In News:

A study by researchers from India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) has found that seasonal variations in Arctic Sea ice are impacting the Indian monsoon.

What is the Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall?

The Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall (ISMR), occurring from July to September, is one of the most significant monsoon systems globally. During the summer, the Central Asian and Indian landmasses heat up more quickly than the surrounding oceans. This temperature difference creates a low-pressure zone at the Tropic of Cancer known as the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). Trade winds from the southeast are then deflected toward the Indian subcontinent due to the Coriolis effect and the low pressure they encounter after crossing the equator. As these winds pass over the Arabian Sea, they pick up moisture and bring rain to India. The southwest monsoon divides into two branches over the Indian landmass. The Arabian Sea branch delivers rain to the west coast, while the Bay of Bengal branch brings rain to the eastern and northeastern parts of India. These branches converge over Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, with the Arabian Sea branch moving inward and the Bay of Bengal branch following the Himalayas.

Complexity of the Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall

Recent climate models have revealed that the ISMR is influenced by the surface temperatures of the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans. Additionally, the circum-global teleconnection (CGT), a large-scale atmospheric wave at mid-latitudes, also plays a significant role in affecting the monsoon.

Influence of Arctic Sea Ice on the Indian Monsoon

The study indicates that reduced sea ice in the central Arctic results in decreased rainfall in western and peninsular India, but increased rainfall in central and northern India. Conversely, lower sea ice levels in the upper latitudes, especially in the Barents-Kara Sea region, delay the onset of the monsoon and make it more unpredictable.

Other Atmospheric Systems Influencing the Pattern

When sea ice levels in the central Arctic rise, the heat transferred from the ocean to the atmosphere triggers cyclonic circulation at lower latitudes, such as the North Atlantic. This process enhances Rossby waves—fast-moving air currents created by Earth's rotation and temperature differences—which move from west to east. These waves cause high pressure over northwest India and low pressure over the Mediterranean region, strengthening the Asian jet stream over the Caspian Sea and shifting the subtropical easterly jet northward. This shift leads to increased rainfall in western and peninsular India. On the other hand, decreased sea ice in the Barents-Kara Sea generates an anticyclonic circulation (clear skies) over northwest Europe. This disturbance affects the upper atmosphere over subtropical Asia and India, resulting in increased rainfall in northeastern India while leaving central and northwest regions drier.

Role of Climate Change

Climate change accelerates the reduction of Arctic sea ice, which intensifies the variability and unpredictability of the ISMR. Lower Arctic sea ice contributes to more frequent and severe droughts in some areas, while causing excessive rainfall and flooding in others. The study underscores the urgent need for expanded research on climate dynamics and more accurate monsoon forecasts to address these changing patterns.

In News:

• Last week, PTI reported that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is planning to revive District Agro-Meteorology Units (DAMUs) under the Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa (GKMS) scheme.

Background:

• The IMD established 199 DAMUs in 2018 in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
• The aim was to use weather data to prepare and disseminate sub-district level agricultural advisories. In March, DAMUs were shut down following an order issued by the IMD.

Why are agro-met units important?

• Around 80% of farmers in India are small and marginal. They largely practise rain-fed agriculture in the backdrop of a decades-long farm crisis that is now overlaid with climate change-related weather variability.
• The DAMUs were located within Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Scientists and researchers trained in meteorology and agriculture were recruited as DAMU staff. They used weather data provided by the IMD like rainfall, temperature and wind speeds to prepare agricultural advisories related to sowing and harvesting, usage of fertilizers and pesticides, irrigation etc.
• These advisories were sent to millions of farmers across the country free-of-cost in local languages twice a week. They were shared via text messages, WhatsApp groups, newspapers and also through in-person communication from DAMU staff and KVK officers.
• Since these advisories provided weather information in advance, they helped farmers plan activities like irrigation. They also served as early warnings for extreme events like droughts and heavy rainfall. Many studies conducted over the years have stressed the benefits of agro-met advisories.

Why were DAMUs shut down?

• According to an Article-14 report, the NITI Aayog misrepresented the role of District Agricultural Management Units (DAMUs) and advocated for their privatization. The report claims that NITI Aayog inaccurately stated that agro-met data was automated, thereby diminishing the role of DAMU staff. In reality, DAMU staff were crucial in creating agricultural advisories based on IMD weather data, which were disseminated to farmers in local languages. NITI Aayog also proposed monetizing these services, contrasting with the current free provision of agro-met information to all farmers.
• A policy brief from the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bangalore, released in August, highlights that localized and accessible advisories from District Agricultural Management Units (DAMUs) have significantly improved farmers' responses to climatic variations in the Kalyana-Karnataka region. This has led to increased yields and incomes. The brief recommends reconsidering the decision to discontinue DAMUs and suggests exploring ways to enhance their effectiveness and presence.

What about private players?

Currently, a few private companies offer weather advisories, but their services are often too costly for small and marginal farmers.  Dr. M. N. Thimmegowda, a professor at the University of Agricultural Sciences noted that annual subscriptions can cost ?10,000 per crop, leading to expenses of ?20,000-40,000 for vegetable and cereal growers, and up to ?60,000-80,000 for specialized advisories. Additionally, there is concern that these companies may provide biased recommendations for fertilizers and pesticides, favoring certain brands.

The Centre unveiled its BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) policy last week.

On the face of it, the policy appears to be a routine attempt to create incentives and opportunities to energise growth in the biotech sector. But it is, in fact, about transforming existing industrial and manufacturing processes across various sectors to make them more sustainable and environment-friendly, and less wasteful.

The policy seeks to achieve this by harnessing the power of biotechnology, and developing new manufacturing methods that replicate, or mimic, processes found in natural biological systems.

Potential Benefits of Biotechnology:

• Medical Science:
  • Cures for genetic disorders.
  • Development of targeted therapies and treatments.
• Agriculture:
  • Creation of new plant varieties with desirable traits.
  • Increased crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases.
• Environmental Sustainability:
  • Bioplastics: Eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics (e.g., polylactic acid from corn starch).
  • Carbon Capture: Micro-organisms capture and convert CO2 into biofuels, reducing the need for CO2 storage.
• Synthetic Biology:
  • Design of novel organisms for specific functions.
  • Laboratory-grown organs for transplantation, reducing reliance on organ donors.
• Industrial Processes:
  • Replacement of chemical processes with biological ones, reducing pollution.
  • Production of sustainable materials and fuels.

BioE3 Policy Benefits for India:

• Economic Impact:
  • Expected $2-4 trillion from biomanufacturing over the next decade.
  • Prepares India for future economic opportunities in biotechnology.
• Research and Development:
  • Promotes competencies, research, and talent development.
  • Supports technology development and maturation.
• Biomanufacturing Hubs:
  • Establishes facilities for producing bio-products: chemicals, enzymes, functional foods, and more.
  • Focus areas: bio-based chemicals, smart proteins, precision therapeutics, climate-resilient agriculture, carbon capture, and marine/space research.
• Future Technologies:
  • Supports development of life support systems for space and innovative marine-based products.
  • Encourages collaboration among multiple government departments for effective implementation.

• The United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom are anticipated to sign the Council of Europe’s new convention on artificial intelligence (AI), marking it as the first “legally binding” international treaty on AI.
• The treaty, officially named the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law, was opened for signature during a Council of Europe Ministers of Justice conference in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Purpose and Approach:

• Human Rights Focus:
  • The convention prioritizes human rights in regulating both public and private-sector AI systems.
  • It seeks to address concerns that fragmented regulations by individual countries could impede the development of AI technology.
• Risk-Based Framework:
  • The treaty adopts a risk-based approach to the design, development, use, and decommissioning of AI systems.
  • It is applicable to AI systems used across public sectors, including entities acting on behalf of the government, and private sectors, covering multiple geographies.

Key Provisions and Obligations:

• Accountability:
  • Signatories are accountable for harmful and discriminatory outcomes resulting from AI systems.
  • They must ensure AI outputs respect equality and privacy rights and provide legal recourse for victims of AI-related rights violations.
• Human Rights and Democratic Integrity:
  • AI systems must be consistent with obligations to protect human rights.
  • They must not undermine democratic institutions, including judicial independence and access to justice.
  • Measures must be implemented to safeguard democratic processes, including fair access to public debate and freedom of opinion.
• Exemptions:
  • Exemptions include national security and research and development activities.
  • Parties are obligated to address risks related to the lifecycle of AI activities by both public and private actors.

International Context:

• Related Agreements:
  • The treaty complements other AI regulations and agreements, such as the G7 pact on AI (October 2023), Europe’s AI Act, and the Bletchley Declaration signed by 28 countries (November 2023).

Challenges and Concerns:

• Enforcement Issues:
  • Despite being termed “legally binding,” the treaty lacks specific provisions for punitive sanctions like penalties or fines.
  • Compliance is primarily monitored, which may not be a strong deterrent for enforcement.
• Initial Approvals:
  • Hanne Juncher, Director of Security, Integrity and Rule of Law at the Council, indicated that 10 participants are expected to be among the first to approve the convention.
  • This early support reflects the significant investment and satisfaction of these participants in the treaty’s outcome.

Conclusion:

• The Council of Europe’s convention represents a pioneering step towards a globally coordinated approach to AI regulation, emphasizing human rights and democratic principles. However, its effectiveness will depend on the development of robust enforcement mechanisms and broader adoption by key international stakeholders

India has emerged as the top global plastic polluter, releasing 9.3 million tonnes (Mt) of plastic annually, accounting for nearly 20% of the world's total plastic emissions.

Top Plastic Polluters:

1. India: 9.3 Mt
2. Nigeria: 3.5 Mt
3. Indonesia: 3.4 Mt
4. China: Previously first, now fourth, due to improvements in waste management practices such as incineration and controlled landfills.

Understanding Plastic Emissions

Plastic emissions refer to plastic that escapes from managed systems into unmanaged or uncontrolled environments. These emissions can occur throughout the lifecycle of plastic, from production through to disposal.

Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC)

The INC, established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 2022, is working towards creating a global binding treaty on plastic pollution. The committee addresses the entire plastic lifecycle:

• INC Sessions:
  • INC-1: Punta del Este, Uruguay (November 2022)
  • INC-2: Paris, France (May – June 2023)
  • INC-3: Nairobi, Kenya (December 2023)
  • INC-4: Ottawa, Canada (2024)
  • INC-5: Scheduled for South Korea (November 2024)

Status of Waste Generation in India

• Underreported Waste Generation: Official figures estimate 0.12 kilograms per person per day, which may be higher in reality.
• Excluded Data:
  • Waste from rural areas.
  • Waste recycled by the informal sector.
  • Open burning of uncollected waste.

Global Trends in Plastic Pollution

• Sources of Pollution:
  • Global North: Littering is a major contributor.
  • Global South: Uncollected waste is the primary source of plastic pollution.
• Top Polluting Countries: 69% of global plastic waste emissions come from 20 countries, mostly low- and middle-income nations.
• High-Income Countries: Although these countries produce more plastic waste, their advanced waste management systems prevent them from being top polluters.

India's Initiatives to Address Plastic Waste

• UNDP India’s Plastic Waste Management Program (2018-2024): Focuses on improving plastic waste management practices.
• Ban on Single-Use Plastics (SUP): Prohibits the manufacture, import, sale, and use of plastic bags thinner than 120 microns.
• Plastic Waste Management Rules (2022): Introduces Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging, with targets for recycling, reusing, and using recycled plastic.
• Swachh Bharat Mission: Launched in 2014 to improve waste management and eliminate open defecation.
• India Plastics Pact: Aims to transform the plastic lifecycle.
• Project REPLAN: Focuses on creating carry bags from a blend of plastic waste and cotton fibers.
• Un-Plastic Collective: Promotes a circular economy to reduce unnecessary plastic use and environmental impact.
• GoLitter Partnerships Project: Targets reducing marine plastic litter from fisheries and shipping.

Global Initiatives to Combat Plastic Pollution

• Closing the Loop: A UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific project to develop policies addressing plastic waste.
• Global Tourism Plastics Initiative: Aims to reduce plastic pollution from the tourism sector by 2025.
• EU Single-Use Plastics Directive (2021): Seeks to minimize plastic waste in the environment.

Why is it in the News?

The recent heatwave has reminded us of the stark risks posed by climate change and highlighted the criticality of the efforts taken by the Conference of Parties (COP).

Context:

• The recent heatwave highlights the escalating threats of climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for robust climate action.
• The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirmed that 2023 was the warmest year on record, drawing renewed attention to carbon-intensive sectors like power and industry.
• As the third-largest carbon emitter globally, India faces increased scrutiny over its emissions.
• To address these challenges, significant efforts are being made to transition towards green energy, bolstered by various government initiatives and policies.

India's Green Growth Landscape: A Shift Towards Sustainable Practices

• Indian industries, particularly those in high-carbon emitting sectors, are increasingly acknowledging the importance of embracing sustainable practices.
• Many companies are taking proactive measures to transition towards renewable energy sources.
  • For example, leading firms in refining, chemical production, and fertilizers are exploring the potential of Green Hydrogen to reduce their carbon emissions.
• These sectors are crucial in India's decarbonization efforts due to their significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Although there are no mandatory regulations for green technology adoption, many entities are voluntarily adopting these technologies.
• This shift is driven by stakeholder expectations and the recognition of transition risks, such as policy, regulatory, technology, market, reputation, and legal challenges.
• Among these risks, technological risk is the most pressing concern for entities adopting green technologies.

Challenges in India's Transition to Green Growth:

Shifting from Fossil Fuels to Renewable Energy

• Fossil fuel-based power is India's primary source of carbon emissions.
• To meet the government's climate target of increasing non-fossil power to 50% by 2030, several schemes have been launched to boost renewable energy.
• ICRA projects that India will achieve this goal, with the share of non-fossil fuel-based installed capacity rising from 41% in 2022-23 to 59% by 2029-30.
• However, this transition requires significant investment, with an estimated Rs 11-12 lakh crore needed for renewable energy power and over Rs 5-6 lakh crore for transmission infrastructure and storage capabilities.

Ensuring Continuous Renewable Energy Supply:

• Ensuring a steady supply of renewable energy is crucial to reach the targeted level, given its intermittent nature.
• Hybrid renewable energy projects (wind and solar) complemented by energy storage systems can help achieve this.
• For sectors like steel and cement, the government must explore more carbon sequestration methods, such as installing carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS), which is inevitable for these hard-to-abate sectors.

Challenges in the Cement Sector:

• Cement manufacturing is resource and energy-intensive, producing an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide per tonne of cement.
• CCUS can reduce 60-70% of emissions during cement manufacturing, as most emissions are generated during clinker production.
• Niti Aayog's report estimates that the cement sector needs a CCUS capacity of two million tonnes per annum by 2030, with a capital cost of Rs 1,600-1,800 crore.

Challenges in the Steel Sector:

• Due to the abundance of virgin iron ore and limited domestic scrap, the domestic steel industry primarily uses coal as a reducing agent, resulting in high emissions.
• With India's 2070 net-zero target and carbon tax policies in some countries, domestic steelmakers are focusing on reducing their carbon footprint by 25-30% through technological interventions by 2030.

Government Efforts in India's Green Energy Transition and Carbon Reduction:

• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: The PLI scheme offers financial incentives to manufacturers, encouraging them to establish production facilities in India.
  • This strengthens the local solar manufacturing industry, making solar energy more affordable and accessible.
• Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for Offshore Wind and Battery Storage Projects: VGF schemes make large-scale renewable energy projects more financially viable, attracting private investment.
  • Offshore wind and battery storage projects particularly benefit from this support, addressing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources.
• Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) Scheme: The FAME scheme provides subsidies for electric vehicle (EV) purchases and supports the development of charging infrastructure.
  • This initiative aims to reduce vehicular emissions, decrease oil dependency, and promote sustainable urban mobility.
• National Green Hydrogen Mission: Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy, has the potential to significantly reduce emissions in hard-to-abate sectors.
  • The mission supports research, pilot projects, and production facilities, positioning India as a global leader in green hydrogen technology.
• Amendments to the Energy Conservation Act: The amendments include provisions for energy efficiency standards and energy management systems.
  • These measures aim to reduce energy consumption, lower emissions, and promote sustainable industrial practices.

Recommendations for Overcoming Green Growth Challenges in India:

• Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs): The government should enforce mandatory percentages of electricity consumption from renewable sources.
  • RPOs require power distribution companies and large consumers to purchase a specific proportion of energy from renewables, ensuring consistent demand and promoting sector growth.
• Implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Policymakers should devise strategies that promote sustainable development while tackling climate change.
  • The NAPCC encompasses eight missions focusing on solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and water conservation, enabling cross-sectoral efforts to integrate climate resilience and sustainability into national policies.
• Tax Incentives and Subsidies: Financial incentives should be provided to support renewable energy and green technologies.
  • Tax benefits such as accelerated depreciation and tax holidays reduce investment burdens.
  • Subsidies for solar power, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems make these technologies more accessible and appealing to consumers and businesses.
• Increased Viability Gap Funding (VGF): The government should address financial gaps in economically viable projects lacking initial investment.
  • VGF schemes make large-scale renewable energy projects, like offshore wind farms and battery storage systems, more financially viable and reduce investment risks.

Conclusion

India's journey towards embracing green energy and sustainability is characterized by both formidable hurdles and promising prospects. The proactive steps taken by the government and the enthusiastic participation of diverse stakeholders are laying the groundwork for a more environmentally friendly tomorrow. Yet, reaching the ambitious climate goals demands persistent backing, significant financial injections, and a surge in technological advancements. In a world grappling with the intensifying effects of climate change, India's resolute pledge to slash carbon emissions and shift towards renewable energy stands as both an imperative and an inspiration for nations worldwide.

Why is it in the News?

It is important to recognize India’s progress in alleviating poverty based on norms established in the 1970s. However, there is a need to update the poverty threshold to reflect contemporary notions of a ‘decent standard of living’.

Context:

• The recent release of the Household Consumer Expenditure Survey (HCES) data by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) has sparked renewed debates on poverty estimation in India.
• According to estimates derived from the methodologies proposed by the Tendulkar and Rangarajan Committees, poverty levels have reportedly decreased significantly since 2011-12, with figures standing at approximately 6.3% and 10% respectively for the year 2022-23.

Evolution of Consumption-Based Poverty Measurement in India:

• India's consumption-based poverty measurement has evolved since its inception in the 1960s.
• The approach was first introduced by the 1962 Working Group and further refined by the 1979 Task Force.

The 1979 Task Force:

• The task force defined the poverty line as the per-capita consumption expenditure level that could satisfy the average daily calorie requirement of 2,400 kcal in rural areas and 2,100 kcal in urban areas.
  • This included associated non-food expenditures, and the monetary value of this norm became the foundation for subsequent poverty line revisions.

Tendulkar and Rangarajan Committees:

• These committees revisited the calorie norms and expenditure levels established by the 1979 Task Force.
  • However, they did not adequately address non-food components.
  • The committees argued that if expenditures on specific necessities meet nutritional requirements, they should also cover other essential non-food needs.

Implications of the estimates:

• The estimates indicate a notable decrease in poverty since 2011-12.
• However, some commentators advocate for a reassessment of the poverty line in light of changes in survey methodology.
• They contend that recent alterations in survey methodology in the Household Consumer Expenditure Survey (HCES) make previous methodologies unsuitable for analyzing HCES data.
• Surjit S. Bhalla, an economist and former member of the Economic Advisory Council, has provided comprehensive counterarguments to such assertions.
• Nevertheless, none of these discussions have addressed the suitability of current methodologies for monitoring poverty using consumption data.

Historical Background of Poverty Measurement:

• Early approaches: Consumption-based poverty measurement was initiated with a Working Group established by the Planning Commission in 1962 and further refined by a task force in 1979.
  • This task force meticulously outlined its rationale for establishing a poverty line specific to India.
• Definition of poverty line: It was delineated as the per-capita consumption expenditure required to fulfil average daily calorie needs (2,400 Kcal in rural areas, 2,100 Kcal in urban areas) along with associated non-food expenses.
  • This average calorie standard was derived from an analysis of the demographic and activity-based composition of the population during that period.
• The monetary value assigned to this standard became the foundation for subsequent revisions of poverty lines.
  • However, the fundamental methodology underpinning this calculation was not critically reassessed.

Reevaluating Poverty Measurement Norms in India:

• The Tendulkar and Rangarajan Committees acknowledged the evolving demographic and activity composition in India, leading them to propose adjustments to calorie norms and expenditure levels for poverty measurement.
  • However, these committees did not adequately reconsider the non-food components of the poverty line.
• At the core of their argument was the assertion that if spending within an expenditure class is sufficient to meet nutritional requirements, it should also be adequate to cover associated non-food needs.
  • This assumption is questionable in the context of modern India, as the country has undergone significant changes since the 1970s when the Task Force on Poverty was established.

Demographic and Educational Indicators in India Since the 1970s:

Several significant demographic and educational shifts have taken place in India since the 1970s:

• Life Expectancy: Life expectancy at birth has improved from 49.7 years in 1970 to 69.4 years in 2018, reflecting advancements in healthcare and overall quality of life.
• Ageing Population: The proportion of individuals aged 60 and above has grown from 6.1% in the 1970s to 10.1% by 2021.
  • This shift highlights the need for policies and programs that address the unique needs of an ageing population.
• Primary Education: The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in primary education has experienced substantial growth, increasing from 62% in 1971 to universal enrolment today.
  • This progress demonstrates a stronger emphasis on ensuring access to basic education for all children.
• Higher Education: The Gross Enrolment Ratio for higher education has also seen significant growth, rising from below 6% in the 1970s to approximately 28% in recent years.
  • This development signals a greater focus on providing opportunities for advanced education and skill development.

Implications of Demographic and Educational Changes in India:

• The demographic and educational shifts observed in India since the 1970s have significant implications for out-of-pocket expenditures on health and education, as revealed by National Sample Survey (NSS) data. Key implications include:

Education Expenditures:

• The increase in primary and higher education enrolment has led to stiffer competition for aspirational jobs.
• This competition has driven higher spending on private tuition, leading to 'education poverty' among families with young children.
• Addressing this issue requires a change in the approach to education, as outlined in the National Education Policy (2020).

Health Expenditures:

• The rise in life expectancy and an ageing population have led to increased health expenditure needs, especially among the elderly.
• Changes in household composition and a growing elderly population living independently have further highlighted the need for better healthcare provisions.
• Political parties, like the ruling party with its Ayushman Bharat promise, recognize the importance of addressing these healthcare needs, indicating a potential shift in policy focus.

Elderly Population and Household Composition:

• The increase in life expectancy and decline in mortality rates have created a more age-diverse population with a larger elderly population.
• This ageing population necessitates greater attention to healthcare and financial support for the elderly, an issue that may not be adequately captured by current poverty measurement norms.

Redefining Poverty Norms for a Changing India:

• Current consumption-based poverty measures capture average population attributes but face limitations when accounting for increased population heterogeneity.
• As the population structure evolves, using averages to describe poverty becomes problematic.
  • For example: Elderly households may meet nutrition expenditure requirements but struggle with healthcare costs.
• Households with young children might cover food needs yet face challenges in meeting aspirational education expenses, like private tuition.
• These examples highlight how households could surpass extreme poverty thresholds yet lack resources for a decent living standard.
  • Consequently, updating poverty norms is essential to accurately capture the realities of diverse household needs.
• To achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of eradicating poverty in all forms, India must redefine its poverty norms, moving away from outdated standards based on 1970s data.
• By establishing fresh norms for the Amrit Kaal, India can better address the unique challenges faced by its population and make significant strides towards alleviating poverty.

Conclusion

India has made remarkable progress in alleviating poverty based on existing norms. However, to ensure a decent living standard for all citizens, it is crucial to update poverty measures to reflect current demographic and economic changes. By acknowledging the evolving needs of its population, India can continue making significant strides in poverty reduction and work towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Why is it in the News?

It stated that due to the swift evolution of digital markets, the current competition law framework may not timely address the anti-competitive conduct by large digital enterprises.

Context:

• The Committee on Digital Competition Law (CDCL), recently released its report recommending a new Digital Competition Law for India alongside the Draft Digital Competition Bill (DCB).
• The genesis of the report goes back to the 53rd Report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance (PSC), released in December 2022.
• The PSC Report acknowledged the unique dynamics of digital markets, noting their strong network effects and concentration.
• It highlighted that the current competition law framework may not address anti-competitive conduct by large digital enterprises in a timely manner due to the rapid evolution of digital markets.
• Consequently, the report emphasized the need for a new law to restrict certain leading players from engaging in specific anti-competitive activities that could distort competition.
• Activities such as self-preferencing, bundling and tying, and deep discounting were highlighted as areas of concern.

Key Proposals of the Draft Digital Competition Bill:

Predictive regulation:

• The dynamic nature of digital markets, characterized by constant evolution and interconnected offerings, necessitates a shift from traditional ex-post regulation to a forward-looking, preventive, and presumptive ex-ante framework.
• The draft Bill proposes this proactive approach as the way forward, acknowledging the limitations of regulating market abuse after it has already occurred.
• India's current Competition Act of 2002 follows an ex-post antitrust framework, which has faced criticism for its delayed response to market abuse.
• By the time penalties are imposed, market conditions may have already changed, further disadvantaging smaller competitors.
• To effectively navigate the complexities of the digital realm, it is crucial to implement predictive regulation that identifies potential antitrust issues and establishes clear guidelines to mitigate harm and maintain a level playing field.

Significant entities:

• In the Bill, certain "core digital services," such as search engines and social media platforms, prompt the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to designate companies as "Systematically Significant Digital Enterprises (SSDEs)."
• This designation hinges on diverse quantitative and qualitative criteria, encompassing turnover, user base, and market influence.
• The quantitative thresholds for SSDE designation include:
  • A turnover in India of at least Rs 4,000 crore over the last three financial years or a global turnover of at least $30 billion.
  • A gross merchandise value in India of at least Rs 16,000 crore, or a global market capitalization of at least $75 billion.
  • Additionally, the relevant core digital service should have a minimum of 1 crore end users or 10,000 business users.
• Entities falling outside these parameters may still be designated as SSDEs if the CCI deems their presence significant in any core digital service.
• SSDEs are prohibited from practices such as self-preferencing, anti-steering, and restricting third-party applications.
• Violations of these regulations may result in fines of up to 10% of their global turnover.

Associate Digital Enterprises:

• Recognizing the potential benefits of data sharing among entities within a major technology conglomerate, the Bill proposes to identify Associate Digital Enterprises (ADEs).
• Under this provision, if an entity within a group is identified as an associate entity, it would bear similar obligations as SSDEs, contingent upon its involvement with the core digital service provided by the primary company.
  • For instance, consider the relationship between Google Search and Google Maps, where data flow from the former informs the functionalities of the latter.
  • In this scenario, Google Maps could potentially be classified as an ADE.
• Similarly, the extent of data exchange between Google Search and YouTube could determine the classification of the latter as an ADE, depending on the recommendations provided to users.

Key Challenges with the Digital Competition Bill:

• Regulatory Approach: While the Digital Competition Bill (DCB) draws inspiration from international frameworks such as the UK's Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill (DMCC) and the EU's Digital Markets Act, it could benefit from considering alternative approaches like Japan's "co-regulation" strategy.
  • Integrating such an approach might foster a better balance between competition and innovation.
• Timeline: The current May 15, 2024 deadline for submitting comments may not provide sufficient time for a thorough analysis of the complex issues addressed by the DCB and its potential impacts on various stakeholders.
  • A further extension of the consultation period should be considered.
• Inter-Regulatory Mechanisms: Overlaps between the DCB and existing sector-specific policy instruments need to be addressed.
  • Implementing an inter-regulatory consultation mechanism will ensure clarity and a harmonized approach across regulatory bodies.
• Capacity Building: Strengthening the capacity of the Competition Commission of India (CCI) and its Digital Markets and Data Unit (DMDU) is crucial, particularly through the integration of technology sector experts.
  • The DCB should outline specific measures to bolster the Commission's capacity and resources in order to effectively navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Need to Foster Digital Competition:

• Advocating for a Presumptive Framework: Government officials propose a shift towards a presumptive regulatory framework to address the entrenched pattern of anti-competitive behaviour by major tech companies.
  • Notably, Google faced a substantial fine of Rs 1.337 crore from the CCI for its anti-competitive practices within the Android ecosystem.
• Concerns Over Tech Monopolies: Officials express apprehension over the dominance of a handful of US-based tech giants, which has stifled innovation over the past decade.
  • High market barriers deter new entrants from challenging the dominance of established players, perpetuating a cycle of market concentration.
• Challenges for Emerging Players: Once a company secures a significant market share, its product often becomes the default choice for users, making it challenging for competitors to challenge its dominance.
  • Even prominent entities like Spotify have raised concerns about the restrictive policies enforced by industry giants like Apple and Google.
• Niche Alternatives and Market Dynamics: While niche alternatives such as Signal for messaging and DuckDuckGo for search engines exist, they remain niche preferences rather than mainstream choices.
  • The proliferation of big tech companies has facilitated affordable advertising rates for smaller businesses, but it has also intensified surveillance and data tracking practices, compromising user privacy.

Conclusion

The proposed DCB marks a notable stride towards regulating India’s digital markets. However, certain concerns persist about its content and policymaking mechanism. The timeline for stakeholder consultation is inadequate, necessitating an extension to ensure comprehensive feedback. Additionally, implementing inter-regulatory mechanisms and capacity building for the CCI remains critical to effectively navigating the evolving digital landscape. Therefore, addressing these issues will be pivotal in ensuring a progressive digital competition framework in India.

Why is it in the News?

The current government policy, skewed towards consumers, unfavourably impacts farmers, necessitating a shift to enhance farmers' incomes.

Current State of India‘s Agricultural Exports:

• The current status of India's agri exports highlights a notable shortfall in achieving government targets.
• Despite aiming for $60 billion in 2022, actual exports in 2023-24 amounted to $48.9 billion, showing an 8% decrease from the previous year's $53.2 billion.
• Between 2004-05 and 2013-14, agricultural exports witnessed remarkable growth, expanding nearly fivefold from $8.7 billion to $43.3 billion.
• However, this growth trajectory slowed significantly in the period from 2014-15 to 2023-24, with an annual growth rate of merely 1.9%.
• Key exports include rice ($10.4 billion), marine products ($7.3 billion), spices ($4.25 billion), bovine meat ($3.7 billion), and sugar ($2.8 billion).

What is Agricultural Export Policy?

• The Agricultural Export Policy, commonly known as an agri-export policy, encompasses a range of governmental regulations, strategies, and incentives aimed at facilitating and encouraging the export of agricultural commodities from a specific nation.
• It encompasses diverse measures such as export subsidies, tariff adjustments, quality benchmarks, market access arrangements, financial support, and promotional efforts to assist agricultural producers and exporters in accessing global markets, enhancing their competitiveness, and broadening their export horizons.
• The Government of India introduced a comprehensive Agriculture Export Policy in December 2018, with the following objectives:
  • To diversify our export basket, and destinations and boost high-value and value-added agricultural exports, including focus on perishables.
  • To promote novel, indigenous, organic, ethnic, traditional and non-traditional Agri products exports.
  • To provide an institutional mechanism for pursuing market access, tackling barriers and dealing with sanitary and phytosanitary issues.
  • To strive to double India’s share in world agri exports by integrating with global value chains.
  • Enable farmers to get the benefit of export opportunities in overseas markets.

What is the Need for an Agri-Export Policy?

• Economic Contribution: India's agricultural exports, totalling around USD 53 billion in the fiscal year 2022-2023, constitute a significant portion of overall exports, yet the country's global share in agricultural exports remains low at 2.2% as of 2016.
• Food Security Enhancement: Despite catering to a substantial portion of the world's population with limited resources, a well-designed export policy can generate additional revenue to invest in bolstering food security and augmenting farmers' incomes.
• Inflation Control: Agricultural exports have the potential to stabilize domestic prices, benefiting consumers and producers, particularly during periods of abundant harvests.
• Job Creation: With approximately 45% of the workforce engaged in agriculture, promoting agricultural exports can foster employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas where agriculture is predominant.
• Balance of Payments Support: Agricultural exports significantly contribute to India's foreign exchange reserves, helping to offset trade deficits and maintain currency stability.
• Crop Diversity Utilization: India's diverse agricultural production offers substantial export potential, which can be tapped into through a well-structured export policy.
• Trade Relations Strengthening: Agricultural exports are pivotal in fostering and reinforcing trade ties with countries like the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
• Addressing Structural Challenges: The policy framework can effectively tackle obstacles such as low farm productivity, inadequate infrastructure, global price fluctuations, and limited market access.

What are the Challenges in India's Agri-Export Policy?

Several challenges hamper the effectiveness of India's agricultural export policy, requiring strategic interventions to unleash the sector's full potential:

• Restrictive Export Policies: Favoring domestic consumers over farmers often impedes the achievement of export targets.
  • Restrictions on commodities like Basmati rice, such as the Minimum Export Price (MEP) of USD 1,200, can limit export volumes.
• Subsidy-Centric Schemes: Increased subsidies during election periods, including food and fertilizer subsidies, strain fiscal discipline.
  • Populist measures like loan waivers and free power for farmers impact the financial health of the agricultural sector.
• Insufficient R&D Investment: Low investment in agricultural R&D, approximately 0.5% of agricultural GDP, hinders growth prospects.
  • Doubling or tripling R&D investments is essential for India to excel in agricultural production and exports.
• Quality and Standards: Maintaining consistent quality and meeting international standards is challenging.
  • Variability in quality, compliance issues, and difficulties in meeting Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures due to pests and diseases impede exports.
• Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure for storage, transportation, and processing results in post-harvest losses, reducing export competitiveness.
• Environmental and Sustainability Concerns: Balancing the growth of agricultural exports with environmental sustainability is crucial.
  • Over-exploitation of resources may have long-term consequences, necessitating careful resource management and sustainable practices.

Government Initiatives Promoting Agri-Export in India:

To unlock the full potential of India's agricultural exports, the government has launched several initiatives to enhance productivity, modernise infrastructure, and promote sustainable practices. Key schemes include:

• E-NAM (National Agriculture Market): A pan-India electronic trading portal, E-NAM enables farmers to sell directly to buyers, reducing intermediaries and ensuring fair prices.
  • E-NAM has integrated 1,000 wholesale markets and 585 mandis across 18 states and 3 Union Territories.
• National Horticulture Mission (NHM): Promoting sustainable horticulture practices, including organic farming and precision farming, NHM supports the establishment of over 100 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for horticultural products.
  • The mission also backs the production of high-value horticultural products for export.
• Market Access Initiative (MAI): Supporting export promotion activities, such as participation in trade fairs, capacity building, and market research, MAI has facilitated Indian exporters' participation in over 100 international trade fairs annually.
• Operation Greens: With an allocation of INR 500 crores in the Union Budget 2023-2024, Operation Greens stabilizes the supply and prices of essential agricultural commodities like fruits and vegetables.
  • The scheme reduces price volatility, ensures fair prices for farmers, and fosters sustainable agri-exports.
• Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters (SAMPADA): With a budgetary allocation of INR 6,000 crores for the period 2020-2021 to 2024-2025, SAMPADA modernizes infrastructure for agro-processing clusters.
  • This reduces post-harvest losses and increases shelf life, improving the overall export potential.
• APEDA: Promoting the export of scheduled products, APEDA provides guidelines for sustainability and quality.
  • APEDA facilitated exports of agricultural products worth USD 22.17 billion during the financial year 2022-2023.
• Agri Export Zones (AEZs): AEZs provide infrastructure development and technology adoption for sustainable agri-exports.
  • Established for commodities like mangoes, grapes, and spices, AEZs have contributed to increased export volumes.
• Promotion of Organic Farming: Initiatives promoting organic farming for environmental sustainability and the export potential of organic products have resulted in increased organic farming area, reaching 3.90 million hectares in 2022-2023, with exports of organic products totalling USD 1.04 billion.

Way Forward for a Stable Agricultural Export Policy in India:

To establish a stable and prosperous agri-export policy in India, several strategic actions and considerations must be taken into account. These include:

• Prioritizing Farmer Welfare: Ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their produce is crucial for the success of agricultural exports and the well-being of the farming community.
• Supporting Domestic Consumers: Implementing targeted income policies to support vulnerable populations and maintain food security for domestic consumers.
• Enhancing Productivity: Increasing agricultural productivity through investments in R&D, seeds, irrigation, fertilizers, and improved farming practices to bolster global competitiveness.
• Diversifying Export Basket: Expanding the range of agricultural exports, focusing on value-added products, and targeting a wide array of international markets to minimize reliance on a select few commodities.
• Quality Assurance: Implementing strict quality standards and certification mechanisms to ensure that exported agricultural products meet international norms.
  • Establishing uniform quality and standardization protocols is vital, particularly for horticultural items.
• Infrastructure Development: Investing in modern infrastructure, such as cold storage, processing facilities, transportation, and logistics, to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance export competitiveness.
  • Offering financial incentives, subsidies, and credit facilities can encourage investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and processing facilities.
• Technology Adoption: Promoting the use of advanced agricultural technologies, precision farming, and efficient irrigation techniques to boost productivity.
  • Encouraging the growth of agri-startups and fostering innovative solutions can enhance agricultural production and export efficiency.
• Environmentally Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable farming practices, including organic farming, to ensure environmental sustainability in agriculture.
• Learning from Global Best Practices: Gaining insights from successful agricultural export policies and best practices in other countries can inform India's approach.
  • Strengthening diplomatic efforts to negotiate favourable trade agreements and reduce trade barriers will provide better access to international markets.

Conclusion

To ensure India's continued growth in global agricultural trade, a stable export policy is crucial, embodying dynamism, responsiveness, and adaptability. It must prioritize agricultural sustainability, environmental responsibility, and farmer welfare, securing India's position in international trade. Balancing economic growth with farmer well-being and environmental concerns is key to unleashing India's agricultural potential. Forward-looking policies and innovative solutions will strengthen the agri-export sector, fostering a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

Why is it in the News?

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said the government's focus on capital expenditure and infrastructure development has directly benefited state-run companies and led to substantial growth in their stock performance.

Context:

• In a democratic system, robust opposition plays a vital role in upholding accountability and fostering balanced governance.
• However, the absence of an effective opposition can impede democratic processes, resulting in unfounded criticisms and ineffective checks and balances.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has encountered such obstacles, especially concerning its oversight of public sector enterprises (PSEs).
• Thus, it is imperative to evaluate the performance of PSEs during the Modi administration, juxtaposing it with historical contexts, and elucidating the government's strategic initiatives aimed at their revitalization.

Strategic Divestment Initiatives by the Modi Government:

• The divestment strategy adopted by the Modi government involves a well-thought-out approach to balance fiscal objectives and national interests.
• This is exemplified through the decisions made regarding Air India and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL).
• Air India Privatisation: Air India's transition from a loss-making entity reliant on government subsidies to a privately-owned enterprise signifies a strategic move to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the aviation sector.
  • Privatisation aims to inject agility and market responsiveness into Air India's operations, fostering growth and profitability amidst intense industry competition.
  • Post-privatisation, Air India's ambitious expansion plans underscore its renewed focus on capturing market opportunities and improving financial performance.
• Retaining Stake in BPCL: Contrary to Air India, the government's decision to maintain ownership of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) reflects strategic considerations linked to energy security and sectoral importance.
  • BPCL's extensive retail network and expertise in areas like ethanol blending align with the government's objectives in sustainable energy transition.
  • By retaining control over BPCL, the government ensures influence over critical sectors while leveraging the company's capabilities to advance national priorities such as sustainability and energy resilience.
• Strategic Decision-Making: The government's divestment strategy goes beyond immediate financial gains, considering broader strategic implications and long-term national interests.
  • Factors like sectoral significance, market dynamics, and alignment with development goals inform divestment decisions, ensuring they contribute to India's economic growth and strategic objectives.
  • Through a strategic divestment approach, the government aims to strike a balance between fiscal imperatives and broader developmental priorities, driving sustainable and inclusive growth.

An In-depth Review of PSE Performance During the Modi Era:

• Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) have experienced notable growth and transformations across various sectors. This comprehensive analysis showcases the strides made by PSEs under the current administration:
• Financial Sector: The Modi government's intervention and reforms revitalized public sector banks (PSBs), inherited with significant non-performing assets (NPAs).
  • PSBs reported their highest-ever profits and lowest-ever NPAs in the fiscal year 2022-23, indicating a substantial improvement in their financial health and investor trust.
• Oil and Gas Sector: Oil India Ltd, an upstream oil company, achieved its highest-ever crude and natural gas production, contributing to India's energy security.
  • Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) reported record-high refinery throughput, sales volume, and net profit, highlighting its operational efficiency and market competitiveness.
• Energy Generation: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) achieved its highest-ever profit for the first nine months of any fiscal year, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in a dynamic market.
  • Coal India registered its highest-ever production, underscoring the government's emphasis on maximizing domestic coal output to meet growing demand.
• Infrastructure Development and Expansion: National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) set a new record for the highest-ever electricity generation in a year, strengthening India's power infrastructure.
  • PSEs like Indian Railways and Ports have undertaken ambitious plans to modernize and expand infrastructure capacity, supporting economic growth and development.

Notable Differences Between the Current Government's Strategy and Results and Those of its Predecessors:

• Comparing the current government's approach to managing Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) with that of its predecessors reveals significant differences:
• UPA Era Mismanagement: During the UPA regime, PSEs were frequently subjected to political interference and corruption, resulting in inefficiency and stagnation.
  • Sectors like Indian Railways faced systemic challenges, such as bureaucratic hurdles and lack of accountability, leading to suboptimal performance and reduced contributions to the economy.
• Corruption and Cronyism During Past Administrations: The UPA era was tainted by major corruption scandals, damaging the credibility of PSEs and eroding public trust in the government's capacity to manage public resources.
  • Political-corporate alliances further undermined the integrity and efficiency of PSEs, compromising their capacity to serve the public interest.
• Policy Paralysis and Inefficiency: The UPA government's policy paralysis and administrative inefficiencies hindered innovation and growth in the public sector.
  • Delayed projects and bureaucratic obstacles led to missed economic opportunities and job creation constraints.
• Modi Government's Transformative Reforms: The Modi government has pursued a reform agenda to revitalize and enhance the competitiveness of the public sector through strategic vision, decisive action, and an emphasis on transparency and accountability.
  • Prime Minister Modi's leadership has emphasized accountability and performance, with measures to streamline decision-making processes, reduce red tape, and hold PSEs accountable.
  • Proactive governance and strategic initiatives, including divestment, strategic partnerships, and infrastructure investments, have unlocked new growth opportunities, improved operational efficiency, and positioned PSEs for long-term success in a global market.

Conclusion

• The governance of Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) under Prime Minister Modi's leadership marks a transformative era characterized by forward-thinking reforms, efficient management, and a clear vision for national development.
• In the face of opposition critique, the government's strategic interventions have successfully positioned PSEs as significant contributors to India's growth trajectory, ultimately fostering a brighter and more prosperous future for the nation and its citizens.
• Through a combination of bold decision-making, transparency, and a commitment to accountability, the Modi government has revitalized the public sector and enhanced its competitiveness.
• By addressing the challenges inherited from previous administrations, the current leadership has demonstrated its dedication to promoting sustainable growth and development while effectively managing PSEs for the greater good of the country.

Why is it in the News?

India can take the lead in shaping non-controversial legislative text that addresses the gaps in the laws of the sea, especially in exploratory activities that concern freshwater extraction.

Context:

• Recent statistics reveal that the vast majority of Earth's water is saline, leaving only a small portion as freshwater. Surprisingly, just 0.3% of this freshwater exists in liquid form on the surface, highlighting the significance of subterranean freshwater reserves, including those beneath the ocean floor.
• This emphasizes the growing importance of underground freshwater resources amid the escalating scarcity of surface water.

What are Undersea Freshwater Reserves?

• Undersea freshwater reserves are large volumes of fresh water found beneath the ocean floor.
• In the 1960s, the U.S. Geological Survey made an unexpected discovery of freshwater reserves beneath the ocean floor while drilling off the coast of New Jersey.
• This finding has since been followed by international scientific teams uncovering additional sources of underwater freshwater across the globe, notably including a deep river at the bottom of the Black Sea.
• This particular underwater river is over 100 feet deep, flows at a rate of about four miles per hour, and boasts a volume comparable to some of the world's largest land-based rivers.
• As freshwater resources on land become increasingly scarce, countries are turning their attention towards exploring and potentially exploiting both surface and subsurface freshwater reserves within their maritime zones.
• It is anticipated that these efforts may eventually extend beyond national Exclusive Economic Zones into regions governed by the United Nations Law of the Sea Convention, highlighting the significance of this valuable resource and the increasing need for its sustainable management.

Legal and Policy Framework of Ocean Governance:

• United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) serves as the primary legal framework governing the management and constitution of the world's oceans.
  • It incorporates most internationally recognized maritime laws while also acknowledging the importance of customary international law in sea governance.
  • UNCLOS designates the "Area" beyond national jurisdiction as the seabed, ocean floor, and subsoil, defining it as the common heritage of mankind.
  • This classification underscores the notion that these regions should be available for the benefit of current and future generations.
• 1958 Geneva Conventions: The 1958 Geneva Conventions on the Law of the Sea also play a vital role in maritime legal doctrine.
  • These include the Convention on the Territorial Sea and the Contiguous Zone, the Convention on the High Seas, the Convention on Fishing and Conservation of the Living Resources of the High Seas, and the Convention on the Continental Shelf.
  • These Geneva Conventions address many issues similar to those covered by UNCLOS and draw their principles from customary international law, reinforcing the essential foundations of maritime legal norms.
• Exclusive Economic Zones and the "Area" under UNCLOS: UNCLOS delineates Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) extending up to 200 nautical miles from coastal boundaries, granting states exclusive rights to marine resources within this zone.
  • Beyond the EEZ lies the "Area," designated as the common heritage of mankind, managed collectively for sustainable utilization.

Navigating Complexities in UNCLOS and Geneva Conventions:

• The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 1958 Geneva Conventions on the Law of the Sea present complex legal interplays due to varying degrees of ratification and overlapping jurisdictions.
  • For instance, UNCLOS supersedes the Geneva Conventions for its signatories but does not apply to non-signatory states.
  • This divergence in international agreements is exemplified by the United States, which is a signatory to the Geneva Conventions but not UNCLOS.
• The term "resources" under UNCLOS is limited to solid, liquid, or gaseous mineral resources found in the Area.
  • However, it remains unclear whether this definition extends to freshwater. Given the increasing scarcity of freshwater resources, potential conflicts may arise over its exploration and extraction in the "Area," particularly in the absence of specific legislation governing resources beyond national jurisdiction.
• The complex legal landscape is further exacerbated by the presence of multiple pieces of maritime legislation that fail to address emerging challenges effectively.
  • Additionally, the regulatory authority of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) under UNCLOS adds another layer of complexity, as it remains unclear who regulates state parties to the Geneva Conventions regarding mining and exploratory activities in the "Area.

Significance of Freshwater Exploration for the Future:

• Addressing Scarcity: Given that merely 0.3% of Earth's freshwater is readily available on the surface, the exploration of underground and underwater sources emerges as imperative to satisfy future water demands.
• Conflict Prevention: As freshwater scarcity intensifies, the exploration and protection of underwater sources serve as proactive measures to mitigate potential conflicts over water resources.
• Promoting Sustainability: Engaging in responsible freshwater exploration aligns with Sustainable Development Goals, fostering the sustainable utilization of natural resources to ensure their availability for future generations.

Way Forward:

• Legislative Clarity: It is crucial to create a thorough legal framework that addresses the difficulties of discovering freshwater reserves outside of national borders.
  • This framework should harmonize UNCLOS provisions with customary international law, ensuring clarity and consistency in governing maritime activities.
• International Collaboration: Engaging in constructive dialogue and negotiation forums, nations can strive to reconcile divergent legal interpretations and foster mutual understanding.
  • Establishing multilateral agreements and protocols can enhance cooperation and coordination in managing underwater freshwater resources.
• Research and Technological Advancement: Investment in research and technological innovation is crucial for unlocking the full potential of underwater freshwater reserves.
  • Advanced exploration techniques and sustainable extraction methods can optimize resource utilization while minimizing environmental impact.
• India's Leadership Role: As a pivotal stakeholder in maritime affairs, India can spearhead international discourse on freshwater exploration.
  • By advocating for inclusive and equitable approaches, India can contribute to the development of global norms and standards governing underwater resource management.

Conclusion

The increasing scarcity of freshwater underscores the urgent need for an internationally recognized legislative framework to govern the exploration and exploitation of underground freshwater resources. The establishment of such a framework would not only help prevent potential conflicts but also ensure the sustainable utilization of this vital resource for the benefit of both present and future generations on a global scale. By proactively addressing these challenges, nations can work together to secure the long-term availability and equitable distribution of freshwater, fostering stability and prosperity in an increasingly water-scarce world.

Why is it in the News?

As generative AI technology becomes more prevalent, safeguarding consumers' ability to navigate digital environments securely has become increasingly imperative.

Context:

• In recent times, the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) across industries has significantly transformed operational processes.
• However, this rapid advancement has also led to the emergence of new cyber threats and safety concerns.
• With incidents such as hackers exploiting generative AI for malicious purposes, including impersonating kidnappers, it is evident that a comprehensive analysis and proactive approach are required to address and mitigate the potential risks associated with this technology.
• A study by Deep Instinct revealed that 75% of professionals observed a surge in cyberattacks over the past year, with 85% attributing this escalation to generative AI.
• Among surveyed organizations, 37% identified undetectable phishing attacks as a major challenge, while 33% reported an increase in the volume of cyberattacks.
• Additionally, 39% of organizations expressed growing concerns over privacy issues stemming from the widespread use of generative AI.

Significant Impact of Generative AI & Growing Cybersecurity Challenges:

• Transformative Impact: Generative AI has revolutionized various sectors like education, banking, healthcare, and manufacturing, reshaping our approach to operations.
  • However, this integration has also redefined the landscape of cyber risks and safety concerns.
• Economic Implications: The generative AI industry's projected contribution to the global GDP, estimated between $7 to $10 trillion, underscores its significant economic potential.
  • Yet, the development of generative AI solutions, such as ChatGPT introduced in November 2022, has introduced a cycle of benefits and drawbacks.
• Rising Phishing and Credential Theft: An alarming surge of 1,265% in phishing incidents/emails and a 967% increase in credential phishing since late 2022 indicates a concerning trend.
  • Cybercriminals exploit generative AI to craft convincing emails, messages, and websites, mimicking trusted sources to deceive unsuspecting individuals into divulging sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.
• Emergence of Novel Cyber Threats: The proliferation of generative AI has expanded the cyber threat landscape, enabling sophisticated attacks.
  • Malicious actors leverage AI-powered tools to automate various stages of cyber-attacks, accelerating their pace and amplifying their impact.
  • This automation poses challenges for detection and mitigation, making attacks more challenging to thwart.
• Challenges for Organizations: Organizations across sectors face escalating cyber threats, including ransomware attacks, data breaches, and supply chain compromises.
  • The interconnected nature of digital ecosystems exacerbates the risk, as vulnerabilities in one system can propagate to others, leading to widespread disruption and financial losses.
  • Additionally, cybercriminals' global reach and anonymity pose challenges for law enforcement and regulatory agencies.

The Bletchley Declaration: Addressing AI Challenges

• Global Significance: The Bletchley Declaration represents a pivotal global initiative aimed at tackling the ethical and security dilemmas associated with artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI.
  • Named after Bletchley Park, renowned for its British code-breaking endeavours during World War II, the declaration embodies a collective resolve among world leaders to shield consumers and society from potential AI-related harms.
• Acknowledgement of AI Risks: The signing of the Bletchley Declaration at the AI Safety Summit underscores the mounting awareness among global leaders regarding AI's inherent risks, notably in the cybersecurity and privacy realms.
  • By endorsing coordinated efforts, participating nations affirm their dedication to prioritizing AI safety and security on the international agenda.
• Inclusive Engagement: The Bletchley Declaration's inclusive nature is evident in the involvement of diverse stakeholders, including major world powers like China, the European Union, India, and the United States.
  • By fostering collaboration among governments, international bodies, academia, and industry, the declaration facilitates cross-border and cross-sectoral knowledge exchange, essential for effectively addressing AI challenges and ensuring equitable regulatory frameworks.
• Consumer Protection Focus: At its heart, the Bletchley Declaration underscores the imperative of safeguarding consumers against AI-related risks.
  • Participating countries commit to formulating policies and regulations that mitigate these risks, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and oversight in AI development and deployment.
  • Additionally, mechanisms for redress in cases of harm or abuse are prioritized.
• Ethical AI Promotion: A core tenet of the Bletchley Declaration is the promotion of ethical AI practices.
  • Participating nations pledge to uphold principles of fairness, accountability, and transparency in AI development and usage, striving to prevent discriminatory or harmful outcomes.
  • This commitment aligns with broader endeavours to ensure responsible AI deployment for the betterment of society.

Alternative Measures for AI Risk Mitigation:

• Institutional-Level Strategies: Governments and regulatory bodies can enact robust ethical and legislative frameworks to oversee the development, deployment, and utilization of generative AI technologies.
  • These frameworks should prioritize consumer safeguarding, transparency, and accountability, all while fostering innovation and economic prosperity.
  • Furthermore, the integration of watermarking technology can aid in the identification of AI-generated content, empowering users to discern between authentic and manipulated information.
  • This proactive approach can substantially mitigate the prevalence of misinformation and cyber threats stemming from AI-generated content.
• Continuous Innovation and Adaptation: Sustained investment in research and development is imperative to proactively address emerging cyber threats and devise innovative solutions to counter them.
  • By bolstering support for cutting-edge research in AI security, cryptography, and cybersecurity, governments, academia, and industry can drive technological progress that fortifies cybersecurity resilience and mitigates the inherent risks associated with generative AI.

Conclusion

Effectively tackling the challenges presented by generative AI demands a comprehensive strategy encompassing regulatory, collaborative, and educational efforts across institutional, corporate, and grassroots domains. Through the enactment of robust regulatory frameworks, stakeholders can collaboratively mitigate the risks posed by AI-driven cyber threats, fostering a safer and more secure digital environment for all.

Why is it in the News?

Constructed wetlands ecosystems can significantly contribute to sustainable industrial progress and the preservation of water resources.

Context:

• Industrial growth in India has led to major environmental issues, especially in managing industrial wastewater.
• Untreated or improperly treated industrial discharge into water sources causes severe threats to ecosystems, public health, and water security.
• With diverse sectors like manufacturing, textiles, chemicals, and mining, pollution is substantial.
• Traditional treatment methods often fail to address the complex pollutants in industrial wastewater, demanding a shift to comprehensive, nature-based solutions.
• Constructed wetlands offer a promising solution, providing effective treatment and significant environmental and economic benefits.
• These unique ecosystems combine the efficiency of natural processes with human innovation, presenting an eco-friendly alternative to conventional treatment methods.

What are Constructed Wetlands?

• A constructed wetland is a type of sustainable wastewater treatment system that is designed to look and function as a natural wetland does.
• Constructed wetlands are created for the purpose of treating wastewater from small, rural communities in an environmentally friendly way before allowing it to return to the water system safely.
• They are usually made up of a primary settlement tank where wastewater from the community is collected and from that, several ponds follow which are planted with wetland plants including reeds, rushes and sedges.
  • The ponds are usually gently sloped towards a river to allow water to flow very slowly through the wetland before flowing away.
  • Any particles that have been carried in the water will settle on the bottom and the plants and natural microorganisms (e.g. bacteria, algae and fungi) in the wetlands will break down and remove certain pollutants and elements e.g. phosphorus in the water.
• Constructed wetlands are typically divided into two categories: Subsurface flow (SSF) and surface flow (SF).
  • Subsurface flow (SSF) wetlands direct wastewater through gravel beds or porous media, promoting microbial activity that degrades organic matter.
  • In contrast, surface flow (SF) wetlands demonstrate their aesthetic appeal above the water’s surface, with gently flowing streams and lush vegetation.
• While each design exhibits distinct advantages, both variants share a unified objective: to convert pollutants into benign compounds through natural processes.
• Plant Selection: Plants like cattails, bulrushes, and sedges are crucial for nutrient absorption and provide habitat for beneficial bacteria.
  • Their roots oxygenate the soil and support microbial processes, aiding in pollutant removal.
• Microbial Activity: Beneath the water's surface, a complex microbial community breaks down pollutants, converting toxic substances like ammonia into benign compounds like nitrate.
  • This microbial activity occurs naturally, without external intervention.
• Mutual Benefit: Plants and microbes engage in a symbiotic relationship where plants absorb nutrients and contaminants are trapped, while microbes break down pollutants.
  • This mutually beneficial interaction fosters a thriving ecosystem within constructed wetlands.

Nature’s Filtration System:

• Constructed wetlands replicate the functionalities of natural wetlands but are purposefully designed to treat wastewater efficiently.
• They comprise shallow basins adorned with wetland vegetation such as reeds, rushes and sedges.
• As wastewater traverses through these basins, a series of physical, chemical and biological processes unfold, effectively eliminating contaminants and enhancing water quality.

Constructed wetlands present numerous benefits:

• Cost-Effectiveness: In contrast to traditional treatment facilities, constructed wetlands frequently offer a more economical option for construction and upkeep.
  • Their construction and maintenance entail minimal energy consumption and lower operational expenses, rendering them especially appropriate for settings with limited resources.
• Versatility: Constructed wetlands can be customised to address diverse forms of industrial wastewater, effectively managing a broad spectrum of pollutants and contaminants.
  • These wetlands can be configured as either free-water surface or subsurface flow systems, chosen based on the particular needs of the location and the characteristics of the pollutants present.
• Environmental benefits: In addition to their primary role in wastewater treatment, constructed wetlands offer supplementary environmental advantages.
  • They function as habitats for a wide array of plant and animal species, promoting biodiversity conservation.
  • Moreover, they contribute to ecosystem services such as flood control and carbon sequestration, further enhancing their ecological significance.
• Scalability and adaptability: Constructed wetlands are flexible in their scalability, and able to be adjusted to fit various industrial operations and spatial limitations.
  • They are versatile, accommodating both centralised and decentralised wastewater treatment methods, thereby providing adaptability in their deployment.

Constructed Wetlands Across India:

• India boasts several remarkable locations where constructed wetlands are utilised for wastewater treatment.
• In Delhi's Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, a constructed wetland system purifies sewage from adjacent settlements while providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, contributing to regional biodiversity conservation.
• Chennai's Perungudi and Kodungaiyur regions have integrated constructed wetlands into their decentralised wastewater treatment strategy.
  • These wetlands treat local community sewage, reducing pollutant levels and easing pressure on centralised treatment plants.
• The Kolkata East Wetlands in West Bengal, a Ramsar site, comprises an extensive network of natural and constructed wetlands treating Kolkata's wastewater.
  • These wetlands offer livelihoods for local fishing and agricultural communities while improving water quality.
• Palla village in Haryana uses constructed wetlands to treat wastewater from Delhi before releasing it into the Yamuna River, improving water quality and mitigating downstream pollution.
• Auroville, a sustainable international township in Tamil Nadu, employs decentralised wastewater treatment systems featuring constructed wetlands, demonstrating a community-driven approach to wastewater management.
• The Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan utilises constructed wetlands for treating village wastewater.
  • This initiative addresses sanitation needs while preserving the reserve's ecological integrity and wildlife habitats.

Opportunities and Challenges in the Indian Context:

Potential for Adoption:

• In India, the potential for utilising constructed wetlands in industrial wastewater treatment is immense.
• With its rich biodiversity and abundance of wetland ecosystems, the country presents favourable conditions for their widespread adoption.
• The decentralised nature of industries makes constructed wetlands an appealing option for on-site or cluster-level wastewater treatment.

Challenges to Overcome:

• Establishment of clear policies and regulatory frameworks to encourage the adoption of constructed wetlands in industrial wastewater treatment.
• Provision of incentives and subsidies to incentivize industries to invest in sustainable wastewater management practices.
• Raising awareness and enhancing technical expertise among stakeholders, including industry professionals, regulators, and local communities.
• Continuous monitoring and research efforts to evaluate the performance of constructed wetlands in diverse industrial settings, including optimizing design parameters and addressing emerging challenges such as new contaminants and the impacts of climate change.

Community Involvement:

• Engagement of local communities in the planning, design, and management of constructed wetlands fosters a sense of ownership and ensures the long-term sustainability of these systems.
• Active participation from community members is essential for the success of constructed wetland projects.

Conclusion

Constructed wetlands present a promising solution for combating industrial wastewater pollution in India. By addressing policy, capacity-building initiatives, and community involvement, constructed wetlands have the potential to significantly contribute to sustainable industrial progress and the preservation of water resources for future generations.

Why is it in the News?

A new provision in the Income-Tax Act from Budget 2023-24 ensures prompt payments to MSMEs however, it's causing a problem: large companies are cancelling orders from registered MSMEs and giving them to unregistered ones.

Context:

• The Union Budget 2023-24 brought in a fresh provision in the Income-Tax (IT) Act to ensure timely payments to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within 45 days of supplying goods or services.
• Yet, this measure has led to an unusual issue: big corporations are cancelling orders from registered MSMEs and redirecting them to unregistered ones.

What is the Latest Tax Compliance Guidelines for MSMEs:

• In India, businesses typically record expenses as they occur (accrual basis), regardless of whether payment has been made.
• However, under Section 15 of the MSMED Act 2006 and the newly enacted Section 43B(h) of the IT Act, businesses are obligated to settle payments with MSME Registered Enterprises within 15 days or up to 45 days if stipulated in an agreement.
• Failure to adhere to this regulation results in the inability to deduct these payments as expenses in the same fiscal year, potentially increasing taxable income and business taxes.
• Moreover, delayed payments to MSME-registered units incur interest liabilities, placing the responsibility on the payer to fulfil outstanding dues.

What is MSME?

• MSMEs are Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises that are usually involved in the manufacture and production of goods and commodities.
• These business enterprises are the backbone of a country’s development and provide holistic development to the rural and urban population of the country.
  • The MSME sector in India makes a contribution of around 30% to the nation’s GDP.
  • Moreover, it contributes about 40% to the total exports of India, and
  • It provides more than 110 million job opportunities in the country.
• The Government of India introduced the MSME under the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act of 2006.
  • MSMEs are managed under the Ministry of MSMEs.
• The objective of MSMEs is to primarily engage in manufacturing, processing, production, and preservation of goods and commodities.
• These business enterprises play an important role in the socio-economic development of the country.
• Thus, the importance of MSME in the growth and development of India is vital.

MSME Classification:

• Businesses are classified as micro, small or medium enterprises based on their turnover and the sector they operate in (manufacturing/services).

Types of MSME:

According to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act 2006, MSMEs are of 2 types:

• Manufacturing Enterprises: Business enterprises that are involved in the manufacturing of goods, as stated under Schedule I of the IDRA 1951, are categorised as MSMEs.
  • Additionally, all business enterprises that contribute value to the finished products by making use of plants and machinery also come under MSMEs.
• Service Enterprises: Business enterprises that provide services and come under the category of ‘enterprises’ as stated in the MSMED Act are service enterprises and come under MSMEs.
  • However, individual service providers do not qualify as service enterprises.

Importance of MSME in the Indian economy:

• Export: MSMEs’ contribution to the exports from India was recorded at 45.56% till Sept. 2023.
  • Such high volumes of exports facilitate international trade and contribute to industrial growth within the country.
• Employment: MSMEs create employment in rural and urban areas of the country.
  • These business enterprises are the second largest employment sector in India after agriculture.
  • By setting up units in rural and underdeveloped areas, MSMEs contribute to the better living standards of people from lower socioeconomic and rural areas as well.
• Innovation: MSMEs bring innovation to various processes in the manufacturing of goods and commodities.
  • They provide the necessary skills, tools, and technology for automation and advancement in their sectors.
  • It contributes to the overall technological upgradation of the country and promotes research and development.
• Entrepreneurship: MSMEs promote inclusiveness in the country by facilitating the entry of aspiring entrepreneurs in various sectors.
  • They promote healthy competitiveness among entrepreneurs, which fuels industrial growth.

Challenges faced by the MSME sector in India:

• Financial: Access to finance is a significant hurdle for MSMEs, with only 16% receiving timely finance.
  • This forces them to rely on their own resources, hindering their growth prospects.
  • Even larger firms struggle to access cheaper credit from formal banks.
• Regulatory issues: MSMEs face challenges with tax compliance and labour law changes, which have proven costly.
  • Despite attempts to make the sector more competitive, compliance with regulations and tax registration remains difficult, leading to low capital and business closures.
• Infrastructure: India's infrastructure is crucial for the MSME sector, especially in the outsourcing industry.
  • However, inadequate infrastructure affects their efficiency and ability to compete globally, limiting their growth potential.
• Low productivity & Lack of innovation: MSMEs may lack high productivity but offer value through cost efficiency and providing goods at lower prices.
  • However, their small-scale production and low margins put them at a disadvantage compared to larger firms.
  • Indian MSMEs often rely on outdated technologies and lack entrepreneurs who embrace new tools and technologies.
  • This hampers their productivity and competitiveness, especially when compared to larger firms in sectors like e-commerce and call centres.
• Technical changes: MSMEs have faced significant technical changes over time, impacting their growth potential.
  • Changes in land ownership rights have led to mismanagement and reduced productivity, highlighting the need for adaptability.
• Competition & Skills: MSMEs face fierce competition from larger firms, exacerbated by the rise of e-commerce and globalization.
  • While competition is not new, MSMEs struggle to withstand the pressure in areas such as agriculture, garments, and tourism.
  • MSMEs lag behind in terms of skills compared to their counterparts in other countries.
  • Dependence on informal workers with limited technical skills hampers productivity and forces smaller firms into low-skilled jobs, hindering long-term growth.
• Lack of professionalism: Many Indian MSMEs lack professionalism, making them vulnerable to corruption and abuse of power.
  • This significantly impacts their business productivity and overall growth.
• Lack of standardized policies: India lacks consistent MSME policies, resulting in inconsistent development and entrepreneurship promotion programs.
  • While progress has been made in Delhi, nationwide efforts are necessary for Indian firms to compete globally.

Government MSME Schemes and Policies in India:

• FIRST: Keeping in view the crucial role MSMEs play in the development of the country, the central government announced the launch of FIRST (Forum for Internet Retailers, Sellers, and Traders).
• The program aligns with the government’s Digital India movement and educates and informs MSMEs about opportunities to become self-reliant and digitally capable.
• MSME Innovation Scheme: Under this scheme, MSMEs can enjoy reimbursement of the cost of Intellectual Property Rights applications for new ideas and designs.
  • The programme provides financial and other resources to MSMEs to encourage innovation.
• CGTMSE: The Credit Guarantee Trust Fund for Micro and Small Enterprises scheme provides financial assistance of up to ?2 Crore to new businesses.
• CLCSS: The Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme provides capital subsidies to MSMEs operating in the khadi, village, and coir sectors.
  • The subsidy allows these businesses to acquire technological innovation and upgradation.
• ASPIRE: ASPIRE, or A Scheme for Promotion of Innovation, Rural Industries, and Entrepreneurship, fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in rural and agricultural sectors by establishing advanced technology networks.
• Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): The PMMY scheme provides loans up to Rs. 10 lakhs to MSMEs.
  • The scheme has three categories of loans: Shishu (up to Rs. 50,000), Kishore (up to Rs. 5 lakhs), and Tarun (up to Rs. 10 lakhs).
  • The loans do not require collateral and are available to both new and existing MSMEs.
• Stand-Up India: The Stand-Up India scheme provides loans up to Rs. 1 crore to SC/ST and women entrepreneurs for setting up new ventures in the manufacturing, services, or trading sectors.
  • The scheme aims to promote entrepreneurship among these communities and provides support through the entire loan process.

Way Forward:

• Creating awareness about government schemes and initiatives: Stakeholders should take active measures to educate MSMEs about the various schemes and initiatives launched by the government to promote SME financing.
  • This will help MSMEs take advantage of these schemes and secure financing for their businesses.
• Developing innovative financing solutions: Financial institutions should develop innovative financing solutions that cater to the unique needs of MSMEs.
  • These solutions can include alternative credit scoring mechanisms, digital lending platforms, and other innovative solutions that reduce the reliance on collateral and traditional credit histories.
• Encouraging private-public partnerships: Private-public partnerships can be a powerful tool to promote SME financing.
  • Governments and private sector companies can work together to develop financing solutions that are tailored to the needs of MSMEs.
• Reducing the cost of credit: High interest rates on loans can be a significant barrier for MSMEs to secure financing.
  • Stakeholders should take measures to reduce the cost of credit for MSMEs, which will make it easier for them to invest in their businesses and drive growth.
• Leveraging technology: Technology can play a crucial role in improving SME financing.
  • Stakeholders should leverage technology to develop digital lending platforms, credit scoring mechanisms, and other solutions that can reduce the cost and time involved in securing financing.

Conclusion

MSMEs are vital to India's economy, driving exports, employment, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Although they face financial, regulatory, and infrastructure hurdles, fostering a supportive environment through awareness, innovative financing, partnerships, cost reduction, and technology can empower MSMEs to overcome challenges and significantly contribute to India's socio-economic growth.

Why is it in the News?

2024 is an election year across the world and newly elected governments need to focus on the all-important sustainability issue.

Context:

• The United Nations Summit on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) held in September in New York presented a chance to assess progress toward the lofty Agenda 2030 goal.
• The COVID-19 pandemic and other worldwide crises have made progress towards these goals difficult, despite the fact that they are part of a framework that has been widely agreed upon.
• It is critical to evaluate the state of SDG implementation, investigate critical areas that call for immediate attention, talk about the results of academic studies on the SDGs' political influence, and suggest ways to advance sustainable development.

What is Sustainable Development?

• Sustainable development entails fostering development that fulfils present needs while safeguarding the capacity of future generations to meet their own needs.
• Coined by the Brundtland Commission in its 1987 report, "Our Common Future," this definition remains widely embraced.
• Embracing sustainable development involves collaborative endeavours aimed at constructing an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future for both humanity and the environment.

What is the Progress and Emerging Challenges in SDG Implementation?

• Slow Progress and Growing Concerns: The path toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been marred by sluggish progress and mounting concerns, casting doubt on the world's ability to attain the 2030 targets.
  • Despite initial optimism following the adoption of Agenda 2030 by the UN General Assembly in 2015, reports indicate inadequate progress and deviation from the intended trajectory.
  • While there were modest improvements noted between 2015 and 2019, particularly in areas like poverty reduction and access to essential services, they fell significantly short of the necessary benchmarks outlined in the agenda.
• Challenges Amplified by Global Crises: The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global crises has compounded the hurdles in SDG achievement.
  • The pandemic, in particular, has triggered profound socioeconomic repercussions, disrupting economies, widening inequalities, and propelling millions into poverty.
  • The diversion of resources and attention toward addressing immediate health and economic exigencies has further impeded advancements toward long-term sustainable development objectives.
• Concerns Over Environmental Sustainability: A notable concern arises from the insufficient emphasis on goals related to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.
  • Critical objectives such as sustainable consumption and production, climate action, and marine and terrestrial biodiversity preservation have been overlooked, jeopardising the welfare of present and future generations.
  • Neglecting these environmental imperatives not only undermines progress toward specific SDGs but also poses existential threats to humanity and the planet.
• Fragmented Approach to SDG Pursuit: Furthermore, the prevailing approach to SDG pursuit often disregards the interconnected and indivisible nature of the goals.
  • The SDGs are interlinked, with progress in one goal intricately linked to advancements in others.
  • Yet, the disjointed strategies adopted by many nations and stakeholders fail to acknowledge these interconnections, leading to isolated efforts unlikely to yield substantive outcomes.
  • Without a holistic and cohesive approach to sustainable development, achieving the overarching objective of harmonising human well-being with environmental health remains elusive.

International Promises and Real-World Execution:

Renewed Pledges from International Leaders:

• Amidst these developments, the UN SDG Report 2023 underscored five critical areas necessitating immediate attention:
  • The government's commitment to seven years of accelerated, sustained, and transformative actions to fulfil SDG promises;
  • Concrete, comprehensive, and targeted governmental policies to eradicate poverty, mitigate inequality, and combat environmental degradation, prioritising the empowerment of women, girls, and marginalised communities;
  • Enhancement of national and subnational capacities, institutional accountability, and governance mechanisms to expedite progress;
• Reaffirmation of the international community's commitment to provide assistance and mobilise resources for developing nations, alongside fortifying the UN development system.
• Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, world leaders reiterated their commitments and pledged intensified efforts to achieve the SDGs, envisioned as the global pathway out of crises by 2030.
• However, the extent to which these global declarations translate into action at the grassroots level remains uncertain.

Challenges in National Implementation:

• Despite governments' global vows, significant disparities often exist between rhetoric and practical implementation on the national stage.
• Political considerations, competing agendas, and resource limitations can impede the effective execution of SDG-related policies.
• Furthermore, inadequate coordination and coherence among various government departments and administrative tiers may lead to fragmented initiatives, diminishing the overall efficacy of SDG implementation efforts.

Academic Perspectives and Suggestions:

• Limited Political Influence: The research highlights that while the SDGs have sparked discussions and prompted some normative and institutional adjustments, their direct political impact at national and local levels remains constrained.
  • Despite international endorsement, the SDGs have yet to yield significant political outcomes in many nations, underscoring the necessity for a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping SDG implementation and the pathways for driving political transformation.
• Systemic Strategies for SDG Achievement: The study underscores the significance of embracing a systemic approach to unlock the transformative potential of the SDGs.
  • This entails identifying and managing trade-offs while maximising synergies across diverse goals.
  • By addressing interconnected challenges comprehensively, policymakers can capitalise on synergistic effects and enhance the efficacy of their interventions.
    • For instance, initiatives promoting renewable energy can simultaneously advance climate action (SDG 13), foster economic growth (SDG 8), and improve access to clean water and sanitation (SDG 6).
• Customised Implementation Approaches: Moreover, the study stresses the importance of tailored strategies for SDG implementation tailored to regional and national contexts.
  • Cookie-cutter solutions are unlikely to succeed given the varied socio-economic, political, and environmental landscapes in which the SDGs are being pursued.
  • Instead, policymakers should identify context-specific entry points and leverage existing resources and capacities to drive progress.
  • This may involve targeting specific sectors or geographic areas requiring interventions and engaging marginalized communities to ensure their voices and needs are addressed.
• Pragmatic Steps to Enhance Implementation: Additionally, the study provides pragmatic recommendations for bolstering SDG implementation.
  • These encompass strengthening governance frameworks and accountability mechanisms, mobilising financial resources, fostering innovation and technology dissemination, and nurturing partnerships among governments, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders.
  • By adopting a multi-faceted approach addressing political, economic, social, and environmental dimensions, policymakers can foster an enabling environment for transformative change.

Conclusion

The evaluation of SDG advancement highlights the imperative for swift and collaborative measures to overcome prevailing hurdles and hasten advancement. As 2024 heralds elections in numerous nations, incoming administrations have a chance to elevate sustainability as a focal point and harmonise domestic policies with the SDGs. By infusing sustainability tenets into governance structures and policy formulations, governments can play a pivotal role in expediting SDG attainment.

Why is it in the News?

The latest report from the International Labour Organization (ILO), titled 'Safeguarding Workers in a Changing Climate', underscores the pressing necessity to ensure the resilience of labour in the face of climate change.

Context:

• The International Labour Organisation (ILO) recently released a report titled "Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate," highlighting the urgency of climate-proofing labour practices to protect workers' well-being.
• As the planet experiences warming, workplace environments evolve, and the ILO emphasizes the need to update occupational safety and health (OSH) regulations to address emerging risks.
• According to the report, over one-third of the global population is exposed to extreme heat each year, resulting in nearly 23 million work-related injuries.
  • The ILO urges an overhaul of existing OSH laws and protections, as they have not kept pace with climate change-related hazards, leading to increased worker mortality and morbidity.

What Are the Emerging Climate-Related Risks?

• The International Labour Organization (ILO) has identified six primary impacts of climate change:
  • Excessive heat
  • Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
  • Extreme weather events
  • Workplace air pollution
  • Vector-borne diseases
  • Agrochemicals
• These hazards can result in various health issues such as stress, stroke, and exhaustion. Particularly vulnerable to these risks are workers in sectors like agriculture, construction, urban conservation, transportation, and tourism.
• Of significant concern is the rising prevalence of gig employment globally, which is particularly susceptible to heat-related conditions.
  • In India, gig workers, including ride-hailing app drivers, food and grocery delivery personnel, home repair technicians (electricians, plumbers, AC mechanics), and courier service employees, constitute approximately 1.5% of the total workforce, a figure projected to reach 4.5% by 2030 according to a Nasscom study.
• In the Indian context, the collective impact of these segments suggests that approximately 80% of the country's workforce, projected to be 600 million by 2023, is vulnerable to heat-related hazards.
• This staggering figure exceeds the entire current population of South America by 180 million.

Which Sectors Bear the Brunt of Climate Impact?

Agriculture Sector:

• Globally, agriculture stands out as the most heat-vulnerable sector, particularly in developing nations where informal farm labourers toil without adequate weather protection.
• In India, where agriculture and allied activities employed about 45.76% of the workforce in 2022-23 according to Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, there's a concerning trend of decline from levels three decades ago.
• NSSO data from July 2018 to June 2019 reveals that nearly 90% of Indian farmers own less than two hectares of land, with incomes hovering around ?10,000 monthly on average.
• The situation is even direr in states like Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal, where farmers' earnings can be as low as ?4,895, ?5,112, and ?6,762 respectively.
• Additionally, half of India's farmers are burdened with debt and lack access to modern agricultural technology, impeding their ability to adapt to a warming climate.
• Many communities have already adjusted work schedules to avoid peak heat hours, while the ILO recommends increased hydration facilities, breaks, and shaded rest areas in plantations.

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Sector:

• Following agriculture, India's MSME sector employs over 123 million workers, accounting for about 21% of the workforce.
• Despite its significant contribution to exports and manufacturing output, the sector's pervasive informality has led to minimal oversight of worker conditions by state Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) departments, rendering workers highly susceptible to heat-related risks.

Building & Construction Sector:

• The building and construction industry, with around 70 million workers constituting almost 12% of India's workforce, faces unique challenges exacerbated by urbanization.
• Workers in this sector contend with the urban heat island effect, heightened by rapid urban growth.
• Moreover, they are disproportionately exposed to physical injuries and air pollution-related health hazards, such as asthma, given the alarming pollution levels in many Indian cities.

Legislation Safeguarding Worker Rights in India:

• Central Laws: Integral to ensuring workplace safety in India are the Factories Act, the Workmen Compensation Act, and the Building and Other Construction Workers Act.
  • These laws encompass various facets of labour rights and welfare, addressing conditions within factories and providing compensation for work-related injuries.
• Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (OSH Code, 2020): Introduced in 2020, the OSH Code represents a comprehensive effort to consolidate and revise existing legislation pertaining to workplace safety.
  • Its primary objective is to streamline and strengthen the legal framework governing occupational safety and health nationwide.
  • By amalgamating disparate regulations into a unified code, it aims to establish a more cohesive and effective system for ensuring workplace safety across diverse sectors and industries.

State Laws in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra:

• Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu formulated its regulations under the Factories Act as early as 1950.
  • These regulations stipulate a maximum wet bulb temperature of 30°C on shop floors and outline requirements for adequate air circulation.
  • However, they lack specific provisions for thermal comfort tailored to varying activity levels or modern cooling solutions, indicating a need for updated standards.
• Maharashtra: Similarly, Maharashtra devised its rules under the Factories Act in 1963. Like Tamil Nadu, these regulations address maximum wet bulb temperatures and air circulation standards.
  • Nevertheless, they also lack detailed provisions for contemporary cooling methods or adjustments for thermal comfort aligned with evolving production processes, underscoring the necessity for modernization.

Challenges in Addressing Heat Hazards:

• Regulatory Ambiguity: Existing regulations lack specificity regarding thermal comfort standards and the integration of air conditioning in workplaces.
  • There's a pressing need to update regulations to accommodate modern cooling technologies and ensure the well-being and safety of workers.
• Impact of the Gig Economy: The burgeoning gig economy in India exacerbates workers' vulnerability to heat-related risks.
  • Many gig workers, comprising a substantial portion of the workforce, often operate without adequate protections or support systems to mitigate extreme heat conditions.
• Pressures on Labor Unions: Labour unions face mounting pressures from management and bureaucratic entities, often prioritizing industry interests over worker welfare.
  • This dynamic can result in the neglect of worker safety concerns pertaining to heat hazards and other climate-related risks.
• Effluent and Byproduct Management: The disposal of effluents and byproducts poses significant health risks, particularly with fluctuating temperatures, necessitating robust management strategies to safeguard worker health.
• Silicosis in Mining and Quarries: The escalating prevalence of silicosis, stemming from silica exposure in mines and quarries, presents a profound occupational health challenge that demands urgent attention and intervention.
• Shortcomings in Labor Inspection Departments: Vacancies and a lack of expertise within labour inspection departments undermine effective oversight of workplace safety measures, hindering the enforcement of regulations and exacerbating risks for workers.

Way Forward:

• Modernize Regulatory Frameworks: Revamp existing regulations to include clear guidelines on thermal comfort and air conditioning standards in workplaces.
  • Integrate innovative cooling technologies to ensure the safety and well-being of workers.
• Empower Labor Unions: Strengthen labour unions and equip them with the resources needed to advocate for worker welfare and safety.
  • Foster collaboration among unions, management, and governmental bodies to effectively tackle heat hazards.
• Enhance Labor Inspection Mechanisms: Boost staffing and training within labour inspection departments to enhance oversight of workplace safety.
  • Conduct regular inspections and rigorously enforce safety regulations to shield workers from climate-related risks.
• Invest in Research and Development: Allocate funding for research initiatives focused on developing climate adaptation strategies tailored to various industries.
  • Support studies assessing the efficacy of interventions and technologies in mitigating heat hazards and other climate-related risks.
• Raise Awareness and Education: Launch awareness campaigns to educate workers, employers, and the public about the health implications of climate change.
  • Provide training programs on heat stress management and preventive measures to bolster resilience in vulnerable sectors.

Conclusion

Amidst the challenges posed by climate change, safeguarding workplace safety and health emerges as a critical imperative. The ILO report highlights a pressing call for a globally accepted regulatory framework to fortify workplaces against climate-related risks and safeguard workers. Achieving this necessitates concerted action from governments, industries, and workers alike to address evolving hazards and uphold the well-being of workers amidst the changing climate landscape.

Why is it in the News?

On Monday, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud said, “Participation of women in the workforce is a matter not just of privilege but a constitutional entitlement protected by Article 15 of the Constitution.

Context:

• Recent data indicates that while 45% of India's graduates are women, only approximately 10% of educated women pursue long-term careers.
• However, amidst these challenges, there are instances of women advocating for their rights.
  • For instance, a young mother from Himachal Pradesh recently petitioned the Supreme Court for the right to care for her child, who required her presence.
• Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud emphasized that women's participation in the workforce is a constitutional entitlement, and denying mothers childcare leave violates this principle.
• The petitioner, an assistant professor at a government college, highlighted that the Himachal Pradesh government had refused her childcare leave, despite her child's medical needs.
• The Supreme Court's intervention underscored that the state, as an employer, must address such concerns and uphold the rights of working mothers.

Protection Under the Constitution and Employer Responsibilities Concerning Women's Employment:

Constitutional Safeguards:

• Article 15 of the Indian Constitution stands as a pillar of gender equality, prohibiting discrimination based on sex and allowing for affirmative action to address historical disparities.
• The recent Supreme Court recognition of Article 15 underscores the constitutional imperative to foster a fair and inclusive society, particularly in matters of women's workforce participation.
• By affirming women's right to work without prejudice, the court reinforces the foundational principles of equality and non-discrimination enshrined in the Constitution.

Employer Responsibility:

• Employers, especially the government as role models, carry a significant duty to cultivate a supportive environment for female employees.
• Beyond mere legal compliance, employers must actively address the unique challenges women face in juggling work and caregiving responsibilities.
• The denial of childcare leave, as highlighted in the recent Supreme Court case, signifies a failure to acknowledge and respect women's rights in the workplace.
• The court's stance emphasizes that employers cannot overlook the specific needs of women employees and underscores the importance of proactive measures such as offering childcare assistance, flexible work arrangements, and gender-sensitive policies.
• By fulfilling these obligations, employers not only advance gender equality but also foster a more productive, inclusive, and supportive work culture.

Obstacles to Women's Participation in the Workforce:

Unbalanced Domestic Responsibilities:

• Women in India shoulder a disproportionate share of unpaid domestic and caregiving duties, including household chores and looking after family members.
• This unequal distribution of responsibilities consumes considerable time and effort, often hindering women's capacity to engage in paid employment outside their homes.

"Marriage" and "Motherhood" Setbacks:

• Women commonly encounter setbacks in their careers due to societal norms regarding marriage and motherhood.
• Marriage can lead to disruptions like relocation or increased household duties, affecting women's career trajectories and earning potential.
• Likewise, motherhood often results in temporary career breaks or reduced work hours to manage childcare, limiting opportunities for professional growth and financial independence.

Inadequate Support Infrastructure:

• The scarcity of affordable childcare options, along with insufficient support services like paid parental leave and flexible work arrangements, adds to the challenges faced by women in balancing work and family commitments.
• The absence of adequate support infrastructure may compel women to prioritize caregiving over employment, particularly when alternative care arrangements are lacking.

Legal Framework for Women’s Participation in the Workforce:

Legislative Advances:

• India has taken significant strides in enacting laws to uphold women's rights and foster gender equality in workplaces.
• These laws encompass provisions for maternity benefits, childcare services, and safeguards against gender discrimination in employment practices.
• Recent legislative changes have broadened maternity leave entitlements and mandated childcare facilities at workplaces, underscoring a commitment to bolstering women's engagement in the workforce.

Gender-Neutral Measures:

• Initiatives to render legal provisions gender-neutral represent a positive stride toward acknowledging caregiving duties as a shared responsibility among parents.
• By extending childcare benefits to all employees, regardless of gender, these reforms aim to challenge traditional gender norms and encourage greater equity in caregiving responsibilities within families.

Challenges in Implementing Legal Frameworks for Women's Workforce Participation:

Underfunded Welfare Schemes:

• Government-led initiatives, such as the National Crèches Scheme, face underfunding and inadequate infrastructure, limiting their ability to provide essential childcare services to marginalized communities.
  • Without sufficient financial resources and institutional support, these schemes struggle to meet the demand for affordable and quality childcare services, particularly in underserved regions.

Lack of Enforcement and Monitoring:

• Effective enforcement mechanisms and regular monitoring of compliance are crucial for ensuring that employers adhere to legal requirements related to women's workforce participation.
  • However, enforcement agencies often face challenges like limited resources, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and a lack of coordination between government departments, hindering their ability to enforce labour laws and address violations promptly.

Coverage Limitations:

• Existing laws often have a limited scope, with certain provisions only applying to formal sector establishments or workplaces with a minimum number of employees.
  • This approach excludes many women working in the informal sector or smaller enterprises, leaving them without access to crucial maternity benefits and childcare support.

Way Forward

Collective Responsibility:

• State: The government plays a key role in setting legal and policy frameworks that promote gender equality.
  • This includes enacting supportive laws, providing incentives for employers to adopt family-friendly policies, and investing in social infrastructure such as childcare facilities and education programs.
• Employers: Companies can significantly impact women's workforce participation through their practices and policies.
  • Employers should adopt inclusive hiring practices, provide equal opportunities for career advancement, offer flexible work arrangements, and implement family-friendly policies like paid parental leave and on-site childcare facilities.
• Communities: Communities play a crucial role in challenging traditional gender norms and stereotypes.
  • Community-based organizations, educational institutions, and grassroots initiatives can raise awareness, provide support for working mothers, and advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality.

Policy Integration:

• Integrating gender considerations into broader policy frameworks is essential for mainstreaming gender equality across all sectors of society.
• Key strategies include implementing gender-responsive budgeting, conducting gender impact assessments of policies and programs, and ensuring women's voices are heard in decision-making processes.
• By addressing these aspects, we can create a more inclusive society where women can fully participate in the workforce and achieve their potential.

Conclusion

In conclusion, achieving full participation of women in the workforce requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving the state, employers, and communities. By enacting supportive policies, promoting inclusive practices, challenging traditional gender norms, and integrating gender considerations into broader policy frameworks, we can create an enabling environment for women to thrive in their careers. It is through these concerted efforts that we can build a more equitable society and harness the immense potential that women bring to the workforce.

Why is it in the News?

The European Court of Human Rights found Switzerland guilty of violating the rights of women from KlimaSeniorinnen, stating that the government's emission control efforts were insufficient, failing to protect women from climate change impacts.

Context:

• Courts worldwide are increasingly tasked with addressing the nexus between climate change and human rights, as evidenced by significant rulings such as those from the European Court of Human Rights in Switzerland and the Supreme Court of India.
• These landmark decisions highlight the imperative of acknowledging climate change as a human rights issue and establishing crucial benchmarks for legal and policy responses to mitigate its detrimental effects on people and societies.

Legal Acknowledgment of Climate Change's Human Rights Impacts:

• Recent rulings by the European Court of Human Rights against the Government of Switzerland and the Supreme Court of India have underscored the failure to safeguard vulnerable populations from the effects of climate change.
• The European Court's decision highlighted the government's neglect in protecting elderly women from climate-related harm, while the Indian Supreme Court affirmed citizens' entitlement to freedom from adverse climate effects under constitutional guarantees.
• Citing Articles 14 (equality before the law) and 21 (right to life and personal liberty) of the Indian Constitution, the Supreme Court emphasized individuals' right 'to be free from the adverse impacts of climate change.'
• These legal judgments signify a significant step towards acknowledging climate change as a pivotal human rights concern.

The Escalating Human Rights Risks of the Global Climate Crisis:

• The global climate crisis presents an imminent threat to human rights, imperiling individuals and communities worldwide.
• The latest State of the Global Climate Report from the World Meteorological Organization presents compelling evidence of the intensifying impacts of climate change.
• In 2023, numerous climate indicators soared to unprecedented levels, marking it as the hottest year on record.
• This unparalleled warmth coincided with concerning trends such as heightened ocean heat accumulation, rising sea levels, diminishing Antarctic sea ice, and accelerated glacier retreat.
• These indicators underscore the severe strain on our planet, with profound implications for human welfare.

India's Climate Action and Vulnerability:

• Progress Amid Persistent Vulnerability: Despite notable advancements in climate action, India, among the world's fastest-growing economies, continues to confront significant vulnerability to climate change.
  • Having met two of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets—reducing emissions intensity by 33% to 35% and achieving 40% cumulative non-fossil fuel electricity capacity—well ahead of schedule, India demonstrates proactive measures.
  • Nevertheless, the nation remains highly susceptible to climate-related adversities.
• Population Concentration in Disaster-Prone Areas: A primary concern is India's demographic distribution, with over 80% of its populace residing in regions prone to climate-induced calamities like floods, cyclones, droughts, and heatwaves.
  • These events not only disrupt lives but also exacerbate existing socio-economic disparities, disproportionately impacting vulnerable groups such as small-scale farmers, rural communities, and marginalized populations.
• Intersecting Challenges of Climate Change: Climate change intersects with broader socio-economic and environmental issues, compounding their repercussions.
  • Rapid urbanization and haphazard development intensify urban vulnerability to climate-driven disasters like flooding and landslides.

Frameworks to Strengthen India's Climate Action:

• Embracing Comprehensive Legislation: India's climate governance could benefit from the adoption of a comprehensive regulatory framework dedicated to climate change.
  • This legislation would offer a unified structure for addressing diverse climate-related aspects, spanning mitigation, adaptation, finance, and capacity-building.
  • By enshrining climate objectives, targets, and strategies in law, such a framework can furnish legal clarity and consistency, guiding sustained planning and investment.
• Insights from Global Climate Laws: Research from the London School of Economics and Political Science examined climate framework laws in 60 nations, spotlighting their pivotal role in shaping national climate agendas.
  • Countries like Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Finland, South Korea, South Africa, and the Philippines have instituted robust climate legislation surpassing mere compliance with international obligations.
  • These laws have facilitated public resource mobilization, bolstered climate action capabilities, and fostered inter-sectoral cooperation.

Additional Measures for Enhanced Climate Governance in India:

• Integrated Climate Policies: India's climate strategies should embrace an integrated approach, embedding climate considerations into broader development frameworks and decision-making processes.
  • This entails weaving climate adaptation and mitigation efforts throughout key sectors like agriculture, water management, energy, transportation, and urban development to foster a cohesive response to climate challenges.
• Localized Solutions and Cross-Sector Collaboration: Tailored, localized climate actions, coupled with collaborative efforts across sectors, are vital for addressing the diverse and context-specific impacts of climate change.
  • Governments can craft targeted strategies to bolster resilience, mitigate risks, and advance sustainable development goals by engaging local stakeholders and fostering partnerships across sectors.
• Harmonizing Climate and Sustainable Development Goals: Localized climate initiatives often align with broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as poverty eradication, food security, access to clean water, and gender equity.
  • Integrating climate considerations into local SDG agendas enables governments to leverage synergies, optimize resource use, and fortify community resilience and sustainability.
• Empowerment of Civil Society: Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a pivotal role in advocating for climate action, environmental equity, and governmental accountability.
  • Empowering CSOs and fostering rights-based discourse on climate change are vital for fostering inclusive decision-making, transparency, and environmental justice.
• Fostering Inclusivity and Representation: Promoting diversity and inclusivity within civil society is imperative to ensure the voices and perspectives of marginalized communities are heard and heeded in climate policymaking.
  • CSOs should aim to represent the interests of various stakeholders, including women, indigenous populations, youth, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups, in climate governance.
• Advancing Rights-Centric Discourse: A rights-based approach to climate action acknowledges that climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, infringing upon their basic human rights to life, health, food, water, and livelihoods.
  • By framing climate change as a human rights issue, CSOs can advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of affected communities and champion environmental justice.

Conclusion

The alignment of legal rulings, scientific findings, and policy mandates emphasizes the pressing imperative to confront climate change as a human rights emergency.

By acknowledging the inseparable link between environmental health and human welfare, nations can pave the way toward climate resilience and equity.

Empowering communities, fortifying legal structures, and promoting cross-sectoral cooperation stand as pivotal measures in realizing a future liberated from the detrimental effects of climate change.

Why is it in the News?

Centre has been meeting its capex targets, but the trajectory of private sector and state governments is less certain.

Context:

• Policymakers in India are grappling with the imperative task of revitalizing the investment cycle. Despite the central government's success in meeting capital expenditure (capex) targets, uncertainty clouds the trajectory of investments from the private sector and state governments.
• Thus, a comprehensive examination of India's current investment landscape is essential, scrutinizing key indicators and trends to identify the hurdles and prospects in reigniting the investment momentum.

Overview of Investment Patterns:

• Fluctuating Investment Rates: The investment rate, representing gross fixed capital formation as a percentage of GDP, has shown variability in recent years.
  • After dropping to 27.2% in 2020-21, there has been a slight improvement, with the rate climbing to 31.3% in 2023-24 from 30.8% in the preceding fiscal year.
  • This increase suggests a possible resurgence in investment sentiment and activity, albeit starting from a relatively low level.
• Composition of Investments: Delving Deeper: Yet, a closer examination of investment composition reveals noteworthy nuances.
  • A significant part of the recent uptick in capital formation stems from dwelling construction, supported by government initiatives to bolster the housing sector.
  • While housing investments spur economic growth and job creation, diversification is essential for sustainable and equitable development.
• Declining Investment in Plant and Machinery: Of particular concern is the diminishing share of investments in plant and machinery, crucial for fostering productivity, innovation, and competitiveness across sectors.
  • The allocation of investment to plant and machinery declined from 36% in 2017-18 to 30.7% in 2022-23, indicating a potential shift in investment priorities or hurdles in attracting investments in manufacturing and industrial domains.

Private Sector Investment:

• Insights from CMIE Data: Examining private sector investment trends often involves analyzing data provided by the Centre for Monitoring the Indian Economy (CMIE), offering valuable insights into the investment intentions and actions of private enterprises.
• Mixed Signals in Investment Intentions: Recent CMIE data reveals a nuanced picture of private sector investment in India.
  • While new investment announcements dipped to Rs 27.1 lakh crore in 2023-24 from the previous year's Rs 39 lakh crore, they still represented the second-highest figures in a decade.
  • However, it's essential to recognize that these announcements signify intentions rather than realized investments, potentially leading to disparities between planned projects and actual investments.
• Prevalence of Private Sector Intentions: The bulk of investment intentions—around 85%—originated from the private sector, underscoring its pivotal role in driving investment dynamics.
  • Furthermore, foreign companies contributed 11% of the total investment intentions, reflecting a certain degree of confidence in India's business landscape among international investors.

Analyzing Investment Trends Across Sectors:

• Power Sector Dynamics: Investment inflows into the power sector have surged, reflecting a strategic focus on bolstering infrastructure, particularly in renewable energy projects like solar and wind power, driven by initiatives such as the Production Linked Investment (PLI) scheme.
  • This expansion not only enhances energy security and environmental sustainability but also stimulates job creation and technological advancements.
• Transportation Sector Insights: Investment intentions in transportation services, notably aviation, have risen sharply due to ambitious expansion plans by major airlines.
  • While these investments promise improved connectivity and economic growth, concerns persist about reliance on imported aircraft, emphasizing the need for initiatives to foster domestic manufacturing and technological capabilities.
• Diverse Industry Investment Trends: Various industries, including chemicals, machinery, metals, and automotive sectors, have attracted substantial investment commitments, reflecting a broad spectrum of opportunities for private sector investment.
  • However, the absence of significant investments in consumer goods industries raises questions about the depth and breadth of sectoral investments.
• Challenges in Consumer Goods: Consumer goods industries face challenges such as excess capacity, subdued demand, and high inflation, which dampen investment enthusiasm despite government incentives like the PLI scheme.
  • Lingering issues in job creation and rural demand further contribute to the subdued investment outlook in this segment.
• Impact of State Government Spending: Reduced capital expenditure by state governments in 2022-23 to meet fiscal targets poses a challenge to the investment cycle, given their significant contribution to overall investments.
  • Budgetary constraints in state governments have a ripple effect on the broader investment landscape in the country.

Way Forward:

• Promoting Sustainable Growth: While the rise in capital formation is encouraging, ensuring its sustainability and fostering long-term growth hinges on achieving a balanced distribution of investments across sectors.
  • Over-reliance on specific industries, like construction, may impede the economy's adaptability and hinder innovation and technological progress.
• Policy Imperatives for Investment Stimulus: Effective policy measures are imperative to stimulate private sector investment and cultivate a favorable investment environment.
  • Streamlining regulatory frameworks, bolstering infrastructure, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and addressing sector-specific hurdles can incentivize private enterprises to invest in vital areas crucial for fostering economic growth and advancement."

Conclusion

Revitalizing India's investment cycle demands collaborative action from public and private stakeholders. Despite promising sectors, obstacles like sectoral disparities, muted consumer demand, and fiscal limitations at the state level impede a comprehensive rebound. Tackling these hurdles via tailored policies to spur demand, foster sectoral variety, and bolster the investment environment will be pivotal for nurturing enduring economic progress and advancement.

Why is it in the News?

At least 29 Maoists were killed and three security personnel were injured in a gunbattle recently in a forest in Kanker district of Bastar division in Chhattisgarh.

Context:

• In a significant development, at least 29 Maoists were neutralized, and three security personnel sustained injuries during a fierce gun battle in a forested area of the Kanker district in Chhattisgarh's Bastar division.
• This successful joint operation, conducted by the District Reserve Guards (DRG) and the Border Security Force (BSF), marked the highest number of Maoist casualties recorded in a single operation within the Bastar region.
• The operation involved a strategic collaboration between the DRG, a specialized anti-Naxal force, and the BSF, with a well-executed plan that allowed them to engage and ultimately overpower the Maoists.

What is Left Wing Extremism?

• Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), also referred to as left-wing terrorism or radical left-wing movements, encompasses political ideologies and groups that aim to achieve substantial societal and political transformation through revolutionary methods.
• These groups may resort to targeting government institutions, law enforcement agencies, or private property to advance their objectives.
• India's LWE movement traces its origins back to the 1967 uprising in Naxalbari, West Bengal, which set the stage for the emergence of various left-wing extremist groups.
  • According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, LWE has impacted 90 districts across 10 states, with varying degrees of influence.

Maoist Presence Across India:

Maoist influence varies in intensity across different Indian states:

• Severely Affected States: Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bihar face significant Maoist presence and activities, with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians.
• Partially Affected States: West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh experience a more moderate Maoist presence, with occasional incidents and clashes.
• Slightly Affected States: Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have a lower level of Maoist activity but are still considered areas of concern.
• The Communist Party of India (Maoist) has been attempting to expand its influence in the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, aiming to connect the Western and Eastern Ghats.
• Additionally, incursions into Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have raised concerns about long-term strategic implications.

Factors Contributing to Left-Wing Extremism in India:

Several underlying factors contribute to the rise and persistence of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India:

• Inequitable Development: Many LWE-affected regions are among India's least developed areas, characterized by high poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, malnutrition, and social exclusion rates.
  • LWE groups often exploit the grievances of marginalized communities, particularly tribal populations, who have been deprived of land, forest, and mineral rights.
• Marginalization: Naxalites primarily consist of Dalits, Adivasis, and other marginalized sections of society.
  • Maoist teachings deeply influence their leadership, with land reforms and economic development being key issues.
• Governance Deficit: LWE-affected areas often suffer from inadequate governance, administration, and service delivery.
  • Weak or corrupt state institutions leave a vacuum that LWE groups can exploit.
  • These groups also use violence and intimidation to disrupt democratic processes, including elections, local governance, and development schemes.
• Ideological Appeal: LWE groups claim to represent the interests of oppressed and exploited classes, promoting a radical ideology that rejects parliamentary democracy and advocates for armed revolution.
  • Drawing inspiration from Mao Zedong and the 1967 Naxalbari uprising, these groups may also have links to other extremist and separatist movements in India and abroad.
• Globalization and Cultural Displacement: The impacts of globalization, such as cultural changes and displacement, can cause feelings of dislocation and alienation.
  • Left-wing extremist movements may offer identity and purpose to individuals marginalized by global forces.
• Support Base: The Naxalite movement draws support from the landless, sharecroppers, agricultural laborers, Harijans, and tribals.
  • As long as these groups continue to face exploitation and social injustice, the Naxalite support base will persist.

The Challenges Posed by Naxalites to India:

The Naxalite movement presents several challenges to India's stability and development:

• Vulnerability to External Threats: Naxalite activities expose India's internal vulnerabilities, potentially inviting external threats.
  • The CPI (Maoist) has close ties with Northeast insurgent groups, many of which have links to external forces hostile to India.
  • The CPI (Maoist) has also expressed solidarity with Jammu and Kashmir terrorist groups.
• Impediments to Economic Development: Focusing on India's poor and marginalized regions, Naxalite activities hinder economic development efforts crucial for improving these areas' conditions.
  • Internal stability is essential for a nation's economic progress.
• Additional Internal Security Expenses: Scarce resources are diverted towards defense and internal security to counter Naxalite threats, which could be better utilized for social development initiatives.
• Adverse Impact on Governance: Naxalite domination in certain areas disrupts governance through violent tactics, such as killings, kidnappings, intimidation, and extortion.
  • This hampers the delivery of essential services to citizens in affected regions.

Steps Taken by the Government to Counter Left-Wing Extremism:

To tackle the challenges posed by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), the Indian government has implemented various strategies and initiatives:

• Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs): CAPF battalions and Naga Battalions (BNs) are deployed to support state police forces in LWE-affected areas, providing additional security and resources.
• Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme: The SRE scheme funds the recurring expenditures related to insurance, training, and operational needs of security forces, rehabilitation of surrendered LWE cadres, and awareness campaigns against violence.
• Review and Monitoring Mechanisms: The Ministry of Home Affairs regularly monitors the LWE situation at multiple levels through various review and monitoring mechanisms.
• Strengthening Intelligence Gathering: Intelligence capabilities at the central and state levels have been bolstered through measures like intelligence sharing via the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) and State Multi-Agency Centre (SMAC) on a 24/7 basis.
• Inter-state Coordination: Given the cross-border nature of Maoist operations, the government facilitates frequent meetings and interactions between officials from bordering LWE-affected districts to enhance inter-state coordination.
• Countering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs): As IEDs are a significant threat, the Home Ministry has developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on explosives, IEDs, and landmines in affected areas, which has been shared with stakeholders for implementation.
• Enhanced Air Support: State governments and CAPFs have received increased air support, including UAVs and helicopters, for anti-Naxal operations and casualty evacuations.

Progress and Impact of the Measures:

• Over the past eight years, India has witnessed a substantial decrease in left-wing extremism violence and its geographical spread, thanks to the government's comprehensive measures:
• The number of left-wing extremism-related incidents dropped significantly in 2022 compared to 2013, totaling 413.
• Left-wing extremism-related deaths also experienced a substantial decline, with a 75% reduction from 397 in 2013 to 98 in 2022.
• The year 2022 saw a 33% decrease in resultant deaths and a 68% decrease in security forces' casualties compared to 2021.

Way Forward:

• Effective Implementation of PESA Act: Ensure proper and complete implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) by issuing clear policy directives to empower gram sabhas.
  • Align the Act with the historical and traditional tribal way of life and address implementation gaps that Maoists exploit.
• Tribal Empowerment and Representation: Foster tribal leadership by providing platforms for their voices to be heard and increasing representation in local governance structures and political processes.
  • Address tribal communities' aspirations and ensure policies accommodate their unique needs and perspectives.
• Targeted Development Programs: Implement development programs addressing socio-economic issues faced by tribal communities, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Involve local communities in participatory decision-making processes for initiatives.
• Counter Maoist Propaganda: Develop communication strategies to expose the gap between Maoist rhetoric and actions.
  • Collaborate with local media, community leaders, and influencers to spread accurate information and counter misinformation.
• Negotiation and Conflict Resolution: Explore avenues for peaceful negotiation with moderate Maoist factions, identifying root causes of discontent and involving neutral mediators, civil society organizations, and respected community leaders in peacebuilding efforts.
• Human Rights Protection: Prioritize human rights protection in conflict zones, ensuring security measures align with the rule of law and minimizing collateral damage and civilian casualties.
• Long-term Strategic Planning: Develop a comprehensive, long-term strategy focused on sustainable development, social justice, and inclusive governance to address underlying issues contributing to the insurgency.

Conclusion

There is a widely acknowledged perspective that effectively addressing the Naxal issue requires a balanced approach involving both developmental and security measures. It's crucial not to solely consider it as a law and order challenge, as innocent tribal communities residing in remote forest areas often become targets of Naxal intimidation. Priority lies in re-establishing governance in Naxal-affected regions, fostering their development, and empowering marginalized communities to lead secure, dignified, and improved lives

Why is it in the News?

The climate crisis is far from “gender neutral” as women and men are affected differently by weather and climate and therefore need gender-sensitive information and services.

Context:

• As the climate crisis intensifies, its disproportionate impact on women and girls becomes more evident, particularly in poverty-stricken regions.
• This calls for a critical examination of the gender dimensions of climate change, recognizing women's increased vulnerabilities and the importance of incorporating gender perspectives in climate action strategies.
• By doing so, we can develop effective solutions that address the unique challenges faced by women, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation.

How Does Climate Change Impact Women?

• Rural Livelihood Dependence on Agriculture: In many regions, particularly rural India, women play a central role in agricultural activities, forming the backbone of their communities' livelihoods.
  • However, the effects of climate change, such as erratic rainfall, droughts, and floods, pose significant threats to crop yields, directly impacting food security and income for these women.
  • Compounded by limited access to essential resources like land, credit, and technology, women face heightened vulnerabilities in navigating climate-related risks.
• Health Risks Amplified by Climate Hazards: Women's health is uniquely susceptible to the challenges posed by climate change.
  • For instance, prolonged heatwaves increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including preterm birth and eclampsia.
  • Moreover, exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution exacerbates respiratory and cardiovascular diseases among women and unborn children, compromising their well-being.
• Gender Dynamics in Extreme Weather Events: The rise in the frequency of extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and cyclones, has profound implications, particularly for vulnerable populations.
  • Reports highlight that a significant portion of Indian districts are susceptible to such disasters, placing women and children at heightened risk.
  • Emerging studies underscore a concerning correlation between these natural calamities and incidents of gender-based violence against women.
  • Additionally, disruptions in water access due to climate-induced changes affect women's ability to engage in productive activities and access healthcare, intensifying their workload and compromising their overall welfare.
• Nutritional Challenges and Early Marriage: In regions prone to drought, women and girls face heightened risks of undernutrition due to food insecurity.
  • Data indicates that women residing in these areas are more likely to experience underweight conditions and are at a higher risk of entering early marriages, perpetuating cycles of poverty and gender inequality.

How to Empower Women in Climate Action?

• Rich Tradition of Environmental Stewardship: Throughout history, women have been integral to environmental conservation efforts.
  • Across various communities, they serve as primary custodians of natural resources, managing land, water, and forests with a deep-rooted understanding of sustainability.
  • Their traditional knowledge and practices are invaluable assets for fostering biodiversity conservation and promoting climate-resilient agricultural techniques.
• Boosting Agricultural Productivity and Food Security: Providing women farmers with equitable access to resources such as land, credit, and agricultural inputs unleashes their potential to enhance agricultural productivity and adapt to climate change.
  • Research indicates that closing the gender gap in agriculture could significantly increase crop yields and bolster food security.
  • Women's innate connection to smallholder farming systems enables them to innovate with cost-effective, environmentally friendly farming methods, thereby fostering resilience in agricultural practices.
• Key Players in Local Adaptation Strategies: Women are pivotal to the success of community-based adaptation efforts, which prioritize building resilience to climate change at the grassroots level.
  • Through women's groups and collectives like Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), communities mobilize, share knowledge, and implement adaptation measures.
  • These grassroots initiatives empower women to advocate for their rights in decision-making processes concerning natural resource management and climate resilience.
• Inspiring Role Models and Catalysts for Change: Women leaders in climate action serve as inspirations and role models, paving the way for future generations of environmentalists and activists.
  • Their prominence in climate solutions not only challenges gender norms but also encourages greater participation of women and girls in STEM fields and environmental leadership roles.
  • By highlighting women's contributions to climate action, these role models empower others to pursue careers and opportunities in climate science, policy, and advocacy, fostering a more inclusive and impactful approach to addressing climate change.

Action Needed to Address the Gender Implications of Climate Change:

• Immediate Protection Against Health Risks: Swift action is imperative to safeguard vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, outdoor laborers, children, and the elderly, from health risks exacerbated by extreme weather events like heat waves.
  • Local authorities must develop and implement comprehensive heatwave response plans, incorporating early warning systems, establishing cooling centers, and adapting work and school schedules to mitigate heat-related illnesses and fatalities.
• Improved Access to Safe Drinking Water: Climate-induced disruptions to water sources escalate water scarcity and endanger public health.
  • Immediate interventions are essential to enhance access to safe drinking water, particularly for women and girls responsible for water collection in many communities.
  • Investments in water infrastructure, rainwater harvesting systems, and water purification technologies are vital to alleviate the impacts of water scarcity on vulnerable populations.
• Climate-Resilient Urban Planning: Urban areas face escalating vulnerabilities to climate-related hazards, including heatwaves, flooding, and air pollution.
  • Urban planning strategies emphasizing green infrastructure—such as parks, green roofs, and tree-lined streets—can mitigate the urban heat island effect and minimize exposure to extreme temperatures.
  • Moreover, measures to enhance air quality, like reducing vehicular emissions and promoting clean energy technologies, are crucial for safeguarding public health, particularly for women and children susceptible to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
• Community-Centered Adaptation Efforts: Community-based adaptation initiatives, engaging local communities, including women's groups and grassroots organizations, are pivotal in bolstering resilience to climate change at the grassroots level.
  • These initiatives should prioritize the needs and aspirations of women and marginalized groups, empowering them in decision-making processes regarding adaptation planning and implementation.
  • Investments in building the capacity of local institutions and community leaders can amplify the efficacy and sustainability of adaptation endeavors.
• Gender-Inclusive Climate Policies: National and sub-national climate policies must integrate gender-responsive approaches tailored to the distinct needs and priorities of women and girls.
  • Recognizing women as agents of change and empowering their participation in climate decision-making at all levels is essential.
  • Gender mainstreaming in climate policies ensures inclusivity, equity, and effectiveness in tackling the underlying drivers of vulnerability and inequality.

Conclusion

The disparities and vulnerabilities experienced by women and girls underscore the urgent need for inclusive and gender-responsive strategies in climate adaptation and mitigation endeavors.

By empowering women, we not only bolster resilience but also unlock innovative solutions crucial for combating the climate crisis. Thus, the integration of gender perspectives into climate action plans is imperative for forging a sustainable and equitable future for all

Why is it in the News?

The government introduced revised Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) Regulations, set to be implemented on June 1, 2024, but faced opposition from airline owners, prompting the DGCA to indefinitely defer the deadline.

Context:

• The aviation sector in India faces a pivotal moment, balancing rapid growth with pressing safety issues.
• The remarks from the Union Minister and the DGCA, highlighting safety as paramount, seem at odds with ongoing safety lapses.
• Given the significance of safety measures, it's imperative to examine safety protocols, parameters, challenges, and regulatory shortcomings.

Key Provisions in the Revised FDTL Regulations of January 2024:

• Extended Weekly Rest Periods for flight crew: The revised regulations mandate increased weekly rest periods from 36 hours to 48 hours for flight crew, thus ensuring sufficient time for recovery from cumulative fatigue.
• Night Duty: The definition of night has been amended, and it now covers the period of 0000-0600 hours in the revised regulations vis-à-vis the period of 0000-0500 hours under the previous regulations.
  • This enhancement of one hour during the early morning will ensure adequate rest and also align the night duty period, which encompasses the Window of Circadian Low (WOCL) from 0200-0600 hours, i.e. the time during which the circadian body clock cycle is at its lowest in terms of alertness.
• Maximum Flight Time, Maximum Flight Duty Periods, and Number of Landings during Night: The revised regulations have taken into consideration different types of operations across time zones.
  • The maximum flight time & maximum flight duty period for flight operations encroaching night have been restricted to 8 hours flight time & 10 hours flight duty period, respectively, and the number of landings has been limited to only two landings as compared to the maximum permissible 6 landings under previous regulations during night operations, thus enhancing flight safety.
• Quarterly fatigue reports: In addition, DGCA has mandated that all airline operators submit quarterly fatigue reports after analysis, including the Action Taken on such reports.
  • Further, it has been stipulated that the fatigue reports shall follow a non-punitive and confidentiality policy.

What is the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS)?

• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is preparing to introduce a novel approach, known as the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS), to handle fatigue among flight crew.
• The recent revision of Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) regulations marks the initial phase of FRMS implementation in India.
• FRMS represents a data-driven strategy aimed at enhancing the monitoring and documentation of flight crew fatigue.
• The successful integration of FRMS hinges upon collaborative efforts from various stakeholders within the aviation sector, including regulators, airline operators, and flight crew, who must demonstrate readiness to embrace this new framework.
• This transition necessitates rigorous oversight, meticulous record-keeping, and comprehensive reporting to uphold compliance with the FRMS framework.

The Imperative for Implementing Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS):

• The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has mandated the adoption of the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) to address safety concerns.
• Extensive analysis of accidents and serious incidents attributed to fatigue has underscored the critical role of adequate rest and sleep deprivation in impairing pilots' reaction times.
  • Countries like Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom prioritize flight crew fatigue management and emphasize regular rest periods to mitigate cumulative fatigue.
  • These nations implement a system where pilots receive two days off each week to reset their circadian rhythm and recuperate from prolonged flying hours, with additional rest upon returning from long-haul flights.
• In contrast, existing Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) regulations afford pilots only 30 days of annual leave and one day off per week, which pales in comparison to the leisure time granted to ground personnel.
• Airline schedules often overlook human performance limitations, neglecting the fact that pilots, like any other individuals, require time with their families.
  • Thus, providing two days off per week is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Other concerns in the aviation sector: