In News:

Nepal starts exporting energy to Bangladesh with Indian grid support.

Significance of the Power Transfer:

• Energy Cooperation:
  • A major step in regional energy cooperation among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
  • Strengthens sub-regional connectivity in the power sector.
• Nepal’s Hydropower Potential:
  • Nepal, a Himalayan nation, possesses untapped hydropower resources, and this agreement opens the door for future cross-border electricity cooperation.
  • Nepal’s energy exports are a green energy initiative, supporting sustainable industrial growth in Bangladesh and regional prosperity.
• Electricity Crisis in Bangladesh:
  • Bangladesh is facing an ongoing electricity shortage, worsened by the suspension of power supply from Adani’s Godda plant and the maintenance of the Payra thermal unit.
  • The addition of 40 MW of Nepalese hydroelectric power aims to alleviate the energy shortfall in Bangladesh.

Tripartite Power Sales Agreement:

• Agreement Details:
  • The agreement for power transfer was signed in October 2023 between:
    • NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN) (India)
    • Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) (Nepal)
    • Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) (Bangladesh).
  • Power Export: Nepal has started exporting 40 MW of electricity, which marks a significant milestone in trilateral power cooperation.

Key Entities Involved:

• NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN):
  • A wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC Ltd. (National Thermal Power Corporation), created to facilitate power trading.
  • NVVN is diversifying into renewables, e-mobility, and green fuel solutions.
• NTPC Ltd.:
  • A Maharatna PSU under India’s Ministry of Power, established to develop power resources in India.
  • Involved in large-scale power generation and clean energy initiatives

In News:

• India has made a major advancement in its defense capabilities with the successful flight test of its first long-range hypersonic missile, marking a historic moment in the country's defense technology.
• The test was conducted, by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), took place off the coast of Odisha from the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island.
• The missile has a range of over 1,500 km and is capable of carrying various payloads for all branches of the armed forces.

Key Highlights of the Test:

• Successful Trial: The missile successfully completed its flight test with high accuracy, confirmed by the data gathered from down-range ship stations. It performed a series of terminal maneuvers, validating its precision targeting capabilities.
• Speed and Range: The missile achieved hypersonic speeds (Mach 6), or six times the speed of sound, and is designed for a range of more than 1,500 km, far exceeding the capabilities of many conventional missiles.
• Indigenous Development: This missile is a product of DRDO's indigenous efforts, developed with contributions from the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad, as well as other DRDO laboratories and industry partners.

What are Hypersonic Missiles?

• Definition: Hypersonic missiles are defined as weapons that travel at speeds greater than Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound), or about 3,836 miles per hour (6,174 km/h). At such speeds, they are incredibly difficult to track and intercept, posing a challenge for traditional missile defense systems.
• Types:
  • Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGVs): These are launched from rockets and glide towards their target.
  • Hypersonic Cruise Missiles (HCMs): These missiles use air-breathing engines like scramjets for sustained flight at hypersonic speeds.
• Advantages: Hypersonic missiles offer several advantages, including:
  • Responsive strike capability: They can target time-sensitive threats quickly and with high precision.
  • Manoeuvrability: Unlike ballistic missiles, which follow a predictable parabolic trajectory, hypersonic missiles can change course mid-flight, making them harder to defend against.
• Challenges:
  • Heat and air resistance: Traveling at such high speeds generates tremendous heat due to friction, presenting engineering challenges.
  • Tracking and interception: Their low-altitude flight and high speeds make them harder to detect and intercept with existing missile defense systems.
  • High costs: Developing and deploying hypersonic weapons comes at a higher cost than traditional missile systems.

Global Context of Hypersonic Weaponry

• Russia and China: Both Russia and China are leaders in hypersonic missile technology. Russia has already deployed the Kinzhal hypersonic missile in Ukraine, demonstrating its effectiveness in combat situations.
• United States: The U.S. is also making significant advancements, with contracts like the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), awarded to Lockheed Martin for continued development.
• Other Nations: Countries such as France, Germany, Australia, Japan, and Israel are also actively working on developing hypersonic missile systems.

In News:

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

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

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

India’s Global Patent Ranking:

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

Key Metrics and Trends in Patents:

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

Surge in Industrial Design Applications:

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

Trademark Filings:

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

Sectoral Trends in Trademarks:

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

India’s Contribution to Global IP Growth:

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

Government Initiatives Fueling IP Growth:

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

In News:

A Semiconductor Plant has been set up in Morigaon, Assam, projected for completion by mid-2025.

Overview of the Morigaon Semiconductor Plant:

• Location: Morigaon, Assam.
• Investor: Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT).
• Investment: ?27,000 crore.
• Production Capacity: Expected to produce 48 million semiconductor chips daily.
• Technology: Utilizes advanced packaging technologies such as flip chip and Integrated System in Package (ISIP).
• Sectors Served: Automotive, electric vehicles, telecommunications, consumer electronics.
• Completion: Projected to be completed by mid-2025.
• Job Creation: Expected to generate 15,000 direct jobs and 11,000-13,000 indirect jobs.
• Market Reach: Will serve both domestic and international markets, enhancing India's position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

India's Semiconductor Industry and Market Growth:

• Market Size (2023): Estimated at $38 billion.
• Projected Growth: Expected to grow to $109 billion by 2030.
• Government Initiatives: Several initiatives have been launched to promote domestic semiconductor manufacturing, including the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and the Semicon India Program.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM):

• Objective: To build a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in India.
• Launched: 2021 with a financial outlay of ?76,000 crore.
• Scope: Covers semiconductor fabs, packaging, display manufacturing, Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Testing (OSAT), sensors, and other critical components.
• Support Schemes: Includes Modified Schemes for setting up Semiconductor and Display Fabs, as well as support for Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, and Sensors.

Key Projects in Semiconductor Industry:

• Morigaon Facility: Part of the broader government-backed initiative to enhance semiconductor production in India.
• Other Facilities: New semiconductor units by Tata Electronics (Dholera, Gujarat), CG Power (Sanand, Gujarat), and KaynesSemicon Pvt Ltd (Sanand, Gujarat).
• Modernization: The Semi-Conductor Laboratory in Mohali is being modernized, alongside initiatives like the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.

Strategic Importance of Semiconductors:

• Role in Modern Electronics: Semiconductors are critical for a wide range of devices like computers, smartphones, solar cells, LEDs, and integrated circuits.
• Global Dependence: The global semiconductor market has significant reliance on suppliers like Taiwan (44%), China (28%), and South Korea (12%).
• Global Shortage: The 2021 chip shortage highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains, prompting efforts by countries to boost domestic semiconductor production.

Government Support for Semiconductor Manufacturing:

• Financial Incentives: The government offers fiscal support for setting up semiconductor manufacturing plants:
  • 50% of project cost support under the Semiconductor Fab Scheme and the Display Fab Scheme.
  • Support for Compound Semiconductors and Chips to Startup (C2S) initiatives.
  • Training 85,000 engineers through the C2S Programme in collaboration with academic institutions, R&D organizations, and MSMEs.

In News:

The digital euro, a central bank digital currency (CBDC) being developed by the European Central Bank (ECB), aims to revolutionize Europe’s digital payment landscape. However, while the ECB has marketed it as a convenient, free, anonymous, and reliable alternative to existing cashless options like credit cards and mobile payment apps, the true purpose of the digital euro goes beyond these simplified claims.

Key Aspects of the Digital Euro

• Direct Issuance by the ECB: Unlike traditional digital payments that rely on intermediaries like banks or payment service providers, the digital euro is issued directly by the European Central Bank. This allows for peer-to-peer transactions without the need for third-party banks or payment gateways. It can be used for offline transactions, which is a major technical innovation that sets it apart from other digital currencies.
• A Digital Version of Cash: The digital euro is essentially a digital version of legal tender (cash), providing an alternative to cash in a world increasingly dominated by digital payments. Its key feature is direct payment between users, bypassing the traditional banking system. It aims to offer the same advantages as cash, such as anonymity, but with the convenience of digital transactions.
• Cost Reduction and Micro-Payments: The digital euro promises to lower transaction costs, especially for micro-payments that are currently prohibitively expensive using conventional bank transfers or digital services like PayPal. This cost efficiency is intended to enable new business models by lowering the friction in digital transactions, thus encouraging innovation in commerce.

The ECB’s Claims vs. the Real Motivation

While the ECB portrays the digital euro as a means to make payments easier, faster, and more secure, there is an underlying political and economic agenda that goes beyond improving consumer convenience.

• Sovereignty and Competition: One of the main drivers behind the digital euro is Europe’s desire to assert its digital sovereignty. The ECB positions the digital euro as a tool to strengthen the euro’s competitiveness against non-European payment providers, particularly those from the United States like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. The EU is concerned that foreign companies may dominate the digital payment landscape, thereby reducing Europe's ability to control its own financial systems.
  • This is a defensive measure to protect European financial interests. By creating a state-backed alternative to privately controlled digital payment systems, the EU aims to ensure that Europe does not become reliant on foreign corporations for essential services.
• Not About Citizens’ Convenience Alone: While the ECB frames the digital euro as a user-friendly solution for consumers, the real concern is about the control over digital currency. The digital euro offers a more centralized alternative compared to the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. The ECB aims to harness the power of the state in regulating and controlling digital transactions, thus consolidating private property and ensuring the smooth functioning of Europe’s monetary policies.
• A Tool for Strengthening the Euro: The digital euro is also seen as part of Europe’s broader ambition to establish the euro as a dominant global currency. As the first fully-regulated digital currency issued by a central bank, it could position the euro to compete against other digital currencies, including the digital yuan or the U.S. dollar. The EU sees the digital euro as a way to expand its geopolitical influence by promoting its own currency as a global standard for digital payments.

In News:

In a bid to enhance India’s clout in the global merchant shipping sector, the government recently hosted a two-day global maritime conference – Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose of the Conference:

• To enhance India's maritime influence and position India as a key player in the global maritime sector, especially in merchant shipping and maritime trade.
• To showcase India's ambitions in expanding its role in global maritime trade, governance, and collaboration.

• India's Maritime Ambitions:

• Despite being the most populous nation and one of the largest global economies, India’s maritime clout has been relatively lower than expected.
• The dialogue aims to shift global attention towards India's growing role and contributions to maritime trade and shipping.

• India's Maritime Growth:

• India contributed to 16% of global maritime growth in 2023 and is on track to become the third-largest global economy within three years.
• As India’s economic and geopolitical influence expands, maritime governance will become increasingly significant, necessitating deeper international collaborations in commerce, connectivity, and trade.

• Focus Areas of the Dialogue:

• Global Maritime Trade: India's expanding role in international shipping, trade routes, and maritime security.
• International Collaborations: Promoting deeper engagement in maritime governance and policy-making ecosystems.
• Human Well-being: Highlighting the role of maritime trade in supporting human welfare, particularly in the context of sustainable development and climate change.

• Significance for India:

• The conference serves as a platform to discuss India’s aspirations, policies, and presence in global maritime affairs.
• It is an opportunity to strengthen maritime relations and address issues of global relevance such as trade routes, shipping governance, and environmental sustainability

In News:

Australia has come up with a new scheme that allows talented young people from India to work in the country for some time.

What is the MATES Scheme?

• Full Name: Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-professionals Scheme (MATES).
• Objective: To provide Indian university graduates and early-career professionals with an opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to two years.
• Establishment: The scheme is part of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Arrangement (MMPA) between Australia and India, signed on May 23, 2023.
• Launch Date: MATES will open for applicants in December 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Applicants must be 30 years or younger at the time of application.
• Educational Qualifications: Must have graduated within the last two years from an eligible institution with a Bachelor’s degree or higher in one of the following fields:
  • Renewable Energy
  • Mining
  • Engineering
  • Information Communications Technology (ICT)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Financial Technology (FinTech)
  • Agricultural Technology (AgriTech)
• English Proficiency: A minimum score of 6 overall in IELTS (or equivalent), with at least 5 in each module.
• Institutional Criteria: Graduates must be from the top 100 Indian universities as per the NIRF Ranking 2024 (e.g., Panjab University, Chandigarh University, Thapar Institute of Engineering, Lovely Professional University).
• Previous Participation: Applicants must not have previously participated in the MATES scheme.

Key Features of the MATES Scheme

• No Employer Sponsorship Required: Applicants are not required to have sponsorship from an Australian employer.
• Visa Duration: The visa allows a stay of up to 2 years in Australia, with multiple entries permitted.
• Dependents: Visa holders can bring dependents (spouse and children). Dependents will have work rights in Australia but will not count towards the annual cap.
• Visa Application Process:
  • The visa will be granted through a ballot system (random selection).
  • Application Fee: AUD 25.
  • Shortlisted candidates will proceed to further formalities.

Program Features

• Targeted Sectors: MATES focuses on key sectors such as renewable energy, mining, engineering, ICT, AI, FinTech, and AgriTech, aligning with Australia’s demand for skilled professionals in these areas.
• Pilot Program: Initially, the scheme will offer 3,000 places per year for primary applicants.
• Work Flexibility: While the visa does not require applicants to work in their nominated field, it is designed to help young professionals expand their skills and network in Australia’s key industries.

Additional Benefits

• Career Development: Participants will gain international work experience, expanding their professional network and skills.
• Cultural Exchange: The scheme also promotes cultural exchange between India and Australia, fostering stronger bilateral relations.
• Pathway for Future Opportunities: Participants may apply for further temporary or permanent residence in Australia, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

Impact and Significance

• Bilateral Cooperation: The MMPA, under which MATES is established, enhances migration and mobility between India and Australia while addressing concerns related to illegal migration.
• Youth Empowerment: The scheme offers young professionals a platform to develop their careers internationally, particularly in sectors of global relevance like AI, FinTech, and renewable energy.
• Skill Development: MATES aims to bridge skill gaps in Australia by attracting Indian professionals to key sectors where expertise is in high demand.
• Global Talent Mobility: This scheme supports the global mobility of young talent and strengthens the India-Australia economic and educational partnership.

In News:

The Delhi Police recently initiated Operation Kawach, arresting and detaining around 1,000 people in an attempt to crack down on various gangs and their operations in the wake of the recent incidents of shootings reported in the city.

Overview of Operation Kawach

• Objective: A crackdown on gang-related violence, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities like possession of firearms, banned drugs, and liquor.
• Agencies Involved:Delhi Police (Local Police, Special Cell, and Crime Branch)
• Duration: Initiated on November 12, 2024 (5 PM) and continued until November 13, 2024 (5 PM).

Key Details of the Operation

• Arrests and Detentions:
  • Around 1,000 people detained.
  • 486 people apprehended in Outer North Delhi (20% juveniles).
  • Arrests made in Dwarka, Southwest, and North Delhi.
• Key Gangs Targeted:
  • Associated with notorious gangs led by Lawrence Bishnoi, Neeraj Bawana, Kaushal Chaudhary, TilluTajpuria, Kala Jatheri, Manjeet Mahal, and Nandu gangs.
• Charges: Involvement in activities like:
  • Possession of illegal firearms.
  • Trafficking of liquor and banned drugs (NDPS Act).
  • Theft and other criminal activities.

Significance of Operation Kawach

• Public Safety: Aimed at dismantling organized crime networks to enhance safety and reduce violence in Delhi.
• Impact on Gangs: Directly targets high-profile criminals, including those involved in gang wars and drug trafficking.
• Strategic Law Enforcement: Strengthens law enforcement capabilities, working in coordination across multiple police units.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) retained the State Bank of India, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank as Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs).

Overview of D-SIBs

• Definition: D-SIBs are banks that are 'Too Big to Fail' (TBTF) and their failure could significantly disrupt essential banking services, affecting the economy.
• RBI Classification: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has designated SBI, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank as D-SIBs.
• Bucketing System: These banks are classified into different buckets based on their systemic importance.

Importance of D-SIBs

• Systemic Importance: Banks are considered systemically important due to their:
  • Size
  • Cross-jurisdictional activities
  • Complexity
  • Interconnectedness with the economy
• Impact of Failure: Failure of a D-SIB could cause significant disruption in the banking system and economy, impacting services like payments, loans, etc.

Why D-SIBs are Created

• Risk of Disruption: The failure of a large bank can disrupt essential services and lead to a broader economic crisis.
• TBTF Perception: These banks are often perceived as Too Big to Fail, leading to an expectation of government support during crises. This creates moral hazard, encouraging riskier behavior.

Assessment and Selection of D-SIBs

• Two-Step Process:
  • Step 1: Selection of banks based on their size, complexity, and interconnectedness. Only banks with systemic importance are assessed (e.g., banks with assets > 2% of GDP).
  • Step 2: Calculation of systemic importance score based on a range of indicators. Banks above a certain threshold are classified as D-SIBs.
• Indicators: Size (measured by Basel III Leverage Ratio Exposure Measure), interconnectedness, substitutability, and complexity are key factors.

Bucket Allocation and Capital Requirements

• D-SIBs are assigned to five buckets based on their systemic importance score:
  • Bucket 1: Lowest capital surcharge (e.g., ICICI Bank).
  • Bucket 5: Highest capital surcharge.
• Additional Capital Requirements:
  • SBI: Additional 0.80% CET1 (Common Equity Tier 1) on Risk-Weighted Assets (RWAs).
  • HDFC Bank: Additional 0.40% CET1.
  • ICICI Bank: Additional 0.20% CET1.
  • The higher the bucket, the higher the capital surcharge.

Global Systemically Important Banks (G-SIBs)

• Global List: Identified by the Financial Stability Board (FSB) based on data from the previous year.
• 2023 G-SIB List includes banks like JP Morgan Chase, Bank of America, HSBC, etc.
• Capital Requirement for G-SIBs in India: Foreign G-SIBs with branch presence in India must meet additional CET1 requirements, proportional to their operations in India.

Key Terms

• Risk-Weighted Assets (RWAs): These are used to calculate the minimum capital a bank must hold. It accounts for the risk level of a bank’s assets.
• Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1): The highest quality of capital a bank can hold, primarily made up of common stock, to absorb losses in times of distress.

In News:

• The State Fisheries Department in Kerala launched a sea ranching project by releasing 20,000 pompano (Trachinotus blochii) fingerlings off the Vizhinjam coast as part of the artificial reef project.
• Coordinates: The fingerlings were released near artificial reef modules placed 1.5 nautical miles off the coast.
• Follow-up to Artificial Reef Project: The release of fingerlings is a follow-up to the artificial reef project aimed at replenishing marine fishery resources and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

Project Details

• Fingerling Release: The first batch of 20,000 pompano was released as part of the broader initiative to release 10 lakh fingerlings (pompano and cobia) at 10 locations along the Thiruvananthapuram coast.
• Location and Quantity: At each location, 1 lakh fingerlings will be released, where artificial reefs have already been deployed under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• Reef Design: Artificial reefs consist of 150 reef modules (triangular, flower, and pipe-shaped) created at 42 locations off 33 fishing villages in the Thiruvananthapuram district.

Objective and Benefits

• Marine Resource Replenishment: The primary aim is to replenish marine fishery resources in the region by enhancing biodiversity through the introduction of fingerlings.
• Sustainable Fishing: The project aims to promote sustainable fishing practices by supporting fish populations and ensuring long-term fishery health.
• Attraction of Fish Species: The artificial reefs have already attracted a variety of fish species, including tuna, trevally, and mackerel, enhancing the fishing ecosystem.

Implementation and Funding

• Scheme: The project is being implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which focuses on sustainable fisheries development.
• Central Approval: The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) approved the ?3 crore funding for the initial phase in Thiruvananthapuram.
• Proposed Expansions:
  • Phase II: A proposal for extending the artificial reef project to 96 villages in the districts of Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur with an estimated cost of ?29.76 crore.
  • Phase III: A similar proposal for 96 villages in the northern districts of Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod with an estimated cost of ?25.82 crore.

Mission and Fingerlings Details

• Fingerlings:
  • Pompano (Trachinotus blochii) and Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) fingerlings were reared at the Ayiramthengu fish farm.
  • Each fingerling weighs between 8 to 10 grams.
  • The release aims to stock marine areas with species that will contribute to biodiversity and fisheries sustainability.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

• Launched: PMMSY is a Centrally funded scheme under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
• Goal: The scheme focuses on sustainable fisheries development to enhance fisheries production, boost aquaculture, and promote responsible fishing practices.
• Funding: The scheme involves both Central and State Government funding for projects related to fisheries management, infrastructure development, and resource conservation.

Mission Fingerling

• Launched: 2017 by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
• Objective: To achieve the Blue Revolution by holistically developing and managing fisheries in India.
• Production Target: The mission aimed to increase fisheries production from 10.79 MMT (2014-15) to 15 MMT by 2020-21.

In News:

• In 2023, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) revealed that Indian farmers faced the highest implicit taxation globally, amounting to USD 120 billion.
• Implicit Taxation: This taxation arises from government policies like export bans, duties, and price controls, aimed at lowering food prices for consumers but reducing the income of farmers.
• Export Restrictions: Key commodities affected include rice, sugar, onions, and de-oiled rice bran.

Impact on Indian Farmers

• Market Price Support (MPS):
  • Negative MPS: In 2023, Indian agricultural policies resulted in a negative MPS of USD 110 billion.
  • Farmers received lower prices than international market rates due to export bans and trade restrictions, impacting their income.
• Budgetary Support: Despite government subsidies and the Minimum Support Price (MSP) worth USD 10 billion, negative MPS outweighed positive support, leading to an overall loss for farmers.
• Farmer’s Share in Global Negative Support:
  • India’s share of global negative price support in 2023 was 62.5%, a significant increase from 61% in 2000-02.

Global Agricultural Policy Trends

• Global Support: Total support for agriculture across 54 countries averaged USD 842 billion annually (2021-2023). However, there was a decline in support in 2022-23 from the pandemic-era peak.
• Challenges:
  • Geopolitical Tensions (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war) and climate change are exacerbating global agricultural production and trade.
  • Export Restrictions in various countries are distorting international agricultural markets.
  • Farmer Protests across countries reflect the economic and social struggles of the farming community.
• Sustainability Issues: Global agricultural productivity growth is slowing, posing challenges to feeding a growing population sustainably.

India's Agricultural Policies

• Export Bans and Restrictions: These policies are intended to control domestic prices but undermine farmers’ income by lowering market prices for key agricultural products.
• Minimum Support Price (MSP): MSP is meant to protect farmers, but is often set below international market rates, leading to a negative price effect.
• Regulatory Constraints: Policies like the Essential Commodities Act (1955) and APMC Act (2003), though aimed at ensuring food security, often lead to price suppression for farmers.
• Price Depressing Policies: India's agricultural policies result in lower farm-gate prices due to price controls, government-set procurement prices, and lack of market access.

Negative Market Price Support (MPS)

• Historical Trends:
  • From 2014-2016, India’s Producer Support Estimate (PSE) was -6.2%, driven mainly by negative MPS (-13.1%).
  • The PSE measures the annual value of transfers to farmers, both from consumers and the government.
• Inefficiencies:
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Poor infrastructure and high transaction costs lower the prices farmers receive.
  • Inefficient Resource Allocation: Short-term subsidies for inputs (fertilizers, irrigation) don’t address long-term agricultural challenges like climate change and market access.

Government Support Programs

• Subsidies and Schemes:
  • National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
  • Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) for organic farming.
  • Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to promote agricultural development.
  • Digital Agriculture Mission and Unified Farmer Service Platform (UFSP) for modernizing agricultural practices.
• Sustainability Efforts:
  • The government has introduced initiatives like AgriStack and Mission Organic Value Chain Development in the North East to enhance sustainable agricultural practices and reduce the negative impacts on farmers.

Global Context and Recommendations

• Environmental Public Goods Payments (EPGP): Only 0.3% of total producer support is dedicated to environmental sustainability, despite the growing need for climate-resilient agriculture.
• Sustainable Agricultural Practices: The OECD advocates for governments to tie producer support to sustainable farming practices, including the use of metrics like Total Factor Productivity (TFP) and Agri-Environmental Indicators (AEIs).
  • TFP measures agricultural efficiency, while AEIs assess the environmental impacts of farming.

OECD Overview

• OECD Function: Founded in 1961, the OECD is an international organization of 38 countries that promotes prosperity, equality, and well-being through economic reports, data, and policy analysis.
• India’s Role: India has been an OECD Key Partner since 2007, engaging with the OECD on various policy issues, though it is not a member.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to obtain necessary approvals from the government and concurrence from the investee companies when their equity holdings go beyond the prescribed limits and they reclassify the holdings as foreign direct investment (FDI).

• Approval Requirement:
  • FPIs (Foreign Portfolio Investors) must obtain necessary government approvals when reclassifying their foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) into Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
  • Approvals are mandatory, including those related to investments from countries sharing a land border with India.
• Investment Limits:
  • According to FEMA (NDI) Rules, 2019, an FPI’s investment in an Indian company should not exceed 10% of the total paid-up equity capital (on a fully diluted basis).
  • If the FPI exceeds this limit, it has 5 trading days from the settlement of trades to either divest or reclassify the excess holdings as FDI.
• Restrictions on Reclassification:
  • Reclassification to FDI is not allowed in sectors where FDI is prohibited.
  • FPIs must ensure compliance with FDI norms, such as entry routes, sectoral caps, investment limits, pricing guidelines, and other related conditions.
• Concurrence from Investee Companies:
  • The FPI must obtain the concurrence of the investee company for reclassifying the investment into FDI.
  • This ensures that the company adheres to conditions related to prohibited sectors, sectoral caps, and government approvals.
• Reclassification Procedure:
  • The FPI must clearly state its intent to reclassify the investment to FDI and provide the necessary approvals and concurrence to its custodian.
  • The custodian is responsible for freezing the FPI's purchase transactions in the investee company’s equity instruments until the reclassification is complete.
• Regulatory Adherence:
  • The reclassification must follow the relevant provisions for FDI, including compliance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and FDI guidelines.

In News:

• Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh introduced the concept of ‘Adaptive Defence’ at the inaugural Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD).
• Adaptive Defence aims to prepare India's military for the rapidly changing landscape of modern warfare, with evolving threats and technologies shaping global security.

Key Aspects of Adaptive Defence:

• Strategic Approach:
  • Adaptive Defence is an evolving strategy where military and defence systems continuously adjust to emerging threats, focusing on proactive preparedness rather than reactive responses.
  • It is based on anticipating future threats, fostering flexibility, resilience, and agility in both strategic and tactical responses.
• Core Elements:
  • Situational Awareness: The ability to understand and respond to dynamic, often unpredictable environments.
  • Flexibility & Agility: At both the strategic and tactical levels to ensure swift and effective responses.
  • Resilience: The capacity to recover and adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Integration with Emerging Technologies: Emphasis on adopting cutting-edge technologies like AI, drones, and cybersecurity to stay ahead of adversaries.

The Changing Nature of Warfare:

• Grey Zone & Hybrid Warfare:
  • Modern conflicts now often occur in the grey zone and involve hybrid warfare, blending traditional and non-traditional threats like cyber-attacks, terrorism, and psychological warfare.
  • These new threats demand continuous adaptation in strategies, doctrines, and military operations.
• Technological Transformation:
  • Drones and swarm technologies are reshaping warfare. India aspires to become a global hub for drones, leveraging these technologies for both economic and military growth.
  • The increasing significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber capabilities, and quantum technologies in defence highlights the need for international collaboration in research and innovation.
• Psychological Warfare:
  • The rise of information overload and psychological warfare challenges traditional defence paradigms. Manipulation of information to influence public opinion and disrupt decision-making processes is now a key threat.

Government Initiatives for Adaptive Defence:

• Institutional Strengthening:
  • Establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and initiatives to enhance jointness among the three armed services (Army, Navy, Air Force) to create a unified strategic force.
  • Reform of training curricula and emphasis on integrated operations to ensure readiness for new-age warfare.
• Focus on Self-Reliance:
  • Strengthening the indigenous defence sector through initiatives like Make in India and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.
  • Increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) in defence and promoting defence exports, with India currently exporting to over 100 nations.
• Drone Hub Vision:
  • India aims to become the world’s drone hub, supporting R&D and fostering innovation to develop reliable certification mechanisms and enhance Indian intellectual property in the drone sector.
  • Programs like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and ADITI are rewarding innovation and driving India's defence sector towards greater self-sufficiency.
• Technology and Innovation:
  • Focus on cybersecurity, AI, and quantum technologies to develop solutions that address both national and global security challenges.
  • India is also working on Theaterisation, integrating the three services into a unified force structure for enhanced coordination and joint operations.
• Defence Acquisition and Export:
  • Introduction of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, establishment of Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, and a Positive Indigenisation List to boost self-reliance.
  • India is actively increasing defence exports, aiming for Rs 50,000 crore worth of exports by 2029, with key export destinations including the USA, France, and Armenia.

Strategic Vision for the Future:

• Collaborative Approach:
  • Given the interconnectedness of global security, the defence minister emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach in dealing with transnational threats.
  • Cross-border issues, cyberspace threats, and the potential of quantum and nanotechnologies demand the sharing of knowledge and strategies across borders.
• Joint Military Vision:
  • Jointness in defence strategy should go beyond national borders and should involve international cooperation in response to global security challenges.
  • The need for interconnected solutions in the face of transnational threats underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation.

In News:

Recently, the Supreme Court of India delivered a significant ruling affirming that the right of persons with disabilities (PwDs) to access environments, services, and opportunities is a fundamental human right. The judgment was made in the case of RajiveRaturi vs. Union of India &Ors. and is based on a report submitted by the Centre for Disability Studies (CDS) at NALSAR University of Law.

Key Points of the Judgment:

• Social Model of Disability:
  • The Court upheld the social model of disability, which focuses on societal changes to ensure the full inclusion and participation of PwDs.
  • The model emphasizes removing social barriers and creating an inclusive environment that accommodates all disabilities.
• Challenges Faced by PwDs: The ruling highlighted various challenges faced by PwDs, as identified in the CDS NALSAR report:
  • Accessibility Barriers: Significant gaps exist in accessibility measures across public spaces such as courts, prisons, schools, and public transport.
  • Intersectionality & Compounded Discrimination: PwDs often face multiple layers of discrimination, such as caste, gender, and socio-economic status, which compound their marginalization.
  • Inconsistent Legal Framework: The RPwD Act (2016) mandates mandatory compliance for accessibility standards, but Rule 15 under RPwD Rules (2017) only offers self-regulatory guidelines, which the Court found insufficient.
• Court's Analysis of Rule 15:
  • The Court declared Rule 15(1) of the RPwD Rules, 2017, as ultra vires, meaning it is inconsistent with the mandatory compliance intended by the RPwD Act.
  • The Court stressed the need for stronger legal and regulatory enforcement to ensure access for PwDs.
• Principles of Accessibility: The Court outlined several essential principles for achieving accessibility:
  • Universal Design: Environments and services should be universally accessible to all, including PwDs.
  • Comprehensive Inclusion: All types of disabilities, both visible and invisible, should be addressed.
  • Assistive Technology Integration: Using technology to support PwDs in daily activities.
  • Stakeholder Consultation: PwDs and disability advocacy groups must be consulted in planning and designing accessible spaces.
• Two-Pronged Approach:
  • The Court recommended a two-pronged approach:
    • Ensure accessibility in existing infrastructure: Modify and update current institutions and services to become accessible.
    • Design future infrastructure with accessibility in mind: Plan and build new spaces and services that are inclusive from the start.

Legal and Policy Framework:

• Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016:
  • The RPwD Act mandates various accessibility standards and provisions to protect and promote the rights of PwDs, in alignment with India’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which India ratified in 2007.
  • The Act defines a person with a benchmark disability as someone with at least 40% of a specified disability.
• International Obligations:
  • The ruling reaffirmed the importance of Article 9 of the UNCRPD, which emphasizes the right of PwDs to access the physical environment, transport, and information and communication technologies.
• Government Initiatives: The judgment highlights several initiatives aimed at improving accessibility:
  • Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan): A nationwide effort to make public spaces and services accessible to PwDs.
  • Assistance for Aids and Appliances: Government schemes to provide PwDs with necessary aids and appliances.
  • Unique Disability Identification Portal: A platform for PwDs to register and obtain a disability certificate.

Notable Judicial Precedents:

The Court referred to several previous rulings that recognized the right to accessibility:

• State of Himachal Pradesh v. Umed Ram Sharma (1986): The Court included the right to accessibility under the Right to Life (Article 21) of the Constitution.
• Disabled Rights Group v. Union of India (2017): The Court directed that educational institutions ensure reserved seats for PwDs.

In News:

A mechanically stable, biodegradable, hydrophobic nanocoating material can enhance the nutrient use efficiency of chemical fertilizers by tuning them for slow release, thereby limiting their interaction with the rhizosphere soil, water and microbes.

Development of Slow-Release Fertilizers:

• A biodegradable, hydrophobic nanocoating has been developed to enhance the nutrient use efficiency of chemical fertilizers.
• The nanocoating allows for slow release of nutrients, thus limiting excessive interaction with soil, water, and microbes, and optimizing fertilizer usage.

Coating Composition:

• The coating is made from nanoclay-reinforced binary carbohydrates, primarily chitosan (a biopolymer from chitin) and lignin (a plant-based polymer).
• These materials are low-cost, naturally derived, and eco-friendly, ensuring sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of fertilizer use.

Technological Innovation:

• The coating process involves using a drum rotor method to uniformly coat fertilizers, improving their efficiency.
• The tuning of hydrophobicity in the nanocoating alters the release kinetics of fertilizers, ensuring that nutrients are released in accordance with the crop’s nutrient uptake needs.

Sustainability and Biodegradability:

• The nanocoating is biodegradable, which ensures that it does not harm the environment post-application, unlike conventional chemical fertilizers that may lead to soil degradation and water pollution.
• Life cycle assessment confirms the product's long-term sustainability compared to traditional fertilizers.

Enhanced Crop Productivity:

• The slow-release coating enables a reduced fertilizer dose, while maintaining or even increasing crop yields, particularly for staple crops like rice and wheat.
• This technology facilitates higher agricultural output with fewer inputs, contributing to food security.

Industrial Viability:

• The mechanical stability of the coated fertilizers ensures they can withstand transportation and handling, making them suitable for large-scale industrial application.
• The rotary drum system used for coating ensures uniform application and superior mechanical performance, ensuring that the fertilizers are not damaged during the supply chain process.

Economic Benefits:

• The use of slow-release fertilizers can reduce overall fertilizer costs for farmers while enhancing yields, leading to improved socio-economic conditions for farmers.
• The technology holds potential for economic growth by boosting agricultural productivity and reducing the financial burden on farmers for chemical fertilizer inputs.

Global Relevance:

• The research is significant in the context of global sustainable development goals, aiming to reduce the over-reliance on conventional chemical fertilizers that contribute to soil degradation, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Research Collaboration:

• This breakthrough was achieved by scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Science: Nano, highlighting its scientific validation.

In News:

• The 3rd Indian Space Conclave, held in New Delhi, was a significant event for India's growing role in global space exploration and strategic partnerships.
• Organized by the Indian Space Association (ISPA), the conclave brought together key stakeholders from the government, industry, academia, and space agencies to discuss India’s space ambitions and the transformative role of space technologies.

Key Highlights:

Satcom as a Transformative Force for Digital India

• Emphasis on Satellite Communication (Satcom) is more than a mere tool—it's a transformative force driving Digital India by connecting every household, village, and remote area of the country.
• Satcom has a wide array of applications that extend across essential sectors such as telecommunications, disaster management, healthcare, education, and agriculture, particularly in underserved regions.

Indo-EU Space Collaboration

• The event also showcased India’s growing space partnerships, particularly with the European Union (EU). The EU Ambassador recognized India as a dynamic space power and highlighted shared goals in Earth observation, space security, and human spaceflight.
• Proposed joint initiatives include training programs, collaborative research, and satellite missions, such as the Proba-3 satellite launch by ISRO, focusing on observing the Sun.
• India’s trustworthiness as a partner in space was underscored by its role in the successful launch of the Proba-1 and Proba-2 missions for the EU, with Proba-3 marking India’s third contribution to EU space exploration.

Space Startups and Innovation

• The rise of space-focused startups in India, spurred by the 2020 space sector reforms, was another key highlight. India now has over 300 space startups, contributing to both economic growth and innovation in the space industry.
• These reforms have helped curb brain drain, with many talented Indian professionals returning from global agencies like NASA to join the expanding Indian space ecosystem.

India’s Long-Term Space Goals

• The Indian space program has ambitious long-term goals, including:
  • Gaganyaan, India’s human spaceflight mission.
  • A crewed lunar landing by 2040.
  • The establishment of an Indian space station by 2035.
  • Plans for space tourism by 2040.
• These initiatives demonstrate India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in space exploration and technological innovation.

Space Sector Reforms (2020)

• The Space Sector Reforms 2020 were designed to increase the participation of private players in India’s space activities. The creation of agencies like the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) and the strengthening of New Space India Limited (NSIL) have been pivotal in boosting India’s global space market share.
• IN-SPACe serves as an autonomous body fostering industry, academia, and startups, while NSIL handles commercial activities and promotes high-tech space-related ventures.

India's First Mars and Moon Analog Mission

• ISRO's First Mars and Moon Analog Mission was inaugurated in Leh, Ladakh. This mission simulates the conditions of space habitats, specifically focusing on Mars and Moon environments.
• Ladakh's unique climate—high altitude, low oxygen levels, and extreme temperature fluctuations—makes it an ideal location for testing life support systems, space habitat technologies, and sustainable resource utilization.

Key Aspects of the Analog Mission:

• Life support systems like hydroponics (space farming) and standalone solar power systems to support sustainable food production and renewable energy in space habitats.
• Circadian lighting to simulate daylight cycles, maintaining astronaut health and well-being.
• The mission’s goal is to understand the psychological and operational challenges of living in isolation and extreme conditions, preparing India for future interplanetary exploration.

In News:

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

Major Contributors to Hidden Costs:

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

Global Context:

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

Health Impacts:

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

Environmental and Social Costs:

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

India’s Agrifood System Profile:

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

Recommendations for Transformative Change:

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

India’s Path Forward:

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

Key Focus Areas for India’s Agrifood Systems:

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

In News:

• The Parliamentary Panel on Communications and Information Technology is reviewing mechanisms to curb fake news, following the Bombay High Court striking down a provision of the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021.
• The controversial provision allowed the government to identify and flag "fake news" on social media through its Fact Check Unit (FCU).
• The panel, led by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, has summoned representatives from News Broadcasters and Digital Association and the Editors Guild of India to discuss the issue on November 21, 2024.

Issue with the Amended IT Rules:

• The IT Rules, 2021 were amended in April 2022 to include “government business” under the definition of fake news, expanding the scope of content flagged by the FCU.
• This amendment was challenged by media bodies and individuals like comedian Kunal Kamra, leading to the Bombay High Court striking it down in 2024.
• The court deemed the provisions unconstitutional, citing concerns about transparency and the potential misuse of power.

Types of Fake News:

• Misinformation: False information spread unintentionally.
• Disinformation: Deliberately false information meant to deceive and cause harm.

Status of Fake News in India:

• India as a major spreader of misinformation: The World Economic Forum's Global Risks 2024 report identifies disinformation as a significant short-term risk, with India as one of the largest consumers and producers of false information.
• Social Media Influence: Platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, and YouTube are widely used in India for news dissemination, making them a breeding ground for fake news.
• Spread of Political and Religious Misinformation: Fake news often serves political or religious agendas, leading to societal polarization and conflict.

Government Efforts to Combat Fake News:

• IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023: This amendment expanded the scope of "fake news" to include “government business” and gave the FCU the authority to flag misleading content.
• Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit: The PIB continues to run a fact-checking initiative, but it lacks the authority to remove flagged content from social media platforms.
• Digital Literacy Campaigns: Programs like Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) aim to improve digital literacy, especially in rural areas, to help citizens identify and avoid fake news.

In News:

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

Launch of Project Shaurya Gatha:

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

In News:

• NTPC has achieved the first-ever synthesis of CO? (captured from flue gas) and hydrogen (produced via a PEM electrolyzer) into methanol at its Vindhyachal plant.
• This marks a significant step in carbon management technology, aimed at advancing sustainable fuel production.

About CO?-to-Methanol Conversion:

• Carbon Dioxide Capture:
  • CO? is captured from industrial sources, such as power plants, or directly from the atmosphere.
• Hydrogen Production:
  • Renewable energy sources like solar or wind power are used to produce hydrogen through water electrolysis.
• Methanol Synthesis:
  • The captured CO? is combined with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst to produce methanol, typically under high pressure and temperature conditions.

Benefits of CO?-to-Methanol Conversion:

• Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU):
  • This technology reduces the impact of CO? on the atmosphere by converting it into useful products.
• Renewable Fuel Source:
  • Methanol produced through this process can be used as a fuel for transportation, power generation, or as a feedstock for chemicals.
• Energy Storage:
  • Methanol offers a more practical storage and transportation option than hydrogen, making it a potential energy storage solution and aiding the transition to hydrogen-based energy systems.
• Versatile Feedstock:
  • Methanol is widely used in producing chemicals, solvents, and plastics, supporting various industrial applications.

What is Methanol?

• Brief: Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is the simplest form of alcohol. It is a clear, colorless, and flammable liquid with a distinctive odor.
• Key Properties:
  • Colorless, miscible with water, toxic if ingested, flammable.

In News:

• India is in talks with Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Maldives, and Singapore to establish cross-border electricity transmission lines.
• This is part of the ambitious OSOWOG initiative to create a global renewable energy grid.

Key Points:

• Proposed by the Prime Minister of India at the 2018 International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly.
• Aims to create a transnational electricity grid that delivers power worldwide.
• Led by India and the UK, in collaboration with ISA and the World Bank Group.

Vision of OSOWOG:

• Connect regional grids through a common infrastructure for the transfer of renewable energy, focusing on solar power.
• Harness solar and other renewable energy from regions where the sun is shining and efficiently transmit it to areas of need.
• Aim to provide power to 140 countries using clean and efficient solar energy.

Phases of OSOWOG:

• Phase 1:
  • Connect the Indian grid with grids in the Middle East, South Asia, and South-East Asia.
  • Share solar and other renewable energy resources.
• Phase 2:
  • Expand the interconnected grid to include renewable resources from Africa.
• Phase 3:
  • Achieve a global interconnection aiming for 2,600 GW by 2050.
  • Integrate as many countries as possible into a single renewable energy grid.

Global Collaboration:

• Involves national governments, international organizations, legislators, power operators, and experts.
• Focus on accelerating infrastructure development for a clean energy-powered world.

In News:

Researchers have recently discovered a new species of jumping spider in the Baner Hill area, underscoring the region's rich biodiversity and the growing need to preserve the natural landscapes around Pune.

About Okinawicius tekdi:

• The newly identified species, named Okinawicius tekdi, is a jumping spider that contributes to the growing diversity of India's spider population, now numbering 326 species of jumping spiders.
• The name "tekdi" comes from the Marathi word for "hill," reflecting the spider's habitat.
• The last time a spider species was identified in Pune was over three decades ago.

About Jumping Spiders:

• Jumping spiders belong to the family Salticidae and are known for their distinctive eight legs and remarkable jumping ability.
• These spiders possess a segmented body, a tough exoskeleton, and jointed legs.
• In addition to their agility, they are famous for spinning webs that they use to capture their prey.

In News:

• The 21st India-US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting was held from November 5 to 6, 2024, at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• The meeting focused on strengthening defence ties between India and the US, covering a wide range of topics aimed at improving military cooperation.

Key Areas of Discussion

• Capacity Building: The meeting discussed initiatives for enhancing defence capacity through training exchanges, joint exercises, and sharing best practices.
• Defence Industrial Cooperation: Both countries explored opportunities for collaborative defence industrial ventures and technology sharing.
• Joint Exercises: The advancement of joint military exercises was highlighted to boost readiness against both conventional and hybrid threats.
• Strategic Objectives: The meeting aimed to enhance interoperability between the two countries' armed forces, enabling more effective joint operations.

Commitment to Strengthen Indo-US Defence Ties

• Strategic Partnership: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Indo-US defence partnership, recognizing the shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Focus on Regional Security: The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring regional security and global stability in the face of emerging threats.

The Role of the MCG

• Purpose: The MCG forum serves as a key platform for enhancing strategic and operational defence collaboration between India and the US.
• Long-term Goals: The MCG aims to build mutual defence capabilities, counter emerging threats, and ensure the security of both nations and the wider region.

In News:

• The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of India recently visited Algeria, culminating in the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation.
• Objective: The MoU aims to strengthen the strategic and military ties between India and Algeria.

Recent Developments in India-Algeria Relations

• Important Visit: The CDS’s visit coincided with Algeria’s 70th anniversary of its revolution, celebrated on November 1st, with military parades and ceremonies highlighting Algeria’s historical and political legacy.
• Defence Cooperation:
  • India re-established its defence wing in Algeria, and Algeria reciprocated by considering the establishment of its defence wing in India.
  • India emphasized its role as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (global partner) and offered to share defence expertise and experiences with Algeria.
• Strategic Discussion: The MoU aims to enhance mutual understanding, laying the foundation for long-term defence collaboration across multiple sectors, including manufacturing under India’s 'Make in India' and 'Make for the World' initiatives.
• Global Peace Support: CDS reiterated India’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and expressed support for Algeria’s defence interests.

Significant Areas of India-Algeria Relationship

• Diplomatic Relations:
  • India and Algeria established diplomatic ties in July 1962, the same year Algeria gained independence from French colonial rule.
  • India supported Algeria's liberation movement and both countries have maintained close ties as part of the Non-Aligned Movement.
• Bilateral Trade:
  • Trade peaked at USD 2.9 billion in 2018 but dropped to USD 1.5 billion by 2021 due to COVID-19 and Algeria’s import restrictions.
  • Trade rebounded in 2022, increasing by 24% to USD 2.1 billion.
  • Exports from India (2023-24): Rice, pharmaceuticals, granite.
  • Imports from Algeria: Petroleum oils, LNG, calcium phosphates.
• Bilateral Agreements:
  • 2015 MoU: Between All India Radio (AIR) and Algerian National Radio for cooperation in broadcasting.
  • 2018 Space Cooperation Agreement: Focuses on satellite technology for applications like crop forecasting and disaster management.
  • Visa Waiver Agreement (2021): Diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from visa requirements.
• Cultural Engagement:
  • International Day of Yoga (2024): Celebrated in Algeria at the Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, attracting over 300 participants.
• Space Cooperation:
  • The 2018 India-Algeria Space Cooperation Agreement focuses on joint space science, technology, and applications.
  • India has launched four Algerian satellites (2016), and the 2022 Joint Committee Meeting expanded satellite capacity building efforts.
  • Algeria’s space agency has engaged with ISRO on satellite applications like crop forecasting and disaster management.
• Indian Community in Algeria:
  • Approximately 3,800 Indians live in Algeria, working in various sectors, including technical and semi-skilled roles.
  • The community includes 13 Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), 10 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and 15 Indian students.

In News:

• A new study in Geophysical Research Letters suggests that diamond dust could be more effective than any other material in reflecting solar radiation.
• Objective: The goal is to reduce global temperatures by 1.6°C by spraying approximately 5 million tonnes of diamonds annually into the atmosphere.

Background of Geoengineering Solutions:

• Geoengineering refers to large-scale interventions aimed at altering Earth's natural climate system to counteract global warming.
• One proposed solution involves spraying diamond dust in the Earth's upper atmosphere to cool the planet.
• This approach is part of Solar Radiation Management (SRM), which seeks to reflect sunlight away from Earth, thereby reducing global temperatures.
• Previous Materials Considered: Sulphur, calcium, aluminium, silicon, and other compounds have been studied to perform a similar function.

Context of Geoengineering and Climate Crisis:

• Inadequate Progress: Current efforts to mitigate global warming, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, have been insufficient. Global temperatures have continued to rise, and targets like the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C are increasingly out of reach.
• Rising Global Temperatures:
  • 2023: Global temperatures were approximately 1.45°C higher than pre-industrial levels.
  • Projected Challenge: To meet the Paris goal, global emissions must be reduced by at least 43% by 2030. However, current actions will likely result in only a 2% reduction by 2030.

Geoengineering Technologies:

• Geoengineering Methods:
  1. Solar Radiation Management (SRM): Reflects sunlight to cool Earth.
  2. Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR): Involves capturing and storing CO?.
• SRM Techniques:
  • SRM draws inspiration from natural events like volcanic eruptions, where large amounts of sulphur dioxide form particles that reflect sunlight.
  • Mount Pinatubo (1991): One of the largest eruptions, which temporarily reduced global temperatures by 0.5°C due to the sulphur dioxide released.

Diamond Dust vs Other Materials:

• Study Comparison: Diamonds were found to be the most effective material compared to other compounds (sulphur, calcium, etc.) for reflecting solar radiation.
• Quantity Needed: To achieve a cooling of 1.6°C, 5 million tonnes of diamonds would need to be dispersed into the upper atmosphere each year.

Broader Geoengineering Context:

• Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS):
  • CCS is already in practice, where CO? emissions from industries are captured and stored underground to reduce atmospheric carbon.
  • However, CCS faces high costs and scalability issues, and safe storage sites for CO? are limited.
• Direct Air Capture (DAC): A more advanced method where CO? is directly removed from ambient air, but it faces even greater challenges in terms of infrastructure and cost.

In News:

Europe's Proba-3 mission to arrive in India for launch aboard PSLV-XL by ISRO

Key Highlights:

• Objective: The Proba-3 mission, led by the European Space Agency (ESA), aims to observe the Sun’s corona by creating an artificial solar eclipse. This will allow continuous observation of the Sun’s faint outer atmosphere, which is typically only visible during a natural solar eclipse.
• Key Features:
  • Artificial Solar Eclipse: The two spacecraft will fly in formation to maintain a shadow between them, enabling the uninterrupted observation of the solar corona.
  • Formation Flying: The satellites must maintain a precise formation with an accuracy of one millimetre, equivalent to the thickness of a fingernail.

Mission Details

• Launch Date: Scheduled for December 4, 2024.
• Launch Location: Satish Dhawan Space Centre near Chennai, India.
• Launch Vehicle: The PSLV-XL rocket developed by ISRO will be used for the launch.
• Spacecraft Mass: The combined mass of the two spacecraft is 550 kg.
• Orbit: The spacecraft will be placed in a highly elliptical orbit with a maximum altitude of 60,000 km to facilitate the precise formation flying.
  • This high altitude minimizes Earth’s gravitational pull and reduces the amount of propellant required to maintain their positions during the mission.

Mission Significance

• Solar Observation: The primary objective is to observe the Sun’s corona, which has been challenging to study due to its faintness. The artificial eclipse will allow continuous data collection on solar activity.
• Formation Flying: This technology will allow the two satellites to maintain autonomous flight with millimetre-level precision, which is a significant advancement in satellite formation control.
• Six-Hour Observation Windows: Each formation flying session will last for up to six hours, during which the satellites will observe the Sun's corona.

Technological and Scientific Contributions

• ASPIICS Instrument: The ASPIICS (AStronomical PIcture Camera for the Intense Corona of the Sun) will be the mission's primary instrument, developed by the Royal Observatory of Belgium. It will provide crucial data on solar activity and space weather.
• International Collaboration: The mission is a collaborative effort involving 14 ESA member states and various organizations across Europe.
• Mission Control: The mission will be managed from the ESA’s European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Belgium, with significant pre-launch training and preparations already underway.

ISRO's Role and Historical Context

• Launch by ISRO: The Proba-3 mission will be ISRO’s first launch for ESA since 2001, marking an important milestone in India-Europe space cooperation.
• PSLV-XL Rocket: ISRO’s PSLV-XL rocket is known for its reliability and capability in deploying satellites into precise orbits. It is well-suited to carry the 550 kg Proba-3 duo into a highly elliptical orbit for the mission.

In News:

India's journey toward a sustainable energy future has gained significant momentum with a series of policy reforms designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate the shift to clean energy. The recent Asia-Pacific Climate Report from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) highlights India's remarkable progress in reforming its fossil fuel subsidy system and its efforts to foster renewable energy, positioning the country as a leader in the region's green transformation.

Key Highlights from the Report:

India's Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform

• India has successfully reduced fossil fuel subsidies by 85%, from a peak of $25 billion in 2013 to just $3.5 billion by 2023.
• The reform strategy is built on a "remove, target, and shift" approach, which involved phasing out subsidies on petrol and diesel from 2010 to 2014, followed by incremental tax hikes on these fuels through 2017.
• These fiscal changes created space for funding renewable energy projects, such as solar parks, electric vehicle initiatives, and infrastructure improvements.

Role of Taxation in Supporting Clean Energy

• Between 2010 and 2017, India introduced a cess on coal production and imports, which contributed significantly to funding clean energy projects. Approximately 30% of the cess was directed to the National Clean Energy and Environment Fund.
• This funding supported major renewable energy initiatives, including the National Solar Mission and Green Energy Corridor project, helping reduce the cost of utility-scale solar energy and expand off-grid renewable energy solutions.
• The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 altered the financial landscape, redirecting the cess funds to GST compensation rather than directly to clean energy.

Government Schemes and Initiatives

• India is advancing its clean energy agenda through several key government schemes:
  • National Green Hydrogen Mission: Aimed at establishing India as a leader in green hydrogen production.
  • PM-KUSUM Scheme: Focused on promoting solar energy among farmers, allowing them to produce renewable power.
  • PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: A program designed to provide solar energy access to rural communities, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

A Strategic Shift: From Subsidies to Clean Energy

• India’s subsidy reforms are an important part of its strategy to transition from a reliance on fossil fuels to a focus on renewable energy investments.
• These changes reflect India’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, as outlined in its climate action plans.

Global Significance of India’s Efforts

• The reduction in fossil fuel subsidies and the surge in clean energy investment serve as a model for other nations seeking to balance economic development with climate action.
• India’s approach demonstrates that policy reforms and innovative financing mechanisms can be used to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, greener economy while creating job opportunities and fostering economic growth.

In News:

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Major Ralengnao 'Bob' Khathing Museum of Valour in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, on October 31, 2023, coinciding with National Unity Day (Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary).
• Significance: The museum honours Bob Khathing's contributions to India's security and the integration of Tawang into India.

Role in the Integration of Tawang:

• Tawang Expedition (1951): In January 1951, Major Bob Khathing, an officer of the Indian Frontier Administrative Service, led the expedition to peacefully integrate Tawang into India.
• Strategic Importance: At the time, there were concerns over Chinese intentions to enter Tibet and realign boundaries. Khathing's mission was crucial to prevent Chinese advances into the area.
• Expedition Details: Khathing set off with Assam Rifles troops from Charduar, Assam, and after overcoming extreme terrain and weather, he reached Tawang. On February 14, 1951, he hoisted the Indian flag, marking Tawang's official integration into India.
• Administrative Setup: Khathing established an administrative framework, including appointing Gaon Buras (village elders) to manage local governance.

Military Service and Recognition:

• World War II Service: Bob Khathing joined the Indian Army in 1939 and earned recognition for his role in the Second World War. He was awarded the Member of the British Empire (MBE) and the Military Cross (MC) for his bravery and leadership.
• Guerrilla Warfare: Khathing was part of the Victor Force, a British-led guerrilla unit tasked with countering the Japanese in Burma and India during WWII. Later, he became the adviser to SANCOL, a force set up to track Japanese forces in the region.
• Military Cross Citation: Khathing was praised for his tireless efforts in organizing local Naga support, gathering intelligence, and participating in successful ambushes, which played a critical role in defeating the Japanese.

Post-War Career and Civil Service:

• Ministerial Role in Manipur: After WWII, Khathing was demobilized and joined the interim government of Manipur, where he served as a minister in charge of the hill areas.
• Integration of Manipur: Following Manipur's merger with India in 1949, Khathing joined the Assam Rifles and served for two years before moving into civil administration.
• Key Positions: He served as Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung (Nagaland), Development Commissioner in Sikkim, and Chief Secretary of Nagaland.
• Ambassadorship: In 1975, Khathing became India's ambassador to Burma, possibly the first person of tribal origin to hold such a position in independent India.

The Importance of His Contributions:

• Integration of Border Areas: Khathing’s role in integrating Tawang and securing India's northeastern frontier was pivotal in preventing further territorial disputes, especially with China.
• Institutional Development: He helped establish military and security institutions, including the Sashastra Seema Bal, Nagaland Armed Police, and the Naga Regiment, which played important roles in maintaining peace and security in the region.
• Heroic Leadership: Khathing's leadership, both as a soldier and civil servant, continues to be celebrated, symbolized by the Major Bob Khathing Museum of Valour.

In News:

Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released the Operational Guidelines of Central Sector Scheme “NAMO DRONE DIDI”

Key Highlights:

Objective:

• Empower women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by providing drones for agricultural rental services.
• Aim to support 14,500 SHGs from 2024 to 2026.

Scheme Overview:

• Type: Central Sector Scheme, under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• Target: Women SHGs for providing drone services in agriculture (e.g., nutrient and pesticide spraying).

Key Features:

• Financial Assistance:
  • 80% subsidy (up to ?8 lakh) for SHGs to purchase drones.
  • Loans for the remaining 20% via the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF) with 3% interest subvention.
• Drone Package:
  • Includes drones, spray assemblies, batteries, cameras, chargers, and measurement tools.
  • Additional batteries and propellers allow up to 20 acres of coverage per day.
• Training Program:
  • One SHG member will be selected for 15 days of mandatory training.
  • Focus on drone operation and agricultural tasks (nutrient and pesticide spraying).
• Implementation & Oversight:
  • Central Governance: Empowered Committee comprising secretaries from key ministries (Agriculture, Rural Development, Fertilizers, Civil Aviation, and Women and Child Development).
  • State Level: Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) will implement the scheme in coordination with state departments and SHG federations.
  • Monitoring: IT-based Management Information System (MIS) through the Drone Portal for real-time tracking and fund disbursement.
• Financial Flexibility:
  • SHGs can access loans through other Ministry of Rural Development schemes if needed.

Implementation Details:

• Governance: Central level oversight by the Empowered Committee and state-level execution by Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs).
• Ownership: Drones procured by LFCs will be owned by SHGs or their Cluster Level Federations (CLFs).
• Monitoring: The scheme will be tracked and managed through the Drone Portal, ensuring transparency and accountability.