The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) was finally ratified and launched at the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in Vancouver, Canada. 

What is the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF)?

Aim: To directly support global efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, a goal agreed to by 196 countries as part of the Global Biodiversity Framework established at COP15.

Hosted by: Global Environment Facility (GEF) 

Funding: Governments, non-profits, and the private sector can now contribute their funds to GBFF.

Fund allocations: 20% will be allocated to Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs)

– 36% of the fund’s resources are aimed to support the most vulnerable people, small island developing states.

– 3% to LDCs (Least Developed Countries)

– About 25% of the fund will be delivered through selected international financial institutions to increase resources through private sector involvement and ensure policies are streamlined.

Note: This is the first time there would be funds channeled to non-state actors like the indigenous communities.

First meeting: The first GBFF Council meeting will be held in January 2024.

What is the Global Environment Facility (GEF)?

Click Here to read

Source: The post is based on the article “Indore best city, M.P. top State in Smart Cities contest”  published in The Hindu on 26th August 2023.

What is the News?

The President of India will present the India Smart Cities Award Contest (ISAC), 2022.

What is the India Smart Cities Award Contest (ISAC)?

India Smart Cities Award Contest (ISAC) is organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Aim: To recognize and reward cities, projects and innovative ideas that are promoting sustainable development across the 100 smart cities as well as stimulating inclusive, equitable, safe, healthy and collaborative cities leading to a better quality of life for all.

The ISAC award had a two-stage submission process consisting of ‘Qualifying Stage’, which involved overall assessment of the city’s performance, and the ‘Proposal Stage’ which required the smart cities to submit their nominations for six award categories.

This is the fourth edition of the ISAC awards with the previous ones held in 2018, 2019, and 2020.There were no awards in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What are the key takeaways from ISAC 2022?

Indore has been named as the best Smart City. Surat and Agra are the second and third place winners among cities.

Madhya Pradesh has been chosen as the top state. Tamil Nadu is the second in State category followed by Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.

The award for the best Union Territory has gone to Chandigarh.

Source: The post is based on the article “More students using smartphones for entertainment than study: survey”  published in The Hindu on 9th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Union Education Minister has released the State of Elementary Education in Rural India report.

What is the State of Elementary Education in Rural India Report?

The report is based on a survey conducted by the Development Intelligence Unit(DIU), a collaboration between Transform Rural India and Sambodhi Research and Communications.

The survey was conducted on 6,229 parents of schoolchildren aged six to 16 in rural communities across 21 States.

What are the key findings of the report?

Increased access to smartphones: Around 49.3% of students in rural India have access to smartphones. 

– However, a significant portion, 76.7% of these students primarily use their phones for entertainment purposes, such as playing video games and watching movies. 

– Only 34% of smartphone-accessible students use their devices for study-related downloads, while 18% access online learning through tutorials.

Higher Education: At least 78% of the parents of girls and 82% of the parents of boys wanted to educate their children to the level of graduation or above.

Reasons for dropout and out-of-school children: Among the parents of 56 students who dropped out of school, 36.8 percent mentioned that their daughters’ dropout was due to the need to contribute to the family’s earnings. 

– For boys, the primary reason cited for dropping out was lack of interest in studies.

Learning environment at home: The survey revealed that 40% of parents have age-appropriate reading materials available at home, beyond school books. Additionally, only 40% of parents engage in daily conversations with their children about their school learning, while 32% have such discussions a few days a week.

Parental participation: A positive aspect observed was that 84% of parents regularly attend parent-teacher meetings, demonstrating their active involvement in their children’s education.

Source: The post is based on the article “WHO report on tobacco control: Key findings, how India fares”  published in Indian Express on 2nd August 2023

What is the News?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently released a report on tobacco control measures.

This was the ninth WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic. It tracks the progress made by countries in tobacco control since 2008.

What are MPOWER measures?

In line with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), WHO had introduced the MPOWER measures in 2008. 

MPOWER are a set of six cost-effective and high impact measures that help countries reduce demand for tobacco.

These measures include: 1) Monitoring tobacco use and prevention policies 2) Protecting people from tobacco smoke 3) Offering help to quit tobacco use 4) Warning about the dangers of tobacco 5) Enforcing bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship and 6) Raising taxes on tobacco.

What are the key findings of the WHO report on tobacco control?

MPOWER: In the 15 years since the MPOWER measures were first introduced, 5.6 billion people in the world – or 71% of the entire population – remain protected by at least one of the measures. This has increased from just 5% of the population in 2008.

Countries implementing MPOWER measures: The number of countries implementing at least one MPOWER measure has increased from 44 countries in 2008 to 151 in 2022.

However, there are at least 44 countries in the world that still do not implement any MPOWER measure.

Harmful effects of e-cigarettes: E-cigarettes are harmful to both the people using them and those around them, especially when used indoors.

The tobacco industry is aggressively promoting E-cigarettes as a safer alternative to cigarettes. This is undermining the progress made on tobacco control.

Controlling second-hand smoking: The report focuses on controlling second-hand smoking (being in the presence of someone who is smoking).

It talks of creating smoke-free public areas and also de-normalising the act of smoking in the society.

Of the estimated 8.7 million tobacco-related deaths each year, 1.3 million are of non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke.

Moreover, severe asthma, respiratory tract infections, and sudden infant death syndrome are more common among children exposed to second-hand smoke.

What does the WHO report say about India?

India has the highest level of achievement when it comes to putting health warning labels on tobacco products and providing tobacco dependence treatment.

With 85% of cigarette packs carrying health warnings both on the front and back, India figures among the top 10 countries in terms of the size of health warnings. The cigarette packets in the country also carry a toll-free number for a quit-line.

India has also banned the sale of e-cigarettes, and banned smoking in healthcare facilities and educational institutions.

India is also implementing warnings on OTT platform content when actors are seen using tobacco products. This would make India the first country in the world to do so.

Source: The post is based on the article “Panel submits report on sub-categorisation of OBCs after 6 years”  published in The Hindu on 2nd August 2023

What is the News?

The report of a Rohini Commission set up to examine the sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) has been submitted to the President.

However, the contents of the report have not been made public as yet.

What is the need for sub-categorisation of OBCs?

OBCs get 27% reservation in central government jobs and admission to educational institutions. 

There are more than 2,600 entries in the Central List of OBCs but over the years only a few affluent communities among them have benefited from the quota. 

Therefore, there is an argument that a “sub-categorisation” of OBCs — quotas within the 27% quota — is needed in order to ensure “equitable distribution” of the benefits of reservation.

What were the terms of reference of the Rohini Commission?

Examine the extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of reservation among the castes or communities included in the broad category of OBCs with reference to such classes included in the Central List.

Work out the mechanism, criteria, norms and parameters in a scientific approach for sub-categorisation within such OBCs  and

Take up the exercise of identifying the respective castes or communities or sub-castes or synonyms in the Central List of OBCs and classifying them into their respective sub-categories.

How did the work of the commission proceed till now?

In 2018, the commission analyzed the data of 1.3 lakh central government jobs under the OBC quota over the preceding five years, and OBC admissions to central higher education institutions, including universities, IITs, NITs, IIMs and AIIMS, over the preceding three years.

The analysis showed 97% of all jobs and education seats have gone to 25% of OBC castes and 24.95% of these jobs and seats have gone to just 10 OBC communities. 

As many as 983 OBC communities — 37% of the total — were found to have zero representation in jobs and educational institutions and 994 OBC sub-castes had a representation of only 2.68% in recruitments and admissions. 

However, this analysis suffered from limitations due to the absence of updated population data.

Source: The post is based on the article “IMD has launched Heat Index”  published in PIB on 20th July 2023.

What is the News?

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has launched the Heat Index on an experimental basis. 

What is the Heat Index?

Source: TOI

Heat Index is also known as the apparent temperature. It is the temperature humans feel when relative humidity combines with the air temperature.

For instance, you may experience unusually high levels of heat despite the official temperature forecast indicating a ‘normal’ range. Say, if the absolute humidity of an area is high, you may feel hot, even though the temperature may not necessarily be that high.

Similarly, say there is a wind blowing; you will automatically feel colder, even if the temperature may not be so low.

How will the Heat Index be calculated by IMD?

At present, heat index is derived using the heat index equation similar to what is used by National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), USA.

What are the colour codes used for Heat Index?

The colour codes used for Experimental Heat Index are as follows: 1) Green: Experimental heat Index less than 35 deg C 2) Yellow: Experimental heat Index in the range 36-45 deg C 3) Orange: Experimental heat Index in the range 46-55 deg C and 4) Red: Experimental heat Index greater than 55 deg C.

Source: The post is based on the article “India climbs seven points to 80 on Passport Index; Singapore at top position”  published in The Hindu on 20th July 2023

What is the News?

Henley Passport Index 2023 has been released by the consultancy firm named ‘Henley & Partners’.

What is the Henley Passport Index?

​​Henley Passport Index is the ranking of all the world’s passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa. 

The index includes 199 passports and 227 travel destinations.

What are the key rankings of Henley Passport Index 2023?

Source: The Hindu

Globally: Singapore has topped the index. It is now officially the most powerful passport in the world with its citizens able to visit 192 travel destinations out of 227 around the world visa-free.

– Germany, Italy, and Spain occupied the second place. 

– Japan, which occupied the top position Index for five years, has dropped to the third place.

India: India has climbed seven places in 2023 and is ranked at 80th position. Indian citizens can now enjoy visa-free access to 57 destinations.

– In 2014, India was ranked 76 with 52 countries allowing Indian passport holders visa-free access but its performance has not been linear. 

– It ranked 88 in 2015 (visa-free access to 51 countries), 85 in 2016, 87 in 2017, 81 in 2018, 82 in 2019 and 2020, and 81 in 2021.

What is the Henley Openness Index?

Henley Openness Index measures how many nations does a country allows visa-free access to.

The top 20 ‘most open’ countries are all small island nations or African states, except for Cambodia.

Here, India was ranked 94 out of a total of 97 ranks for allowing only four countries visa-free access.

Source: The post is based on the article “Tamil Nadu tops NITI Aayog export preparedness index 2022, Gujarat skids to 4th slot”  published in The Hindu on 19th July 2023

What is the News?

NITI Aayog has released the third edition of Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2022.

What is the Export Preparedness Index(EPI)?

Click Here to read

What are the key findings of Export Preparedness Index(EPI) 2022?

Topped by: Tamil Nadu has topped the index followed by Maharashtra and Karnataka.

– Gujarat, which held the top position in EPI 2021 (released in 2022) has been pushed to the fourth slot in EPI 2022.

Hilly States: Uttarakhand secured the top position among hilly/Himalayan states in the EPI 2022. 

Landlocked States: Haryana topped the chart among the landlocked regions, indicating its preparedness for exports. It was followed by Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

Union Territories/Small States: Goa has ranked first followed by Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Ladakh.

Districts: Out of the 680 districts engaged in exports, the top 100 districts contribute about 87% of the total exports from India. 

– Among export districts, Jamnagar in Gujarat tops the index. It was followed by Surat, Mumbai Suburban, Mumbai, Pune, Bharuch and Kanchipuram.

India’s exports: Despite global slowdown, India’s exports in 2021-22 crossed an unprecedented USD 675 Billion, with trade in goods accounting for USD 420 billion.

– The value of merchandise exports crossed USD 400 billion in FY2022, an ambitious goal set by the government, reaching up to USD 422 billion by March 2022.

Recommendations: 1) Location-specific strategies to boost exports 2) Diversification of export markets (such as based on Gl products) 3) Leveraging foreign markets using FTAs 4) Identifying high-growth sectors such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, textiles and renewable energy  and 5) Improvement in data availability.

Source: The post is based on the article “13.5 crore Indians move out of multidimensional poverty in five years: Niti Aayog report”  published in The Hindu on 18th July 2023

What is the News?

Niti Aayog has published the second edition of National Multidimensional Poverty Index: A progress of Review 2023.

What is the National Multidimensional Poverty Index?

Click Here to read

National MPI 2023 is based on the latest National Family Health Survey (2019-21) and represents progress made by India in reducing multidimensional poverty between the two surveys, NFHS-4 (2015-16) and NFHS-5 (2019-21).

What are the key findings of the National Multidimensional Poverty Index 2023?

Source: The Print

About 135.5 million (13.5 crore) persons have exited poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21.

– In 2015-16, one in four Indians (24.85%) met the criteria for multidimensional poverty. By 2019-21, this percentage decreased to 14.96% or one in seven.

Rural areas saw a faster reduction in their MPI value, compared to urban areas. The incidence of poverty fell from 32.59% to 19.28% in rural areas compared to a decline from 8.65% to 5.27% in urban areas between 2015-16 and 2019-21.

Uttar Pradesh has registered the largest decline in the number of poor with 3.43 crore people escaping multidimensional poverty.

The number of states with less than 10 per cent people living in multidimensional poverty doubled in the five years between 2016 and 2021.

– In 2015-16 (NFHS-4), only seven states had less than 10% of their population living in multidimensional poverty — Mizoram, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala.

– In 2019-21 (NFHS-5), the list had doubled to include 14 states, with the seven new additions being Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Manipur, and Uttarakhand.

Except for Bihar, no other state in India has more than one-third of its population living in multidimensional poverty.

– Even Bihar has also made remarkable improvement. In 2015-16, over 51.89 per cent of Bihar’s population lived in multidimensional poverty. By 2019-21, the figure had dropped to 33.76 per cent.

Source: The post is based on the article “Export Preparedness Index (EPI) Report, 2022” published in PIB on 14th July 2023

What is the News?

NITI Aayog will be releasing the third edition of Export Preparedness Index (EPI) for States/UTs of India for the year 2022.

What is the Export Preparedness Index (EPI)?

EPI is a comprehensive tool which measures the export preparedness of the States and UTs in India.

Aim: To undertake a comprehensive analysis of States and UTs across export-related parameters in order to identify their strengths and weaknesses.

– To present a comprehensive picture of  states and UT’s export preparedness.

– To highlight the achievements of states/UTs and encourage peer-learning among the states/UTs to uphold the spirit of competitive federalism. 

Pillars: The index assess the performance of the States and UTs across four pillars:

– Policy Pillar evaluates states and UTs’ performance based on its adoption of the export-related policy ecosystem at a state and district level as well as the institutional framework surrounding the ecosystem.

– Business Ecosystem assesses the prevailing business environment in a state/UT, along with the extent of business-supportive infrastructure, and a state/UTs’ transport connectivity.

– Export Ecosystem focuses on the export-related infrastructure in a state/UT along with the trade support provided to the exporters, and the prevalence of Research and Development in the state/UT to foster innovation.

– Export Performance is an output-based indicator which gauges the growth of a state’s export over the previous year and analyzes its export concentration and footprint on the global markets.

Source: The post is based on the article “415 million Indians came out of multidimensional poverty in 15 years, says UNDP study” published in The Hindu on 12th July 2023

What is the News?

The Global Multidimensional Poverty Index(MPI) 2023 has been released.

What is the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)?

Global MPI is a key international resource that measures acute multidimensional poverty across more than 100 developing countries.

It was first launched in 2010 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI).

The Global MPI advances SDG 1 – ending poverty in all its forms everywhere. It also measures interconnected deprivations across indicators related to SDGs 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 and 11.

Click Here to read more

What are the key findings of the report?

Source: UNDP

Globally: 25 countries including India have successfully halved their global MPI values within 15 years, indicating that substantial progress is attainable.

– Around 1.1 billion out of 6.1 billion people (just over 18%) live in acute multidimensional poverty across 110 countries.

– Sub-Saharan Africa (534 million) and South Asia (389 million) are home to approximately five out of every six poor people.

– Nearly two-thirds of all poor people (730 million people) live in middle-income countries, making action in these countries vital for reducing global poverty.

– Children under 18 years old account for half of MPI-poor people (566 million). The poverty rate among children is 27.7%, while among adults it is 13.4%. 

– Poverty predominantly affects rural areas, with 84% of all poor people living in rural areas.

India: Around 415 million people exited poverty within a span of just 15 years between 2005 to 2021 in India.

The number of people in multidimensional poverty in India decreased from approximately 645 million in 2005-06 to about 370 million in 2015-16 and further to 230 million in 2019-21.Hence, the incidence of poverty fell from 55.1% to 16.4% during the period.

Deprivation in ​​​​all indicators declined in India.

The poorest states and disadvantaged groups, including children and individuals from marginalized castes, experienced the fastest progress in reducing poverty.

People who are multidimensionally poor and deprived under the nutrition indicator in India declined from 44.3% in 2005/2006 to 11.8%in 2019/2021 and child mortality fell from 4.5% to 1.5%.

Source: The post is based on the article “Ministry of Education releases combined report on Performance Grading Index for Districts (PGI-D) for the year 2020-21 & 2021-22” published in PIB on 9th July 2023

What is the News?

The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSE&L), Ministry of Education has released the Performance Grading Index for Districts (PGI-D) combined report for 2020-21 and 2021-22.

What is the Performance Grading Index for Districts (PGI-D)?

Aim: To assess the performance of the school education system at the District level by creating an index for comprehensive analysis.

Methodology: PGI-D structure comprises of total weight age of 600 points across 83 indicators, which are grouped under 6 categories viz., Outcomes, Effective Classroom Transaction, Infrastructure Facilities & Student’s Entitlements, School Safety & Child Protection, Digital Learning and Governance Process. 

– These categories are further divided into 12  domains such as Learning Outcomes and Quality (LO), Access Outcomes (AO), Teacher Availability, Learning Management (LM), Infrastructure, Facilities, school Safety and Child Protection (SS&CP), Digital Learning (DL) among others.

Categories: PGI-D has 10 grades under which districts are categorized with Daksh being the highest grade (above 90%) followed by Utkarsh (81%-90%); Ati-Uttam (71%-80%); Uttam (61%-70%); Prachesta-1 (51%-60%); Prachesta-2 (41%-50%); Prachesta-3 (31%-40%); Akanshi-1 (21% to 30%); and Akanshi-2 (11% to 20%). 

– The lowest grade is Akanshi-3, for districts that score less than 10%.

Significance: PGI-D is expected to help the state education departments to identify gaps at the district level and improve their performance in a decentralized manner.

What are the key findings of PGI-D 2020-21 and 2021-22?

Source: The Hindu

There are no districts in the country figuring in the top two grades — “Daksh” and “Utkarsh” in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 index.

121 districts were graded as Ati-Uttam for 2020-21.This number fell by more than half in 2021-22 with just 51 districts making the grade.

Among the best-performing districts in 2020-21, the maximum are from Rajasthan (26) followed by Gujarat (22) and Punjab (19).All nine districts of Delhi have figured in the “Ati Uttam” category.

In the digital learning domain during 2021-22, the majority of districts are still in the bottom three grades indicating the need for boosting the digital learning aspect. 

Source: The post is based on the article “Explainer: What is the Farmers Distress Index?” published in Down To Earth on 6th July 2023

What is the News?

Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA), an institution under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed an early warning system called ‘farmers distress index’.

What is the Farmers Distress Index?

Aim: To minimize the agrarian distress in the form of crop loss / failure and income shock. This will help in decreasing farmer suicides.

Working of the index: The index methodology involves going  through local newspapers, other news platforms and social media platforms for any report on incidence of farmers distress like localised cases of issues with debt repayment, death by suicide, pest attacks, drought, floods, migration, among others.

– Following this, contacts of farmers from the area will be collected to conduct telephonic interviews, which will have 21 standardized questions to gauge early signs of distress. 

– Based on these questions, the degree of distress will be identified.The index will have values from 0-1. A value between 0-0.5 will indicate ‘low distress’, 0.5-0.7 will indicate ‘moderate’ distress and above 0.7 will indicate ‘severe’ distress. 

– If the index is severe, it will identify which component among the seven is more severe and contributes maximum to farmers’ distress.

Significance of the index: The index will help in anticipating agrarian distress and prevent its spread from a few farmers to the village or block level by pre-warning different stakeholders, including central, state, local and also non-government agencies about the future occurrence of farmers distress in a particular block / district so that they can take timely preventive measures.

Source: The post is based on the article “Ministry of Education releases report on Performance Grading Index 2.0 for States/UTs for the year 2021-22” published in PIB on 7th July 2023

What is the News?

The Union Ministry of Education has released a report on Performance Grading Index 2.0 for States/UTs for the year 2021-22.

What is the Performance Grading Index?

The Performance Grading Index is prepared by the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education. It was first released for the year 2017-18.

It assesses the performance of the school education system at the State/UT level by creating an index.

The PGI 2.0 structure comprises total weightage of 1000 points across 73 indicators, which are grouped under 2 Categories viz., Outcomes and Governance & Management. 

These categories are further divided into 6 domains, viz., Learning Outcomes (LO), Access (A), Infrastructure & Facilities (IF), Equity (E), Governance Processes (GP) and Teacher Education & Training (TET).

Scores obtained by States/UTs have been classified into 10 grades with the highest achievable Grade is Daksh, which is for State/UT scoring more than 940 points out of a total of 1000 points.  The lowest grade is Akanshi-3 which is for a score up to 460. 

What are the key findings of  Performance Grading Index 2.0 for 2021-22?

Source: PIB

None of the States/UTs has attained the highest Grade i.e Daksh. 

Only 2 States and UTs, namely Punjab and Chandigarh have attained Grade Prachesta -2 (score 641-700).

The three poorest performing States/UTs Akanshi 3 are Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Mizoram. 

The maximum and minimum scores obtained by the States/UTs in 2021-22 are 659.01 and 420.64 respectively. The deviation between the maximum and minimum scores obtained by States/UTs is 23.8% of the maximum points, indicating that states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Mizoram has to put more effort to reach the top slot. This disparity was 51 % in 2017-18.

Source: The post is based on the article “Outstanding performance by India in United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia Pacific’s (UNESCAP) Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation” published in PIB on 7th July 2023

What is the News?

United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia Pacific’s (UNESCAP) has released the Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation 2023.

What is the Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation?

UNESCAP has been conducting the Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation since 2015.

Aim: To review the progress of trade facilitation reforms in their respective Member States. 

Parameters: The survey covers WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) along with set of nearly 60 trade facilitation measures categorized into eleven sub-groups, namely: 1) Transparency 2) Formalities 3) Institutional arrangement and cooperation 4) Transit facilitation 5) Paperless trade 6) Cross-border paperless trade 7) Trade facilitation for SMEs 8) Agricultural trade facilitation 9) Women in trade facilitation 10) Trade finance for trade facilitation and 11) Trade facilitation in times of crisis. 

The survey is fact-based rather than perception-based. A three-step approach to data collection and validation is generally followed, implemented over a 6-month period every 2 years.

What are the key findings of the survey related to India?

India has positioned itself at the forefront of global trade facilitation efforts with an impressive score of 93.55% in 2023 vis a vis 90.32% in 2021.

India is now the best performing country amongst all the countries of the South Asia region. The overall score of India has been greater than many developed countries including Canada, France, UK, Germany etc.

India has achieved a perfect score of 100% in four key areas: Transparency, Formalities, Institutional Arrangement and Cooperation, and Paperless Trade.

India has witnessed a substantial improvement in the score for “Women in Trade Facilitation” component from 66.7% in 2021 to 77.8% in 2023 thereby indicating commitment to gender inclusivity and the empowerment of women in the trade sector.

This outstanding recognition reflects India’s continuous efforts to streamline trade procedures and improve transparency through initiatives such as Turant customs, single window interface for facilitation of trade (SWIFT), pre-arrival data processing, e-Sanchit, and coordinated border management.

Source: The post is based on the article “Iceland is the world’s most peaceful country; check where India stands” published in Indian Express on 7th July 2023

What is the News?

The 2023 Global Peace Index(GPI) has been released.

What is the Global Peace Index(GPI)?

Released by: Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP)

Aim: To present the most comprehensive data-driven analysis to date on trends in peace, its economic value, and how to develop peaceful societies.

Countries covered: The index covers 163 countries comprising 99.7 percent of the world’s population.

Parameters: It measures the state of peace across three domains: 1) Societal safety and security 2) Ongoing domestic and international conflict and 3) Militarisation.

What are the key findings of the 2023 Global Peace Index(GPI)?

Globally: The average level of global peacefulness has deteriorated by 0.42%.

– Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world – a title it has held since 2008.

– Afghanistan is the least peaceful country in the world for the eighth consecutive year.

India: India has occupied the 126th spot in the rankings, two higher than its previous position.

– India has experienced an improvement of 3.5 per cent in overall peacefulness over the past year, owing to improvements in violent crime, neighboring countries’ relations and political instability.

– Further, the reduction in geopolitical tensions with China owing to the decrease in border incidents as well as less social unrest has led to an improvement in the political instability in India.

Source: The post is based on the article “India and Asean top recipients of FDI, says UNCTAD report” published in Economic Times on 6th July 2023

What is the News?

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has published its World Investment Report 2023.

What are the key findings of the World Investment Report 2023?

Globally: The global FDI fell by 12% in 2022 to $1.3 trillion mainly due to overlapping global crises: the war in Ukraine, high food and energy prices, and soaring public debt.

– The decline was felt mostly in developed economies where FDI fell by 37% to $378 billion.But flows to developing countries grew by 4% with a few large emerging countries attracting most of the investment while flows to the least developed countries declined.

– Investments in renewables have nearly tripled since 2015.But most of the money has gone to developed countries.

– Developing countries need renewable energy investments of about $1.7 trillion each year but attracted only $544 billion in clean energy FDI in 2022.

India: India was the third largest recipient of foreign direct investment (FDI) in greenfield projects in the world in 2022.

– The FDI flows into India rose 10 percent from $44.7 billion in 2021 to $49.3 billion in 2022.

– However, the total FDI inflows to India in 2022 was still lower than what was recorded in 2020, when India received $64 billion of foreign investments.

– India was also the second-largest recipient of international project finance in the world in 2022. International project finance is when international lenders provide debt or equity to infrastructure projects in various countries.

– Moreover, Indian multinational companies substantially increased their overseas investments in 2022.Indian companies’ invested about $42 billion overseas, a three-fold increase in total investments.

Source: The post is based on the article “Secretary, DARPG launches the third edition of the National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) portal” published in PIB on 6th July 2023

What is the News?

The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DAPRG) Secretary has launched the third edition of the National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA).

What is National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA)?

The NeSDA framework was launched in 2018 by the Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DAPRG).

Objective: To measure the depth and effectiveness of existing e-Governance service delivery mechanisms from the citizen’s perspective.

The framework is based on the Online Service Index (OSI) of UNDESA eGovernment Survey. It has been customized for the Indian federal structure and the e-Governance landscape of the States and UTs.

DARPG undertakes NeSDA study biennially. It has successfully released 2 editions of NeSDA study: NeSDA 2019 was released in 2020 and second edition – NeSDA 2021 was released in 2022.

NeSDA 2023 Framework: The framework for NeSDA 2023 study has been elaborated under the following three dimensions: 

Portals Coverage: All Government Portals assessed during NeSDA are classified into two categories viz., (i) State, UT, Central Ministry Portal and (ii) State, UT, Central Ministry Services Portals.

– NeSDA 2023 framework proposes to evaluate the maturity of e-Government at the City level as well by assessing City Portal i.e., the official portal of respective City/Urban Local Body that provides a single window access to the information and links to the services being provided for the citizens and other stakeholders in the city.

– For City portal assessment, States/UTs may propose one of the 3 most populous cities.

Focus Sectors and Mandatory Services Coverage: The NeSDA framework covers G2C and G2B services across seven sectors: Finance, Labour Employment, Education, Local Governance Utility Services, Social Welfare (including Health, Agriculture, Home Security), Environment (including Fire) and Tourism sectors. 

– The framework for NeSDA 2023 proposes an expansion on focus sectors with an addition of Transport and Public Grievance.

Assessment Parameters: To make the NeSDA framework more robust and align with global digital government trends it is proposed to include three additional assessment parameters namely: Open Government Data (OGD), E-Participation and Leveraging Emerging Technologies.

Source: The post is based on the article “India ranked 67th on Energy Transition Index, Sweden on top: WEF” published in The Hindu on 28th June 2023

What is the News?

The World Economic Forum(WEF) has released the Energy Transition Index 2023.

What is the Energy Transition Index?

Click Here to read

What are the key takeaways from Energy Transition Index 2023?

Rankings: Sweden has topped the list and was followed by Denmark, Norway, Finland and Switzerland in the top five.

– France (7) was the only G20 Country in the top 10, followed closely by Germany (11), the U.S. (12), and the U.K. (13).

India: India has been ranked 67th out of 120 countries.

Observations made on India: India is the only major economy with energy transition momentum accelerating across all dimensions.

– Despite continued economic growth, India has successfully reduced the energy intensity of its economy and the carbon intensity of its energy mix, while achieving universal energy access and effectively managing affordability of electricity.

Contributors: Universal access to electricity, replacing solid fuels with clean cooking options and increasing renewable energy deployment have been primary contributors to the improvement of India’s performance.

Concerns: Rising import dependence amid global energy market volatilities, predominantly carbon-intensive energy mix. Challenges include balancing economic growth and creating quality jobs for the growing working-age population.

Recommendations: Continued progress of India will be challenged by two key macro trends: strong economic growth and the urgency to create quality jobs for a growing working age population.

– Hence, for this a skilled workforce, public-private collaboration in innovation, and investment in research and development in low-carbon technologies are necessary to enable India’s energy transition.