In News:

In her recent speech at the National Conference of District Judiciary, President Droupadi Murmu introduced the concept of 'black coat syndrome' to address the persistent issue of case delays in Indian courts. This term is intended to reflect the anxiety and reluctance that people experience when dealing with the judicial system, similar to the 'white coat syndrome' seen in medical settings.

Current Challenges in India's Judicial System

1. Case Pendency: As of October 2023, there are over five crore cases pending across various levels of the judiciary in India. The current number of judges—20,580—falls short of effectively managing this caseload.
2. Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many courts lack essential infrastructure and modern technology. For example, as of September 2023, 19.7% of district courts did not have separate toilets for women.
3. Judicial Vacancies: There are notable vacancies in the judiciary. High courts have 347 unfilled positions out of a total of 1,114 sanctioned posts. Similarly, 5,300 out of 25,081 district judge positions are vacant.
4. Gender Representation: The Supreme Court has three female judges, making up 9.3% of its bench. High courts have 103 female judges, representing 13.42%, while the district judiciary has a more balanced representation with 36.33% female judges.

Ongoing Initiatives to Address Judicial Challenges

1. Technological Advancements:
   • e-SCR (Electronic Supreme Court Reports): Provides digital access to Supreme Court judgments.
   • Virtual Court System: Facilitates court proceedings through videoconferencing.
   • eCourts Portal: Serves as a comprehensive platform for interaction among litigants, advocates, government bodies, and the public.
   • National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG): Makes case statistics available at various levels for public and research use.
2. Legal Reforms and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR):
   • National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms (2011): Focuses on improving justice access by tackling delays and arrears.
   • ADR Methods: Includes Lok Adalats, Gram Nyayalayas, and Online Dispute Resolution to expedite justice.
   • Commercial Courts Act 2015: Enforces pre-institution mediation for commercial disputes.
   • Fast Track Courts: Designed to speed up cases involving serious crimes, senior citizens, women, and children.

Strategies for Future Improvement

• Increasing Court Efficiency: The Chief Justice of India has stressed the need for courts to function beyond their current capacity of 71% to better align case disposal with new case inflows.
• Filling Judicial Positions: With 28% of district court positions vacant, a regularized recruitment schedule is suggested to address these gaps. Additionally, integrating judicial recruitment on a national scale is recommended to reduce regional biases.
• Enhancing Case Management: Establish District-Level Case Management Committees to better manage cases by reconstructing records and identifying priority cases. Encouraging pre-litigation dispute resolution can also help manage the case backlog.
• Adjusting Judicial Vacations: The 2003 Malimath Committee report proposed reducing vacation periods to help address the backlog of cases.
• Bridging Judiciary Gaps: Addressing the disparity between district courts and high courts is crucial to create a more cohesive and unified judicial system.

In News:

India is significantly ramping up its efforts to establish a semiconductor manufacturing industry, with plans to invest $15 billion in the second phase of its chipmaking incentive policy. This move aims to bolster the country's position in the global semiconductor supply chain, where it currently has minimal presence.

Key Points:

1. Government Funding and Projects:
   • Increased Investment: The Indian government is boosting its funding for chipmaking incentives to $15 billion, up from the $10 billion committed in the first phase.
   • Approved Projects: Four major semiconductor projects have been approved, totaling over Rs 1.48 lakh crore ($18 billion). This includes:
     • Tata and PSMC Fabrication Plant: India’s first commercial semiconductor fabrication plant, with an investment of more than Rs 91,000 crore ($11 billion), developed in partnership with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC).
     • Assembly and Testing Plants (ATMP/OSAT): Three plants:
       • Micron Technology is building the first plant, approved in June 2023.
       • Tata is constructing an assembly plant in Assam.
       • C G Power and Industrial Solutions, in partnership with Japan’s Renesas Electronics, is developing the third plant.

2. Government Subsidies:
   • Capex Subsidies: The central government will provide nearly Rs 59,000 crore ($7 billion) in capital expenditure subsidies for these projects.
   • State Support: State governments are offering incentives such as discounted land and electricity rates.
3. Strategic Importance:
   • Economic and Strategic Impact: Semiconductor chips are critical to a wide range of industries, including defense, automotive, and consumer electronics. Developing domestic chipmaking capabilities is seen as essential for economic growth and strategic independence.
   • Global Competition: India is entering a highly competitive field dominated by Taiwan and the US. The US has a $50 billion chip incentive scheme, while the EU has a similar program. India’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on global chip supply chains and capitalize on geopolitical shifts.
4. Challenges and Realities:
   • Technology Barriers: The Tata-PSMC plant will not produce cutting-edge chips, as the technology for advanced nodes is currently beyond their reach. Manufacturing chips with smaller node sizes involves significant technological expertise and innovation, areas where leading companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) excel.
   • High Entry Barriers: The chipmaking industry has high entry barriers, and India’s new plants will face challenges in achieving technological and competitive parity with established global leaders.

India's push into semiconductor manufacturing represents a major step in its economic development and strategic planning, aiming to position itself as a significant player in the global tech landscape while addressing critical supply chain vulnerabilities.

In News:

• India and the Maldives held their first defence talks since India withdrew its military personnel early this year.

Significance of Talks:

• The dialogue is notable given recent tensions in bilateral relations. Relations soured after President Mohamed Muizzu's election on an "India Out" platform, leading to the withdrawal of Indian troops. The last defence cooperation dialogue was held in March 2023 under President Ibrahim Solih.

Discussion Topics:

• • Expediting ongoing defence cooperation projects.
  • Planning forthcoming bilateral military exercises.
  • Enhancing high-level exchanges and capability development.

Context of Tensions:

• • Mohamed Muizzu, who took office in November 2023, had called for the removal of Indian military personnel, a significant shift from the previous administration’s stance.
  • India agreed to withdraw 80 military personnel between March and May 2024. Indian technical personnel now operate key equipment like helicopters and a Dornier aircraft in the Maldives.

Recent Developments:

• • Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer visited India in May.
  • President Muizzu attended PM Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in June.
  • In August, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the Maldives to reaffirm bilateral ties.

Historical Defence Cooperation:

• • India gifted a Dornier aircraft to the Maldives in 2020 and a patrol vessel in 2019.
  • India provided a coastal radar system last year and laid the foundation for the 'Ekatha Harbour' project, enhancing Maldivian Coast Guard capabilities.

Ongoing Projects:

• • Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) - a $500 million initiative financed by India.
  • Building a new Coast Guard base at Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF) atoll.
  • India’s grant for High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs).

Strategic Importance:

• • For Maldives: India is a key security partner and crisis responder, with historical assistance during emergencies (Operation Neer, Vaccine Maitri). Maldives seeks to restore Indian tourist numbers, vital for its economy.
  • For India: The Maldives is crucial to India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. Its strategic location between major Indian Ocean chokepoints makes it a vital partner for maritime security and countering China's influence.

Recent Changes:

• • The Muizzu government decided not to renew a 2019 MoU for hydrographic surveying with India, ending joint hydrographic surveys conducted under the pact.

Travel and Trade:

• • Both countries benefit from an open skies arrangement and visa-free access for tourism, medical, and business purposes

In News:

IMEC is an important initiative that can add to India's maritime security and faster movement of goods between Europe and Asia, said Union Minister of Commerce & Industry at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) India-Mediterranean Business Conclave 2024 in New Delhi.

Key Details:

• Corridors:
  • East Corridor: Connects India to the Gulf.
  • Northern Corridor: Links the Gulf to Europe.
• Components:
  • Railroad: Provides a reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network.
  • Ship-to-Rail Networks: Integrates road, sea, and rail transport routes.
  • Road Transport: Complements the overall transport infrastructure.
• Expected Benefits:
  • Increased Efficiency: Enhances transit efficiency and reduces costs.
  • Economic Unity: Promotes economic integration and job creation.
  • Environmental Impact: Lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Transformative Integration: Connects Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
• Additional Features:
  • Infrastructure: Includes laying cables for electricity and digital connectivity, and pipes for clean hydrogen export.
• Implementation:
  • MoU Commitments: Participants will collaboratively address technical design, financing, legal, and regulatory aspects.
  • Action Plan: A meeting is planned within 60 days to develop an action plan with specific timetables.

Geoeconomic Perspective

1. Economic Integration and Interdependence:
   • Prosperity Through Integration: IMEC aims to foster trade and investment among India, the Middle East, and Europe, potentially leading to mutual prosperity and regional stability.
   • Building Bridges: Aligns with the liberal international order by promoting economic interdependence to reduce tensions and create shared interests.
   • Support from Major Powers: Backed by the US, Europe, and India, signaling a strong commitment to economic ties and regional stability.
2. Economic Potential:
   • Infrastructure and Trade Routes: Enhances infrastructure and trade routes, boosting economic activity, trade volumes, and investment opportunities.
   • Regional Development: Promotes job creation and development in economically disadvantaged areas along the corridor.

Geopolitical Perspective

1. Strategic Rivalry with China:
   • Countering the BRI: IMEC is seen as a strategic counterbalance to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), offering an alternative aligned with US, European, and Indian interests.
   • Regional Influence: Aims to limit China’s influence in the Middle East and South Asia by establishing a competing corridor.
2. Geopolitical Alliances:
   • Aligning Interests: Involves strategic partnerships among the US, Europe, and India, reflecting concerns about China’s global strategy and shifting power dynamics.
   • Rivalry and Competition: The IMEC could be viewed as a global positioning move, responding to China’s growing influence and securing strategic interests.

Reasons for Joining the IMEC

1. Economic Enhancement:
   • Boosts Indo-Gulf Relations: Enhances trade and economic ties with the Arab Gulf, addressing infrastructure gaps.
   • Regional Connectivity: Links India with key partners like Israel and Jordan, boosting economic opportunities.
2. Strategic Trade Routes:
   • Alternative Routes: Complements existing routes like Chabahar Port and INSTC, connecting India to southern Eurasia.
   • Bypassing Choke Points: Offers a shorter route to Eastern Mediterranean and Western Europe, avoiding strategic choke points.
3. Energy and Trade Opportunities:
   • Access to Resources: Provides potential access to Eastern Mediterranean gas fields.
   • Trade Bloc Connectivity: Links India with the EU and GCC, opening up growth opportunities.
4. Geopolitical Aspirations:
   • Global Power Ambitions: Supports India’s goal to enhance global influence and integrate with eastern and western neighbors.
   • Economic Growth: Leverages economic integration to support development and influence.
5. Infrastructure Development:
   • Economic Integration: Facilitates infrastructure creation for increased trade volumes and regional stability.

In News:

• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launches 2nd Cohort of Startup Accelerators of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development and Growth (SAMRIDH).

About SAMRIDH Scheme:

• SAMRIDH is a flagship programme of MeitY for startups acceleration under National Policy on Software Products – 2019.
• The SAMRIDH programme, launched in August 2021 aims to support 300 software product startups with outlay of ?99 crore over a period of 4 years.
• SAMRIDH is being implemented through potential and established accelerators across India which provide services like making products market fit, business plan, investor connect and international expansion to startups plus matching funding upto ?40 lakh by MeitY.
• The scheme is being implemented by MeitY Start-up Hub (MSH), Digital India Corporation (DIC).
• In the first round of cohort, 22 Accelerators spread across 12 states are supporting 175 startups, selected through a multilevel screening process.
• Major Objective:
  • The SAMRIDH scheme aims to support existing and upcoming Accelerators to select and accelerate potential IT-based startups to scale.
  • Among others, the program focuses on accelerating the startups by providing customer connect, investors connect and connect to international markets
• Eligibility of Accelerator:
  • Should be a registered Section-8/Society, [Not-for-Profit Company (eligible to hold equity)] having operations in India.
  • The Accelerator and the team are recommended to have more than 3 years of startup experience and should have supported more than 50 start-ups of which at least 10 startups should have received investment from external Investors
  • The Accelerator should have an experience of running startup program cohorts with activities listed as desirable under SAMRIDH program.

In News:

• Recently, the Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched two initiatives — a fund aimed at boosting farm-sector startups, and a single-window portal to process investments — as part of a slew of measures being taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in its third term to bolster the farm economy.

Key Details:

• AgriSure is a ?750-crore fund established to support agricultural startups.
• Krishi Nivesh Nidhi is a portal designed to expedite the clearance of project proposals.
• Both initiatives aim to enhance farm incomes.

Awards for Credit Disbursal:

• Scheduled banks were recognized for their credit disbursals under the government’s agriculture infrastructure fund.
• First prize: State Bank of India (SBI).
• Second prize: HDFC Bank.
• Third prize: Canara Bank.

Significance of Agriculture Sector:

• Agriculture contributes 16% to India’s GDP.
• Farmers play a crucial role as both producers and consumers in the economy.

PM Modi’s Strategy to Double Farmers’ Incomes:

• The strategy includes:
  • Increasing output.
  • Reducing input costs.
  • Ensuring profitable prices.
  • Promoting crop diversification.
  • Supporting natural farming.
  • Enhancing value addition to crops.

Details of AgriSure Fund:

• Blended capital fund with a total corpus of ?750 crore:
• ?250 crore each from the Department of Agriculture and NABARD.
• ?250 crore to be raised from financial institutions.
• Managed by NabVentures, a subsidiary of NABARD.
• Provides both equity and debt support to startups and agripreneurs.
• Focuses on high-risk, high-impact activities within the agriculture value chain.

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund:

• Mobilized projects worth ?78,000 crore with ?45,000 crore in financing so far.
• Expanded areas of coverage approved by the Union Cabinet on August 28.
• Aims to create durable farm assets, such as warehouses and processing plants.
• Can be used by agricultural produce marketing committees (APMCs) for market facility improvements.

Funding and Loan Details:

• Part of the ?20-lakh crore stimulus package introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
• Total funding of ?1 lakh crore over four years:
  • ?10,000 crore for 2020-21.
  • ?30,000 crore each for the subsequent three financial years.
• Provides medium-to-long term debt financing for rural projects.
• Interest subvention of 3% per annum on loans up to ?2 crore for seven years, with the government covering part of the interest.

In News:

The Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoLE) stated in a latest update that in the short span of three years since its launch, eShram has registered more than 30 crore unorganised workers, showcasing its rapid and widespread adoption among the unorganised workers.

Key Highlights:

• The Government envisages to establishing the eShram portal as a "One-Stop-Solution" for Country’s unorganised workers.
• During Budget speech 2024-25 it has been announced that, A comprehensive integration of eShram portal with other portals will facilitate such One-Stop-Solution.
• This initiative aims to facilitate access of various social security schemes being implemented by different Ministries/ Departments to unorganised workers through the eShram portal.
• As part of the eShram - One Stop Solution project, Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoLE) has been working to integrate major schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVANidhi), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G), Ration Card scheme etc. for the benefit of the unorganised workers.

What is e-Shram and its purpose?

• e-Shram is a comprehensive National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW) launched by the Government of India under the Ministry of Labour & Employment.
• Its primary purpose is to facilitate delivery of welfare benefits and social security measures to unorganised sector workers across the country.
• The platform aims to register and provide identity cards to unorganised workers, enabling them to access various government schemes, benefits, and services more efficiently.

Who are unorganised workers?

Any worker who is a home-based worker, self-employed worker or a wage worker working in the unorganised sector and not a member of ESIC or EPFO, is called an unorganised worker.

What is unorganised sector?

Unorganised sector comprises of establishment/ units which are engaged in the production/ sale of goods/ services and employs less than 10 workers. These units are not covered under ESIC & EPFO.

What is UAN?

UAN or Universal Account Number is a 12 digit number uniquely assigned to each unorganised worker after registration on e-Shram portal. UAN is a permanent number i.e., once assigned, it will remain unchanged for any worker.

In News:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the proposal of Kaynes Semicon Pvt Ltd to setup a semiconductor unit in Sanand, Gujarat, with an investment of Rs 3,300 crore.

Key Highlights:

• The proposed unit, under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), will produce nearly 60 lakh chips per day.
• The chips produced in this unit will cater to a wide variety of applications which include segments such as industrial, automotive, electric vehicles, consumer electronics, telecom and mobile phones, etc.
• The initiative aligns with India’s goal of developing indigenous semiconductor capabilities.
• As per the reports, India’s semiconductor market is projected to reach $64 billion by 2026, positioning the country as a major global semiconductor hub.
• The first indigenously-developed chip is set to arrive in the country by the end of this year.
• In March, PM Modi laid the foundation stone of three semiconductor projects worth Rs 1.25 lakh crore.
• Tata Electronics is setting up a semiconductor fab in Dholera, Gujarat and one semiconductor unit in Morigaon, Assam.
• CG Power is setting up one semiconductor unit in Sanand. These units will produce lakhs of direct and indirect jobs.
• These four units will bring an investment of almost Rs 1.5 Lakh crore. The cumulative capacity of these units is about 7 crore chips per day, according to the Ministry of Electronics & IT.
• The Programme for Development of Semiconductors and Display Manufacturing Ecosystem in India was notified in 2021 with a total outlay of Rs 76,000 crore.

About India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

• It is a specialized and independent Business Division within the Digital India Corporation that aims to build a vibrant semiconductor and display ecosystem to enable India’s emergence as a global hub for electronics manufacturing and design.
• ISM has all the administrative and financial powers and is tasked with the responsibility of catalysing the India Semiconductor ecosystem in manufacturing, packaging, and design.
• ISM has an advisory board consisting of some of the leading global experts in the field of semiconductors.
• ISM has been working as a nodal agency for the schemes approved under the Semicon India Programme.

Semicon India Programme:

• Launched in 2021 with a total budget of Rs. 76,000 crore, the ISM is overseen by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), Government of India. This initiative is part of a broad effort to develop a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem within the country.
• The programme is designed to offer financial support to companies involved in semiconductor and display manufacturing and design. It also aims to foster the creation of domestic Intellectual Property (IP), and to promote and incentivize the Transfer of Technologies (ToT).
• Under this programme, four key schemes have been introduced:

1. Scheme for establishing Semiconductor Fabs in India.
2. Scheme for establishing Display Fabs in India.
3. Scheme for setting up Compound Semiconductors/Silicon Photonics/Sensors Fabs and Semiconductor Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP)/OSAT facilities in India.
4. Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme.

In the News:

The Prime Minister has announced the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation.

Overview:

The Delhi Declaration was unanimously accepted following the conclusion of the 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference held in New Delhi. This Declaration provides a thorough framework designed to boost regional cooperation, tackle emerging challenges, and promote sustainable growth within the civil aviation sector across the Asia-Pacific region. The conference also marks the 80th anniversary of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Key Announcements:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted significant achievements in Indian aviation, noting that women make up 15% of Indian pilots, a figure that surpasses the global average.
• A proposal for establishing an International Buddhist Circuit was introduced to enhance regional tourism and connectivity.
• India plans to build between 350 and 400 new airports by 2047, aiming to increase its global aviation presence.
• A Pacific Small Island Developing States Liaison Office will be created to help smaller nations manage aviation-related issues.
• The ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ campaign was launched, with a goal to plant 80,000 trees in honor of ICAO’s 80 years, emphasizing green aviation and sustainability in future initiatives.

Significance of the Delhi Declaration:

• It marks a significant advancement in enhancing regional cooperation in civil aviation within the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific region.
• The framework tackles crucial issues such as sustainability, green aviation, and safety, which are vital for the current aviation industry.
• Initiatives like the International Buddhist Circuit are in line with broader regional objectives to improve connectivity, tourism, and economic development throughout Asia.
• India aims to assert itself as a major global aviation player with its ambitious plan to construct 350-400 airports by 2047, thereby becoming a key contributor to aviation infrastructure development.

Civil Aviation Sector in India:

• India ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally and is projected to become the third-largest overall by 2025.
• The sector is expanding through significant government programs such as the UDAN Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti Plan, and NCAP 2016.
• With 136 operational airports and plans for an additional 100, the government is focused on modernizing infrastructure, improving regional connectivity, and promoting public-private partnerships for airport development.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO):

• Established in 1947 by the Chicago Convention (1944).
• Headquarters: Montreal, Canada.
• Functions:
  1. Ensures the safety and efficiency of international air transport.
  2. Sets standards for aviation safety, security, and environmental performance.
  3. Encourages regional and international agreements to liberalize aviation markets.
  4. Promotes cooperation and dialogue among its 193 member states.
  5. Develops legal frameworks for aviation laws and standards.

In News:

Recently, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) introduced the Saarthi app in partnership with Bhashini.

About the Saarthi App:

• The Saarthi app is a reference tool designed to help businesses create their own customized buyer-side applications.
• It facilitates network participants in developing buyer apps with multilingual capabilities. Initially, the app supports Hindi, English, Marathi, Bangla, and Tamil, with plans to expand to all 22 languages offered by Bhashini.
• The app features real-time translation, transliteration, and voice recognition, allowing businesses to broaden their market reach and attract customers from new regions.

What is Bhashini?

• Bhashini is India's AI-driven language translation platform. Its goal is to facilitate easy access to the internet and digital services in Indian languages, including through voice-based interactions, and to aid in the creation of content in these languages.
• The platform is designed to provide Artificial Intelligence and Natural Language Processing (NLP) resources to Indian MSMEs, startups, and individual innovators. This support will help developers offer all Indians access to the internet and digital services in their native languages.
• Additionally, Bhashini features a ‘Bhasadaan’ section for crowdsourcing contributions and is available through Android and iOS apps.

Context: 

Celebrating Four Years of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has marked its fourth anniversary since its launch in 2020. This flagship scheme, managed by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying, aims to transform India’s fisheries sector into a vibrant and sustainable industry.

About PMMSY

The PMMSY is designed to invigorate the fisheries sector through a comprehensive approach that consolidates various existing schemes and initiatives. It operates as an umbrella scheme with two main components:

- Central Sector Scheme (CS)

- Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS)

The CSS component is divided into:

Non-Beneficiary Oriented Subcomponents:

   - Enhancement of Production and Productivity

   - Infrastructure and Post-Harvest Management

   - Fisheries Management and Regulatory Framework

Fisheries Sector Overview

India stands as the third-largest fish producer globally and the second-largest in aquaculture production. It is also the fourth-largest exporter of fish and fisheries products, experiencing a notable 26.73% growth in exports from FY 2021-22 to FY 2022-23. Andhra Pradesh leads the country in fish production, followed by West Bengal and Gujarat. The sector supports the livelihoods of over 30 million people.

The Department of Fisheries is spearheading the PMMSY to foster a "Blue Revolution" through sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector.

Challenges Facing the Fisheries Sector

1. Overfishing: Excessive fishing pressure threatens fish stocks and disrupts ecosystem balance.

2. Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: Practices such as fishing without proper authorization and using banned gear undermine conservation efforts.

3. Lack of Infrastructure and Technology: Outdated technology and inadequate storage and transportation facilities result in post-harvest losses and reduced productivity.

4. Poor Fisheries Management: Inefficient regulation enforcement and lack of comprehensive data exacerbate overfishing and IUU fishing.

5. Pollution and Habitat Destruction: Industrial pollution and habitat destruction from activities like coastal reclamation impact marine and freshwater ecosystems.

6. Climate Change: Altered oceanic and freshwater environments affect fish distribution and reproductive cycles, disrupting fisheries ecosystems.

7. Socio-Economic Issues: Poverty and limited livelihood options increase the vulnerability of fishing communities.

Government Initiatives for Sector Growth

1. National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB): Established in 2006, the NFDB plans and promotes fisheries development, enhancing production and infrastructure.

2. Blue Revolution: Launched in 2015, this initiative focuses on sustainable development, modern technology adoption, and strengthening fisheries governance.

3. Sagarmala Programme: Also launched in 2015, it aims to boost port-led development and includes projects to develop fishing harbors and cold chain infrastructure.

4. National Fisheries Policy: Introduced in 2020, this policy provides a framework for sustainable fisheries development, focusing on responsible management and socio-economic improvements.

5. Fish Farmers Development Agencies (FFDAs): Established at the district level to provide technical guidance and support to fish farmers.

6. Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Created in 2018-19 with a fund of Rs 7,522.48 crore to address infrastructure needs, resulting in 121 approved projects.

7. Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA): Regulates coastal aquaculture to ensure sustainability and environmental conservation.

Way Forward

The fisheries sector in India holds immense potential due to its extensive coastline and water resources. Key measures to further enhance the sector include:

- Strengthening Monitoring and Enforcement: Combat IUU fishing with better monitoring and regulatory mechanisms.

- Supporting Sustainable Practices: Provide financial incentives for adopting modern technologies and sustainable practices.

- Protecting Aquatic Habitats: Ensure the conservation and restoration of vital habitats like mangroves and coral reefs.

- Improving Supply Chain Infrastructure: Develop better market linkages to ensure fair pricing and access to markets.

With these strategies, the PMMSY aims to drive the sustainable growth of India’s fisheries sector and bolster its contribution to the economy and livelihoods.

The Crucial Role of Helium in Space Missions and the Challenges It Presents

Two NASA astronauts aboard Boeing’s Starliner will extend their stay on the International Space Station (ISS) due to issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system, which includes problematic helium leaks. Meanwhile, SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission, which successfully launched on Tuesday, experienced delays due to similar helium-related issues with ground equipment.

The Importance of Helium in Spacecraft

Helium plays a critical role in space missions for several reasons. As an inert gas, it does not react with other substances or combust, which is crucial for maintaining the safety and stability of rocket systems. With an atomic number of 2, helium is the second lightest element after hydrogen. Its lightweight nature is essential for reducing the overall mass of rockets, which in turn minimizes fuel consumption and the need for more powerful (and costly) engines.

A key property of helium is its extremely low boiling point of –268.9 degrees Celsius. This allows it to remain in a gaseous state even in the super-cold environments where many rocket fuels are stored.

How Helium Is Utilized in Spacecraft

In spacecraft, helium is primarily used for:

1. Pressurizing Fuel Tanks: Helium ensures that fuel flows smoothly to the rocket’s engines. As fuel and oxidizer are consumed during launch, helium fills the empty space in the tanks, maintaining consistent pressure.
2. Cooling Systems: Helium is also used in cooling systems to manage the temperature of various components, preventing overheating and ensuring the proper functioning of the spacecraft.

Due to its non-reactive nature, helium can safely interact with the residual contents of the tanks without causing adverse reactions.

The Challenge of Helium Leaks

Despite its advantages, helium is prone to leakage. Its small atomic size and low molecular weight allow helium atoms to escape through even minor gaps or seals in storage tanks and fuel systems. This characteristic poses a significant challenge for space missions.

On Earth, helium leaks are easier to detect due to the gas’s rarity in the atmosphere. This makes helium a valuable tool for identifying potential faults in rocket or spacecraft fuel systems. The frequency of these leaks across various space missions, including those by ISRO and ESA, underscores a broader industry need for improved valve designs and more precise tightening mechanisms.

OpenAI Unveils New AI Model: Key Features and Implications

OpenAI has introduced its latest AI model, a significant advancement that aims to elevate the capabilities of artificial intelligence. This new model, part of the enigmatic ‘Project Strawberry,’ is designed to think more like a human when solving complex problems, offering a glimpse into the future of AI reasoning.

Introduction of OpenAI o1

The new OpenAI o1 model marks the beginning of a series of "reasoning" models intended to address intricate tasks in fields such as science, coding, and mathematics. This model, released as part of a preview in both ChatGPT and the API, represents a major leap forward in AI technology. OpenAI has announced that this is just the start, with regular updates and enhancements expected. Additionally, evaluations for the next model update, currently under development, are included in this release.

How It Works

The o1 model is designed to approach queries with a level of careful consideration similar to human problem-solving processes. It learns to tackle problems from various angles, verify its outputs, and improve through feedback. According to OpenAI, this model performs at a level comparable to PhD students in disciplines such as physics, chemistry, and biology. It is particularly adept in mathematics and coding, solving 83% of problems in a challenging math contest— a notable improvement from previous versions that only managed 13%. In coding, it has outperformed 89% of participants.

Sub-Models and Their Features

Alongside the main o1 model, OpenAI has also launched the o1-Mini. This version is a more cost-effective alternative, being 80% cheaper than the o1-preview. The o1-Mini is designed to offer fast and efficient reasoning, particularly beneficial for developers focused on coding tasks. 

Implications for Jobs and Research

The advanced problem-solving capabilities of the o1 model are expected to impact various job sectors, particularly those involving routine coding, data analysis, and mathematical modeling. While this could reduce the need for human intervention in some tasks, it may also create new roles in AI safety and maintenance. For researchers, the model offers a powerful tool for accelerating breakthroughs in fields like physics, chemistry, biology, and healthcare. Its ability to generate formulas and analyze large datasets positions it as a valuable asset for advancing scientific research.

Access and Usage

The OpenAI o1 model is now accessible to ChatGPT Plus and Team users. The o1-preview and o1-mini can be selected using the model picker, with weekly message limits set at 30 for o1-preview and 50 for o1-mini. This rollout marks a new era in AI capabilities, showcasing OpenAI’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence.

Key Points to Note 

1. Not Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): Despite its advanced capabilities, o1-preview is not a step towards AGI, which aims for AI systems to perform cognitive tasks as well as or better than humans. The o1 models, while more adept at reasoning, still fall short of human-level intelligence. 

2. Impact on Competition: While o1 gives OpenAI a temporary edge, it is expected to prompt competitors like Google, Meta, and others to accelerate their development of similar advanced models. These companies have the expertise to quickly develop models that could rival or surpass o1's capabilities. 

3. Unknowns About Model Operations: Details on how o1 operates remain limited. It combines various AI techniques, including "chain of thought" reasoning and reinforcement learning, but specifics about its training data and internal mechanisms are not fully disclosed. 

4. Cost Considerations: Using o1-preview comes at a higher cost compared to previous models. OpenAI charges $15 per million input tokens and $60 per million output tokens for corporate customers, compared to $5 and $15, respectively, for GPT-4o. The model’s complex reasoning requires more tokens, potentially making it more expensive to use. 

5. Chain of Thought Transparency: OpenAI has chosen not to reveal the chain of thought process used by o1, citing safety and competitive reasons. This decision may cause issues for enterprise customers who lack visibility into their usage and billing accuracy. 

6.  New Scaling Laws: OpenAI's o1 models reveal new "scaling laws" suggesting that longer inference times can improve accuracy. This could increase the computing power and costs required to run these models effectively. 

7. Potential Risks: o1 models could enable powerful AI agents, but they also present risks. Instances of “reward hacking” and unintended actions suggest that companies must carefully manage these agents to avoid ethical, legal, or financial issues. 

8. Safety Assessments: OpenAI reports that o1 is generally safer than previous models, though it still poses a "medium risk" of assisting in biological attacks. This rating has raised concerns among AI safety and national security experts. 

9. Concerns About Persuasion and Deceptive Alignment: AI safety experts are wary of o1’s persuasive capabilities and the potential for “deceptive alignment,” where a model might deceive users to achieve hidden goals. These concerns highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring AI safety and transparency. 

Overall, while the o1 models represent a significant leap forward in AI reasoning and problem-solving, they also introduce new complexities and risks that will need to be managed as they become more integrated into various applications.

In News:

• The Union Cabinet has approved a major expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to cover all senior citizens aged 70 years and above.
• This change allows anyone in this age group to be eligible for health insurance, regardless of their income level.
• This expansion aims to address the healthcare needs of the elderly, who often face higher medical expenses as they age.
• By lifting income restrictions, the government is ensuring that more senior citizens can benefit from much-needed health coverage, which will help ease the financial burden of healthcare.

How does the scheme work?

• The AB PM-JAY now covers an additional 6 crore individuals from 4.5 crore families, focusing on seniors aged 70 and above. Each senior citizen will be given a health card, allowing them easy access to healthcare services under the scheme.
• The scheme provides Rs 5 lakh coverage annually per family. If there are multiple senior citizens in the same family, this coverage is shared among them. The scheme is particularly beneficial for nuclear families, where the financial burden on elderly members can be more difficult to manage.

Key details of the scheme for senior citizens above 70

• Eligibility - All senior citizens aged 70 and above are eligible for Rs 5 lakh health coverage, regardless of income or social status.
• Top-up coverage - For families already enrolled in Ayushman Bharat, senior members will receive an extra Rs 5 lakh top-up, which is solely for their use.
• Private insurance - Senior citizens with private health insurance can still take advantage of the scheme without any conflict with their existing coverage.
• Public health schemes - Seniors who are part of other public health schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) will need to choose between their current insurance and the new Ayushman Bharat health coverage.
• New health cards - All eligible senior citizens will receive a separate health card, which will help them access the scheme’s benefits more efficiently.

Who pays for the coverage?

• The cost of this expanded coverage will be Rs 3,437 crore initially. State governments will bear 40% of the expenses, while the Centre will cover the remaining 60%. For states in hilly and northeastern regions, the Centre will fund 90% of the costs.
• As more senior citizens enrol, the costs may increase. Experts point out that covering elderly individuals often costs more than providing insurance for younger, economically weaker sections of society. However, the government is prepared to scale up the coverage based on demand.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)

• AB PM-JAY launched in 2018, is a flagship program designed to offer affordable and accessible healthcare to millions of vulnerable families across India.
• The primary aim is to provide health insurance coverage up to ?5 lakhs per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
• The scheme currently supports 55 crore individuals from 12.34 crore families throughout the country.

In News:

The Union Cabinet recently approved a new scheme called PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) for the promotion of electric vehicles (EV) in India, replacing an earlier flagship scheme.

Key Highlights:

• The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) will implement the new scheme with a total outlay of Rs 10,900 crore over a period of two years.
• The PM E-DRIVE will replace Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in India Phase II (FAME India Phase II).
• The new scheme offers subsidies/demand incentives worth Rs 3,679 crore to incentivise adoption of electric two-wheelers, electric three-wheelers, e-ambulances, e-trucks and other emerging EVs.
• The scheme will support 24.79 lakh electric two-wheelers, 3.16 lakh e-three wheelers, and 14,028 e-buses.
• For e-ambulances, a total of Rs 500 crore has been allocated. In addition, Rs 4,391 crore has been provided for the procurement of 14,028 e-buses by state transport units and public transport agencies.
• To implement this, demand aggregation will be done by Convenience Energy Services Limited (CESL) in nine cities with a population of more than 40 lakh — Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Surat, Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad. Intercity and interstate e-buses will also be supported in consultation with states.
• For availing benefits under the scheme, the ministry will introduce e-vouchers for EV buyers. At the time of purchase, the scheme portal will generate an Aadhaar authenticated e-voucher, which needs to be signed by the buyer and submitted to the dealer.
• Subsequently, the e-voucher will also be signed by the dealer and uploaded on the PM E-DRIVE portal. The signed e-voucher will be sent to the buyer and dealer via SMS, and will be essential for the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to claim reimbursement of demand incentives under the scheme.
• The primary objective of the PM E-DRIVE scheme is to expedite the adoption of EVs by providing upfront incentives for their purchase, as well as by facilitating the establishment of essential charging infrastructure for EVs.

FAME India Phase II

Launched on April 1, 2019, with a budget of ?10,000 crores for three years. It is an extension of FAME India I, which began on April 1, 2015, with a ?895 crore budget.

Objectives:

• Promote the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.
• Provide upfront incentives for purchasing electric vehicles.
• Develop necessary charging infrastructure.
• Address environmental pollution and fuel security.

Focus Areas:

• Public transportation and shared transport.
• Incentives for electric buses through State/City Transport Corporations.
• For 3W and 4W vehicles, incentives are for public transport and commercial vehicles.
• For e-2Ws, focus is on private vehicles.

Targets:

• 10 lakh e-2Ws
• 5 lakh e-3Ws
• 55,000 e-4Ws
• 7,000 electric buses

Incentives:

• Applied to vehicles with advanced batteries, such as Lithium-ion and other new technologies.

Charging Infrastructure:

• 2,700 charging stations in metros, million-plus cities, smart cities, and hilly areas.
• Charging stations on major highways at 25 km intervals, on both sides of the road.

In News

• Scientists agree that preserving the Amazon rainforest is critical to combating global warming, but new data published recently, indicate huge swathes of the jungles that are vital to the world’s climate remain unprotected.
• Nearly 40% of the areas of the Amazon rainforest most critical to curbing climate change have not been granted special government protection, as either nature or indigenous reserves, according to an analysis by nonprofit Amazon Conservation.
• The areas lie in the far southwest of the Amazon in Peru and the far northeast in Brazil, French Guiana, and Suriname, the data show.
• Those parts of the Amazon have the biggest, densest trees and the most continuous canopy cover. That means these areas hold the most carbon, which would be released into the atmosphere as climate-warming greenhouse gas if the jungle is destroyed by fire or logging.

What satellite data show

• Amazon Conservation analysed new data from the satellite imaging company Planet that used lasers to get a three-dimensional picture of the forest and combined it with machine-learning models.
• Only aboveground vegetation was considered, and not underground carbon in roots and soils.
• Amazon Conservation’s Monitoring of the Andean Amazon Project (MAAP)’s analysis shows that 61% of the peak carbon areas in the Amazon are protected as indigenous reserves or other protected lands, but the rest generally has no official designation.
• In Brazil, Suriname and French Guiana, only 51% of peak carbon areas are labeled for preservation. Peru protects a higher proportion of its critical areas, but some of the areas that have been left unprotected have been earmarked for logging.

Why the Amazon matters

• MAAP published an analysis last month showing that the Amazon contained 71.5 billion tonnes of carbon, roughly double the global carbon dioxide emissions for 2022. That analysis showed that the Amazon just barely absorbed more carbon than it released in the decade leading up to 2022, a positive signal for the world’s climate.
• But that remains an area of intense debate, with other studies showing the Amazon has flipped to become an emissions source.
• As the effects of anthropogenic climate change become more stark with each passing day, the Amazon becomes one of the most valuable assets for the planet’s health. Scientists say that if the Amazon becomes an emission source instead of a carbon sink — which absorbs carbon from the atmosphere — the impact on the planet may be cataclysmic.

In News:

Earlier this month, the Centre approved the transfer of 256 acres of salt pan land in Mumbai to the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a joint venture between Adani Realty Group and the Maharashtra government, for building rental housing for slum dwellers.

What are salt pan lands?

• They comprise parcels of low-lying lands where seawater flows in at certain times, and leaves behind salt and other minerals. Along with Mumbai’s mangroves (also at risk due to development), this ecosystem is instrumental in protecting the city from flooding.
• According to the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification of 2011, the ecologically sensitive salt pans fall under CRZ-1B category, where no economic activity is allowed with the exception of salt extraction and natural gas exploration.
• In all, 5,378 acres of land in Mumbai have been designated as salt pan lands, approximately nine times the size of the Dharavi slum. About 31% of this land is located in residential and commercial belts, and roughly 480 acres are encroached upon, a 2014 study by the state government found. The same study found that about 1,672 acres of Mumbai’s more than 5,000 acres of salt pan lands are “developable”.
• Nationally, some 60,000 acres have been demarcated as salt pan lands, spread across Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Gujarat, and Karnataka. Andhra Pradesh (20,716 acres) boasts the largest expanse of such land, followed by Tamil Nadu (17,095 acres) and Maharashtra (12,662 acres).

Why are Mumbai’s salt pan lands at risk?

Development Pressure

• Land Scarcity: Mumbai faces severe land scarcity, with its burgeoning population and high demand for space. Salt pans, being some of the last undeveloped areas, are increasingly targeted for various projects.
• Development Plans: Multiple state governments have eyed salt pan lands for different uses.

Environmental Significance

• Flood Prevention: Salt pans are situated in low-lying areas that naturally collect rainwater and tidal flows, helping to mitigate flooding in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs. They act as natural buffers, absorbing excess water during heavy rains and high tides.
• Historical Context: During the July 2005 deluge, salt pans helped reduce the impact of flooding compared to other areas of Mumbai, highlighting their role in flood management.
• Ecosystems: Salt pans are home to various species of birds and insects and contribute to local biodiversity. The destruction of these lands could lead to loss of habitat and disruption of local ecosystems.

Risks of Development

• Flooding Concerns: Environmentalists argue that constructing on these low-lying areas will lead to increased flooding in areas like Vikhroli, Kanjurmarg, and Bhandup. This is because the land’s natural ability to absorb and manage water will be compromised.
• Quality of Life Issues: Relocating slum-dwellers to these areas raises concerns about their living conditions. Salt pans are prone to flooding, which could undermine the quality of life for new residents. The cost of making these lands habitable, including extensive land filling and waterproofing measures, could negate the benefits of affordable housing.
• Conflict with Climate Goals: There is a contradiction between Mumbai’s Climate Action Plan, which recognizes climate threats, and the push to develop areas critical for flood management.

In News:

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the SEMICON 2024 conference on the outskirts of the national capital, advocating for increased investment in semiconductor manufacturing and resilient supply chains.

• Significance of Supply Chains: Emphasized the critical need for resilient supply chains, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as a stark reminder of their importance. The pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains, particularly affecting sectors dependent on chip imports from China.
• Investment in Semiconductors: Modi pitched India as a prime destination for semiconductor investments. He stressed that India aims to have an Indian-made chip in every global device and is committed to becoming a semiconductor powerhouse.
• India's Semiconductor Strategy:
  • Reformist Government: Modi highlighted India’s reformist policies and stable business environment as key attractions for semiconductor investments.
  • Growing Manufacturing Base: Expanding manufacturing infrastructure in India as a critical factor.
  • Aspirational Market: The evolving technology market in India is seen as a strong incentive for semiconductor production.
• Government Commitment: Modi announced that over ?1.5 lakh crore has already been committed to semiconductor manufacturing, with several projects currently in the pipeline.
• Semicon India 2024 Focus:
  • Event Goals: SEMICON India 2024 is a three-day conference designed to showcase India’s semiconductor strategies and policies, aiming to position the country as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing.
  • Workforce Development: The government is developing a semiconductor workforce of 85,000 engineers, technicians, and R&D experts.
  • Market Growth: India’s semiconductor market, valued at $23.2 billion, is projected to reach $80.3 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.10%.
• Importance of Semiconductors: Semiconductor chips as crucial for fulfilling the aspirations of millions and noted their role in India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), which remained effective during the pandemic when other countries’ banking systems struggled.
• Event Participation: SEMICON India 2024 will feature over 250 exhibitors and 150 speakers, including top executives from global semiconductor companies, industry leaders, businesses, and experts from around the world.

According to the company, the eye drop PresVu is the first of its kind in India, and that Entod has “applied for a patent for this invention in terms of its formulation and the process”.

Mumbai-based Entod Pharmaceuticals has announced that the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) — the country’s apex drug regulator — has approved its new eye drop, which has been “specifically developed to reduce dependency on reading glasses for individuals affected by presbyopia.”

According to the company, the eye drop PresVu is the first of its kind in India, and that Entod has “applied for a patent for this invention in terms of its formulation and the process”.

What is presbyopia?

Presbyopia is an age-related condition in which the eyes gradually lose the ability to focus on nearby objects. People usually start to develop presbyopia at around the age of 40. According to doctors, spectacles are one of the most effective ways to manage the condition.

How does PresVu work?

• The active ingredient — chemical compounds in medicines that have an effect on the body — in PresVu is pilocarpine. The compound contracts the iris muscles, which control the size of the pupil and help humans see things clearly, thereby enabling one’s eyes to focus better on nearby objects, according to Entod Pharmaceuticals.
• The company also said that PresVu uses “advanced dynamic buffer technology” — essentially, a base solution — to adapt to the pH level (a scale used to measure how acidic or basic a substance is) of tears. This ensures that the eye drop has “consistent efficacy and safety for extended use, keeping in mind that such drops will be used for years at a stretch”.
• PresVu is a prescription-only medicine and, according to doctors, its impact is unlikely to last beyond four to six hours. It should not be used by people who have inflammation of the iris. Regular use of PresVu may lead to itching and redness, eyebrow pain, and muscle spasms in the eyes.

Is this a novel therapy?

• Although Entod’s claims make it seem that PresVu is a new therapy, pilocarpine, the main compound used in the eye drop, has been available in India for decades now.
• The United States Food and Drug Administration approved a pilocarpine eye drop for presbyopia in 2021.
• In India, the government decides on the ceiling price of pilocarpine in 4% and 2% concentrations. PresVu has pilocarpine in 1.25% concentration.

The bilateral relationship between India and the UAE has flourished in recent years, marked by deepening strategic ties and multifaceted collaboration. The recent visit of Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince to India highlights the growing importance of this partnership. The UAE is now India's second-largest export destination, third-largest trading partner, and fourth-largest investor. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), effective from May 2022, has been transformative, boosting total trade by nearly 15% and increasing non-oil trade by 20% in the 2023-24 period.

Significance of the UAE for India

• Economic Gateway: The UAE is a crucial entry point for India into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. As India's third-largest trading partner, bilateral trade reached USD 84.5 billion in FY 2022-23. The CEPA, removing tariffs on 80% of Indian exports to the UAE, has led to a 5.8% increase in non-oil trade early in 2023 and is expected to elevate trade to USD 100 billion by 2030. The UAE’s strategic location and infrastructure make it an ideal hub for re-exporting Indian goods to Africa and Europe.
• Energy Security: The UAE is India's fourth-largest crude oil supplier, with oil imports surging by 81% in January 2024. The partnership extends to renewable energy projects, aligning with India's goal of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030, underscoring the UAE's role in India's energy transition.
• Investment Catalyst: FDI from the UAE to India has increased more than threefold, reaching USD 3.35 billion from USD 1.03 billion in 2021-22. The UAE-India High-Level Joint Task Force on Investments has played a key role, with significant investments like the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority’s Rs 4,966.80 crore in Reliance Retail Ventures Limited.
• Strategic Partner: The UAE has become a vital strategic ally for India in counterterrorism and maritime security. The bilateral naval exercise "Zayed Talwar" in 2021 and India's access to the UAE’s Al Dhafra air base highlight the expanding defense cooperation between the two nations.
• Remittances and Soft Power: The 3.5 million-strong Indian diaspora in the UAE is a major source of remittances and cultural influence. In 2022, India received nearly USD 111 billion in global remittances, with the UAE as a significant contributor. The diaspora also strengthens cultural ties, as evidenced by the BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, symbolizing the UAE’s commitment to religious tolerance.
• Tech and Innovation Hub: The UAE-India partnership is increasingly focused on technology and innovation. The I2U2 group (India, Israel, UAE, USA) aims to enhance cooperation in clean energy and food security. The UAE’s USD 2 billion investment in food parks in India and the UAE-India Artificial Intelligence Bridge, launched in 2018, facilitate joint research and position both countries at the forefront of technological advancement.

Areas of Friction

• Labor Rights: Persistent labor rights issues for Indian workers in the UAE, including passport confiscation and wage theft, remain a concern.
• Geopolitical Tensions: India’s growing ties with Israel and the UAE’s normalization with Israel complicate the geopolitical landscape, potentially entangling India in regional rivalries, especially with Iran. The UAE’s increasing ties with China also add strategic complexity.
• Energy Transition: Both nations’ commitments to net-zero targets—India by 2070 and the UAE by 2050—pose challenges to their traditional hydrocarbon-based relationship.
• Trade Imbalance: Despite growing trade, India’s trade deficit with the UAE stood at USD 16.78 billion in FY 2022-23. While the CEPA aims to address this, diversifying trade beyond hydrocarbons remains a challenge.
• Maritime Security: Coordinating responses to maritime security threats while respecting strategic autonomy is challenging. The UAE’s expanding naval presence and India’s growing maritime footprint require careful coordination.

Enhancing Relations

• Digital Diplomacy: India could use its IT capabilities to develop digital platforms for collaboration, including a real-time trade portal and a joint innovation hub, and expand cross-border digital payments.
• Green Energy Corridor: Proposing an "India-UAE Green Energy Corridor" could align with both nations’ climate goals through joint investments and research in renewable energy.
• Skill Bridge Program: A "Skill Bridge Program" could upskill Indian workers for the UAE job market, focusing on emerging sectors like AI and sustainable technologies.
• StartUp Synergy Scheme: Developing a "StartUp Synergy Scheme" could foster collaboration between Indian and UAE startups through joint incubation programs and market access facilitation.
• Maritime Cooperation Blueprint: Creating a comprehensive "India-UAE Maritime Cooperation Blueprint" could enhance collaboration in maritime security, blue economy initiatives, and port development, including joint patrols and deep-sea ports.

Recently, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Florida, carrying American billionaire Jared Isaacman and three other astronauts into orbit for the Polaris Dawn mission. This five-day mission marks a milestone as it aims to achieve the world’s first private spacewalk. Polaris Dawn is the inaugural flight of the Polaris Program, a collaborative effort between Isaacman and SpaceX, led by Elon Musk. The program's goal is to develop innovative technologies for future Mars missions.

What is a Spacewalk?

A spacewalk, or “extravehicular activity” (EVA), involves an astronaut conducting activities outside a spacecraft while in space. The concept of a spacewalk dates back to March 18, 1965, when Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov performed the first EVA during the Space Race. Leonov's spacewalk lasted just 10 minutes.

Modern spacewalks typically occur outside the International Space Station (ISS) and can last between five and eight hours. Astronauts conduct spacewalks for various purposes, such as performing scientific experiments, testing new equipment, or repairing satellites and spacecraft.

During a spacewalk, astronauts wear specially designed spacesuits and use safety tethers to prevent floating away into space. These tethers have one end attached to the astronaut and the other secured to the spacecraft. An alternative safety device is the SAFER (Simplified Aid for EVA Rescue), a backpack with small jet thrusters controlled by a joystick, which helps astronauts maneuver in space.

Objectives of the Polaris Dawn Mission

The Polaris Dawn mission, utilizing SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, aims to reach an altitude of approximately 1,400 km from Earth. This altitude exceeds the previous record set by NASA’s Gemini XI mission in 1966, which reached 1,372 km. At this height, the mission will be deep within the Van Allen radiation belts, which start around 1,000 km altitude and are known for their high levels of radiation. The crew will study the effects of spaceflight and radiation on human health.

Following this high-altitude phase, the Dragon capsule will descend to a lower orbit to facilitate the spacewalk scheduled for the third day of the mission, Thursday. During the spacewalk, the capsule will be depressurized, and the hatch will open, exposing the interior to the vacuum of space. Only two crew members, Isaacman and Gillis, will exit the capsule, while Poteet and Menon will remain inside to manage safety tethers and monitor the mission’s status.

The primary objective of the spacewalk is to test SpaceX’s newly developed EVA spacesuits. These suits, designed specifically for this mission, feature built-in cameras and heads-up displays to provide real-time information about the suit's condition. They also incorporate advanced thermal management systems.

After the spacewalk, Isaacman and Gillis will return to the capsule, which will then be repressurized before resuming its mission activities.

Additional Mission Activities

Throughout the mission, the crew will conduct 40 scientific experiments. These include attempting to capture X-ray images using natural space radiation instead of traditional X-ray equipment. The mission will also test SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network for laser-based communication, allowing satellite-to-satellite communication without relying on ground-based infrastructure.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat globally, with escalating concerns in India. AMR arises when microbes evolve into drug-resistant ‘superbugs’ due to the misuse or overuse of antibiotics. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the September 26 UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on antimicrobial resistance, which highlighted the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent guidance on antibiotic pollution from manufacturing.

AMR and the emergence of "superbugs" have far-reaching implications for healthcare systems, particularly affecting patients with multiple health conditions. According to a survey by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), AMR is on the rise across India, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.

What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?

AMR occurs when pathogens gain the ability to survive and cause infections despite the presence of antimicrobial drugs. This resistance is a result of microbes evolving in response to inappropriate or excessive use of antibiotics. The proliferation of resistant strains can lead to the creation of 'superbugs' that are resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. These resistant pathogens can spread through hospitals, drinking water, and sewage systems, complicating the treatment of infections.

Why is AMR Increasing?

• Individual Practices: Many people in India take antibiotics without medical consultation, especially for viral infections like the flu, where antibiotics are ineffective. This misuse contributes to the development of resistance.
• Medical Practices: There is a need for improved education among doctors regarding the use of antibiotics. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which target a wide range of infections, are more likely to induce resistance. A survey by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) found that 71.9% of patients in hospitals were prescribed antibiotics, often not to treat existing infections but to prevent potential ones. This overprescription has diminished the efficacy of several antibiotics, such as Norfloxacin, and increased resistance to crucial antibiotics like carbapenems.
• Diagnostic Practices: Often, doctors prescribe antibiotics based on symptoms rather than diagnostic tests, leading to empirical treatments with broad-spectrum antibiotics. It is essential for doctors to use diagnostic tests to prescribe targeted antibiotics, minimizing unnecessary resistance development.
• Pharmaceutical Industry: The WHO’s recent guidelines on antibiotic pollution highlight the need for better management of wastewater and solid waste from antibiotic manufacturing facilities. Despite known high levels of antibiotic pollution, regulatory oversight remains limited.

Common Resistant Pathogens in India

In India, the most prevalent resistant pathogens include:

• E. coli: Responsible for gut infections, with susceptibility to carbapenems decreasing from 81.4% in 2017 to 62.7% in 2023.
• Klebsiella pneumoniae: Causes pneumonia and urinary tract infections, showing reduced susceptibility to carbapenems from 58.5% to 35.6% and 48% to 37.6% between 2017 and 2023.
• Acinetobacter baumannii: Primarily associated with hospital-acquired infections, with resistance to carbapenems at 88% in 2023.

Key Actions Required

1. Prevention: Enhance infection prevention through better hygiene, sanitation, and vaccination.
2. Education: Train doctors on the judicious use of antibiotics, reserving potent antibiotics for severe cases, and ensuring appropriate diagnostic testing.
3. Regulation: Implement regulations to control antibiotic pollution from manufacturing processes and investigate resistance pathways.

Good digital public infrastructure (DPI) integrates technology with societal needs, ensuring that it is secure, scalable, and inclusive.

India’s achievement of over 80% financial inclusion in just six years has drawn international praise, particularly as a model for the Global South. This accomplishment underscores India’s success in achieving both digital and financial inclusion for over a billion people. Consequently, the G20 summit in New Delhi in 2023 highlighted the critical role of digital public infrastructure.

In response, India’s G20 task force has released a comprehensive report outlining a global strategy for DPI development. This positions India to support other nations in achieving digital sovereignty, financial inclusion, and self-reliance.

The evolving digital landscape is marked by a variety of stakeholders—including private enterprises, government bodies, non-profits, and think tanks—each working to advance their DPI solutions. This raises two key questions: How can we identify genuine and reliable DPIs from the plethora available? And what differentiates a “good DPI” from a “bad DPI”?

Identifying effective DPI involves assessing how well technology meets societal needs while ensuring security, scalability, and inclusivity. Authenticity and adherence to core principles are essential for evaluating DPIs.

The Citizen Stack Model

Citizen Stack, built upon the proven success of India Stack, emerges as a trusted ecosystem in digital infrastructure. India Stack, a robust digital platform, has demonstrated its effectiveness and security on a vast scale, serving over a billion citizens. This strong foundation enhances Citizen Stack’s credibility and reliability. Unlike DPI manufacturers, Citizen Stack functions as a regulatory body or auditor, certifying and authenticating DPIs to ensure they meet high standards of quality and security.

Citizen Stack’s approach is comprehensive, focusing on security, scalability, and inclusivity. The DPI platforms approved by Citizen Stack are designed to meet the diverse needs of large populations while maintaining stringent security measures to protect user data and privacy. As an auditor, Citizen Stack ensures that certified DPIs are dependable, secure, and beneficial to the public.

In an era of abundant digital solutions and promises, distinguishing genuinely reliable platforms is essential. Citizen Stack offers assurance as a gold standard for DPI solutions.

Guiding Principles of a “Good DPI”

Citizen Stack has established five core principles—referred to as sutras—that define a good DPI:

1. Maintain Citizen Relationships: Ensure that digital infrastructure supports a fair relationship between citizens, the market, and the state, free from undue influence.
2. Protect Empowerment and Privacy: Implement consent-based data sharing systems that prioritize individual empowerment and privacy.
3. Prevent Monopolistic Lock-In: Ensure interoperability to avoid citizens being restricted by monopolistic entities.
4. Combine Techno-Legal Regulation: Integrate technology with legal frameworks to govern ethical tech use, ensuring innovation while safeguarding security and societal rights.
5. Foster Public-Private Innovation: Encourage collaboration between public and private sectors, while avoiding corporate dominance. The focus should be on public good rather than corporate monopolies, and technology should prevent exploitation by state or corporate actors.

In News:

India successfully test-fired the Agni-4 ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The test, conducted by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) under India's Nuclear Command Authority (NCA), demonstrated the missile's operational and technical capabilities.

Key Details:

1. Missile Specifications:
   • Range: The Agni-4 missile has a maximum range of 4,000 kilometers.
   • Payload: It can carry a payload of up to 1,000 kilograms.
   • Length: The missile is approximately 20 meters long.
   • Launch Platform: It is designed for deployment on a road-mobile launcher, enhancing its flexibility and mobility.
2. Historical Context:
   • Previous Test (2012): In its earlier test in 2012, Agni-4 successfully covered over 3,000 kilometers within 20 minutes. This was noted as the longest-range mission achieved by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at that time.
   • Name Change: The Agni-4 was previously known as Agni-2 Prime.
3. Development and Capabilities:
   • Development: The Agni missiles, including the Agni-4, are developed by the DRDO, showcasing India's advancements in missile technology and strategic capabilities.
   • Comparison with Agni-5: The Agni-4 is part of a series of Agni missiles that have progressively enhanced India's missile range and strike capabilities. The Agni-5 represents an even more advanced development in this series.

The successful test of Agni-4 underscores India's commitment to strengthening its strategic defense capabilities and maintaining its deterrence posture.

• Launched on October 2, 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has been pivotal in advancing sanitation infrastructure in India.
• By 2020, the mission had facilitated the construction of over 11 crore household toilets under its Grameen component and over 63 lakh individual and 6.36 lakh community public toilets under its Urban component. This extensive sanitation drive aimed at eradicating open defecation and improving public health.

Impact on Infant Mortality

A recent study published in Nature has highlighted the significant health benefits resulting from SBM. According to the report, titled ‘Toilet Construction under the Swachh Bharat Mission and Infant Mortality in India,’ the initiative may have averted approximately 60,000 to 70,000 infant deaths annually between 2014 and 2020. The study, analyzed data from 35 states and 640 districts from 2011 to 2020, focusing on the infant mortality rate (IMR) and under-five mortality rate (U5MR).

Key Findings

1. Decrease in Infant Mortality:
   • The study established an inverse relationship between toilet access and infant mortality. It noted that districts with increased toilet coverage saw a marked decline in infant deaths.
   • In 2003, the average toilet coverage in districts was below 40%, rising to over 60% by 2020. Correspondingly, infant mortality rates fell from an average of 48.9 per 1,000 live births in 2003 to 23.5 per 1,000 live births in 2020.
2. Significant Decline:
   • The research observed a substantial decline in infant mortality rates from 40 per 1,000 live births in 2012 to below 30 per 1,000 live births by 2019.
   • The mortality rate for children under five also dropped from about 44 per 1,000 live births in 2012 to below 30 by 2019.
3. Regional Variations:
   • Despite the overall improvement, certain regions like parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh continued to report higher infant mortality rates, ranging between 45-60 per 1,000 live births in 2020.

Conclusion

The SBM has demonstrably improved sanitation in India, with a notable reduction in infant mortality rates attributed to the increased availability of household toilets. While the mission has achieved significant progress, ongoing efforts and investments in broader public health infrastructure are essential to address persistent regional disparities and sustain health gains.

In News:

The recent dissolution of the 14-member Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) by the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has sparked considerable controversy and debate. The committee, which was chaired by Pronab Sen, a renowned economist and former chief statistician of India, was reportedly disbanded after its members raised concerns about the delay in conducting the decennial census.

Key Points:

• Dissolution of the Committee:
  • The SCoS, formed in July 2023, was responsible for advising the Union government on survey methodology and statistical frameworks. According to the experts the decision to dissolve the SCoS was due to an overlap in functions with the newly formed Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys.
• Concerns and Criticism:
  • Dr. Pronab Sen and other committee members expressed concerns over the delay in conducting the census, which was due in 2021 but has yet to be carried out. The last census, conducted in 2011, is now outdated, impacting the accuracy of various statistical surveys.
  • Members of the SCoS reportedly questioned the delay in census operations during their meetings, leading to speculation that their concerns may have contributed to the committee's dissolution.
• Formation of the New Steering Committee:
  • The new Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys, chaired by Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, was established following a recommendation by the National Statistical Commission (NSC). The roles of this new committee are said to overlap with those of the SCoS, which the Ministry cited as a reason for disbanding the latter.

Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS)

• The Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS) was established by renaming and expanding the scope of the Standing Committee on Economic Statistics (SCES), which was originally formed in December 2019.
• The SCES, with 28 members, was tasked with reviewing economic indicators related to the industrial sector, services sector, and labor force statistics, including datasets like the Periodic Labour Force Survey, the Annual Survey of Industries, and the Economic Census.

Current Structure and Members: The newly formed SCoS comprises 14 members, including:

• Four Non-Official Members
• Nine Official Members
• One Member Secretary

The committee's total membership can be extended up to 16 based on requirements.

Functions:

1.       Review and Address Issues:

o   The SCoS reviews the existing frameworks and addresses issues related to all surveys as presented by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). This includes evaluating survey results and methodologies.

2.       Advisory Role:

o   It advises on various aspects of survey methodology, including sampling frames, sampling designs, and survey instruments. The committee is also responsible for finalizing the tabulation plans and results of surveys.

3.       Data Collection and Production:

o   The SCoS oversees the design and implementation of all data collection and production efforts. It ensures that data collected by MoSPI adheres to high standards of statistical quality and accuracy.

In News:

A devastating series of events unfolded in Vietnam, as a bridge collapsed and a bus was swept away by severe flooding, raising the death toll to at least 65. The fatalities are attributed to Typhoon Yagi and the subsequent heavy rains, which have wreaked havoc across the Southeast Asian country.

In Depth:

• The typhoon made landfall in Vietnam’s northern coastal provinces of Quang Ninh and Haiphong with wind speeds of up to 149 kilometers per hour (92 miles per hour) on Saturday afternoon.
• It raged for roughly 15 hours before gradually weakening into a tropical depression early Sunday morning.
• Vietnam’s meteorological department predicted heavy rain in northern and central provinces and warned of floods in low-lying areas, flash floods in streams and landslides on steep slopes.

What is a cyclone?

• The term 'Cyclone' is derived from the Greek word 'Cyclos' which means 'Coiling of the Snake'.
•  Cyclones are created by atmospheric disturbances around a low-pressure area and are usually accompanied by violent storms and severe weather conditions. Basically, a tropical cyclone is a deep low-pressure area.

In News:

Minister of State for Tourism and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi pledged to replace a statue of Sakthan Thampuran that was knocked over by a state transport bus in June with a new bronze statue if the Kerala government did not do so within 14 days.

Who was Sakthan Thampuran?

• Raja Rama Varma Kunjipillai or Rama Varma IX, better known today as Sakthan Thampuran, ruled over the Cochin kingdom from 1790 to 1805.
• He was born in 1751 to Ambika Thampuran and Chendose Aniyan Namboodiri of the Cochin royal family, but was raised by an aunt who called him Sakthan, meaning ‘powerful’.
• The word thampuran is believed to be an appropriation of the Sanskrit samrat, meaning emperor.
• The Cochin kingdom, which was part of the Late Chera Empire, covered the regions between Ponnani in Malappuram and Thottappally in Alappuzha in today’s Kerala.

Strategist and ruler

• Sakthan Thampuran became heir apparent in 1769 as an 18-year-old. He advised his king to maintain friendly relations with both the Dutch and the English, who were vying for a larger share of trade in the region.
• Sakthan is said to have orchestrated Mysore’s attempt to invade the Travancore kingdom, which had established relations with the English East India Company. This would result in the Powney treaty which freed the Cochin kingdom from its allegiance to Mysore, and helped formalise its relations with the British.
• Sakthan Thampuran put an end to the institution of the Yogiatirippads — the erstwhile spiritual heads of the Vadakkumnathan and Perumanam temples, who had conspired against the previous Cochin king in his wars against the Calicut Zamorin — and entrusted temple management to the government.
• He built a fearsome reputation for himself, and is said to have largely freed his kingdom of crime.

Thrissur and Pooram

• Sakthan Thampuran transferred the seat of the Cochin kingdom from Thrippunithura to modern-day Thrissur.
• The Thekkinkadu Maidanam and the surrounding Swaraj Round became the basis for the city’s elaborate road system and infrastructure.
• The king encouraged merchants of all religions and British officials to relocate to the city. He also overhauled and firmed up the kingdom’s finances, personally overseeing revenue management.
• Sakthan Thampuran started the Thrissur Pooram in 1797 as an alternative to the Arattupuzha Pooram, then the largest temple festival in the state.
• The Thrissur Pooram was conceived as an opportunity for the major temples in Thrissur to come to pay their respects to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity at the Vadakkumnathan Temple.

In News:

• A critically endangered species, the elongated tortoise (Indotestudo elongata), was spotted in Haryana’s Damdama area during a research survey in the Aravallis.

Key Features:

• The tortoise is medium-sized with a yellowish brown or olive shell and distinct black blotches at the centre of each scute.
• The tortoise has on its nostril a pink ring, which appears in the breeding season.
• Mature individuals of both sexes develop a distinct pinkish colouration surrounding the nostrils and eyes during the season.
• Habitat:
  • The tortoise, found in the Sal deciduous and hilly evergreen forests, is distributed across Southeast Asia from northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh in the west, eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, and all of Indochina, north to Guangxi Province of China and south to Peninsular Malaysia.
  • A disjunct tortoise population exists in the Chota Nagpur plateau in eastern India. It also inhabits lowlands and foothills of up to 1,000 m above sea level.
  • There have not been enough surveys to ascertain its presence in Aravallis, but the tortoise is found in the foothills of the Himalayas.
  • It inhabits wetter areas and discovering it here is an aberration than a norm, adding it cannot be ruled out that the tortoise was brought by trade.

Conservation Status:

• International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Status: Critically Endangered, under criteria A2cd.

Threats:

• Currently, I. elongata is heavily exploited for food and traditional medicine throughout its range.
• Local people often opportunistically capture tortoises while farming or extracting other forest resources. However, deliberate hunting also occurs and dogs continue to be widely used for finding tortoises.

• High-Level Inter-Governmental Contacts:
  • Frequent and high-level exchanges, including the Prime Minister's upcoming visit.
  • Recent second India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable with senior Indian ministers.
• Key Areas of Cooperation:
  • Digitalisation, skills development, sustainability, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and connectivity.
  • Broader contacts include parliamentary and judicial exchanges.
• Economic Ties:
  • Singapore is India’s largest trading partner among ASEAN countries and the sixth largest globally.
  • Singapore is also the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) for India.
• People-to-People Exchanges:
  • Large concentration of IIT and IIM alumni in Singapore.
  • Historical ties, including the Indian National Army's presence and the contributions of early Indian diaspora in Singapore.
• Regional Policy and Strategic Importance:
  • Singapore has supported India’s “Look East” and “Act East” policies.
  • Facilitated India’s dialogue partnership with ASEAN.
  • Regional implications due to Myanmar’s instability, with India and Singapore both having stakes.
• Defence and Maritime Cooperation:
  • Important defence component and maritime collaboration.
  • Focus on the Indo-Pacific region amidst growing Chinese influence and new regional architectures like the QUAD.
• Trade and Economic Outlook:
  • The visit provides an opportunity to review and expand trade and economic partnerships.
  • Potential for increased Chinese FDI into India, with Singaporean entities likely to play a role.
• Complementarities and Challenges:
  • Singapore's role as a global trading and investment hub complements India’s economic landscape.
  • Highlights India's regulatory and structural inefficiencies, pointing to areas needing improvement for enhanced bilateral cooperation.

• The World Bank has forecast a growth of 7% for the Indian economy for the current fiscal year, upping its earlier estimate of 6.6%.
• In its report, India Development Update: India’s Trade Opportunities in a Changing Global Context, the World Bank said India’s growth continued to be strong despite a challenging global environment.
• The World Bank growth projection is in line with those of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Asian Development Bank (ADB).
  • Both the institutions have raised their forecast to 7% for the financial year ending March 2025.
• The India Development Update [IDU] observes that India remained the fastest-growing major economy and grew at a rapid clip of 8.2% in FY 23/24.
  • Growth was boosted by public infrastructure investment and an upswing in household investments in real estate.
  • On the supply side, it was supported by a buoyant manufacturing sector, which grew by 9.9%, and resilient services activity, which compensated for underperformance in agriculture.
• Reflecting these trends, urban unemployment has improved gradually since the pandemic, especially for female workers. While female urban unemployment fell to 8.5 % in early FY24/25, the urban youth unemployment remained elevated at 17%.
• India’s robust growth prospects, along with declining inflation rate will help to reduce extreme poverty
• India can boost its growth further by harnessing its global trade potential. In addition to IT, business services and pharma where it excels, India can diversify its export basket with increased exports in textiles, apparel, and footwear sectors, as well as electronics and green technology products.
• A recovery in agriculture will partially offset a marginal moderation in industry and all services will remain robust. The rural private consumption will recover, thanks to the expected recovery in agriculture.
• The report also highlights the critical role of trade for boosting growth. The global trade landscape has witnessed increased protectionism in recent years. The post pandemic reconfiguration of global value chains, triggered by the pandemic, has created opportunities for India.
• The IDU recommends a three-pronged approach towards achieving the $1 trillion merchandise export target by reducing trade costs further, lowering trade barriers, and deepening trade integration.

Constitution and Tenure:

• Notification and Term:
  • The 23rd Law Commission of India was notified by the Union government on September 2, with effect from September 1.
  • The commission will have a three-year term, concluding on August 31, 2027.
  • The tenure of the previous Law Commission, chaired by former Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, ended on August 31.

Role and Importance of the Law Commission:

• Purpose:
  • The Law Commission is a non-statutory body formed by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice through a gazette notification.
  • Its role includes reviewing the functioning of laws, recommending the repeal of obsolete legislation, and providing recommendations on issues referred by the government.
• Composition:
  • Typically chaired by a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge.
  • Includes legal scholars and can also have serving judges.
• Impact:
  • Over the years, 22 Law Commissions have submitted 289 reports.
  • Their recommendations have influenced significant legislation, such as the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC), and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act).

Constitution of the 23rd Law Commission:

• Structure:
  • The commission will consist of:
    • A full-time chairperson.
    • Four full-time members, including a member-secretary.
    • Up to five part-time members.
    • Ex officio members including the secretaries of the Legal Affairs and Legislative departments.
• Appointment and Remuneration:
  • Chairperson and full-time members can be serving Supreme Court or High Court judges or other experts chosen by the government.
  • The chairperson will receive a monthly salary of ?2.50 lakh, while members will receive ?2.25 lakh.
  • The member-secretary must be an officer of the Indian Legal Service of the rank of Secretary.
  • Serving judges appointed to the commission will serve until retirement or the end of the commission’s term, without additional remuneration.

Terms of Reference:

• Primary Tasks:
  • Identify and recommend the repeal of obsolete or irrelevant laws.
  • Create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for periodic review and simplification of existing laws.
  • Identify laws that are misaligned with current economic needs and suggest amendments.
• Directive Principles and Reforms:
  • Examine laws in light of Directive Principles of State Policy and suggest improvements and new legislation to achieve constitutional objectives.
  • Address laws affecting the poor, conduct post-enactment audits of socio-economic legislation, and review judicial administration for responsiveness.

Previous Commission's Contributions:

• Reports and Recommendations:
  • The 22nd Law Commission produced 11 reports, including:
    • A report in April 2023 recommending retention of Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (sedition law), with suggested amendments for clarity.
    • A report recommending a new law to protect trade secrets.
    • A report on simultaneous elections, though it was not submitted to the government before the commission’s chairperson assumed office as a Lokpal member.

Upcoming Focus:

• The 23rd Law Commission is expected to continue examining key issues, including the implementation of a uniform civil code, which was also considered by the 22nd Commission but whose recommendations remain unpublished.

In India, the financial relationship between the Union government and the States is characterized by vertical fiscal imbalance (VFI), where the Union government holds most of the revenue while States shoulder significant expenditure responsibilities. The 16th Finance Commission has a pivotal role in addressing this imbalance. Here's how it should approach the issue:

Understanding Vertical Fiscal Imbalance (VFI)

• Current Situation:
  • States incur 61% of revenue expenditure but collect only 38% of revenue receipts.
  • States rely heavily on transfers from the Union government, leading to a pronounced VFI.
• VFI Definition:
  • VFI arises when the expenditure responsibilities of States exceed their revenue-raising capabilities, necessitating transfers from the Union.

Reasons to Address VFI

• Constitutional Allocation:
  • Revenue duties and expenditure responsibilities are constitutionally divided.
  • Union government collects Personal Income Tax, Corporation Tax, and part of indirect taxes for efficiency.
  • States are better positioned to deliver publicly provided goods and services effectively.
• Historical Context:
  • The 15th Finance Commission highlighted that India has experienced a rising VFI, exacerbated by crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Finance Commission's Role:
  • The Commission addresses VFI by determining how to allocate taxes collected by the Union to the States and how to distribute these among States.

Finance Commission Recommendations

• Tax Devolution:
  • The Commission recommends devolving a portion of Union taxes to States.
  • The 14th and 15th Finance Commissions recommended devolving 42% and 41% of net proceeds, respectively.
  • To eliminate VFI, devolution should be around 48.94%.
• Grants and Transfers:
  • The Commission also suggests grants under Article 275 for specific purposes.
  • Transfers under Article 282, such as centrally sponsored and central sector schemes, are tied and include conditionalities, which are not untied resources.

Calculation and Recommendations for VFI

• Estimating VFI:
  • Ratio = (Own Revenue Receipts + Tax Devolution) / Own Revenue Expenditure.
  • A ratio less than 1 indicates insufficient revenue to meet expenditure, showing the VFI deficit.
• Empirical Findings:
  • To address VFI, the share of net proceeds devolved to States should be around 49%.
  • This increase would ensure that States have more untied resources, enhancing their ability to meet local needs and priorities.

Implications of Increased Tax Devolution

• Enhanced State Capacity:
  • A higher share of tax devolution would empower States with more resources for untied expenditures.
  • It would improve the alignment of State expenditures with local needs and priorities.
• Improved Efficiency:
  • Enhanced devolution would lead to better efficiency in expenditure by allowing States to respond more effectively to jurisdictional requirements.
• Strengthened Fiscal Federalism:
  • Addressing VFI through increased tax devolution contributes to a more balanced and cooperative fiscal federalism.

Conclusion: The 16th Finance Commission should focus on increasing the share of tax devolution to around 50% to address the vertical fiscal imbalance. This adjustment will provide States with the necessary resources to manage their expenditure responsibilities more effectively and ensure a more equitable distribution of fiscal resources in India’s federal structure.

Why is it in the News?

Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos on Thursday successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine, after calling off its launch at least four times previously.

What is Agnibaan - SOrTeD?

• Agnibaan SOrTeD is a sub-orbital technological demonstrator of the Agnibaan launch vehicle, manufactured by Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos.
  • A sub-orbital launch reaches outer space but does not complete an orbit around Earth, intersecting the Earth's atmosphere or surface without becoming an artificial satellite or reaching escape velocity.
• This marks Agnikul’s fifth launch attempt since March 22. With this launch, AgniKul became the second private company to achieve a rocket launch in India, following Skyroot's successful flight in 2022.

Features:

• It is a customizable, two-stage launch vehicle capable of carrying up to 300 kg into an orbit approximately 700 km above Earth.
• Semi-Cryogenic Engine: Utilizes a combination of liquid and gaseous propellants, operating at temperatures higher than cryogenic engines but lower than traditional liquid rocket engines.
  • Uses refined kerosene, which is lighter and can be stored at normal temperatures, allowing more propellant to be carried. When combined with liquid oxygen, kerosene provides higher thrust.
• The test flight aims to demonstrate in-house, homegrown technologies, gather crucial flight data, and ensure the optimal functioning of systems for AgniKul's orbital launch vehicle, Agnibaan.
• The rocket is designed for accessing both low and high-inclination orbits and is completely mobile, enabling launches from more than 10 ports.

Agnibaan Acheivments:

• World’s First 3D-Printed Engine: Agnibaan is the first rocket to use a 3D-printed engine.
• First Semi-Cryogenic Engine-Powered Rocket Launch: Pioneering the use of semi-cryogenic engines in rocket launches.
• India’s First Private Launchpad Rocket Launch: The first Indian rocket launch conducted from a private launchpad.
• Unique Engine Configuration: Powered by the only engine in India that uses both gas and liquid fuel (liquid oxygen/kerosene).

Significance:

• Typically, rocket engine parts are manufactured separately and assembled later.
• The 3D-printed manufacturing process is expected to lower launch costs and reduce vehicle assembly time, offering affordable launch services for small satellites.

About 3D Printing:

• 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, creates three-dimensional objects from digital models by adding material layer by layer.
• This process, which uses materials like plastic, composites, or bio-materials, allows for efficient and customized production, contrasting with traditional subtractive manufacturing methods.

Notable Examples of 3D Printing:

• Industry Applications: 3D printing is widely used in industries such as healthcare, automotive, and aerospace.
• Aerospace: In May, Relativity Space launched a test rocket made entirely from 3D-printed parts, standing 100 feet tall and 7.5 feet wide.
  • However, the rocket experienced a failure shortly after takeoff.
• Healthcare: During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, 3D printers were utilized to produce essential medical equipment, including swabs, face shields, masks, and parts for ventilators.

Why is it in the News?

Large parts of the country are witnessing a searing and longer-than-usual heatwave, with record-breaking day temperatures.

What is an Urban Heat Island?

• An urban heat island occurs when a city experiences much warmer temperatures than nearby rural areas.
• The difference in temperature between urban and less-developed rural areas has to do with how well the surfaces in each environment absorb and hold heat.

What is the Urban Heat Island Effect?

• Structures made of concrete — buildings, pavements, roads, and other infrastructure — absorb and re-emit the sun’s heat more than natural features like trees and water bodies.
• Cities, where these structures are concentrated, and greenery is limited, thus become “islands” of higher temperature compared to surrounding, greener, areas.
• This is called the urban heat island effect. And since heat is trapped in built-up structures, greater urbanisation has a direct correlation with the rise in night temperatures.

How do humidity and warm nights impact the human body?

• The rise in temperatures, humidity, and warmer nights together make the summer more deadly for human beings.
• Humans regulate their body temperatures by sweating, the evaporation of sweat from the skin cools our bodies.
• However high humidity prevents this from happening, which can take a toll on the body.
• Reacting to heat, “the heart starts pumping more blood to our skin.
  • This activates the sweat glands which help regulate body temperature.
  • But as a result of sweating, other organs get less blood flow.
• In humid conditions, the body continues to sweat with little avail.
• This not only leads to dehydration and salt imbalances but also takes a toll on organs due to reduced blood flow.
  • And it leads to the body overheating as its temperature-regulation mechanism is not working.
• If the temperatures are too high, the cellular processes in the brain also get affected.
  • This can initially lead to fainting, and in more serious cases, effects such as heat stroke and organ malfunction.

At the very basic level, more humidity and warmer nights do not allow our bodies to rest and recuperate”.

Why is it in the News?

At least 36 people were killed in heavy rains and landslides in four northeastern states on Tuesday under the impact of Cyclone Remal while normal life came to a grinding halt in all the eight states of the region with road and rail links affected.

What are Landslides?

• Landslides in India are one of the major hydro-geological hazards affecting large parts of the landmass of the country.
• It refers to the gravitational movements of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope.
• Landslides are a type of "mass wasting," which denotes any down-slope movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity.
• As per a report from the Geological Survey of India (GSI), 13% of the total land area in India is prone to landslides.
• This covers almost all the hilly regions in the country.
• About 0.18 million square km, or 42% of this vulnerable area is in the Northeastern region, where the terrain is mostly hilly.

What Causes a Landslide in India?

• Deforestation: Removal of trees reduces the binding properties of soil and rocks. This enables the water to seep into the sub-surface, making the topsoil vulnerable. 
  • For example, the Himalayan region has become more vulnerable to landslides due to the indiscriminate cutting of trees.
• Shifting Cultivation: Shifting cultivation is common in hilly regions and Northeast areas.  Every year, residents burn the forests for cultivation purposes.
  • However, this deteriorates the quality of topsoil, causing erosion during heavy rainfall. This makes such regions more vulnerable to landslides.
• Heavy Rainfall and Earthquakes: Heavy rainfall and earthquakes often cause landslides.
  • For example, heavy rain caused landslides in Talai village of Maharashtra in 2021.
• Mining: Human activities like mining or quarrying remove the vegetation cover and soil gravel. This lowers the groundwater retention capacity. Also, it increases the risk of flooding.
  • Therefore, landslides occur due to loose debris or excess floods during an earthquake and heavy rainfall, respectively.
• Urbanisation: Intensive urbanisation and urbanization activities such as establishing commercial housing projects and road construction reduce the vegetation cover which leads to an increasing frequency of landslides.

What Are the Different Types of Landslides?

Landslides in India are divided into four categories:

• Topples: This occurs due to fractures in rocks. It causes tilting for gravitational pull without collapsing.
• Falls: This involves the collapse of rocks or debris from a cliff or slope. It results in the collection of debris at the base of a hill.
• Spread: It occurs in gentle slopes where soft debris or other materials are widely available.
• Slides: It occurs when debris, rocks or soil slide through a slope.

What Are the Impacts of Landslides in India?

• Mud, debris and rocks slide from the slope during landslides.
  • This restricts human movement and creates a traffic barrier on highways and railway lines.
• Loss of human lives is one of the severe effects.
  • Landslide is the primary factor behind the Joshimath sinking crisis which led to mass evacuation in January 2023.
• It damages houses, roads and buildings.
  • This further creates a financial burden for rebuilding infrastructure to rehabilitate the masses.
• The debris sliding down from slopes blocks the river channel fully or partially.
  • This makes it difficult for locals to get the water supply.
• Landslides also increase the risk of floods. This is because the debris increases the river sediment.
  • As a result, irregular course rivers become frequent, resulting in floods.

What Are the Measures Required to Prevent Landslides?

• An increase in forest cover is a must in community lands to reduce the hazard of landslides.
• People must store the excess water in catchment areas.
  • It will reduce the effect of flash floods and also recharge groundwater levels.
• People must restrict the grazing of their animals.
• Reduce the urbanisation activities such as building dams or other commercial projects.

Implementation of public awareness regarding preventive measures during landslides and other hazard management is necessary.

Why is it in the News?

After analysing the archived data from the space agency’s Magellan mission, scientists suggest that Venus, the almost Earth-sized planet was volcanically active between 1990 and 1992.

What is the Magellan Mission?

• NASA's Magellan mission to Venus was one of the most successful deep space missions launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida in the year 1989.
• It was the first spacecraft to image the entire surface of Venus and made several discoveries about the planet.
• Magellan burned up about 10 hours after being commanded to plunge into the Venusian atmosphere.
• Magellan's primary mission was to use a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to create detailed maps of the surface of Venus.
  • The SAR allowed Magellan to penetrate a thick cloud layer which made it challenging to study Venus from Earth.
• By mapping the planet's surface, scientists aimed to investigate the planet's geology and landforms, including its vast plains, steep mountains, and impact craters.
• Magellan was also sent to measure the planet's gravity and magnetic fields.
• This information was considered important to NASA scientists as it would provide more information about the planet's interior structure and composition.
• Because Venus is a planet close to Earth that compares in size and composition, mapping and studying Venus was considered an important mission as it added to understanding the evolution and geology of rocky planets like Earth.

What is the Magellan Spacecraft?

• The Magellan spacecraft was a space probe launched into space on May 4, 1989, by NASA on the Space Shuttle Atlantis.
• NASA named Magellan after the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who was the first documented person to circumnavigate the Earth.
• The Magellan probe aimed to map the planet Venus and collect data about its atmosphere and physical characteristics.
• Venus is the second planet from the sun in the Milky Way solar system and is, along with Mercury, one of two planets that orbit between Earth and the sun.
• Known for being the first spacecraft to map the surface of Venus, Magellan remained in Venus' orbit for four years before being burned up in its atmosphere in October 1994.

What does the study reveal?

• The study identified a 2.2 square kilometre volcanic vent associated with Maat Mons, the second-highest volcano on Venus, located in the Atla Regio near the planet's equator.
• The vent showed signs of drained lava, and the radar images indicated that it had doubled in size over eight months, with the lava lake seeming to have reached the rim. These changes suggested that the vent had been actively erupting and spewing lava.

This discovery provides new insights into the geology and activity of Venus and highlights the importance of studying the planet's surface features to better understand its history and evolution.

Why is it in the News?

The southwest monsoon is progressing normally, and conditions are suitable for its onset on the Kerala coast in the next five days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday (May 27).

What does the ‘onset of monsoon’ Mean?

• The onset of the monsoon over Kerala marks the beginning of the four-month, June-September southwest monsoon season over India, which brings more than 70% of the country’s annual rainfall.
• The onset of the monsoon is a significant day in India’s economic calendar.
• According to the IMD, the onset of the monsoon marks a crucial transition in the large-scale atmospheric and ocean circulations in the Indo-Pacific region, and the Department announces it only after certain defined and measurable parameters, adopted in 2016, are met.

Onset & Advance of Monsoon:

• Broadly, the IMD checks for the consistency of rainfall over a defined geography, its intensity, and wind speed.
• Rainfall: The IMD declares the onset of the monsoon if at least 60% of 14 designated meteorological stations in Kerala and Lakshadweep record at least 2.5 mm of rain for two consecutive days at any time after May 10. In such a situation, the onset over Kerala is declared on the second day, provided specific wind and temperature criteria are also fulfilled.
  • The 14 enlisted stations are Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kasaragod, and Mangaluru.
• Wind field: The depth of westerlies, prevailing winds that blow from the west at midlatitudes — should be up to 600 hectopascals (1 hPa is equal to 1 millibar of pressure) in the area bound by the equator to 10ºN latitude and from longitude 55ºE to 80ºE.
  • The zonal wind speed over the area bound by 5-10ºN latitude and 70-80ºE longitude should be of the order of 15-20 knots (28-37 kph) at 925 hPa.
• Heat: According to IMD, the INSAT-derived Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) value (a measure of the energy emitted to space by the Earth’s surface, oceans, and atmosphere) should be below 200 watts per sq m (wm2) in the box confined by 5-10ºN latitude and 70-75ºE latitude.
• Northern Limit of Monsoon (NLM): Southwest monsoon normally sets in over Kerala around 1st June.
  • It advances northwards, usually in surges, and covers the entire country around the 15th of July.
  • The NLM is the northernmost limit of monsoon up to which it has advanced on any given day.

In general, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands start receiving monsoon rainfall between May 15 and May 20 every year, and it usually starts raining along the Kerala coast in the last week of May.

Why is it in the News?

To address its long-standing economic instability, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has launched a new gold-backed currency called the ZiG, short for Zimbabwe Gold, replacing the Zimbabwean dollar on April 5, 2024.

What is a ZiG Currency?

• Zimbabwe Gold, or ZIG, is the world's newest currency that was introduced by Zimbabwe to replace the Zimbabwe dollar in April.
• It is backed by the country's gold reserves and was launched in an effort to reduce currency instability and hyperinflation.
• It is the sixth currency Zimbabwe has used since the 2009 collapse of the Zimbabwe dollar amid hyperinflation of 5 billion per cent.

Features of ZiG currency:

• Gold-Backed: The ZiG is unique as it is backed by gold reserves, ensuring its value is supported by the physical gold held by the government.
• Denominations: ZiG notes and coins are issued in denominations of 1ZiG, 2ZiG, 5ZiG, 10ZiG, 20ZiG, 50ZiG, 100ZiG, and 200ZiG. This gold backing aims to provide stability and prevent currency devaluation.

Reasons for Launching a New Currency:

• High Inflation: Zimbabwe has struggled with extreme inflation, with rates exceeding 500% in recent years.
• Currency Instability: The Zimbabwean dollar, introduced in 1980, lost its value due to hyperinflation. The country's reliance on various foreign currencies, mainly the US dollar, has limited economic control.
• Historical Collapse: The collapse of the Zimbabwean dollar in 2009, with hyperinflation peaking at 5 billion per cent, is one of the worst currency crashes in history.

Economic Control: Converting the previous national currency, the Zimbabwe dollar, into ZiGs is intended to simplify monetary matters and provide certainty and predictability in the financial system.

Why is it in the News?

Health officials from the 194 member states of the World Health Organization hope next week to complete more than two years of negotiations on new rules for responding to pandemics when they gather in Geneva.

What is the Pandemic Treaty?

• The "Pandemic Treaty" or "Pandemic Accord" refers to an ongoing process at the World Health Organization (WHO) to negotiate an international agreement or convention on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response.
• The idea was proposed in late 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic to strengthen global coordination and solidarity in addressing future pandemic threats.
• The WHO already has binding rules known as the International Health Regulations (2005) which set out countries’ obligations where public health events have the potential to cross national borders.
  • These include advising the WHO immediately of a health emergency and measures on trade and travel.
  • Adopted after the 2002/3 SARS outbreak, these regulations are still seen as functional for regional epidemics such as Ebola but inadequate for a global pandemic.

Key points about the proposed Pandemic Treaty/Agreement:

• Objective: To establish a global framework and rules to ensure better cooperation, data sharing, and coordinated response during future pandemics.
• Legal Status: It would be a legally binding international instrument, like a treaty or convention, requiring ratification by WHO member states.
• Core Elements: Likely to include provisions on equitable access to countermeasures, strengthening health systems, information sharing, One Health approach (human-animal-environment interface), and funding mechanisms.
• Negotiation Process: In December 2021, the World Health Assembly established an intergovernmental negotiating body to draft and negotiate the instrument through a member-state-led process.
• The goal is to learn from COVID-19 experiences and create a binding global framework that facilitates a more coherent, better-coordinated international response to potential future pandemic threats.

How will the Global Health Rules change?

• The updates to the International Health Regulations (IHR) include:
  • A new alert system to provide different risk assessments for future outbreaks, addressing criticisms that the current system delayed the COVID-19 response.
  • Introducing an intermediary alert stage called “early action alert,” in addition to the existing Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
  • Considering a “pandemic emergency” designation for the most severe health threats, filling a gap in the current system which does not use the term "pandemic."
  • Strengthening state obligations to inform the WHO of public health events, changing the language from “may” to “should.”

How Do Countries View the Pact?

• Negotiations have been marked by significant differences between wealthy and poor countries.
• The talks missed a key May 10 deadline, nearly collapsing and prompting WHO Director-General Tedros to call an emergency meeting to boost morale. Contentious issues include:
  • The sharing of drugs and vaccines.
  • Financing, with debates over setting up a dedicated fund versus using existing resources like the World Bank’s $1 billion pandemic fund.
  • Political pressure, particularly from right-wing groups and politicians concerned about sovereignty, which the WHO denies.

What Happens Next?

• The new IHR rules and the pandemic accord are intended to complement each other, but opinions vary on whether one can exist without the other.
• Sources indicate that IHR negotiations are more advanced and likely to pass, with changes taking effect automatically after 12 months unless countries opt-out.
• In contrast, the pandemic treaty requires ratification, potentially taking years.

Why is it in the News?

The historical Saalu Mantap (pillar line), located on the premises of the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, collapsed after heavy rain lashed the region on Tuesday night.

What is the Historical Significance of Virupaksha Temple?

• The Virupaksha temple gained prominence and underwent extensive expansion in the 14th century during the Vijayanagara Empire (1336 to 1646).
  • Founded by Harihara I of the Sangama dynasty, the Vijayanagara Empire expanded from a strategic position on the banks of the Tungabhadra River to become one of the most powerful kingdoms of its time.
• The temple was built by Lakkan Dandesha, a nayaka (chieftain) under the ruler Deva Raya II, also known as Prauda Deva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• The temple flourished under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers, who were great builders and patrons of art.
  • It became a vital centre for the religious and cultural activities of its time.
• It is a prime example of Dravidian temple architecture, characterised by its grand gopurams (towering gateways), the shikhara towering over the sanctum sanctorum, its intricate carvings and pillared halls.
• Richly adorned with carvings and sculptures, the gopuram depicts various deities, mythological scenes and animals.
• The sanctum sanctorum houses the Shiva lingam, the main object of worship.
• Historians say all temples had pavilions where traders sold articles, such as those used in worship.
  • Sometimes devotees visiting the temple also camped under the pavilions.
• With several other temples and structures located there, Hampi was the empire’s capital city and stands today as evidence of what is known as the last ‘great Hindu empire’ of South India.
• UNESCO also recognised its uniqueness and categorised the Group of Monuments at Hampi as a World Heritage Site.

Why is it in the News?

Recently, scientists have discovered a new planet that they say could "potentially support human life."

What is Gliese 12b?

• Gliese 12 b is a rocky planet just 40 light-years away from Earth.
• It orbits around a star called Gliese 12, a cool red dwarf in the constellation Pisces.
• This star is only 27 per cent of the size of our sun, with about 60 per cent of its surface temperature.
• But it's this lower temperature that makes Gliese 12 b theoretically habitable for humans.
• Gliese 12 b is one of the few known rocky planets where humans could theoretically survive according to scientists.
• The planet was discovered by an international team, in collaboration with NASA and the European Space Agency, using data from NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and ESA's Characterizing Exoplanet Satellite (CHEOPS).
• Gliese 12 b falls into this "Goldilocks zone," with an average temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit and a size somewhere between Venus and Earth.
• The researchers hope that by learning more about Gliese 12 b's atmosphere we may be able to answer questions about the evolution of our own solar system and other habitable planets.

About the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS):

• TESS is a NASA mission dedicated to discovering exoplanets around nearby bright stars.
• It was launched on April 18, 2018, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral.
• TESS operates in a unique high Earth orbit with a period of 12 to 15 days.
  • This orbit is designed to keep the telescope's view largely unobstructed by Earth and the Moon.
• The prime mission concluded on July 4, 2020, but TESS continues to operate on an extended mission.
• TESS has identified a wide range of exoplanets, from small rocky worlds to giant planets, highlighting the diversity of planetary systems in our galaxy.
• TESS uses the transit method to find exoplanets. It monitors stars for periodic dips in brightness, which occur when a planet crosses in front of the star along our line of sight.
  • The size of the dip indicates the planet's diameter and the duration of the transit provides information about the planet's orbit.
• The transit method allows scientists to determine the diameter and orbital size of exoplanets.
  • Orbits within certain ranges fall into the "habitable zone," where conditions may allow liquid water to exist on the surface of Earth-like worlds.

Why is it in the News?

The Arab League called recently for a UN peacekeeping force in the "occupied Palestinian territories" at an international summit dominated by the war between Israel and Hamas.

What is the Arab League?

• The League of Arab States was formed in Cairo on 22 March 1945 with six members: Egypt, Iraq, Transjordan (later renamed Jordan), Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Syria, with Yemen joining on 5 May 1945.
  • It currently has 22 member states; Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordon, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Authority, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
• Four countries have been admitted as observers: Brazil, Eritrea, India and Venezuela.
• Each member state has one vote in the League Council, while decisions are binding only on those states that have voted for them.
• The official language of the Arab League and its 22 member states is Arabic.
• The league seeks to promote the political, social, and military interests of its members.
• The head of the league is known as the secretary-general.
  • The secretary-general is appointed to a five-year term by a two-thirds majority of league members.
• Headquarters: Cairo, Egypt.

Goals:

• The overall aim of the league is to promote Arab interests.
• Its main goals are to strengthen and coordinate the political, cultural, economic, and social programs of its members and to try to settle disputes among them or between them and third parties.
• In 1950 the members also agreed to provide military support to help defend each other.

The Arab League Council:

• The League Council is the highest body of the Arab League and is composed of representatives of member states, typically foreign ministers, their representatives, or permanent delegates.
  • Each member state has one vote.
• The Council meets twice a year, in March and September. Two or more members may request a special session if they desire.
• The general secretariat manages the daily operations of the league and is headed by the secretary-general.
• The general secretariat is the administrative body of the league, the executive body of the council, and the specialized ministerial councils.

Why is it in the News?

Last month, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted above-normal rain in the upcoming monsoon season in India, with “favourable” La Nina conditions expected to set in by August-September.

What are El Niño and La Nina?

• El Niño (meaning “little boy” in Spanish) and La Nina (meaning “little girl” in Spanish) are climate phenomena that are a result of ocean-atmosphere interactions, which impact the temperature of waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean which affects global weather.
• The Earth’s east-west rotation causes all winds blowing between 30 degrees to the north and south of the equator to slant in their trajectory.
  • As a result, winds in the region flow towards a southwesterly direction in the northern hemisphere and a northwesterly direction in the southern hemisphere which is known as the Coriolis Effect.
• Due to this, winds in this belt (called trade winds) blow westwards on either side of the equator.
  • Under normal ocean conditions, these trade winds travel westwards along the equator from South America towards Asia.
  • Wind movement over the ocean results in a phenomenon called upwelling, where cold water beneath the ocean surface rises and displaces the warm surface waters.
• At times, the weak trade winds get pushed back towards South America and there is no upwelling.
  • Thus, warmer-than-usual sea surface temperatures are recorded along the equatorial Pacific Ocean, and this is known as the emergence of El Niño conditions.
• Conversely, during La Nina, strong trade winds push warm water towards Asia.
  • Greater upwelling gives rise to cold and nutrient-rich water towards South America.
  • Thus, climatologically, El Niño and La Nina are opposite phases of what is collectively called the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle.
  • It also includes a third neutral phase.
• El Niño events are far more frequent than La Nina ones.
  • Once every two to seven years, neutral ENSO conditions get interrupted by either El Niño or La Nina.
  • Recently, La Nina conditions prevailed between 2020 and 2023.

How could the incoming La Nina impact global weather?

• La Niña, driven by the cooling of ocean waters due to the ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation) cycle, can significantly influence global weather patterns.
• The air circulation loop in the region, affected by these temperature changes, impacts precipitation levels in neighbouring areas and can alter the Indian monsoon.
• Currently, the El Niño event that began in June last year has significantly weakened.
• Neutral ENSO conditions are expected to be established by June.
• Following this, La Niña conditions are anticipated to emerge, with its effects likely becoming apparent from August.

La Nina’s Impact on India: