In News:

Human Rights Day 2024 celebrated every year on 10th December is dedicated to promote protection of fundamental rights and freedom of all individuals.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: Promote and protect human rights and freedoms worldwide.
• Theme (2024): “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now” – highlights the importance of immediate action to protect and uphold human rights globally.

Historical Significance:

• Commemorates: The adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the UN General Assembly in 1948.
• UN Resolution: Established by UN Resolution 423 (V) in 1950.
• First Observance: December 10, 1950.
• Father of Human Rights Day: Eleanor Roosevelt, for her pivotal role in drafting the UDHR.

Key Highlights:

• The UDHR:
  • Adopted in 1948, it defines fundamental human rights for all individuals.
  • Comprises 30 articles, addressing rights such as freedom, equality, and access to education, healthcare, and fair employment.
• Role of the UN: UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC): A body under the UN responsible for monitoring and promoting human rights worldwide, comprising 47 member states.
• Human Rights Day Focus in 2024:
  • Emphasizes human rights education, particularly among the youth.
  • Addresses emerging challenges like cybercrimes, AI impacts, and climate change.
  • Reaffirms the importance of safeguarding human dignity globally.

Human Rights Declared by UDHR:

1. Right to freedom and equality
2. Right to life, liberty, and security
3. Freedom from slavery and torture
4. Right to recognition before the law
5. Equal protection under the law
6. Right to a fair trial
7. Right to privacy and protection from attacks
8. Right to work and fair employment
9. Right to rest and leisure
10. Right to education
11. Right to an adequate standard of living
12. Right to participate in government and cultural activities

In News:

The National Panchayat Awards 2024 celebrated the remarkable contributions of 45 Panchayats from across India for their role in driving sustainable and inclusive development in rural areas. The awards were presented on 11th December 2024 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, with President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) presiding over the event.

Key Highlights:

• Categories of Awards: The awards focus on rural governance, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Localization of SDGs (LSDGs).
  • Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar (DDUPSVP): Recognizes top-performing Gram Panchayats across 9 thematic areas like health, water, sanitation, and governance.
  • Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar: Awarded to the best Panchayats based on overall excellence across all LSDG themes.
  • Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar: Honors Panchayats for contributions to renewable energy.
  • Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar: Awarded to Panchayats achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
  • Panchayat Kshamta Nirmaan Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar: Recognizes institutions supporting Panchayats in implementing LSDGs.
• Notable Achievements:
  • Women’s Leadership: 42% of the award-winning Panchayats were led by women.
  • States with Top Performers: States like Tripura, Odisha, and Maharashtra were prominently recognized for their achievements, especially in sustainability efforts like carbon neutrality and renewable energy adoption.
  • Prize Distribution: A total of ?46 crore was awarded to the 45 winners, with funds directly transferred to their accounts.

Objectives:

The National Panchayat Awards aim to:

• Promote rural development through effective Panchayat governance.
• Encourage competition among Panchayats for improving public services and infrastructure.
• Recognize excellence in implementing sustainable development practices.

Key Themes of the Awards:

The awards are aligned with 9 LSDG themes that contribute to achieving 17 SDGs:

1. Poverty-Free and Enhanced Livelihoods
2. Healthy Panchayat
3. Child-Friendly Panchayat
4. Water-Sufficient Panchayat
5. Clean and Green Panchayat
6. Self-Sufficient Infrastructure
7. Socially Just and Secured Panchayat
8. Panchayat with Good Governance
9. Women-Friendly Panchayat

The National Panchayat Awards 2024 underscore the significant role of Panchayats in shaping rural India by focusing on inclusive and sustainable development. The awards also promote the importance of localized governance in achieving SDGs, encouraging other Panchayats to adopt best practices and contribute to India's overall development goals.

In News:

To encourage domestic production of petroleum and other mineral oils, along with private investment in these sectors to reduce import dependence, the Rajya Sabha passed the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024.

Key Details:

• Objective:
  • Encourage domestic petroleum production.
  • Reduce import dependence by promoting private investment in the oil sector.
• Key Amendments:
  • Delinking petroleum from mining:
    • The Bill separates petroleum and mineral oil production from mining activities.
    • The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act, 1948, is amended to focus on mineral oils, distinct from the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
  • Expanded Definition of Mineral Oils:
    • Includes hydrocarbons in various forms (natural gas, crude oil, petroleum, coal bed methane, and shale gas/oil).
    • Excludes coal, lignite, and helium from the definition (falling under the Mines and Minerals Act).
  • Petroleum Lease:
    • Replaces the term "mining lease" with "petroleum lease."
    • Covers activities such as exploration, development, production, and transportation of mineral oils.
  • Private Investment:
    • Provisions to attract private investment by clarifying rules for petroleum leases.
    • Current mining leases remain valid without altering terms to the lessee's disadvantage.
  • Decriminalization and Penalties:
    • Replaces criminal punishment with financial penalties.
    • Fines can go up to Rs. 25 Lakh, with additional penalties for ongoing violations.
  • Rule-making Power of Central Government:
    • Expands the Centre's authority over petroleum lease regulations, conservation, royalties, mergers, facility sharing, environmental protection, and dispute resolution.
• Significance of the Bill:
  • Energy Access and Security: Ensures energy security by boosting domestic production.
  • Attracting Investment: Creates a conducive environment for private sector investment.
  • Environmental Safeguards: Provisions to control carbon emissions and promote renewable energy in oilfields.
• Opposition Criticism:
  • State Rights on Mining: Concerns raised by opposition parties, particularly the DMK, about the reduction of state control over resource taxation (taxing mineral rights).
  • Impact on Federal Balance: States traditionally manage mining rights under the Constitution’s State List (Entry 50). The Bill may shift control to the Union List (Entry 53), creating constitutional concerns.
  • Environmental Concerns:
    • Opposition figures like P.P. Suneer (CPI) argue for prioritizing public companies like ONGC, fearing privatization may worsen environmental governance.
• Adjudication of Disputes:
  • Appeals against penalty decisions will be handled by the Appellate Tribunal, as per the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006.
• Broader Significance:
  • Energy Independence: Reduces reliance on fuel imports, fostering energy security and economic stability.
  • Regulation: Strengthens the enforcement mechanism for petroleum operations while encouraging private participation.

Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB):

• Formation: Established under the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006.
• Functions: Regulates refining, transportation, distribution, storage, marketing, and sale of petroleum products and natural gas.
• Role in the Bill: Ensures competitive markets for gas and handles appeals regarding regulatory decisions.

In News:

The world is facing an unprecedented crisis with nearly half of all children – about 1 billion – living in countries that face a high risk of climate and environmental hazards, the UNICEF’s State of the World’s Children 2024 (SOWC-2024) report, said.

Key Highlights:

Environmental Hazards and Children’s Health:

• Children face an increasingly unpredictable and hazardous environment due to climate change, environmental crises, and frontier technologies.
• Nearly 1 billion children live in countries facing high risks from climate and environmental hazards.
• Children’s developing bodies are especially vulnerable to pollution, extreme weather, and environmental hazards.
• Air pollution, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events harm children's respiratory health, increase the spread of diseases like malaria and dengue, and impact food security and access.

Impact of Climate Change:

• Climate destabilization, biodiversity loss, and pollution are intensifying globally.
• Climate-related disasters (e.g., floods) affect water supplies, causing waterborne diseases, a leading cause of death in children under five.
• Extreme weather events, such as floods, can cause trauma, anxiety, and displacement for children.
• By the 2050s, more children will be exposed to extreme climate hazards compared to the 2000s.
• School closures, affecting 400 million children since 2022 due to extreme weather, disrupt education and hinder economic growth.

Projections for Child Survival and Life Expectancy:

• Newborn survival rates: Projected to rise by nearly 4 percentage points to over 98% globally by the 2050s.
• Probability of surviving to age 5: Expected to increase to 99.5%.
• Life expectancy: Expected to rise to 81 years for girls and 76 years for boys by the 2050s.

Child Population Trends by 2050:

• Global child population expected to stabilize at 2.3 billion by the 2050s.
• South Asia, Eastern/Southern Africa, and West/Central Africa will have the largest child populations, facing significant challenges in meeting children’s basic needs.
• These regions also face climate risks, inadequate digital infrastructure, and socio-economic challenges.

Technological Advancements:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI), neurotechnology, renewable energy, and vaccine breakthroughs could significantly improve childhood well-being.
• Digitalization: While it can empower children, it also exposes them to online risks, including sexual exploitation and abuse.

Socio-Economic Conditions and Inequality:

• 23% of children projected to live in low-income countries by 2050, a significant increase from 11% in the 2000s.
• GDP per capita in East Asia, Pacific, and South Asia expected to more than double from the 2020s to the 2050s.
• Growing inequalities between high- and low-income countries, particularly in terms of digital access and infrastructure.

Urbanization and Child Welfare:

• By the 2050s, nearly 60% of children globally will live in urban areas, up from 44% in the 2000s.
• Ensuring healthier and more secure urban environments is critical for improving future childhoods.
• Over 95% of people in high-income countries are connected to the internet, compared to just 26% in low-income countries, exacerbating inequalities.

Key Takeaways:

• Children are facing a more hazardous environment than ever before, influenced by climate change, technological developments, and demographic shifts.
• Proactive measures are needed to mitigate environmental risks, promote digital inclusion, and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for children globally.

In News:

India continues to make significant strides in intellectual property filings, ranking among the top 10 countries for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs.

India’s Performance in Global Intellectual Property (IP) Filings:

• Overall Growth: India continues to make significant strides in intellectual property filings, ranking among the top 10 countries for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs.
• Patent Applications: India recorded a +15.7% growth in patent applications in 2023, marking its fifth consecutive year of double-digit growth, placing it among the top contributors to global patent filings.
• Trademark Filings: India ranks 4th globally in trademark filings, reflecting the country’s growing focus on brand protection.
• Industrial Designs: India saw a 36.4% surge in industrial design applications, emphasizing creativity and design innovation.

India’s Global Patent Ranking:

• Global Rank: India ranks 6th globally for patent applications with 64,480 filings in 2023.
• Resident Filings: For the first time, over half (55.2%) of India’s patent applications were filed by residents, highlighting growing domestic innovation.
• Patent Grants: A 149.4% increase in granted patents in 2023 underscores the efficiency of India’s patent office and the rising quality of applications.

Key Metrics and Trends in Patents:

• Patent-to-GDP Ratio: India’s patent-to-GDP ratio grew from 144 in 2013 to 381 in 2023, signaling a knowledge-driven economy.
• Sectoral Diversity: India’s patent filings span diverse sectors, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, IT, and renewable energy, showcasing the broad scope of innovation.

Surge in Industrial Design Applications:

• Growth Rate: A 36.4% increase in industrial design filings in 2023, reflecting a shift towards value-added industries focused on product design and functionality.
• Leading Sectors: Key sectors driving design filings include textiles, accessories, tools, machines, and health & cosmetics.
• Manufacturing Transformation: This growth signals India’s transition from basic manufacturing to a more design-driven, innovation-focused ecosystem.

Trademark Filings:

• Global Rank: India ranks 4th globally in trademark filings with a 6.1% increase over the previous year.
• Resident Filings: Nearly 90% of trademark filings in India were made by domestic entities, highlighting a strong focus on brand protection.
• Active Trademarks: India now has over 3.2 million active trademarks, the second-largest in the world, reflecting a competitive and dynamic domestic marketplace.

Sectoral Trends in Trademarks:

• Leading Sectors: Health (21.9%), agriculture (15.3%), and clothing (12.8%) were the top sectors for trademark filings, underscoring India’s leadership in pharmaceuticals, food production, and fashion.
• Global Expansion: The rise in trademark filings also mirrors the increasing global demand for Indian products and services.

India’s Contribution to Global IP Growth:

• Global Trend: In 2023, a record 3.55 million patent applications were filed worldwide, with India contributing significantly to this surge, particularly in emerging markets.
• Local Innovation Focus: India’s rising resident filings in patents and trademarks point to a shift towards local innovation, with more Indian businesses and startups protecting their intellectual property.

Government Initiatives Fueling IP Growth:

• National IPR Policy: Launched in 2016, this policy fosters innovation, improves IP awareness, and supports domestic IP development.
  • Key Measures: Modernization of IP offices, improvements in procedural requirements, and IP education initiatives.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: Government campaigns like Atmanirbhar Bharat have supported local innovation and made Indian businesses more IP-conscious.
• Startup India & Atal Innovation Mission: These initiatives have further strengthened India’s innovation ecosystem by promoting entrepreneurship, research, and technological advancement.
  • Startup India: Over 1,49,000 recognized startups as of September 2024.
  • Atal Innovation Mission: More than 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools and 3,500+ startups incubated across India.

In News:

• India's annual hidden costs from agrifood systems total $1.3 trillion, the third-largest globally, after China ($1.8 trillion) and the US ($1.4 trillion).
• These costs are mainly driven by unhealthy dietary patterns leading to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Major Contributors to Hidden Costs:

• Unhealthy Diets: Over 73% of India’s hidden costs stem from unhealthy dietary habits, including:
  • Excessive consumption of processed foods and additives ($128 billion).
  • Low intake of plant-based foods, fruits, and beneficial fatty acids ($846 billion).
• These dietary risks contribute to a significant health burden, increasing the prevalence of NCDs and reducing labor productivity.

Global Context:

• Global hidden costs of agrifood systems amount to $12 trillion annually.
• 70% of these costs (~$8.1 trillion) arise from unhealthy dietary patterns, which include high intakes of sugar, salt, and processed foods, contributing to diseases and economic losses.

Health Impacts:

• The report identifies 13 dietary risk factors that contribute to NCDs, including insufficient intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and excessive sodium, with varying effects across different agrifood systems.

Environmental and Social Costs:

• Environmental Costs: High costs from unsustainable agricultural practices, including greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen runoff. In some agrifood systems, environmental costs can reach up to 20% of GDP.
• Social Costs: High poverty rates among agrifood workers and undernourishment in systems like protracted crises and traditional agrifood systems contribute significantly to the hidden costs.

India’s Agrifood System Profile:

• India’s agrifood system faces significant challenges related to low wages, poor productivity, and poverty among agrifood workers, driven by distributional failures.
• Climate Change and Environmental Degradation: Issues like droughts, floods, and soil degradation threaten food security and agricultural sustainability in India.

Recommendations for Transformative Change:

• True Cost Accounting: Implementing this method can help better capture hidden costs and enable more informed decision-making for a sustainable agrifood system.
• Healthier Diets: Policies to make nutritious food more affordable and accessible to reduce health-related hidden costs.
• Sustainability Incentives: Encouraging practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, harmful land-use changes, and biodiversity loss, using labelling, certification, and industry standards.
• Consumer Empowerment: Providing accessible information about the environmental, social, and health impacts of food choices, ensuring even vulnerable households benefit from healthier options.

India’s Path Forward:

• India has several ongoing initiatives for sustainable agriculture, including:
  • National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA).
  • Eat Right Initiative.
  • Digital Agriculture Mission (DAM).
• However, challenges like climate change, soil degradation, and low productivity among smallholder farmers hinder progress toward sustainable food systems.

Key Focus Areas for India’s Agrifood Systems:

• Support for Smallholder Farmers: Enhancing access to technology, markets, and financial services for marginalized farmers.
• Sustainable Practices: Adoption of water-efficient practices, soil health restoration, and environmentally friendly farming methods.
• Collaboration with International Agencies: Cooperation with FAO, WFP, and others to strengthen agricultural reforms and support smallholder farmers.

In News:

• Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan inaugurated the 2nd edition of the Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) on November 8, 2024, in New Delhi.
• The two-day festival engages global and Indian experts, corporations, academicians, and non-profits focusing on India’s national security, foreign policy, military history, and military heritage.

Launch of Project Shaurya Gatha:

• Project ‘Shaurya Gatha’ was launched to conserve and promote India’s military heritage.
• The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Military Affairs and USI of India, focuses on education and tourism to highlight India’s military history and valor.
• Publications Released:
  • General Chauhan released important military publications:
    • "Because of this: A History of the Indo-Pak Air War December 1971" by Air Marshal Vikram Singh (Retd).
    • "Valour and Honour", a joint publication by the Indian Army and USI of India.
    • "War-wounded, Disabled Soldiers, and Cadets", a joint publication by USI and the War Wounded Federation.
• Festival's Significance:
  • The festival addresses the gap in public awareness regarding India’s military heritage and security concerns.
  • It aims to enhance understanding of India’s military traditions, security issues, and the country’s efforts toward self-reliance in military capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

In News:

The 5th Edition of Vietnam Indian Bilateral Army Exercise “VINBAX 2024” had commenced at Ambala.

Key Participants

• Indian Army: A contingent of 47 personnel from the Corps of Engineers, along with personnel from other arms and services.
• Vietnam People's Army: A similar-sized contingent representing Vietnam's military forces.
• Bi-Service Participation: For the first time, personnel from both Army and Air Force of India and Vietnam are participating.

Objectives of VINBAX 2024

• Joint Military Capability Enhancement:
  • Focus on enhancing joint military capabilities of both countries, specifically in the deployment of Engineer Companies and Medical Teams.
• Peacekeeping Operations (UN Context):
  • The exercise prepares both sides for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (PKO), under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which deals with peace enforcement actions.
• Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR):
  • The exercise includes a 48-hour validation exercise with demonstrations of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
  • The HADR component will include equipment displays to assess the technical standards of both contingents while executing disaster relief and humanitarian missions in peacekeeping contexts.

Key Activities & Events

• Field Training Exercise: The exercise includes a field training component, with a larger scope than previous editions, focusing on:
  • Engineer Tasks.
  • Medical Support.
  • Disaster Relief Operations.
• Validation Exercise: A critical 48-hour validation exercise to test the preparedness of the two forces in providing HADR, including:
  • Demonstrations of disaster relief operations.
  • Equipment displays to showcase capabilities in managing and executing peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.
• Cultural Exchange: The exercise will also provide an opportunity for cultural exchange, where the troops will learn about the social and cultural heritage of each other.

Background of VINBAX

• Inception: VINBAX was first conducted in 2018 as part of the growing defense cooperation between India and Vietnam. The inaugural edition took place in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
• Alternating Locations: The exercise alternates between India and Vietnam every year.
• Previous Editions:
  • 2023 Edition: Held in Vietnam.
  • Current Edition: This is the 5th edition, conducted in India (Ambala and Chandimandir).

Indian Defense Engagements in Southeast Asia

• India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise (Garud Shakti 2024): Held from November 1-12, 2024, in Cijantung, Jakarta, strengthening ties with Indonesian special forces.
• Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX 2024): Held from October 23-29, 2024, in Visakhapatnam, focusing on maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

In News:

India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.

India's Ranking and Score:

• Rank: India ranks 176th out of 180 countries.
• Score: 45.5 out of 100.
• Context: India is listed among the five "worst performers," alongside Kiribati (180), Turkey (179), Iraq (178), and Micronesia (177).

Key Factors Affecting India’s Ranking:

• Inefficient Land Management: The main contributing factor to India's low ranking.
• Threats to Biodiversity: Rising threats due to habitat loss, deforestation, climate change, and pollution.
• Deforestation: Between 2001 and 2019, India lost 23,300 sq. km of tree cover, exacerbating biodiversity loss.

Focus Areas of the Nature Conservation Index (NCI):

• Land Management: Inefficient land use practices, with 53% of land converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
• Biodiversity Threats: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and declining populations of marine and terrestrial species.
• Governance and Capacity: Challenges in enforcement of laws and governance structures that support conservation.
• Future Trends: India faces both opportunities and challenges, given its high population density and rapid development.

Key Findings:                                    

• Land Conversion and Urbanization: High rates of land conversion (53%) for development purposes, contributing to habitat loss.
• Soil Pollution: Issues with pesticide use and soil pollution (low nitrogen index of 0.77), affecting soil health.
• Marine Conservation: Only 0.2% of national waterways and none within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are protected.
• Deforestation Impact: Loss of 23,300 sq. km of forest between 2001-2019.
• Biodiversity Decline: Despite 40% of marine species and 65% of terrestrial species in protected areas, biodiversity continues to decline—67.5% of marine species and 46.9% of terrestrial species face population decreases.

Marine and Terrestrial Conservation:

• Marine Areas: Need for greater investment in marine conservation, as India's marine protected areas (MPAs) are limited.
• Protected Areas: While 7.5% of India’s terrestrial area is protected, significant threats like climate change and habitat fragmentation persist.

Biodiversity and Climate Change:

• Climate Change Risks: Impacts on vulnerable ecosystems, including coral reefs and alpine regions, further threaten biodiversity.
• Population Growth: India’s rapidly growing population (one of the highest in the world) places constant pressure on natural resources and ecosystems.

Illegal Wildlife Trade:

• Global Ranking: India is the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trader globally, with an annual trade worth approximately £15 billion.
• Call for Action: Stronger enforcement of wildlife protection laws and international cooperation are crucial to combat illegal wildlife trade.

SDGs and India’s Conservation Challenges:

• SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land): India faces significant challenges in meeting these Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in protecting marine life and terrestrial ecosystems.

Recommendations for Improvement:

• Stronger Political Will: Political commitment is essential for passing laws that promote sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.
• Enforcement and Funding: Increased funding for environmental initiatives and better enforcement of conservation policies are necessary to address the conservation challenges.
• Sustainable Development: Integrating sustainable land use practices and improving governance structures for conservation are key areas for focus.

In News:

• The 2024 edition of the IAEA’s Climate Change and Nuclear Power report has been released, highlighting the need for a significant increase in investment to achieve goals for expanding nuclear power.
• The new report was launched last week on the margins of the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) in Brazil.

Key Highlights:

• Nuclear Power's Role in Climate Change Mitigation:
  • Nuclear energy is gaining global interest as nations seek to enhance energy security and decarbonize economies.
  • To meet net-zero emissions by 2050, nuclear power is projected to play a pivotal role, with a projected capacity increase of 2.5 times the current level by mid-century in the IAEA's high case scenario.
• Investment Needs for Nuclear Expansion:
  • Annual investment required to meet the IAEA's high case scenario (2050 nuclear capacity) is USD 125 billion, a significant increase from USD 50 billion annually from 2017-2023.
  • If the aspirational goal to triple nuclear capacity (as pledged by over 20 countries at COP28) is to be met, USD 150 billion annually would be necessary.
  • Challenges in Financing: Upfront capital for nuclear power plants is expensive, posing challenges, especially in market-driven economies and developing countries.
• Private Sector and Multilateral Support:
  • The private sector will need to play a larger role in financing nuclear projects.
  • The IAEA is engaging with multilateral development banks to improve financing options for developing countries to invest in nuclear energy.
  • Private finance initiatives: In September 2024, 14 major financial institutions signaled readiness to help fund nuclear newbuild projects.
• Nuclear Financing at Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM):
  • The IAEA report was launched during the 15th CEM in Brazil, a high-level forum for advancing clean energy technologies.
  • Key stakeholders from Brazil, the IAEA, the International Energy Agency (IEA), and the U.S. discussed strategies for securing nuclear power financing, especially in the context of COP29 (2024) where clean energy financing will be a key focus.
• Nuclear Energy in the EU’s Sustainable Financing:
  • The EU taxonomy for sustainable activities now includes nuclear power, facilitating the issuance of green bonds for nuclear projects in Finland and France (2023).
  • EDF received €4 billion in green bonds and around €7 billion in green loans (2022-2024).
• Investment in Nuclear Power:
  • To meet global climate goals, nuclear power capacity must increase by 1.8 times by 2035.
  • Effective financing mechanisms are crucial to scale up nuclear power and develop the workforce and supply chains needed for the energy transition.
• Policy Reform and International Partnerships:
  • The report advocates for policy reforms and international partnerships to bridge the financing gap and accelerate nuclear power deployment, particularly in emerging markets and developing economies.
  • Focus on technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs), which could play a role in the energy transition.
• Key Areas to Support Nuclear Growth:
  • Robust regulatory frameworks and new delivery models are essential to unlock investments.
  • Development of skilled labor and effective stakeholder engagement is crucial for the expansion of nuclear energy.
• Energy System Modelling and Planning:
  • The IAEA’s energy system modelling tools assist countries like Brazil in planning nuclear power projects, including cost analyses for electricity generation and financing strategies.

Role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):

• Mandate: The IAEA is the leading international body for promoting the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy and technologies.
• Functions:
  • Nuclear safeguards: Ensuring nuclear activities remain peaceful and preventing the diversion of nuclear materials for weapons purposes.
  • Assisting member states with technical support, knowledge sharing, and strengthening nuclear safety and security.
  • The IAEA also supports capacity-building and emergency response in case of nuclear or radiological incidents.
• Structure:
  • The IAEA General Conference is made up of all 178 member states, meeting annually to approve budgets and policies.
  • The Board of Governors (35 members) meets several times a year to oversee the agency's activities and appointments.
• Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
  • The IAEA is part of the United Nations family, reporting to both the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.

In News:

Egypt was officially declared ‘malaria-free’ by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Key Highlights:

• Egypt became the second country (after Cabo Verde) to be certified malaria-free in 2024.

• It is the fifth African country to achieve this milestone, joining Morocco, UAE, and Cabo Verde in the malaria-free list.
• WHO Certification Criteria:
  • A country is certified malaria-free if it can prove the Anopheles mosquito-borne malaria transmission chain has been broken for at least three years.
  • The country must also have the capacity to prevent the re-establishment of transmission.
• About Malaria:
  • Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
  • It is a life-threatening disease primarily found in tropical countries.
  • Symptoms include fever, headache, and chills, which can be mild and difficult to diagnose.
  • Prevention mainly involves vector control interventions, and treatment involves early diagnosis and use of antimalarial drugs.

In News:

The 2nd Indian Lighthouse Festival was held with the aim of promoting lighthouse tourism and celebrating India’s maritime legacy.

Strategic Importance of the Lighthouse Projects

• The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) has invested significantly in developing lighthouses as tourist hubs. The festival marks a concerted effort to integrate tourism with the preservation of these iconic structures.
• Lighthouse tourism has witnessed a remarkable increase of over 400% in visitor numbers since 2014, as part of India's broader vision to promote the blue economy.
  • • From just 4 lakh visitors in 2014, the footfall surged to 16 lakh in 2023-24, with over 9 lakh tourists already in the first half of FY 2024-25.

Key Projects and Announcements at the Festival

• New Lighthouses: The announcement of the two new lighthouses at Chaumuck and Dhamra along Odisha’s coastline is significant for enhancing coastal infrastructure and promoting maritime tourism in the state.
• Kalwan Reef Lighthouse: Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, this lighthouse is part of a broader effort to enhance maritime navigation and heritage conservation along India’s western coastline.
• Development of Coastal Communities: Highlighted the importance of empowering coastal communities, particularly those living around lighthouses, to preserve and promote these structures as national cultural icons. These communities are expected to play a crucial role in lighthouse preservation, as well as in tourism and local economic development.
• Paradip Port Initiatives: Additionally, major infrastructure projects at Paradip Port, such as a stacker-cum-reclaimer and a flyover bridge, were inaugurated to further bolster the port’s capabilities and enhance its role in maritime logistics. The Sagarmala Programme also continues to transform Paradip Port into a mega port with a projected handling capacity of 500 MTPA by 2047.

Economic and Employment Impact

The development of 75 iconic lighthouses across 9 coastal states and one Union Territory is not only aimed at tourism development but also focuses on job creation. As of 2024:

• More than 150 direct jobs and 500 indirect jobs have been created in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and local crafts, driven by the increasing footfall at these tourist destinations.
• The creation of modern amenities at these lighthouses, such as museums, amphitheaters, and children’s parks, has helped in transforming lighthouses into multifaceted tourism hubs that attract both domestic and international tourists.

Collaborative Efforts for Preservation and Promotion

• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encouraging collaboration between the government, local communities, and private stakeholders to develop and maintain lighthouses as sustainable tourist destinations.
• National Framework: A central association will be created to manage coastal societies surrounding lighthouses, enabling local communities to actively participate in their preservation, protection, and promotion.
• Cultural Integration: The event also underscored the need for integrating cultural heritage with tourism development, using the lighthouses as platforms to showcase local art, cuisine, and history.

In News:

The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) will take place in Cali, Colombia, from October 21, 2024. This marks the first gathering since the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) in 2022.

About Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

• Adopted in 1992, the CBD is the most comprehensive international treaty focused on biodiversity conservation, the sustainable use of natural resources, and the fair sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources. It has been ratified by 196 countries, making it a key global instrument for biodiversity governance.

Key Objectives of the CBD

• Conservation of Biodiversity: Protecting genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.
• Sustainable Use of Resources: Ensuring resources are used in a way that does not deplete or degrade biodiversity.
• Fair Sharing of Benefits: Ensuring that benefits from genetic resources are shared equitably with countries of origin.

Notable Frameworks within CBD

• Nagoya Protocol (2010): Establishes a framework for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the utilization of genetic resources.
• Cartagena Protocol (2000): Regulates the transboundary movement of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)

• Adoption: The KMGBF was adopted at COP15 in 2022, following the Kunming Declaration.
• Targets: The framework includes 23 targets for 2030 and 4 global goals for 2050, aimed at reversing biodiversity loss and promoting sustainability.
  • Notably, the 30x30 Target aims for 30% of the world’s land and oceans to be conserved by 2030. This is a key agenda item at COP16.
  • The framework also emphasizes equitable access to genetic resources and the sharing of benefits from their use (Target 13).

Challenges and Issues at COP16

• Benefit-Sharing from Digital Sequence Information (DSI):
  • A key issue is the fair sharing of benefits from digital sequence information (DSI) on genetic resources. The adoption of a global mechanism for this issue is still pending, as negotiations between developed and developing countries remain unresolved.
    • Developed nations advocate for unrestricted access to genetic materials in exchange for voluntary contributions to a global fund.
    • Developing nations seek a more equitable system, aligned with the CBD's principles of fair benefit-sharing.
• 30x30 Target Progress:
  • The 30x30 target, which aims to conserve 30% of land and oceans by 2030, is far from being met:
    • 17.5% of land and 8.4% of oceans are currently under protection.
    • Concerns persist about the effectiveness of these protected areas, as studies suggest they may not be sufficient for long-term biodiversity conservation.
• Financial Commitments (Target 19):
  • Developed countries have pledged $20 billion annually for biodiversity financing by 2025. However, progress is slow:
    • By September 2024, only $8.2 billion (41% of the target) had been committed.
    • COP16 will assess whether this target can be met, with further announcements expected.
• Implementation Gaps:
  • Countries are required to set national targets aligned with the KMGBF. As of COP16, only 100 parties have submitted their targets, and 30 countries have updated their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).
  • A significant implementation gap remains in translating these targets into concrete actions.

Focus Areas for COP16

• Strengthening the 30x30 Target:
  • COP16 will push for enhanced efforts to meet the 30x30 conservation goal. There is a need for better management and monitoring of protected areas to ensure they contribute to biodiversity preservation.
• Finalizing Benefit-Sharing Mechanism:
  • Countries will focus on finalizing the multilateral benefit-sharing mechanism for genetic resources and DSI. The goal is to ensure that countries benefiting from genetic resources share those benefits with the countries of origin, addressing the issue of biopiracy and ensuring equitable access.
• Financial Commitment and Tracking:
  • The financial shortfall for biodiversity conservation will be a critical discussion point. Effective monitoring of the biodiversity finance tracker will be needed to ensure that developed countries meet their $20 billion/year commitment.
• Addressing Implementation Gaps:
  • There is a need to enhance monitoring and reporting mechanisms, improve national strategies, and align financial support with on-ground conservation efforts.

In News:

• The ‘eShram-One Stop Solution’ will be launched on 21 October 2024 by the Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports.
• Objective: To provide easy access to various social security and welfare schemes for unorganized workers in India.

Key Features

• Mediator Platform: The eShram-One Stop Solution will act as an intermediary to facilitate the integration of multiple government schemes for unorganized workers, ensuring efficient access to services and support.
• Information Integration: It will integrate data on beneficiaries across various social security and welfare programs meant for unorganized workers, providing a single point of access.
• Target Group: Aimed at unorganized workers, including daily wage earners, migrants, and others who do not have regular formal employment.

Benefits

• Awareness & Accessibility: The platform will make unorganized workers aware of various government schemes tailored to their needs, helping them access benefits more easily.
• Effective Scheme Implementation: The eShram-One Stop Solution will aid in the identification and implementation of welfare schemes for faster saturation and coverage.

Integration with Existing Schemes

• 12 Integrated Schemes: Currently, 12 social security schemes from different ministries/departments have already been mapped with eShram.

eShram’s Progress So Far

• Launch: eShram was launched on 26 August 2021.
• Achievements: Over 30 crore unorganized workers have been enrolled, highlighting the widespread impact and popularity of the initiative among the target population.

In News:

India to seek WHO certification for eliminating disease.

Overview of Kala-Azar (Visceral Leishmaniasis)

• Cause: Kala-azar is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani, transmitted by the bite of infected female sandflies (Phlebotomus argentipes in India).
• Symptoms: Includes irregular fevers, weight loss, swelling of the spleen and liver, severe anaemia. If untreated, it is fatal in over 95% of cases.
• Affected Areas: Historically, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and parts of Uttar Pradesh report the highest number of cases, with Bihar alone accounting for over 70% of India's cases.

India's Achievement in Kala-Azar Control

• Current Status:
  • India has managed to maintain Kala-azar case numbers below 1 per 10,000 population for two consecutive years.
  • This meets the WHO's criteria for elimination certification.
• 2023 and 2024 Statistics:
  • 2023: 595 cases and 4 deaths.
  • 2024 (so far): 339 cases and 1 death.

WHO Certification for Elimination

• WHO's Target: The World Health Organization aims to eliminate Kala-azar as a public health problem by 2030.
• Elimination Criteria: A country can be certified when:
  • Local transmission is interrupted for a specified period.
  • There is a system in place to prevent re-emergence of the disease.
• Global Context: Bangladesh is the first country to have eliminated Kala-azar, receiving WHO certification in October 2024, after reporting fewer than 1 case per 10,000 people for three consecutive years.

India's Kala-Azar Elimination Strategies

• National Health Policy (2002): Initially set the target to eliminate Kala-azar by 2010, revised multiple times, and is now aiming for 2030.
• Key Strategies:
  • Active Case Detection: Identification and treatment of all cases.
  • Vector Control: Targeting sandfly breeding grounds through insecticides and environmental management.
  • Community Awareness: Educating the public on disease prevention and early diagnosis.
  • Improved Surveillance: Ensuring rapid diagnosis and treatment access, including the use of the rK39 diagnostic kit.
  • Integrated Vector Management: Combining insecticide spraying with environmental changes to reduce sandfly populations.

Challenges and Areas of Focus

• Root Causes: Persistent issues like poverty, inadequate sanitation, and malnutrition contribute to the spread of Kala-azar, particularly in rural, impoverished areas.
• Long-term Solutions:
  • Strengthen vector control and improve sanitation.
  • Address socio-economic factors like poverty and displacement.
  • Invest in research for vaccines and new treatments.

Public Health Impact and the Way Forward

• Elimination Milestone: If India continues to reduce cases, it will join Bangladesh in eliminating Kala-azar as a public health threat.
• Sustaining Gains:
  • Surveillance and quick response to new cases remain critical.
  • Expand access to rapid diagnostic tools and effective anti-parasitic treatments.
  • Focus on inter-sectoral convergence, integrating efforts from various government sectors, including health, sanitation, and housing.

In News:

Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr was held in Goa from October 2024.

Naseem-Al-Bahr Exercise Overview

• Indian and Omani Participants:
  • Indian Navy: INS Trikand (warship) and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
  • Royal Navy of Oman: Vessel Al Seeb.

• Initiation: Launched in 1993, marking a long-standing strategic partnership between India and Oman.
• Structure: The exercise is conducted in two phases:
  • Harbour Phase:
    • Professional Interactions: Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE), planning conferences.
    • Social & Sports Engagements: Informal activities to foster mutual understanding.
  • Sea Phase:
    • Naval Operations:
      • Gun firings at surface inflatable targets.
      • Close-range anti-aircraft firings.
      • Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS).
    • Helicopter Operations: INS Trikand’s helicopter performed cross-deck landings and Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP) with RNOV Al Seeb.
    • Aircraft Support: Dornier aircraft provided Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data to enhance operational coordination.

Key Highlights of the 2024 Exercise

• Interoperability: The exercise focused on improving operational coordination and enhancing mutual understanding of naval practices.
• Cohesion: The Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb to further strengthen the bilateral relationship.

Strategic Significance

• Strengthening Ties: Naseem-Al-Bahr reaffirms the strong strategic relationship between India and Oman.
• Regional Collaboration: This exercise exemplifies India's growing collaboration with like-minded nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Broader Defence Relations:
  • Oman is the first GCC country to conduct such bilateral naval exercises with India.
  • Both countries also engage in other defence exercises:
    • Army: Al Najah.
    • Air Force: Eastern Bridge.

Trade Relations Between India and Oman (2022):

• Oil: India is the second-largest market for Oman's crude oil exports, following China.
• Non-oil Exports: India is Oman's fourth-largest market for non-oil exports, after UAE, US, and Saudi Arabia.
• Imports: India is the second-largest source of Oman's imports, following the UAE.
• Ongoing Trade Agreement: Both nations are currently negotiating a trade agreement to further boost bilateral economic cooperation.

In News:

Saudi Arabia Launches Musaned Digital Platform to Ensure Wage Protection for Foreign Workers.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose of Musaned:
  • Musaned is a digital platform launched by Saudi Arabia to ensure wage protection and improve working conditions for foreign workers, particularly those in domestic (household) employment.
  • The platform aims to safeguard workers' rights, create a stable working environment, and reduce illegal immigration.
• Coverage:
  • The platform benefits foreign workers from 10 African countries (including Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya) and 9 Asian countries (including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka).
• Key Features:
  • Employment Contract Access: Workers can check and track their employment contracts and receive updates via the Musaned labour app.
  • Financial Transaction Tracking: The platform monitors financial transactions between employers and foreign workers, ensuring employers meet their contractual obligations.
  • Integration with Benefits: Musaned can be linked to contract insurance and health benefits, providing additional protection for workers.
• Objectives:
  • Wage Protection: Ensures timely and fair wages for foreign workers.
  • Human Rights Protection: Promotes human rights by holding employers accountable for fulfilling their obligations.
  • Vision 2030 Alignment: Supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by improving the work environment and contributing to legal labor migration.
• Impact:
  • The platform is expected to help secure workers’ rights, especially for domestic workers, and provide a more transparent, accountable framework for employment relations in the country.

Musaned is a significant step by Saudi Arabia to enhance the security and welfare of foreign workers, aligning with the Kingdom's broader goals of economic reform and social development under Vision 2030. The platform will provide greater transparency, protect workers’ rights, and contribute to a more regulated and sustainable labor market.

In News:

• The Union Government has sanctioned three pilot projects under the National Green Hydrogen Mission to explore the use of green hydrogen in steel production.
  • The initiative aims to demonstrate safe and efficient hydrogen-based steelmaking processes, validate their technical feasibility, and evaluate economic viability for low-carbon steel production.
• Objectives of the Scheme:
  • Identify and test advanced technologies for utilizing green hydrogen in the steel sector.
  • Demonstrate safe and secure operation of hydrogen-based steel production.
  • Validate technical and economic feasibility, contributing to decarbonization of iron and steel manufacturing.
• Pilot Project Components:
  • • 100% Hydrogen-based Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) using vertical shaft furnaces.
    • Hydrogen use in Blast Furnace to reduce coal/coke consumption.
    • Hydrogen injection in vertical shaft-based DRI units.
• Sanctioned Pilot Projects:

• Matrix Gas and Renewables Ltd
  • Capacity: 50 tons per day (TPD).
  • Consortium Partners: Gensol Engineering Ltd, IIT Bhubaneswar, Metsol AB (Sweden).
• Simplex Castings Ltd
  • Capacity: 40 TPD.
  • Consortium Partners: BSBK Pvt. Ltd., Ten Eight Investment, IIT Bhilai.
• Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL)
  • Capacity: 3,200 TPD (Ranchi).

• Financial Support:
  • Total Government Funding: ?347 crore for the three projects.
  • These pilot projects are expected to be commissioned within the next three years and may serve as a blueprint for scaling up such technologies in India.
• About the National Green Hydrogen Mission:
  • Launched: January 4, 2023.
  • Total Budget: ?19,744 crore (up to FY 2029-30).
  • Primary Goal: Establish India as a global hub for green hydrogen production and export while fostering decarbonization in sectors like steel, mobility, and energy.
• Key Features of the Mission:
  • SIGHT (Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition):
    • Supports domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and promotes the production and use of green hydrogen.
  • Expected Outcomes by 2030:
    • Green Hydrogen Production: At least 5 million metric tons (MMT) annually.
    • Renewable Energy: Addition of 125 GW in renewable energy capacity.
    • Investment: Over ?8 lakh crore in green hydrogen technologies.
    • Employment: Creation of 6 lakh jobs.
    • Reduction in Fossil Fuel Imports: Savings of over ?1 lakh crore.
    • GHG Emissions Reduction: Avoidance of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions.
• Phase-wise Implementation:
  • Phase I (2022-26): Focus on demand creation and initial deployment in existing hydrogen-using sectors (like steel and mobility).
  • Phase II (2026-30): Expansion to new sectors with a push toward commercialization of green hydrogen.

The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to significantly decarbonize India’s steel sector and other industries by leveraging hydrogen technology. With ?347 crore allocated for pilot projects in steelmaking, the initiative sets the stage for scalable, low-carbon steel production, contributing to India's clean energy transition and supporting its goal to become a global leader in green hydrogen.

In News:

GE’s LM2500 Marine Engines to Power Indian Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV)

Key Highlights:

• Engine Selection:
  • General Electric’s LM2500 marine gas turbines have been chosen to power the Indian Navy's Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV), currently being built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
• Project Details:
  • Number of Vessels: Six NGMVs are under construction.
  • Contract Value: ?9,805 crore, awarded by the Defence Ministry.
  • Delivery Schedule: The first deliveries are expected to commence in March 2027.
• Key Components and Suppliers:
  • GE Aerospace will deliver six LM2500 engine kits to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for assembly and testing at their Industrial and Marine Gas Turbine Division in Bengaluru.
  • GE will also supply the composite base, enclosure, and a full set of auxiliary systems for the gas turbines.
• LM2500 Marine Gas Turbine:
  • The LM2500 turbine is known for its reliability and high power output, making it ideal for the NGMV mission.
  • Top Speed: 35 knots (64 km/h).
  • It is central to the propulsion system, meeting the stealth and power demands of the new missile vessels.
• Capabilities of NGMVs:
  • Role: Designed for offensive missions, the NGMVs will be equipped for anti-surface warfare, maritime strike operations, and sea denial.
  • Speed & Stealth: Capable of speeds up to 35 knots while maintaining stealth, these vessels will be difficult for enemy ships to detect.
  • Weapons: They will carry a variety of anti-surface weapons, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, loitering munitions, unmanned vehicles, and other guided weapons.
• Operational Roles:
  • Offensive: The NGMVs will engage in attacking enemy warships, merchant ships, and land-based targets.
  • Defensive: They will also be used for local naval defense operations, including the seaward defense of offshore development areas and defending choke points.
• Strategic Importance:
  • The NGMVs will significantly enhance India’s maritime strike capability and provide a formidable presence in strategic sea routes, especially in regions like choke points and offshore development areas.
• Cochin Shipyard’s Role:
  • After successfully constructing INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, CSL is now focusing on the NGMV project, along with building anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts for the Indian Navy, currently in various stages of construction.
• Partnerships:
  • In 2023, GE Aerospace and HAL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand their collaboration on marine gas turbines, including assembly, inspection, and testing (AIT) of the LM500 turbines.
  • To date, GE Aerospace has delivered 24 marine gas turbine kits to HAL, supporting India’s Make-In-India initiative.
• Global Impact:
  • The LM2500 gas turbine is used by 714 vessels globally, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and availability in critical maritime defense systems.

In News:

Omar Abdullah sworn in as J&K CM; Surinder Kumar Choudhary is Deputy CM

Key Highlights:

• Omar Abdullah’s Political Context:

• This marks Omar Abdullah's second term as Chief Minister, after his tenure in 2009.
• He becomes the first Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir after the region’s special status was revoked and it was reorganized as a Union Territory in 2019.

• Challenges as CM of a Union Territory:

• Omar Abdullah acknowledged the unique challenges of serving as Chief Minister in a Union Territory and expressed hope that J&K’s Union Territory status would be temporary.

• Public Service and Security Measures:

• In his first official instructions, Abdullah asked the Director General of Police (DGP) to avoid creating “green corridors” or traffic halts during his movements. He also requested the minimization of sirens and aggressive security gestures, emphasizing minimal public inconvenience.

• Legal Context:

• Oath of Office: As per Article 164(3) of the Indian Constitution, the Chief Minister and other ministers are sworn in by the Governor or Lieutenant Governor in Union Territories.
• Abdullah is the first CM of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir post the abrogation of Article 370 and the transition of J&K from a state to a Union Territory in 2019.

• Revocation of President's Rule:

• President’s Rule (under Article 356) was revoked following the election results, signaling the restoration of a functioning elected government after direct central governance in the region.

In News:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Karmayogi Saptah’ - National Learning Week on 19th October at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.

Key Highlights:

• Context:

• The National Learning Week is a key event in the ongoing Mission Karmayogi initiative, aimed at building a civil service rooted in Indian ethos with a global outlook.

• Objective:

• To promote capacity building for civil servants through competency-linked learning.
• To align civil servants with national goals and foster a "One Government" approach.

• About National Learning Week (NLW):

• Largest learning event for civil servants, focused on individual and organizational growth.
• Encourages lifelong learning and continuous professional development.
• Provides fresh impetus to the Mission Karmayogi initiative, launched in September 2020, aimed at a future-ready, citizen-centric civil service.

• Learning Targets for Karmayogis:

• Each civil servant (Karmayogi) must complete at least 4 hours of competency-linked learning during the week.
• Learning opportunities include:
  • Role-based modules on iGOT (Integrated Government Online Training platform).
  • Webinars, public lectures, and policy masterclasses by prominent experts.
  • Focus on improving skills for citizen-centric service delivery.

• Workshops & Seminars:

• Ministries, departments, and organizations organized domain-specific workshops and seminars.
• The goal is to enhance skills and knowledge, fostering better public service delivery.

• Outcomes:

• Strengthened alignment of civil servants with national priorities and goals.
• Enhanced individual competencies to better address citizen needs.
• A stronger commitment to continuous learning within the civil service.

In News:

• India has extended a ?487.60 crore Line of Credit (LoC) to Mauritius for financing a water pipeline replacement project.
• This initiative is part of the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS), which supports developmental projects in partner countries through concessional loans.

About the IDEAS Scheme

• Origin: Launched in 2003-04 as the India Development Initiative, later renamed as IDEAS Scheme.
• Objective: To promote India’s political, economic, and strategic interests by providing developmental assistance to developing countries.
• Administering Body: The scheme is managed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) with support from the Exim Bank.

Key Features of the IDEAS Scheme

• Lines of Credit (LoCs):
  • Provides LoCs to developing countries for funding projects in various sectors, including:
    • Infrastructure
    • Water supply
    • Education
    • Other key developmental areas.
• Project Recommendations:
  • Projects funded under the scheme are recommended by MEA and are aimed at bolstering socio-economic development in the partner countries.
• Concessional Financing:
  • The scheme offers concessional terms for the financing of these projects, reducing the financial burden on the recipient countries.
• Diplomatic and Strategic Benefits:
  • The IDEAS scheme strengthens India’s diplomatic ties and fosters goodwill with countries in the Global South.
• Focus on Development:
  • It aims to support key developmental goals in partner countries while advancing India's role as a leader in global development cooperation.

Significance

• The Mauritius water pipeline project is a part of the larger efforts under IDEAS to support infrastructure and socio-economic development in partner nations, helping to improve the quality of life and fostering closer bilateral relations.

In News:

Government and Meta join forces for "Scam se Bacho" Campaign to tackle rising online scams.

Key Details

• The "Scam Se Bacho" initiative aims to create a safer, more secure digital India by empowering users to protect themselves against growing cyber threats, contributing to the resilience of India’s digital progress.
• Objective: To combat rising online scams and cyber frauds by promoting digital safety and vigilance across India.

• Partners:
  • Meta (formerly Facebook)
  • Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
  • Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
  • Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB)
  • Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)

Purpose and Vision

• Goal: Empower Indian citizens with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from online scams and cyber threats.
• Strategic Focus:
  • Foster a culture of digital safety and vigilance.
  • Align with the Digital India initiative, which has seen extraordinary growth in digital services, including 900 million internet users and leadership in UPI transactions.
  • The campaign aims to build a national movement to safeguard citizens, emphasizing the importance of cyber literacy and digital security.

Key Points

• Growing Cybersecurity Threats:
  • India has seen a surge in cyber frauds, with 1.1 million cases reported in 2023.
  • The government is committed to addressing these threats through stronger cybersecurity measures and enhancing digital literacy.
• Meta’s Role:
  • Meta’s global expertise in online safety will be leveraged to equip citizens with the knowledge to prevent cyber scams.
  • Meta’s collaboration with the government aims to extend the reach of the campaign nationwide.

Features of the "Scam Se Bacho" Campaign

• Nationwide Reach:
  • The initiative targets India’s 900 million internet users, making it a comprehensive national effort.
• Government Support:
  • Backed by key ministries to ensure alignment with national digital and cybersecurity goals under Digital India.
  • Whole-of-government approach to raise awareness on cyber safety.
• Educational Focus:
  • The campaign emphasizes educating citizens on how to recognize and prevent online scams and threats.

In News:

Justice Sanjiv Khanna Appointed as Next Chief Justice of India, Will Assume Office on November 11

• Appointment:
  • Justice Sanjiv Khanna has been appointed as the 51st Chief Justice of India by President Droupadi Murmu.
  • He is set to take office on November 11, 2024, succeeding Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, who is retiring on November 10, 2024.
• Tenure:
  • Justice Khanna's tenure will be relatively short, lasting only six months, as he is scheduled to retire on March 13, 2025.

Career and Background

• Education and Early Career:
  • Justice Khanna is a graduate of Delhi University’s Campus Law Centre.
  • He enrolled as an advocate in 1983 and primarily practiced before the Delhi High Court.
  • Prior to his elevation to the Delhi High Court in 2005, he served as the Senior Standing Counsel for the Income Tax Department and the standing counsel for civil matters for the Delhi government.
• Judicial Career:
  • Supreme Court Appointment: Justice Khanna was appointed to the Supreme Court in January 2019, despite not having served as Chief Justice of a High Court. He was elevated over other senior judges from the Delhi High Court, such as Justices Rajendra Menon and Pradeep Nandrajog, whose names were initially recommended but not forwarded to the government.
• Key Contributions:
  • Justice Khanna has been part of several significant rulings, including:
    • February 2024: Part of the five-judge bench that struck down the Electoral Bond Scheme as unconstitutional.
    • 2023: Contributed to upholding the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution.
    • 2023: Authored a ruling granting the Supreme Court the power to directly grant divorce under Article 142 on the grounds of "irretrievable breakdown of marriage."
• Administrative Role:
  • Justice Khanna currently serves as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).

Process of Appointment of Chief Justice of India (CJI)

• Seniority Principle: The CJI is typically the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court.
• Memorandum of Procedure (MoP): The Law Ministry requests a recommendation from the outgoing CJI for his successor.
• Presidential Appointment: After receiving the recommendation, the President of India formally appoints the new CJI.
• Tenure and Retirement: The CJI serves until the age of 65. Upon retirement, the senior-most judge becomes the next CJI.
• Merit and Integrity Considerations: In addition to seniority, merit and integrity play crucial roles in the selection process for the CJI.

In News:

Recently, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) inaugurated the third Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum.

Purpose and Goals

• Objective: To accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems to address global challenges:
  • Eradicate poverty (SDG 1)
  • End hunger and malnutrition (SDG 2)
  • Reduce inequalities (SDG 10)
• Target: Focuses on improving the lives of poor and vulnerable populations by:
  • Raising incomes
  • Enhancing nutritional status and overall well-being
  • Strengthening resilience to climate change

Key Features of the HIH Initiative

• Launched: 2019 as a flagship program by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
• Primary Focus Areas:
  • Geospatial and analytics-driven approach: Utilizes advanced geospatial modeling, biophysical, socio-economic data, and analytics to identify key territories for intervention.
  • Market-based transformation: Aims to create sustainable, market-based solutions for agricultural development and food systems transformation.
  • Value Chain Development: Focus on developing value chains for priority commodities to boost incomes and food security.
  • Agro-Industry Building: Strengthening agro-industries and introducing efficient water management and precision agriculture systems.
  • Digitalization: Introducing digital services for better agricultural planning and productivity.

Key Areas of Intervention

• Agricultural Transformation: Identifying territories with the highest potential for transformation.
• Sustainable Management: Focus on sustainable practices in forestry, fisheries, and land management.
• Climate Resilience: Building systems to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce vulnerability.
• Food Loss Reduction: Addressing food losses and waste across agricultural value chains.

Global Participation

• Member Countries: 72 countries have joined the initiative, collaborating on shared goals for agrifood systems transformation.

The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum

• Purpose: A platform to mobilize investments for the successful implementation of agrifood transformation programs under the HIH initiative.
• Event: The third Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum was recently opened by the FAO Director-General to discuss challenges and solutions for global agrifood system transformation.

About the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

• Established: October 1945, it is the oldest permanent specialized agency of the United Nations.
• Mandate:
  • Improve nutrition.
  • Increase agricultural productivity.
  • Raise the standard of living in rural areas.
  • Contribute to global economic growth.
• Headquarters: Rome, Italy.
• Members: 194 Member States and the European Union.

Key Role of FAO:

• FAO leads international efforts to combat hunger and malnutrition worldwide.
• Supports member countries in implementing agricultural and food security programs.

Strategic Importance

• The Hand-in-Hand Initiative is integral to FAO’s mandate, focusing on countries with the most pressing needs due to poverty, hunger, or crises (natural or man-made).
• It enhances cooperation among nations to tackle global food security challenges, with a particular emphasis on countries with limited national capacities.

In News:

The Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L), Ministry of Education, hosted a two-day Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) knowledge sharing workshop in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

• Event Overview:
  • Two-day workshop hosted by the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSE&L), Ministry of Education.
  • Focus areas: School-to-Work Transition and Strengthening the Assessment System.
• Key Objectives:
  • To enhance school-to-work transitions.
  • To discuss strengthening educational assessment systems.
  • Align education with future workforce needs as per the National Education Policy 2020.

Day 1: School-to-Work Transition

Panel Discussions:

• Policy Frameworks:
  • Role of National Education Policy 2020, National Curriculum Framework (NCF), and National Credit Framework (NCrF) in school-to-work transitions.
  • Focus on integrating skill education into school curricula, fostering multidisciplinary learning, and continuous evaluation to meet industry standards.
  • Emphasis on internships, apprenticeships, and flexible learning pathways.
• Curriculum Integration:
  • Need for integrated efforts across departments and aligning curriculum with industry demands.
  • Focus on strengthening 21st-century skills in CBSE schools.
• Career Counselling and Psychometric Analysis:
  • Focus on using psychometric assessments for career counselling and preparing students for future work environments.
• Work-Based Learning:
  • Discussed partnerships with industry for work-based learning.
  • Effective collaborations between schools and industry for internships, placements, and best practices.

Day 2: Strengthening Assessment System

• Psychometric Analysis & Career Counselling:
  • Smt. Idzes Angmo Kundan (Principal Secretary, Maharashtra) presented the 3 P approach to career choices: Personal Interest, Parental Approach, and Possible Opportunities.
• Enhancing Student Outcomes:
  • Discussed improving student outcomes by strengthening assessment systems.
  • Shared innovations in educational assessments.
  • Highlighted innovative assessment practices for future education.
• VSK Implementation (Chhattisgarh):
  • Discussed VSK modes, data analysis, and strategies for integrating assessment outcomes with learning objectives.
• Strengthening Assessment Cells:
  • Advocated for the establishment of assessment cells.
  • Discussed best practices and challenges in strengthening assessment cells across states.

In News:

The International Energy Agency's (IEA) World Energy Outlook 2024 offers an in-depth analysis of global energy trends, emphasizing the shift towards clean energy, growing energy demand, and the effects of geopolitical conflicts.

Key Highlights:

• Economic Growth:
  • India was the fastest-growing major economy in 2023 with a 7.8% growth rate.
  • On track to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2028.
  • Surpassed China in 2023 to become the most populous country globally, despite a fertility rate below replacement level.
• Energy Demand Surge:
  • India is projected to experience the highest increase in energy demand over the next decade.
  • By 2035, India’s total energy demand is expected to rise by 35%, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and increased living standards.
• Urbanization and Infrastructure Growth:
  • Over 12,000 cars are expected to be added to Indian roads daily by 2035.
  • Built-up space is set to increase by over 1 billion square meters annually, surpassing the total built space of South Africa.
• Industrial Expansion:
  • Iron and steel production is expected to grow by 70% by 2035.
  • Cement output is set to increase by 55%.
  • Air conditioner stock to grow more than 4.5 times, with electricity demand from cooling expected to exceed Mexico’s total consumption in 2035.
• Energy Supply & Coal:
  • India’s electricity generation capacity is projected to nearly triple to 1,400 GW by 2035.
  • Coal remains a dominant energy source despite growth in renewables:
    • Coal-fired power capacity will increase by 60 GW by 2030.
    • Coal will continue to account for over 30% of electricity generation even as solar PV expands.
    • By 2035, coal use in industries like steel and cement will grow by 50%.
• Renewable Energy & Clean Tech:
  • India is on track to become a global leader in renewable energy, with a nearly 3x increase in electricity generation capacity.
  • The country is expected to have the world’s third-largest installed battery storage capacity by 2030.
  • By 2030, low-emission energy sources (solar, wind, nuclear) are expected to generate over 50% of India’s electricity.
• Electric Vehicles & Oil Demand:
  • The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to peak India’s oil demand by the 2030s, reducing reliance on oil for transportation.
  • Oil demand for transport will decline as EVs proliferate, though demand for oil in other sectors (e.g., petrochemicals) will continue.
• Net Zero Target:
  • India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
  • By 2035, clean energy generation could be 20% higher than current policy projections, thanks to electric mobility, hydrogen use, and improved energy efficiency.
  • CO2 emissions are projected to be 25% lower than under the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS).
• Policy Support:
  • India’s clean energy goals are backed by government initiatives, such as:
    • PM-KUSUM scheme for solar energy in agriculture.
    • National Solar Mission.
    • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme to boost domestic solar PV manufacturing.
• Global Energy Trends:
  • Geopolitical Risks: Global energy security remains affected by geopolitical tensions (e.g., Russia-Ukraine conflict, Middle East tensions).
  • Energy Transition: Global shift toward clean energy, with solar and wind power investments accelerating.
  • Oil & Gas Surplus: Oil and LNG supply expected to increase, putting downward pressure on prices by the late 2020s.
  • Electric Mobility: EVs projected to account for 50% of new car sales by 2030.
  • Energy Efficiency: Despite efforts, global targets for doubling energy efficiency by 2030 are unlikely to be met with current policies.

IEA Overview:

• The International Energy Agency (IEA) provides analysis and policy advice on energy security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.
• Established in 1974, it now includes 31 member countries and 13 association countries, including India.
• Major publications: World Energy Outlook, India Energy Outlook, World Energy Investment Report.

In News:

India's semiconductor market is poised to exceed $100 billion by 2030, according to a report from the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association and Counterpoint Research. Currently valued at $45 billion in 2023, the market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 13%, driven by demand in mobile handsets and IT sectors, which together account for over 75% of revenues.

Key Highlights:

• Growth Drivers: The growth is supported by strong demand for electronics and government initiatives like the production-linked incentive scheme. Semiconductors are essential for various industries, including electronics, defense, healthcare, and automotive.
• Importance of Semiconductors: These materials, which include silicon and germanium, are crucial for electronic devices. They can conduct electricity under certain conditions, making them fundamental in transistors, integrated circuits, and devices like LEDs and solar cells.
• Global Context: The global semiconductor supply chain has shown vulnerabilities, particularly during the chip shortage of 2021. Major producers include Taiwan (44% market share), China (28%), South Korea (12%), the U.S. (6%), and Japan (2%). Countries are now focusing on building domestic chip industries to reduce dependency on a few key suppliers.

Factors Favoring India's Growth in Semiconductors:

1. Skilled Workforce: India has a vast pool of STEM graduates, providing a skilled workforce for semiconductor manufacturing and design.
2. Cost Advantage: Lower labor costs and efficient supply chains position India favorably for semiconductor manufacturing.
3. Supply Chain Diversification: India is becoming a hub for back-end assembly and testing operations, with potential for front-end manufacturing.
4. Government Support: Initiatives like Semicon India and the India Semiconductor Mission aim to create a robust semiconductor ecosystem, offering substantial fiscal incentives for companies.

Government Initiatives:

• Semiconductor Fab Scheme: Provides 50% project cost support for semiconductor manufacturing.
• Display Fab Scheme: Offers similar support for display manufacturing.
• Chips to Startup (C2S) Programme: Trains 85,000 engineers across academic and R&D institutions.
• Recent approvals for the establishment of semiconductor plants in Gujarat and Assam further bolster this initiative.

In News:

The winners of this year’s Economics Nobel, or the Sveriges Riksbank Prize awarded for economic sciences, Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson (AJR), pioneers in new institutional economics, emphasised the role of institutions in the direction of development.

The Great Divergence

• Definition: Refers to the economic and political development gap between the West and East, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries.
• Key Factors:
  • Industrialization in Western Europe enabled the projection of political power globally.
  • Colonial institutions established during this period have long-lasting effects on post-colonial nations.

Role of Institutions in Development

• Nobel Prize Winners: Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James Robinson (AJR) awarded for their work in new institutional economics.
• Institutions Defined: Set of rules constraining human behavior, ensuring law and order, and preventing coercion.
• Types of Institutions:
  • Extractive Institutions: Concentrate wealth among elites, historically prevalent in colonized regions (e.g., Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America).
  • Inclusive Institutions: Promote broader participation in economic growth, more common in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

Research Contributions

• Natural Experiments: AJR used historical data to show how differing colonial practices influenced economic outcomes.
• Key Findings:
  • Areas with landlord-based colonial systems had lower agricultural investment and productivity.
  • Regions under direct colonial rule lagged in infrastructure like schools and health centers.

Implications of AJR's Work

• Economic Institutions: Reflect collective choices shaped by political power, which can be either de jure (formal) or de facto (informal).
• Challenges in Reform: Conflicting interests often hinder agreement on the nature of beneficial institutions.

Critical Perspectives

• Skepticism of AJR's Framework: Some scholars argue that AJR's emphasis on Western liberal institutions overlooks the complexities of historical contexts, including corruption and systemic inequalities in early U.S. history.
• Modern Economic Dynamics: AJR caution against assuming that inclusive institutions will automatically lead to prosperity, as evidenced by concerns regarding China's future growth under extractive political systems.

Insights from Nobel Prize Research

• Key Focus Areas:
  • Institutional structures in colonized countries significantly shape economic prosperity.
  • Example of Nogales, Arizona, and Nogales, Mexico illustrates the impact of institutions on economic opportunities.

About the Nobel Prize Recipients

1. Daron Acemoglu:
   • MIT professor and co-author of influential works on power and prosperity.
   • Advocates for democracy's role in economic growth while acknowledging its challenges.
2. Simon Johnson:
   • Former IMF chief economist, current MIT professor.
   • Emphasizes the complexity of addressing entrenched poverty due to institutional frameworks.
3. James A. Robinson:
   • University of Chicago professor, co-author of works on economic disparity.
   • Highlights historical transitions toward inclusive societies and their importance in economic development.

Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences

• Established: 1968 by the Swedish central bank.
• Purpose: Complement existing Nobel Prizes, recognizing contributions to economic sciences.
• Notable Previous Laureates: Include Claudia Goldin (2023) for gender pay gap research and Abhijit Banerjee et al. (2019) for poverty alleviation studies.

In News:

Samarth is a demand-driven and placement-oriented umbrella skilling program of the Ministry of Textiles. Samarth Scheme has been extended for two years (FY 2024-25 and 2025-26) with a budget of Rs. 495 Crore to train 3 lakh persons in textile-related skills.

Key Details:

• Scheme Name: Samarth (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector)
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Textiles
• Extension Period: FY 2024-25 and 2025-26
• Budget: ?495 Crores
• Target: Train 3 lakh individuals in textile-related skills

Objectives

• Skilling Programs: Provide demand-driven, placement-oriented training.
• Industry Support: Encourage job creation in organized textile and related sectors.
• Skill Enhancement: Focus on upskilling and reskilling in traditional sectors (handloom, handicraft, silk, jute).

Implementation

• Implementing Partners:
  • Textile Industry/Industry Associations
  • Central/State government agencies
  • Sectoral Organizations (e.g., DC/Handloom, Central Silk Board)
• Current Achievements:
  • Total Trained: 3.27 lakh candidates
  • Employment Rate: 2.6 lakh (79.5%) have secured jobs
  • Women Empowerment: 2.89 lakh (88.3%) women trained

Scheme Features

• Coverage: Entire textile value chain, excluding spinning and weaving.
• Training Focus:
  • Entry-level skilling
  • Upskilling/reskilling existing workers in apparel and garmenting
• Beneficiaries: Handicraft artisans and job seekers in the textile sector.

Background

• Cabinet Approval: The scheme is a continuation of the Integrated Skill Development Scheme from the 12th Five Year Plan.
• Implementation Agency: Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts).

In News:

All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi is organising its first-ever international conference - Advancements of Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda - AROHA-2024.

Key Details:

• Theme: "Advancements in Research & Global Opportunities for Holistic Ayurveda"
• Conference Goals
  • Position Ayurveda as a key pillar of global health and wellness.
  • Facilitate dynamic exchanges among scholars, industry leaders, and practitioners.
  • Explore the integration of traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific advancements.
• Agenda Highlights
  • Topics Covered:
    • Ayurveda and ethnomedicine
    • Quality control and standardization
    • Diagnosis and drug delivery
    • Evidence-based understanding and globalization
• Institute Background
  • All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA): Apex institute for Ayurveda with NAAC A++, NABH, and ISO accreditations.
  • Facilities: 200-bed referral hospital, 44 specialty departments.
  • Global Collaborations: Partnerships with institutions in 17 countries, including London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Western Sydney University.
  • Innovations: Focus on research, drug development, and scientific validation of Ayurvedic practices.
• Participant Benefits
  • Networking Opportunities: Engage with experts in Ayurveda and holistic healthcare.
  • Learning Experiences: Attend plenary sessions, round table discussions, and exhibitions on medicinal plants and startups in Ayurveda.
  • Recognition: Awards for contributions to Ayurveda.
  • Research and Innovation Focus: Discussions on technology integration, including AI and bioinformatics.