Ca 30 Apr 2024 Monthly 2

Southern Ocean
The Southern Ocean is known for having

the cleanest air on Earth, a fact previously
attributed mainly to minimal human activity.
CURRENT AFFAIRS 30
APRIL 2024
.IW NSIGHTSONINDIA.CMO
Current Affairs 30
Topics: Effect of policies and politics of developed and devel-
INSIDE
oping countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
7. Israel-Iran Conflicts: Challenges and Solutions 32
Topics: Important International institutions, agencies and
fora, their structure, mandate.
GENERAL STUDIES – 1
Topics: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
1. Impact of Climate Crisis on Women and Girls 6 Topics: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mo-
bilization of resources, growth, development and employ-
Topics: Women and women related issues. ment.
2. 50 Years of Chipko Movement 8 1. India’s Defence Exports Reaches an All-time High 35
Topics: Population and associated issues, poverty and devel- 2. India’s declining net Household Savings 37
opmental issues.
Topics: Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the
3. World Bank Warns of Squandered Demographic Div-
country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems
idend11
storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce
4. India’s Declining Fertility Rate: Opportunities and and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid
Challenges Ahead 12 of farmers.
Topics: Distribution of key natural resources across the world 3. Crop Diversification in India 38
(including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent) Topics: Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in
5. India’s Arctic Expedition: Exploring New Frontiers14 industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Topics: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earth- 4. Disinvestment in India: A Key Agenda for the Next
quakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical Government41
features and their location- changes in critical geographical Topics: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Rail-
features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora ways etc.
and fauna and the effects of such changes. 5. Opportunities and Challenges of Green Hydrogen in
6. Deadly Dubai floods made worse by climate change India44
16
Topics: Conservation related issues, environmental pollution
GENERAL STUDIES – 2 and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
Topics: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolu- 6. Challenges posed by Renewable Energy Projects in
tion, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic India46
structure; Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme Topics: Challenges to internal security through communica-
with that of other countries. tion networks, role of media and social networking sites in
1. SC: Right against adverse Climate Impacts as integral internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; mon-
to Right to Life and Equality 19 ey-laundering and its prevention.
Topics: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, pow- 7. Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA): Im-
ers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional portance and Concerns 49
Bodies.
2. Supreme Court verdict on EVMs 21
Examples of Ethics
Topics: Government policies and interventions for develop- 1. Example 1: Ban on Diversity Programs in the US 52
ment in various sectors and issues arising out of their design
2. Example 2: Sending Indian Workers to Conflict Zone
and implementation.
52
3. Liquor Policy: Issues in the Liquor Industry 23
3. Example 3: Fali S Nariman 53
Topics: Important aspects of governance, transparency and
4. Example 4: Living Will 53
accountability, e-governance applications, models, success-
es, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency 5. Example 5: Longevity India Initiative 54
& accountability and institutional and other measures. 6. Example 6: Misuse of Public Money by three IAS of-
4. Regulating Big Tech Companies in India and the ficers 54
world25 7. Example 7: Nestle infant milk in poorer countries
Topics: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agree- has a higher sugar content compared to developed
ments involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. countries.54
5. India’s Strategic Focus: Centering Africa in the Global 8. Sibling Relationships are Important 55
South Vision 28 9. Ethical concerns regarding Misuse of social media
6. Defence Diplomacy by India 30 56
10. Voluntary Code of Ethics for social media platforms
2 www.insightsonindia.com
Current Affairs 30
57 3. NICES programme 89
11. UK: Deportation of Asylum seekers to Rwanda 57 4. BIMSTEC Charter 90
12. Misleading advertisements and Issues related to it 5. Political parties’ symbols 90
58 6. Draft model rules for childbirth registration 90
13. Guidelines for the Elimination of Corporal Punish- 7. 75 years of NATO 90
ment in Schools (GECP) 60 8. Suvidha Portal 91
14. Digital Dilemma: Children’s Digital Screen Time 61 9. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) 91
CONTENT FOR MAINS ENRICHMENT 10. Palestinian Membership Application Referred to UN
Committee 91
1. Empathic Voice Interface (EVI) 62
11. Principles for Harmonious Construction 92
2. Bilingual Braille at Polling Booths 62
12. Bilateral investment treaty 92
3. Innovative Taxes 63
13. Peace clause in WTO 92
4. UNHRC Resolution on Intersex People 63
14. Candidates’ Right to Privacy from Voters 92
5. Rising Role of Women in Finance and Workforce 64
15. Curative petition 93
6. Japan’s “Womenomics” reforms 64
16. Representation of the People Act, 1951 93
7. NTPC’s Girl Empowerment Mission 64
17. Misleading Advertisements 93
11. Randomized Control Trials (RCTs) 67
18. Reports in News 94
12. ‘Million Miyawaki’ project 68
19. India-Mauritius Tax Treaty 94
13. Liberal Democracy 68
20. Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) 95
FACTS FOR PRELIMS; GS-1 21. Homoeopathy Symposium 95
1. Mohiniyattam 69 22. Adjudicating Authority under PMLA, 2002 95
2. 100 Years of Vaikom satyagraha 69 23. Home voting 96
3. Kuchipudi 70 24. Prerana Program 97
4. Volcanic vortex rings 71 25. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India
5. Giant rogue waves 71 97
6. Fourth global mass coral bleaching event 71 26. Top-tier security partner 97
7. GI Tags granted to 60 Products 72 27. National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation
8. Srinagar (considered for World Craft City) 78 (NOTTO)-ID 98
9. Atomic clocks 80 28. Childcare leave 98
10. Swell waves 80 29. ASEAN Future Forum 98
11. Negative leap second 81 30. Material Resource of the Community(Article 39 (b))
12. 125 years of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory 81 98
13. 5,200-year-old Harappan settlement 83 31. Article 244(A) of Indian Constitution 98
14. IMD warns of more tornadoes in the Bay of Bengal 32. Nomination in Election 99
83 33. UNCTAD rebranded as ‘UN Trade and Development’
15. Ikshvaku-era 85 99
16. Total solar eclipse 85 34. Star campaigners 99
17. Arctic’s polar vortex 85 GS-3
18. Southern Ocean 86 1. 1MYAC – One Million Youth Actions Challenge 99
19. Mount Ruang 86 2. Impact of AI Boom on Interest Rates 100
20. Tribes in News 87 3. Energy Inefficiency in Residential Buildings 100
21. Ross Ice Shelf 87 4. Butterfly Cicada 101
22. Chithirai festival 88 5. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) 101
23. Avar nomads of Europe 88 6. Genetic profiling of Captive Elephants 101
24. Bru Community 88 7. USSD-based call forwarding 102
25. Decreasing Solar Radiation Availability in India 88 8. H5N1 bird flu 102
GS-2 9. Indigenous Knowledge - Konda Reddi tribe 103
1. Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) data 89 10. Cardamom 103
2. First-ever Nuclear Energy Summit 89 11. Tissue culture 103
Current Affairs 30
12. Ozone on Callisto 104 58. Mercenary spyware 125
13. MRI Scan: Image of Human Brain 111 59. Eurasian Otter 125
14. Zircon hypersonic missile 113 60. Baobab trees 125
15. RBI@90 113 61. Hydrogel 126
16. India’s coal and lignite production 113 62. Gravitational waves 126
17. Anti-Dumping Investigation 113 63. Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE)
18. Shallow fakes 114 satellite126
19. Artificial sun 114 64. Doxxing 126
20. Clean Energy Transitions Programme 2023 114 65. Health drinks 126
21. Paira cropping system 114 66. Shrinkflation 127
22. Punnett square 114 67. Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA) 127
23. ‘Gravity hole’ in the Indian Ocean 115 68. Gopi Thotakura (1 Indian Space Tourist)
st
127
24. “Mother Of Dragons” Comet 115 69. Radiation Therapy 128
25. S.A.R.A.H. - Smart AI Resource Assistant for Health 70. Satellite Calls 128
115 71. Ringwoodite 128
26. PRATUSH 115 72. Ashwagandha 128
27. Coordinated Lunar Time 116 73. Soil Acidification 129
28. Trademark 116 74. Organ Donation to Foreigners in India 129
29. Exchange traded currency derivatives 117 75. Pink bollworm 129
30. Agriculture in News 117 76. Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee
31. Plankton crash 117 (IADC)130
32. Voice Engine 118 77. Space weather 130
33. NexCAR19 118 78. Nitroplast 130
34. Agni-Prime ballistic missile 118 79. Gray Slender Loris 130
35. India has eliminated Kala-azar 118 80. Bumblebees 131
36. Criollo 119 81. Three new fish species were spotted using tools131
37. Venomous jellyfish blooms 119 82. FDI in the space sector 131
38. Artificial reefs 119 83. Sugar in baby food 131
39. ‘Akashteer Command and Control Systems’ 120 84. GPS spoofing 132
40. Forever chemicals 120 85. ‘Sleeping giant’ black hole 132
41. Spotted deer 120 86. Nigeria introduced Men5CV vaccine 132
42. ESZ around Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary 120 87. Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterisation
43. Credit-deposit ratio 120 and Evaluation (SPACE) 132
44. Air-breathing magnesium-copper / Cupric Oxide 88. Vasuki Indicus 132
Fuel Cell 121 89. Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) 133
45. Peter Higgs (Higgs theory) 121 90. Tachyons 133
46. C-Dome defence system 122 91. Artemis Accords 133
47. Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) 122 92. Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) 134
48. TSAT-1A 122 93. Exoskeleton 134
49. GUJCOST 122 94. Initiatives of WHO 134
50. CDP-SURAKSHA 123 95. Summit of the Future 2024 134
51. Microbial formulations to improve agricultural pro- 96. The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives
ductivity 123 (GAIA) Asia Pacific 135
52. Methanol in Hand Sanitizers 123 97. Dragonfly mission 135
53. Piezoelectric Bone Conduction Hearing Implants123 98. Forests as a national asset 135
54. Parivartan Chintan 124 99. Genomic accordion 135
55. International Narcotics Control Board 124 100. Ethylene oxide in Indian Spices 135
56. Web3 124 101. ‘Pink’ hydrogen 136
57. Brightest-ever cosmic explosion 124 102. Llama 3 136
103. Andaman and Nicobar to establish wildlife
Current Affairs 30
sanctuaries137 5. Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (Ukraine) 150
104. Sodium-ion battery 137 6. Botswana 151
105. Neptis philyra 138 7. Bharati station (Antarctica) 151
106. Golden trevally 139 8. Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba 152
107. Rampage Missiles 139 9. Nagorno-Karabakh Region 152
108. Military Exercises in News 139 10. Aral Sea 152
109. Compulsory convertible debentures 140 11. Philippines 153
110. Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) meth- 12. Second Thomas Shoal Reef 153
ods140 13. Easter Island 154
111. Satellite Technology Day 141 14. Mount Erebus 154
112. WHO global sodium benchmarks 141 15. Schengen Areas 155
113. Pulicat bird sanctuary 141 16. Blue Whales makes a comeback in Seychelles 155
114. Payments Aggregator 141 17. Netherlands 156
115. Asset reconstruction companies (ARCs) 142 INDIAN
116. Telecommunication Infrastructure Sharing, 18. Katchatheevu island 156
Spectrum Sharing, and Spectrum Leasing 142 19. Paradip Port 157
117. Sympathetic solar flares 142 20. Kumittipathi village (Coimbatore, TN) 158
118. Permissible level of pesticides 142 21. Khavda Solar Park (Gujarat’s Kutch) 159
119. Voyager 1 143 22. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve 159
120. Paro Statement 143 23. Haryana’s Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary 160
121. ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2 144
122. Weapon-free outer space 144
123. Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Law
144
124. Marrakesh Agreement 144
125. Network as a Service (NaaS) 144
126. Climate Technology Centre and Network
(CTCN) 145
127. Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status
145
128. Antihistamines 145
129. Nephrotic Syndrome 145
130. Project ISHAN 145
131. Inheritance Tax 146
132. UN Panel on “Critical Energy Transition Min-
erals”146
133. Salmonella contamination in spices 146
134. Biohacking 146
135. Nilgiri Tahr 147
136. New Alert indicators under PMLA 147
SPORTS CORNER
1. 2026 Commonwealth Games 148
2. Doping in Sports 148
MAPPING
INTERNATIONAL
1. Africa’s Afar Triangle 149
2. Cambodia (cyber-Slavery) 149
3. Earthquake in Taiwan 149
4. Sittwe port (Myanmar) 150
Current Affairs 30
Topics: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.
1. IMPACT OF CLIMATE CRISIS ON WOMEN AND GIRLS

Context:
The climate crisis affects everyone differently, with women and girls facing disproportionate risks due to existing roles, re-
sponsibilities, and cultural norms.
Impact of Climate Crisis on Women and Girls:

Aspect Impact
Health Women bear the brunt of climate-related health risks due to caregiving roles, facing challenges from
heat waves, extreme weather, and vector-borne diseases.
Pregnant women and new mothers are vulnerable to malnutrition, childbirth complications, and lim-
ited access to maternal healthcare after disasters.
Additionally, health issues resulting from climate change can exacerbate social issues and strain so-
cial support systems
Livelihoods and Women in rural areas rely heavily on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture, facing income loss
Income and food insecurity from climate-induced factors such as unpredictable weather and soil degradation.
Education and Lit- Climate disasters disrupt education, with girls more likely to be withdrawn from school due to safety
eracy concerns or increased caregiving duties.
Water and Sanita- Women’s responsibility for water management makes them vulnerable to climate-induced water
tion scarcity and contamination, limiting opportunities for education, income, and community involve-
ment.
Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities affects women’s health and hygiene, lead-
ing to higher rates of waterborne diseases and maternal mortality.
Gender-Based Vi- Interpersonal tensions often escalate during climate-related disasters due to competition for scarce
olence resources like food and shelter. This can lead to increased domestic violence within households.
Current Affairs 30
Prolonged Heat Prolonged heat poses risks to pregnant women and exposes women and unborn children to pollut-
Waves ants, impacting respiratory and cardiovascular health.
Child Marriage Climate-induced disasters can lead to child marriage as a coping mechanism, setting back gender
equality progress and community resilience.
Disproportionate Women and children are 14 times more likely than men to die in disasters, according to the UNDP
deaths
Rural to Urban Men’s migration due to extreme weather events leaves women with increased responsibilities, de-
Migration creased income, and limited access to land and resources, increasing vulnerability to climate impacts.
Decreased Adap- Women’s integration into the informal economy affects their decision-making power and adaptive
tive Capacity capacity, leading to greater risks during climate disasters.
Biased Social Lack of access to resources and discriminatory practices restrict women’s ability to adapt to climate
norms change.
Role of Rural women in the fight against climate change

Aspect Examples of Women’s Contributions to Climate Resilience
Agriculture In Odisha, women resurrect traditional crops that withstand frequent floods and droughts.
Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) teaches women farmers how to respond to shifting
climate patterns to support themselves better financially.
Reducing domes- E.g., Charlot Magayi helps Kenyan women transition from dirty cook stoves to clean ones, improving
tic pollution community health and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The African program Solar Sister, led by women, helps communities establish small-scale solar sys-
tems for energy independence, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
Watershed Man- Women collectives in Nagpur use indigenous techniques to turn parched lands into fertile areas.
agement
Seed Preservation Rural women in Telangana act as seed guardians, safeguarding native seeds against climate uncer-
tainties.
Sustainable Fish- Fisherwomen cooperatives in coastal Karnataka advocate for regulated fishing practices and marine
ing life sustainability.
Waste Manage- Rural women in coastal Karnataka lead circularity efforts, transforming kitchen waste into compost
ment and promoting waste segregation and recycling.
Agroforestry Women farmers in the Malnad region practice agroforestry, intercropping native trees with tradi-
tional crops to combat erratic rainfall patterns and enhance soil fertility.
Community Influ- Rural women actively participate in community decisions and drive movements, using their vote and
ence voice as agents of change.
Constitutional Rights for safeguarding Vulnerable groups against Climate Change/Disasters:

1. Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21): The Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty,
which includes the right to live in a safe environment free from the adverse effects of climate change and disasters
(Read the recent SC ruling here)
2. Right to Equality (Article 14): Women and girls are entitled to equal protection under the law, ensuring that they
receive equitable treatment and opportunities in climate change adaptation and disaster response measures.
3. Right to Health (Article 21): The Constitution recognizes the right to health as an integral part of the right to life,
ensuring access to healthcare services to mitigate health risks posed by climate change and disasters, particularly
for pregnant women and children.
4. Directive Principles of State Policy (Article 39): The Directive Principles of State Policy mandate the state to ensure
that women are not subject to discrimination and have equal rights to livelihood opportunities.
5. Fundamental Duties (Article 51A): Citizens have a duty to protect and improve the natural environment, including
forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, which are essential for climate resilience and disaster mitigation efforts that ben-
efit women and girls.
6. Protection Against Exploitation (Article 23): The Constitution prohibits trafficking, forced labour, and other forms
of exploitation, safeguarding women and girls from vulnerabilities exacerbated by climate change-induced displace-
ment and migration.
Current Affairs 30
7. Special Provisions for Women and Children (Article fected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states
15): The Constitution allows the state to make spe- of India will be affected by climate change? (2017)
cial provisions for the advancement of women and
children, including measures to enhance their resil- Q.1 Which of the following best describes/describe the aim
ience and adaptive capacity to climate change and of ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government of India? (UPSC
disasters. 2016)
8. Protection of Tribal Rights (Article 244): Indigenous 1. Incorporating environmental benefits and costs into
women and girls have constitutionally protected the Union and State Budgets thereby implementing the
rights to their traditional lands and resources, which ‘green accounting’.
are essential for their resilience to climate change 2. Launching the second green revolution to enhance agri-
impacts. cultural output so as to ensure food security to one and
all in the future.
Steps to Make Climate Crisis Gender Neutral: 3. Restoring and enhancing forest cover and responding to
1. Implement social protection programs providing climate change by a combination of adaptation and mit-
access to healthcare, education, clean water, and igation measures.
sanitation. This includes cash transfers, food secu- Select the correct answer using the code given below.
rity initiatives, and insurance schemes for women (a) 1 only
and girls affected by climate events. (b) 2 and 3 only
2. Support sustainable livelihoods through poverty (c) 3 only
alleviation, inclusive economic growth, and sustain- (d) 1, 2 and 3
able agriculture practices. Ans: C
3. Empower women by providing equal access to re-
sources, which can enhance agricultural yields and Q.2 With reference to ‘Global Climate Change Alliance’,
promote local solutions, particularly in rural areas. which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC
4. Gather sex-disaggregated data to better understand 2017)
women’s diverse roles and experiences as agents of 1. It is an initiative of the European Union.
change. 2. It provides technical and financial support to targeted
5. Reduce the impact of prolonged heat waves on vul- developing countries to integrate climate change into
nerable groups through heat wave warnings, adjust- their development policies and budgets.
ed work and school timings, and cooling facilities. 3. It is coordinated by World Resources Institute (WRI) and
6. Involve urban local bodies and municipalities in cli- World Business Council for Sustainable Development
mate action planning and urban design to mitigate (WBCSD).
heat and improve resilience. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
7. Map key water resources and develop local plans to (a) 1 and 2 only
improve water access and management for women (b) 3 only
8. Reform State-action plans on climate change to ap- (c) 2 and 3 only
ply a gender lens and implement gender-transfor- (d) 1, 2 and 3
mative strategies, recognizing the vulnerabilities of Ans: A
all genders.
Topics: Women and women related issues.
Conclusion:
To address climate change effectively, it’s crucial to recognize 2. 50 YEARS OF CHIPKO MOVEMENT
all genders’ vulnerabilities and implement gender-trans-
formative strategies for comprehensive and equitable ad- Context:
aptation. Women shouldn’t be viewed solely as victims but The Chipko movement, which originated in the 1970s in the
as leaders in climate action. State-action plans on climate Himalayan villages of Reni and Mandal, marked its 50th an-
change must incorporate a gender lens, and legislation and niversary recently.
policies should support women’s meaningful participation in
decision-making processes. What was the Chipko movement?
The Chipko movement was a non-violent protest that began
Insta Link: in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand (then Uttar Pradesh),
• SC: Right against adverse Climate Impacts as integral India, in 1973. Led by environmental activists such as Sund-
to Right to Life and Equality arlal Bahuguna and Gaura Devi, among others, the move-
ment aimed to prevent the felling of trees in the Himalayan
Mains Link: region. The name “Chipko” comes from the Hindi word
Q. ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem. How will India be af- meaning “embrace,” as villagers hugged the trees to prevent
Current Affairs 30
their cutting.
The original Chipko movement dates back to 1730 when Amrita Devi Bishnoi and over 300 others from the Bishnoi sect
sacrificed their lives protesting the felling of Khejarli trees in Rajasthan.)
Impact of Chipko Movement:

Impact Description
Environmental Aware- Raised awareness about deforestation and the importance of conserving forests.
ness and Conservation
Push to Eco-Feminism Eco-feminism is a philosophical and political movement exploring the links between ecologi-
cal issues and women’s experiences.
It recognizes the importance of traditional knowledge, often held and transmitted by women,
in promoting sustainable practices.
The Chipko movement exemplifies the collective involvement of women in forest conserva-
tion, reflecting the principles of Eco-feminism
Local Empowerment Empowered local communities, particularly women, in protecting natural resources.
Policy Changes Contributed to the formulation of policies for forest conservation and sustainable resource
management.
Inspiration for Similar Inspired similar movements globally, emphasizing nonviolent direct action and community in-
Movements volvement.
Global Environmental Became a symbol of the global environmental movement, highlighting grassroots activism.
Movement
Recognition of Women’s Challenged traditional gender roles, recognizing women’s crucial role in conservation.
Role
Economic and Cultural Helped preserve traditional livelihoods and cultural practices linked to the environment.
Impact
Education and Research Spurred interest in environmental science and sustainable development research.
Forest Protection and Re- Protected forests from destruction, aiding in regeneration and ecological benefits.
generation
Other such movements include:

Movement Year
Place Leaders Aim
Save Silent Val- 1978
Silent Valley, Palak- Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad (KSSP), Protection of Silent Valley from a
ley Movement kad district, Kerala Sughathakumari hydroelectric project
Jungle Bachao 1982 Singhbhum district, Tribals of Singhbhum Against replacing natural sal for-
Andholan Bihar est with Teak
Appiko move- 1983 Uttara Kannada and Pandurang Hegde (facilitator) Opposition to felling and com-
ment Shimoga districts, mercialization of natural forests
Karnataka and ancient livelihood
N a r m a d a 1985 Narmada River, Guja- Medha Patker, Baba Amte, Adivasis, The movement against the con-
Bachao An- rat, Madhya Pradesh, farmers, environmentalists, human struction of large dams on the
dolan (NBA) Maharashtra rights activists Narmada River
Tehri Dam Con- 1990s Bhagirathi River, Teh- Sundarlal Bahuguna Protest against displacement of
flict ri, Uttarakhand town inhabitants and environ-
mental consequences of weak
ecosystem
Save Deh- 2020 Assam Adil Hussain, Randeep Hooda, Joi Opposition to opencast mining in
ing-Patkai Barua, Jadav Payeng, members of Dehing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary
AASU, AAMYU
Current Affairs 30
Save the Sund- 2020 West Bengal Response to cyclone Amphan, aim-
arbans ing to protect the Sundarbans from
further environmental degradation
and provide support to affected com-
munities
Need of ‘New Chipko Movement’ at the time of environmental crisis.

• “We will endure sticks and bullets but save our trees” – these were the kind of slogans and spirit with which we
had conducted the chipko movement in the 1970s and 1980s. A similar spirit needs to be displayed and all sections
of society have to unite to prevent further degradation of the environment.
• People should rise and demand from the government their right to live. Apart from saving trees, this time there is
a need to fight for clean air, and pure water too.
• There is a need to have a separate environmental vision document by the government, especially for Urban India.
Current Affairs 30
Given the recent events, political parties should ex- Benefits of Demographic Dividend are:
pect the environment to become a focal campaign Advantage Description
point, at least in cities.
Increased Labour A larger workforce boosts economic
• There is also a need for an environmental roadmap
Force productivity.
from the administration and the executive.
• It is important to study the steps taken by other Women’s Work- Increased female participation in the
countries. For instance, SO2 pollution declined by force Growth workforce, driving economic growth.
75% in China over the last decade while in India it Higher Savings Working-age individuals typically save
increased by 50%. In China, the SO2 controls were Rate more, boosting overall savings rates.
imposed on coal power plants while in the case of Middle-Class Ex- Demographic dividend fosters the rise
India, the measures are delayed until 2022 in some pansion of an aspirational middle class, driv-
cases. ing economic growth and consump-
tion.
Conclusion
Historical Growth In advanced economies, demographic
The Chipko Movement in the 1970s proved as a tipping point
Contribution dividends historically contributed up
for environmental causes not just in India but the rest of the
to 15% of overall growth.
world as well. There is a need for a “Chipko 2.0”, this time
led by the coordination of society and political class. Rapid Industri- An increased employment-seeking
alization and Ur- population leads to higher economic
About Sunderlal Bahuguna (1927-2021): banization activities, driving industrialization and
He spearheaded the Chipko movement in the 1970s to pro- urban growth.
tect trees in the Himalayas, popularizing the slogan “ecology Workforce Expan- With over 65% of the population in
is permanent economy.” He advocated for the integration sion the working age group, India can be-
of ecology and economy, emphasizing their interconnect- come a significant global economic
edness. Bahuguna protested against the Tehri Dam project, powerhouse.
undertaking a 56-day fast. He also led a 4,800 km padayatra
from Kashmir to Kohima to raise awareness about Hima- Issues in harnessing demographic dividends (as per the re-
layan issues. Bahuguna supported women-led movements port):
against the liquor mafia and championed the Beej Bachao 1. Jobless Growth: South Asian countries experience job-
Andolan to preserve Himalayan biodiversity. He received the less growth, with an employment ratio of only 59% in
Padma Vibhushan in 2009 for his environmental activism. 2023, lower than other emerging economies (~70%).
This is exacerbated by exceptionally low shares of
Mains Links: women in employment and weak employment trends
Q. ‘Women’s movement in India has not addressed the is- in non-agricultural sectors.
sues of women of lower social strata.’ Substantiate your 2. Slow Private Investment: Private investment has
view. (UPSC 2018) slowed, and growth is primarily driven by public invest-
ment. This imbalance can hinder sustainable economic
Topics: Population and associated issues, poverty and devel- development and job creation.
opmental issues. 3. Slowing Global Growth: The region faces challenges due
to slowing global growth, which can negatively impact
3. WORLD BANK WARNS OF SQUANDERED trade, investment, and economic prospects.
4. Heightened Risks: Various risks, including geopolitical
DEMOGRAPHIC DIVIDEND tensions, climate change, and pandemics, pose addition-
al challenges to harnessing the demographic dividend
Context: effectively.
The World Bank (as per “Jobs for Resilience, South Asia De-
velopment Update”) warned that South Asia, including India, Other challenges include:
is not utilizing its demographic dividend effectively. 1. Poor Human Capital Formation: India faces challenges
with low employability among graduates and postgradu-
What is a Demographic Dividend? ates, with only 20-30% of engineers finding jobs suited
The demographic dividend refers to the economic growth to their skills, highlighting a need for skill development.
potential that arises from changes in a population’s age 2. Low Human Development: India ranks poor in the UNDP
structure. It occurs when the proportion of working-age in- Human Development Index, indicating lower life expec-
dividuals (15-64) in a population is larger than the depen- tancy and education levels compared to other develop-
dent population (children and elderly), leading to increased ing countries
productivity and economic growth. India is expected to en- 3. Informal Economy: Approximately 216 million people
joy this window for 37 years starting in 2018 and up to 2055
Current Affairs 30
in India, primarily in the agriculture sector, are part of 5. Establish a high-level task force: Create a dedicated
the informal economy, facing lower wages, limited social team to oversee demographic dividend.
security, and irregular employment, hindering economic 6. Manage urbanization: Plan for the influx of young peo-
growth and stability. ple into urban areas with adequate amenities and ser-
4. Asymmetric Demography: The growth in the work- vices.
ing-age population is concentrated in some of India’s 7. Social security: As per ILO, only 24.4 per cent of Indians,
poorest states, requiring the creation of meaningful em- even fewer than Bangladesh (28.4 per cent), are under
ployment opportunities to fully realize the demographic any sort of social protection benefit. So, social security
dividend. net- Insurance and pension needs to be enhanced.
5. Tilted Sex Ratio and Declining Female Labour Force Par-
ticipation: India faces challenges with declining female Conclusion:
labour force participation rates, hindering the country’s MoSPI has released the ‘Youth in India 2022’ Report, which
ability to fully utilize its workforce potential and achieve shows that the population share of the youth is starting to
demographic dividend goals. decline whereas the share of the elderly is expected to in-
6. Psycho-social issues: India stands 12th on top suicide crease during 2021-2036. This means necessary steps on the
rates of any country. There is also a rising issue of drug economic side and others are needed to empower the youth
abuse among youth. to prevent the demographic dividend from turning into a de-
7. Fatigue and burnout: Indian youth have been observed mographic disaster.
to be overworked and fatigued due to rising heat and
long working hours. Insta Links
8. Radicalization a combination of these issues has also led • Fertility rate below replacement level
youth to be radicalized.
4. INDIA’S DECLINING FERTILITY RATE: OP-
Measures to improve Demographic dividend (as per the
World Bank Report) PORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES AHEAD
1. Openness to International Trade: Reduce barriers to
trade to encourage greater participation in global mar- Context:
kets, promoting economic growth and job creation. India’s declining fertility rate, recently projected by The Lan-
2. Flexible Labour Laws and Efficient Land Markets: De- cet, suggests a demographic transition with potential eco-
velop flexible labour laws and efficient land markets to nomic benefits.
enhance business competitiveness, attract investment,
and stimulate job growth. Status of total fertility rate (TFR):
3. Infrastructure Investment: Invest in infrastructure, par- TFR in India has drastically decreased from 6.2 in 1950 to
ticularly in transportation and agricultural sectors, to below 2 in 2021. It is projected to further decline to 1.29 by
improve connectivity, productivity, and competitiveness, 2050 and a concerning level of 1.04 by 2100. This decline is
fostering economic development and employment op- part of a global trend, with the global fertility rate dropping
portunities. nearly 50% in the past 70 years. The United Nations predicts
4. Promote Female Labor Force Participation: Encourage global population growth to reach 10.9 billion by 2100, with
female labour force participation through measures TFR converging to near replacement level.
such as wage subsidies, tax benefits, and initiatives to
support work-life balance, ensuring gender equality and
maximizing the workforce potential.
5. Enhance Human Capital: Improve human capital through
education and skill development programs, facilitating
the transition of workers from agriculture to non-agri-
culture sectors, thus boosting productivity and enabling
economic diversification.
Other measures needed are:

1. Boost health investments: Increase healthcare spending
to ensure a productive workforce.
2. Reform the informal sector: Simplify regulations and
provide credit access.
3. Invest in the latest technologies: Support research and
development in emerging fields.
4. Address state diversity: Collaborate between states to
manage demographic transition.
Current Affairs 30
The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.0 in India signifies stable long-term population trends, with two parents replaced by two
children, indicating that the country may not experience population decline for 30-40 years due to a substantial youth pop-
ulation.
About TFR:
The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) represents the average number of children a woman would have in her lifetime given current
fertility rates. A TFR of 2.1 signifies replacement-level fertility, where each generation replaces itself. TFR below 2.1 suggests
a declining population over time as each generation produces fewer children than its predecessor.
Factors contributing to fertility decline include:

Aspect Progress/Initiative
Family Planning An increase in the use of modern contraceptive methods contributes to a rise in contraceptive
prevalence rate.
Higher Age of Mar- The introduction of a higher age of marriage, reversible spacing (gaps between children) meth-
riage ods, wage compensation systems to undergo sterilisation, and the promotion of small family
norms also worked well over the years.
Women’s Empower- Improved women’s empowerment indicators also correlate with reduced fertility rates.
ment
Government Initiatives Sustained efforts by the Indian government, including national-level family planning programs,
have driven progress.
Mission Parivar Vikas (2017): Launched to enhance access to contraceptives and family planning
services in 146 high fertility districts.
National Family Planning Indemnity Scheme (NFPIS): Initiated in 2005, provides insurance cov-
erage for sterilization-related complications.
Compensation Scheme for Sterilization Acceptors: Started in 2014, provides wage compensa-
tion to beneficiaries and service providers for sterilization procedures.
Prime Minister’s Appeal (2019): The PM emphasized population control as a patriotic duty
during the Independence Day speech.
Negative Implications of Declining Fertility Rate in India:

1. The decline in working-age population: In the next four years, both Tamil Nadu and Kerala will see the first absolute
declines in their working-age populations in their histories.
2. Skewed sex ratio: It remains a danger. NFHS: families with at least one son are less likely to want more children than
families with just one daughter.
3. Geographical divide: The stark differences between northern and southern States in terms of basic literacy as well
as enrollment in higher education, including in technical fields.
4. Economic Dependence of Elderly: The economic dependence of the female elderly is a significant concern; as fewer
working-age people will need to support a growing elderly population.
a. Need for pension schemes, long-term care facilities, and healthcare programs for age-related ailments
5. High Gender disparities may get aggravated in the Indian workforce
Positive Implications of Declining Fertility Rate in India:

Aspect Description
Positive Economic Changes in age structure with fewer children and more working-age adults. Surplus income from a
Impact larger working-age population can boost economic development.
Lower Dependen- Declining TFR leads to a lower dependency ratio (dependents to working-age population), allowing
cy Ratio for more economic productivity and resource allocation.
Labour Market The larger working-age population may lead to an increased labour supply, potentially lowering wag-
Dynamics es in some sectors.
Industries with labour shortages may need to offer higher wages to attract workers
Social Welfare The ageing population due to declining fertility rates and increased life expectancy demands social
and Healthcare welfare and healthcare services for the elderly.
Current Affairs 30
Education and Hu- Fewer children may decrease demand for primary and secondary educational infrastructure.
man Capital Investments in higher education and skill development become crucial to prepare a smaller cohort
of young adults for a competitive workforce.
Capital Accumu- Declining fertility leads to increased household investment in education and fewer children’s well-be-
lation and Invest- ing. Higher savings rates contribute to capital formation, driving economic growth through invest-
ment ments in infrastructure and human capital.
Regional Develop- Declining fertility often accompanies urbanization and regional development. Urban centres be-
ment and Urbani- come economic hubs, attracting investment, talent, and innovation, promoting infrastructure and
sation enhancing competitiveness.
I n t e r n a t i o n a l Lower fertility rates result in a younger, more educated workforce, enhancing global competitive-
Competitiveness ness. A favourable demographic profile improves creditworthiness, investor confidence, and eco-
nomic stability, attracting foreign investment.
Way forward
1. Providing skills: There is a need for much focus on the betterment of the living standard of living by providing skills
to the youth and bridging the gap between the workforce.
2. Harnessing demographic dividend: The focus of one should be on the various dimensions of population like har-
nessing the potential of demographic dividend.
3. Investing in health, and education and employing elderly people will help societies adapt to inverted population
pyramids.
4. Behaviour-Change Communication Strategy: The Government must adopt a targeted social and behaviour-change
communication strategy to ensure smooth demographic transition
Conclusion
In navigating these demographic complexities, India has the opportunity to leverage its demographic dividend by investing
in education, healthcare, and policies that support a balanced and sustainable population structure.
Insta Links
• Fertility rate below replacement level
Mains Link:
Q. Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures to achieve them in India in detail. (UPSC
2021)
Topics: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian subcontinent)
5. INDIA’S ARCTIC EXPEDITION: EXPLORING NEW FRONTIERS

Context:
India recently concluded its first winter expedition to the Arctic in March 2024, marking a significant milestone in its Arctic
exploration endeavours.
What is an expedition?
An expedition is a journey undertaken for a specific purpose, often involving exploration, scientific research, or achieving
a particular goal. It typically involves travel to remote or unfamiliar areas, often with a team of individuals equipped for
the challenges of the journey. Expeditions can vary widely in scope, ranging from scientific expeditions to mountaineering
expeditions to polar explorations.
The expedition, undertaken by four Indian climate scientists, involved rigorous acclimatization and living in extremely cold
conditions, including the challenging period of polar nights with no sunlight.
India’s engagement in the Arctic:

1. India’s engagement with the Arctic began when it signed the Svalbard Treaty in February 1920 in Paris between
Current Affairs 30
Norway, the US, Denmark, France, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Great Britain, and Ireland, and the British
overseas Dominions and Sweden concerning Spitsbergen. Ever since then, India has been closely monitoring all the
developments in the Arctic region.
2. India initiated its Arctic research program in 2007 with a focus on climate change in the region.
3. The objectives included studying teleconnections between the Arctic climate and the Indian monsoon, to charac-
terize sea ice in the Arctic using satellite data, and to estimate the effect on global warming.
4. India has set up a research station Himadri at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, in 2008
5. In May 2013, India became an observer state of the Arctic Council along with five others including China.
6. India launched its inaugural multi-sensor moored observatory and northernmost atmospheric laboratory in 2014
and 2016 respectively
7. Till last year, thirteen expeditions to the Arctic were successfully conducted.
Significance of the Arctic region significant to India:

Key Reasons Significance of the Arctic Region for India
Climate Impact Though none of India’s territory directly falls in the Arctic region, it is a crucial area as the Arctic in-
fluences atmospheric, oceanographic and biogeochemical cycles of the earth’s ecosystem.
Establishing research bases and observing Arctic ice systems and glaciers are crucial components of
India’s research on Monsoon
Natural Resourc- The region holds vast unexplored hydrocarbon reserves and valuable minerals, contributing to India’s
es resource needs.
Economic Devel- India aims to utilize Arctic Sea routes, particularly the Northern Sea Route, to facilitate Indian trade.
opment
Historical Engage- India’s connection dates back to the Svalbard Treaty in 1920, with ongoing scientific studies and Arctic
ment Council participation.
Global Influence By engaging in Arctic affairs, India can assert its global presence and contribute to discussions on cli-
mate change and resource management.
China’s investments in the Arctic and Russia’s collaboration with China in granting access to the
Northern Sea Route have raised concerns in India
Challenges posed by Arctic Region:

1. Arctic Amplification: Rapid warming in the Arctic, known as Arctic amplification, surpasses global warming rates.
Thawing permafrost releases greenhouse gases like carbon and methane, accelerating ice melt and further warm-
ing.
2. Rising Sea Level Concern: Melting Arctic ice contributes to rising sea levels, exacerbating coastal erosion and storm
surges. India, with its extensive coastline and port cities, faces significant risks from sea level rise, which exceeds the
global average rate along its shores.
3. Emerging geopolitical Race: The opening of Arctic shipping routes has intensified geopolitical competition among
major powers like the US, China, and Russia.
4. Threat to Biodiversity: Arctic warming threatens biodiversity, impacting animal life, plants, and birds dependent on
sea ice. Polar bears, in particular, face habitat loss, while shifting fish populations disrupt the Arctic food web. En-
vironmental changes, including storms and wildfires, further endanger Arctic ecosystems, such as tundra habitats.
Current Affairs 30
Last Year, India released its Arctic Policy, with the aim of Insta Link:
enhancing the country’s cooperation with the resource-rich • What is happening to Arctic Sea ice?
and rapidly transforming region.
Mains Link:
Q. How do the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the
Antarctic differently affect the weather patterns and human
activities on the Earth? Explain. (2021)
Q. What are the economic significances of the discovery of

oil in the Arctic Sea and its possible environmental conse-
quences? (2015)
Prelims Link:
The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the
name of (USPC 2015)
(a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into
the Indian Defence
(b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of the
Indian Ocean Rim
(c) a scientific establishment set up by India in the Antarctic
region
(d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the
Arctic region
Ans: D
Topics: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earth-

Suggestions for India: quakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc., geographical
1. Collaborate with Norway for Arctic research, to en- features and their location- changes in critical geographical
hance research capabilities and knowledge sharing features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora
in the Arctic region and fauna and the effects of such changes.
2. Align with Arctic nations on green initiatives: Foster
cooperation with Arctic countries, particularly Den- 6. DEADLY DUBAI FLOODS MADE WORSE
mark and Finland, to promote green energy, sus-
tainable industries, and environmental conservation BY CLIMATE CHANGE
efforts.
3. Promote sustainable resource extraction: Advocate Context:
for responsible and sustainable practices in resource Recent deadly storms that submerged Dubai and caused fa-
extraction in the Arctic. talities in Oman were likely exacerbated by climate change,
4. Ensure policy coherence with the Arctic Council: with human-induced heat making the record rainfall 10-40%
Ensure that India’s Arctic policy aligns with the ob- heavier, according to scientists.
jectives and principles of the Arctic Council. • Meanwhile, across the Arabian Sea in Mumbai, a
5. Establish a dedicated nodal body: Create a special- humid heatwave has persisted in recent days, with
ized agency or department within the Indian govern- relative humidity reaching as high as 55%.
ment to oversee Arctic research, development, and
coordination. Climate of UAE:
6. Expand beyond scientific focus: Broaden India’s The United Arab Emirates (UAE) typically experiences arid
approach to the Arctic beyond scientific research. conditions, with heavy rainfall events being rare. However,
Advocate for the rights of Arctic indigenous com- a recent historic event saw Dubai receiving over 142 mm of
munities and integrate their perspectives into poli- rainfall within 24 hours, far surpassing its annual average of
cymaking processes. 94.7 mm.
7. Advocate for a global ocean treaty: Support inter-
national efforts to establish a comprehensive global
ocean governance framework, with a focus on ad-
dressing the unique challenges posed by the Arctic
region.
Current Affairs 30
Possible Reasons for Dubai Floods:
Reasons Description
1. Anticyclone The presence of an anticyclone prevented a weather system, known as a western disturbance, from
Interaction moving over West Asia. This interaction may have contributed to the storm system that caused the
heavy rainfall and lightning in Dubai.
2. Cloud Seeding Reports indicate that the UAE National Centre of Meteorology’s cloud seeding operations might have
Operations intensified the rainfall from the storm system. Cloud seeding involves the introduction of substances
into clouds to enhance precipitation, which could have amplified the rainfall in Dubai.
3. Dust as Natu- Excessive dust in the region could have acted as natural cloud seeders, contributing to the heavy rain-
ral Cloud Seed- fall.
ers Dust particles act as condensation nuclei, facilitating cloud formation similar to the process of man-
made cloud seeding.
4. Record Heat Record heat in recent years, coupled with warming trends in West Asia and the Arabian Sea, created
and Global unusual heat conditions. The UAE’s climate has warmed by 0.4°C from the long-term average, as noted
Warming in the National Centre of Meteorology’s Annual Climate Assessment 2022.
A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall worldwide, including in
Dubai.
5. Warm Sea Global warming has resulted in exceptionally warm water in the seas near Dubai, accompanied by
Te m p e rat u re s warm air above.
and Evaporation This combination enhances evaporation and increases the atmosphere’s capacity to hold moisture.
Consequently, larger amounts of rainfall occur, as observed in recent heavy downpours in Dubai.
6. Atmospher- According to a senior forecaster at the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology, a low-pressure system in
ic Pressure Dy- the upper atmosphere, combined with low pressure at the surface, resulted in air compression.
namics The pressure squeeze was intensified by temperature differences between the ground level and high-
er altitudes, creating favourable conditions for powerful thunderstorms.
7. Influence of Other factors, such as the transition from El Niño to La Niña, could have influenced the weather pat-
El Niño and La terns, potentially contributing to the extreme rainfall in Dubai.
Niña El Niño and La Niña events are natural climate phenomena characterized by variations in sea surface
temperatures and atmospheric pressure, which can impact global weather patterns.
Current Affairs 30
Reason for possible hot weather in Mumbai:
Mumbai’s hot weather is attributed to a significant Anticyclonic Effect in the region. Anticyclones, characterized by high
atmospheric pressure, induce downward-moving winds that compress and heat up, often leading to heat waves. They can
also block other weather systems, exacerbating extreme conditions.
In Mumbai, this anticyclone created a “heat dome” effect, further warming the air. Warm air from West Asia and the Arabi-
an Sea was drawn in and heated by sinking motion, increasing humidity, particularly before the monsoon season. Addition-
ally, the anticyclone may have inhibited the cooling effect of sea breezes at night, resulting in higher-than-usual nighttime
temperatures.
Other extreme events in India:

In 2023, India experienced a series of unprecedented climatic events, signalling a concerning new normal attributed to
climate change. February (last year and this year) saw record-breaking temperatures, shattering a 123-year-old record.
Cyclone Biparjoy formed in the Arabian Sea, lasting 13 days, the longest in over four decades. The India Meteorological
Department reported extreme weather events on 314 of 365 days in 2022. These events claimed 3,026 lives and damaged
about 2 million hectares of crop area.
Monsoon patterns are shifting, with prolonged deficit rainfall followed by intense downpours, a trend strengthening over
decades. The interaction between the southwest monsoon and a low-pressure system called the western disturbance is
responsible for recent heavy rainfall in northern India.
difference between Cyclone and Anticyclone:

Feature Cyclones Anticyclones
At m o s p h e r i c Low High
Pressure
Wind Direction Inward, counterclockwise rotation (Northern Outward, clockwise rotation (Northern Hemisphere)
Hemisphere)
Weather Con- Stormy, with heavy rainfall and strong winds Clear skies, calm conditions
ditions
Wind Speed High Moderate
Air Movement Upward, converging towards the centre Downward, diverging from the centre
Impact on Disruptive, causing heavy rain, flooding, and Generally stable, may block weather systems and
Weather Pat- storm surges lead to heatwaves
terns
Formation Fac- Form over warm ocean waters with low-pressure Form over cool ocean waters with high-pressure
tors systems systems
Current Affairs 30
What is Cloud Seeding? Q. The scientific view is that the increase in global tempera-
Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique aimed ture should not exceed 2°C above pre industrial level. If the
at enhancing precipitation in clouds to increase rainfall or global temperature increases beyond 3°C above the pre-in-
snowfall. It involves the introduction of substances, known dustrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on
as cloud seeding agents, into clouds to induce or enhance the world? (UPSC 2014)
the formation of ice crystals or raindrops, depending on the 1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.
type of cloud and desired outcome. Common cloud-seeding 2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.
agents include silver iodide, potassium iodide, and sodium 3. All the global wetlands will permanently disappear.
chloride. These agents serve as nuclei around which water 4. Cultivation of cereals will not be possible anywhere in
vapour can condense and form ice crystals, which then grow the world.
and fall as precipitation. Cloud seeding is often used in re- Select the correct answer using the code given below:
gions experiencing water scarcity or drought conditions to (a) 1 only
augment water resources, but its effectiveness and environ- (b) 1 and 2 only
mental impact remain subjects of debate and ongoing re- (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
search. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: B
Topics: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolu-
tion, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic
structure; Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme
with that of other countries.
1. SC: RIGHT AGAINST ADVERSE CLIMATE

IMPACTS AS INTEGRAL TO RIGHT TO LIFE
AND EQUALITY
Context:
Insta Links The Supreme Court has for the first time recognized the right
• El Nino and Monsoon against adverse climate impacts as integral to the right to life
and equality.
Mains Link What is the background of the case?

Q. ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem. How will India be The recent judgment stemmed from a petition by wildlife ac-
affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal tivists aiming to safeguard the critically endangered Great
states of India are affected by climate change? (UPSC 2017) Indian Bustard (GIB), found only in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Prelims Link In April 2021, the Supreme Court issued an order imposing
Q. La Nina is suspected to have caused recent floods in Aus- restrictions on overhead transmission lines within a vast
tralia. How is La Nina different from El Nino? (UPSC 2011) area, proposing their conversion into underground power
1. La Nina is characterised by an usually cold ocean tem- lines.
perature in equatorial Indian Ocean whereas El Nino is
characterised by unusually warm ocean temperature in However, the government, citing concerns about hindering
the equatorial Pacific Ocean. India’s global commitments to reduce carbon emissions, re-
2. El Nino has adverse effect on south-west monsoon of In- quested a modification of the directives.
dia but La Nina has no effect on monsoon climate.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? In March 2024, the Supreme Court revisited the ruling,
(a) 1 only acknowledging practical challenges such as technical com-
(b) 2 only plexities and high costs. Consequently, the court modified
(c) Both 1 and 2 its order, emphasizing the importance of balancing GIB con-
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 servation with promoting renewable energy and environ-
Ans: D mental preservation.
Current Affairs 30
Key highlights of the Supreme Court judgment include: Right to Life Cyclones, floods, and heatwaves cause
1. Recognition of Constitutional Rights: Articles 14 casualties. Spread of diseases like dengue
(Right to Equality) and Article 21 (Right to Life and malaria due to changing climate.
and Personal Liberty) are highlighted as important
Right to Health Poor air quality in cities like Delhi affects
sources of the right to a clean environment and the
respiratory health. Erratic rainfall affects
right against adverse effects of climate change.
agricultural productivity and food securi-
a. SC emphasized constitutional provisions,
ty.
including Articles 48A (to protect the envi-
ronment and to safeguard the forests and Right to Water Rising sea levels contaminate fresh-
wildlife), 51A(g) (to protect and improve the water sources with saltwater intrusion.
natural environment including forests, lakes, Water scarcity in regions dependent on
rivers and wildlife, and to have compassion monsoon rains.
for living creatures) Right to Liveli- Farmers face crop failures and income
2. Expansion of Fundamental Rights: The scope of hood loss due to droughts or floods. Fisherfolk
fundamental rights is expanded to include the right losing access to fishing grounds due to
against adverse effects of climate change, with fail- sea level rise.
ure to ensure a stable, clean environment impacting Right to Shel- Communities in low-lying coastal areas
the right to life, health, and equality. ter face displacement due to sea level rise
3. The intersection of Climate Change and Human and storm surges. Urban slum dwellers
Rights: The court emphasizes the intersection be- are at risk of losing homes during floods.
tween climate change and human rights, underscor-
Right to Secu- Climate change threatens human secu-
ing the imperative for states to address climate im-
rity rity by causing resource scarcity, liveli-
pacts through the lens of rights.
hood disruption, cultural erosion, dis-
4. Technical Challenges in Implementation: The court
placement, and migration
pointed out technical challenges in implementing
the April 2021 order, including limitations of under-
Effects of Mitigation and Adaptation Measures on Human
ground power transmission cables and lack of provi-
Rights:
sions in the Electricity Act for land acquisition.
1. Mitigation:
5. Formation of Committee: A nine-member commit-
a. Hydroelectric projects can displace local
tee of experts was formed to assess the feasibility of
communities, destroy ecosystems, and
undergrounding power lines in specific areas, with
harm downstream populations.
a deadline to submit a report by July 31, 2024.
b. Biofuel policies may lead to food shortages,
6. India’s Commitment to Renewable Energy: The
water scarcity, deforestation, and displace-
court highlighted India’s commitment to renewable
ment of indigenous peoples and farmers.
energy, aiming for 175 GW by 2022 and 450 GW by
2. Adaptation:
2030, viewing the transition to non-fossil fuels as a
a. Some adaptation measures may benefit
fundamental necessity for environmental preserva-
certain groups while disadvantaging others,
tion.
such as coastal fortifications.
7. Benefits of Renewable Energy Promotion: The pro-
b. Relocation and resettlement programs can
motion of renewable energy sources is seen as cru-
pose risks of human rights violations for af-
cial for promoting social equity, poverty alleviation,
fected communities.
enhancing quality of life, and fostering inclusive
growth and development.
Measures Taken by India and the World to Protect Human
Rights Against Climate Change:
Referral to important Supreme Court judgments:
1. India:
1. M.C. Mehta v. Kamal Nath (1996): Acknowledg-
a. Implementation of the National Action Plan
ment that any disturbance of basic environmental
on Climate Change (NAPCC), which includes
elements is hazardous to “life” within the meaning
various missions targeting climate change
of Article 21.
mitigation and adaptation.
2. Virender Gaur v. State of Haryana (1994): Recogni-
b. Adoption of renewable energy initiatives
tion that the right to a clean environment is an inte-
like the National Solar Mission and promo-
gral facet of the right to a healthy life.
tion of clean energy sources.
c. Integration of climate change consider-
Impact of Climate Change on Human Rights:
ations into national policies and programs,
Human Rights Examples of Impact of Climate Change including water resource management and
disaster preparedness.
Current Affairs 30
d. Promotion of sustainable agriculture Prelims Link:
practices to enhance resilience to climate Q. Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the follow-
change impacts. ing parts of the Constitution of India reflect/ reflects the
e. Implementation of the Afforestation and principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of
Reforestation programs to combat defor- Human Rights (1948)? (UPSC 2020)
estation and enhance carbon sequestration. 1. Preamble
2. World: 2. Directive Principles of State Policy
a. The United Nations (through a resolution in 3. Fundamental Duties
2022) declared access to a clean, healthy Select the correct answer using the code given below:
environment as a universal human right. (a) 1 and 2 only
b. Establishment of frameworks for climate (b) 2 only
finance, such as the Green Climate Fund, (c) 1 and 3 only
to support developing countries in their cli- (d) 1, 2 and 3
mate change adaptation and mitigation ef- Ans: D
forts.
c. Promotion of climate-resilient infrastruc- Topics: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, pow-
ture and urban planning to enhance re- ers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional
silience to extreme weather events and Bodies.
sea-level rise.
d. Support for capacity-building initiatives to 2. SUPREME COURT VERDICT ON EVMS
enhance the ability of vulnerable communi-
ties to adapt to climate change impacts. Context:
The recent Supreme Court verdict confirms the safety of
UNEP recommendations: Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), dismissing pleas for a
1. International Cooperation: Recognize the link be- return to paper ballots or 100% verification of votes.
tween climate change and human rights in the Paris
Agreement. What did the SC say?
2. Ensure climate funds’ safeguards fully consider hu-
Aspect Supreme Court VVPAT Judgement
man rights.
3. Increase financial assistance to developing coun- On Voter and Voting Voting will continue to take place
tries, especially for adaptation measures. Process using EVMs, with 100% of the ma-
4. Pursue domestic GHG reductions and align adapta- chines attached to a VVPAT unit.
tion objectives with human rights. As per the existing provi-
5. Incorporate human rights norms into domestic legal sions, VVPAT slips of five randomly
frameworks, including climate change laws. selected Assembly constituencies
6. Local Governments and Private Actors: Local gov- or segments would be counted to
ernments should reduce GHG emissions and pursue verify with the count of the EVMs.
adaptation objectives. Private actors should adopt On Storage of Sym- EC was directed to seal and store
policies in line with the UN Guiding Principles on bol Loading Units SLUs for 45 days post-results dec-
Business and Human Rights. (SLUs) laration.
SLUs, memory units used to load
Conclusion:
election symbols onto VVPAT ma-
Climate change and its responses will significantly impact
chines, to be handled like EVMs.
human rights worldwide, affecting both individuals and eco-
systems. States must fulfil their obligations to mitigate GHG On Candidates’ Ver- Candidates ranking second or third
emissions, protect citizens from climate change, and ensure ification of EVMs can request verification of burnt
responses do not violate human rights. More ambitious ac- memory semi-controllers in 5%
tions and global cooperation are needed to safeguard hu- of EVMs per Assembly segment in
man rights effectively. each Parliamentary constituency.
The cost of such verification will
Mains Link: be borne by the candidates them-
Q. Though the Human Rights Commissions have contrib- selves.
uted immensely to the protection of human rights in In- On Feasibility of EC urged to examine the feasibility
dia, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the Counting VVPAT of counting VVPAT slips with a ma-
mighty and powerful. Analysing their structural and prac- Slips using a Ma- chine, possibly using barcodes for
tical limitations, suggest remedial measures. (UPSC 2021) chine faster counting.
Current Affairs 30
Significance of the Judgement: bols onto VVPATs, and after this process, they are returned
The SC judgement holds significant importance as it intro- to engineers for safekeeping until the next phase of polling.
duces measures to enhance trust in India’s voting system.
Firstly, mandating the storage of Symbol Uploading Units
(SULs) ensures the accuracy of vote counting. Secondly, the
rechecking of EVMs addresses candidates’ legitimate con-
cerns, fostering transparency. Ultimately, the judgment re-
affirms the credibility of India’s electoral process.
Issues with the SC Judgment:

1. Dismissal of Public Opinion: The SC’s dismissal of
public concerns regarding EVM trust without thor-
ough investigation raises doubts about the transpar-
ency of the decision-making process.
2. Lack of Empirical Data: Failure to inquire about em-
pirical data on voter experiences with VVPAT slips
undermines the credibility of the judgment.
3. Conflict of Interest: Allowing engineers from EVM
manufacturers to verify burnt memory (and no
third-party verification) presents a conflict of inter-
est, raising concerns about impartiality.
Advantages of EVM
4. Ignoring Counting of VVPAT Slips: Disregarding the
importance of counting VVPAT slips undermines Advantages
transparency and public trust in the electoral pro- 1. Cost-effective Eliminates the need for ballot pa-
cess. per production and printing.
2. Eliminates Booth Eliminates the possibility of booth
What are EVMs? capturing capturing, ensuring fairer elections.
The Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is a microcontrol-
3. Administrative Provides convenience for polling of-
ler-based device developed by the Election Commission of
ease ficers and speeds up counting.
India (ECI) in collaboration with the Electronics Corporation
of India and Bharat Electronics Limited. It was first used in 4. Time efficiency Reduces election duration and re-
the Kerala general election in 1982 and consists of a control sults declaration time.
unit for polling officers and a balloting unit for casting votes.
Advantages of VVPAT:
What are VVPATs? Advantages
The Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) is a system at- 1. Vote verification Enables voters to verify that their
tached to the EVM to verify that votes are cast as intended. votes are correctly registered.
It allows voters to see a printed slip for 7 seconds, displaying
2. DRE system Operates under a Direct Recording
the serial number, name, and symbol of the chosen candi-
Election system, enhancing fraud
date.
detection.
In the Subramanian Swamy Case (2013), the Supreme
Court directed the Election Commission to introduce VVPAT 3. Electoral Offers greater transparency by al-
in EVMs gradually for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and in- transparency lowing manual vote counting in case
structed the Centre to allocate funds for procurement. of disputes.
Further, a Supreme Court order in 2019 mandated VVPAT
cross-verification of 5 EVMs in each assembly segment of a Challenges with EVM:
parliamentary constituency. Challenges
1. Hacking susceptibility Vulnerable to manipulation
What are Symbol Loading Unit (SLU)? and hacking, compromising re-
It is a small device connected to a laptop or personal com- sults, but not proven yet.
puter to load candidate names, serial numbers, and symbols
2. Limited transparency Lack of transparency in design
onto the Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) under the
and operation undermines
supervision of a district election officer. Introduced about a
evaluation.
decade ago alongside VVPATs, SLUs play a crucial role in en-
suring accurate representation during the voting process. 3. Security concerns Risks of unauthorized access,
They are used a few days before polling begins to load sym- manipulation, or cyberattacks.
Current Affairs 30
Challenges with VVPAT: Topics: Government policies and interventions for develop-
Challenges ment in various sectors and issues arising out of their design
and implementation.
1. Small sample size A limited sample size may not
detect faulty EVMs during
counting. 3. LIQUOR POLICY: ISSUES IN THE LIQUOR
2. Technological glitches Malfunctions due to weath- INDUSTRY
er conditions or sensitivity to
light. Context:
High taxes and excessive licensing in the liquor industry con-
3. Voter intimidation Potential for booth-wise profil-
tribute to corruption and financial burdens on consumers.
ing and intimidation.
4. Storage concerns Challenges associated with safe Indian Constitution views alcohol as an undesirable evil to
storage and integration with be regulated. The Directive Principles of State Policy (Arti-
EVMs. cle 47) encourage the prohibition of alcohol consumption,
except for medicinal purposes, aiming to protect citizens’
The way forward and Conclusion: health. While not legally enforceable, these principles guide
Moving forward, several key steps can enhance the reliability state action. Additionally, alcohol regulation falls under the
and transparency of the EVM-VVPAT-enabled electoral pro- authority of state legislatures according to the Seventh
cess. Firstly, addressing the lacunae in VVPAT technology Schedule, allowing for varying laws across states, from pro-
is crucial, including measures to use sustainable inks, and hibition to private sale.
reduce sensitivity to external factors like heat and light. Sec-
ondly, deploying a proper statistical method for counting Distribution of Power on Liquor Control in India:
votes will ensure accuracy and integrity. Thirdly, updating 1. Central Government:
the VVPAT protocol to allow voters to cancel their vote in i. Sets guidelines for import duties on
case of discrepancies can increase reliability. Additionally, foreign liquor.
promoting open-source code review will enable impartial ii. Formulates national-level policies
specialists to evaluate technology’s accuracy and security. regarding alcohol advertising and
Implementing Risk-Limiting Audits (RLA) for cross-checking marketing.
electronic tally with VVPAT counts will further enhance in- 2. State Governments:
tegrity. Lastly, public awareness and education about EVM i. Liquor falls under the State List (List
technology and security measures are essential to build con- II) of the Seventh Schedule
fidence in the electoral process, rather than reverting to a ii. Impose state-specific excise duties
paper ballot system. and taxes on liquor sales.
iii. Issue licenses for liquor sales and
Insta Links distribution within the state.
• Credibility of Electronic Voting Machines iv. Set regulations on liquor sales, in-
cluding permitted operating hours
Q. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017) for liquor stores and bars.
1. The Election Commission of India is a five-member body. v. Introduce prohibition laws in cer-
2. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election tain states (e.g., Gujarat and Bihar).
schedule for the conduct of both general elections and vi. Allow liquor sales through govern-
bye-elections. ment-owned outlets (e.g., TASMAC
3. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to in Tamil Nadu).
splits/mergers of recognised political parties. vii. Implement online liquor sales and
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? home delivery services (e.g., Maha-
(a) 1 and 2 only rashtra and Delhi).
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only Approaches to alcohol policy vary across states:
(d) 3 only 1. Revenue-Driven Policies: States like Haryana and
Ans: D Delhi prioritize revenue from alcohol sales, leading
to the widespread availability of liquor outlets.
2. Socio-cultural Factors: Gujarat maintains prohibi-
tion due to cultural and historical reasons while Bi-
har has prohibition due to socio-economic factors.
3. Government Control for Safety: Tamil Nadu regu-
lates alcohol sales through its State Marketing Cor-
Current Affairs 30
poration to enhance safety, particularly in response to past hooch tragedies.
What is the Delhi liquor policy scam?

The Delhi Liquor Scam involves allegations of corruption and favouritism in the implementation of Delhi’s Excise Policy
from 2021 to 2022. The policy aimed to reform the liquor sector by introducing private firms, but accusations claim it fa-
voured certain companies with waivers, fee reductions, and multiple licenses. The AAP government denies any wrongdoing,
citing increased revenue similar to policies in Punjab. However, the policy faced obstacles, including resistance from bureau-
crats and the LG’s directive to halt implementation, leading to its withdrawal.
Issues with Alcohol Policies in India:

Issues Examples
Revenue vs. Health Prior-Revenue focus overshadows health concerns. Kerala’s rollback of partial prohibition (2018) for
ities financial reasons highlights conflict
Dependence of States on According to reports, it has been found that, in most states, around 15 to 30 per cent of the
revenue from liquor salesrevenue comes from liquor.
E.g., Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and West Bengal heavily depend on excise duty from
alcohol, contributing over 20% to their own tax revenue.
Inconsistent State Poli- Haryana’s attempts at prohibition failed due to difficulties in controlling illegal distillation and
cies bootlegging, leading to fatalities.
Currently, there are five states (Bihar, Gujarat, Lakshadweep, Nagaland, and Mizoram) with
total prohibition and some more with partial prohibition
Weak Enforcement of For, Alcohol firms flout advertising bans with little government intervention, like during major
Regulations events such as the cricket World Cup.
Exclusion from GST States are reluctant to include alcohol in GST due to revenue concerns, preferring individual
control over policies. Inclusion could simplify taxation and align it with other products.
Excessive Taxation High domestic and customs duties exceeding 200% and 150%, respectively, burden consumers
financially.
Impact on Health Consumers opt for cheaper, lower-quality alcohol due to high taxes, increasing health risks,
especially among lower-income groups.
Hooch tragedies, where illicitly brewed alcohol leads to deaths or illness, occur periodically.
Government Monopoly Current policies lead to government monopolies in liquor sales, potentially fostering corruption
in Sales and hindering private businesses.
Actionable steps to address alcohol policy issues:

1. Include Liquor in GST: Simplify taxation by bringing liquor under GST, similar to cigarettes, for a streamlined tax
process.
2. Encourage Private Distribution: Transition from government monopolies to private liquor distribution, regulated for
safety and age restrictions, to reduce corruption and promote business diversity.
3. Reform Licensing Policies: Simplify licensing procedures for liquor sales in public spaces to reduce bureaucratic ob-
stacles and foster a healthier business environment.
4. National Health-Focused Policy: Develop a national alcohol policy prioritizing public health over revenue, aligned
with the WHO’s recommendation of minimizing alcohol consumption.
5. Legislative Action on Advertising: Enforce stricter regulations to ban alcohol advertising and control surrogate ad-
vertising by liquor companies.
6. Balance Revenue and Health: Find a balanced approach to alcohol policy that considers both revenue generation
and public health impact without compromising either.
7. Open Discussion: Promote open, non-judgmental discussions about alcohol use, challenging traditional views and
addressing religious perspectives to foster informed decision-making.
Ethical aspects of Alcohol use in India:

Ethical aspects of alcohol use include promoting responsible consumption to mitigate social harm, respecting cultural sensi-
tivities, addressing health risks, minimizing environmental impact, ensuring economic equity, and complying with regulations.
Current Affairs 30
Indian attitudes towards alcohol vary across different di- hol and carbon dioxide.
mensions: 3. Ageing: Some liquors, like whiskey and brandy, are aged
1. Cultural Views: Alcohol is perceived differently in wooden barrels to develop flavour and character. This
across Indian cultures. While some communi- ageing process can take several years, during which the
ties, particularly upper castes, view it negatively, liquor absorbs flavours from the wood.
associating it with “tamasic” qualities, others,
like many tribal societies, accept it openly. Types of Liquor:
2. Gender Dynamics: Alcohol consumption by men 1. Whiskey: Made from fermented grains like barley, corn,
often negatively impacts women, leading to so- rye, or wheat.
cial protests led by women against alcohol con- 2. Vodka: Typically made from grains or potatoes and dis-
sumption in many communities. tilled to a high level of purity.
3. Alcohol and Religion: Various religions in India 3. Rum: Made from sugarcane or molasses and aged in
have differing stances on alcohol. Islam forbids wooden barrels.
it, Christianity tends to be more permissive, and 4. Gin: Distilled from grain and flavoured with botanicals
Hinduism does not explicitly prohibit it but em- like juniper berries, coriander, and citrus peels.
phasizes moderation. 5. Tequila: Produced from the blue agave plant, primarily
4. Medical View: From a medical perspective, alco- in Mexico.
hol is recognized as harmful in India. It is associ-
ated with an increased risk of heart disease and Climate Conditions:
can adversely affect liver health. The climate conditions required for liquor production de-
pend on the specific type of liquor being produced. For ex-
Thinker’s View on Alcohol Use: ample, grapes used in wine production thrive in temperate
Ethical Thinker View on Alcohol Use climates with well-defined seasons, while sugarcane, used
in rum production, grows in tropical climates.
Mahatma Gandhi Strongly advocated for prohibition
of alcohol, viewing it as harmful to
States in India Ahead in Liquor Production: Maharashtra,
individuals and society.
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Kerala. Maharashtra is
B.R. Ambedkar Supported regulation and control the leading state for wine production in India
of alcohol, emphasizing the need
to address social and health issues. Karnataka is the largest-selling state for liquor. India is the
Swami Vivekananda Condemned excessive alcohol con- third largest market for alcoholic beverages in the world, af-
sumption, promoting spiritual and ter China and Russia.
moral development as alternatives.
Mother Teresa Opposed alcohol use due to its det- Insta Links:
rimental effects on individuals and • Alcohol Prohibition
families, advocating for sobriety.
Topics: Important aspects of governance, transparency and
Plato Generally opposed to excessive
accountability, e-governance applications, models, success-
drinking, seeing it as a threat to
es, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency
reason and self-control in society.
& accountability and institutional and other measures.
Aristotle Acknowledged moderate alcohol
consumption but warned against
excess, emphasizing virtue and bal- 4. REGULATING BIG TECH COMPANIES IN
ance. INDIA AND THE WORLD
For Why do some Indian states ban alcohol and its im- Context:
pacts?: Click Here The US has recently initiated actions against Big Tech, par-
ticularly Google, which has emboldened other countries like
Geographical aspects of Liquor in India: India to address similar disputes with tech giants.
How Liquor is Made:
1. Distillation: Most liquors are made through the process What are Big-Tech Firms?
of distillation, where fermented grains, fruits, or vege- Big Tech firms refer to large technology companies that
tables are heated to vaporize the alcohol, which is then dominate their respective sectors, wielding significant influ-
condensed back into liquid form. ence and control over digital platforms and services. These
2. Fermentation: Initially, raw materials like grains (for companies typically operate on a global scale and are char-
whiskey), grapes (for wine), or sugarcane (for rum) are acterized by their immense market capitalization, extensive
fermented using yeast, which converts sugars into alco- user base, and diverse portfolio of products and services.
Current Affairs 30
Examples of Big Tech firms include
1. Google (controls the majority of online search traffic and digital advertising revenue)
2. Amazon (dominates e-commerce and cloud computing)
3. Apple (iPhone, iPad, and MacBook,)
4. Facebook (Meta) (Leads the social media landscape)
5. Microsoft (software, hardware, and cloud services)
Need for Regulations:

1. Arbitrary Pricing: Big Tech’s influence on pricing rules in the digital space, leads to concerns about fairness and
competition.
2. Regulatory Vacuum: Challenges faced by regulators in keeping pace with rapid tech innovation, leading to reactive
rather than proactive measures.
3. Data Collection and Privacy Concerns: Big Tech’s extensive data collection practices raise privacy, surveillance, and
data security issues.
Specific concerns related to the functioning of Big Tech Firms:

Concerns Description
Prioritizing Allegations against Alphabet, Apple, and Meta for steering customers towards their in-house ser-
In-House Services vices over competitors’, potentially limiting consumer choice. E.g., Apple priorities its App Store
and Safari browser in its services
Non-Compliance Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, ByteDance, and Microsoft were designated as ‘gatekeepers’ under the
with DMA of EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) (in 2023) and investigated for non-compliance.
Discriminatory The European Commission is investigating Google for potential bias in search results, focusing on
Approach whether the company favours its own services over competitors.
Competition Competition of India has launched a probe into Google’s Play Store pricing policy for
alleged discriminatory practices.
Reducing Choices In October 2020, the US Department of Justice accused Google of unlawfully maintaining monop-
for Customers olies in search and search advertising markets through anti-competitive practices. They claimed it
harmed consumers by limiting search quality, reducing choices, and stifling innovation.
Ecosystem The European Commission is investigating whether Apple allows users to uninstall pre-installed
Captivity apps, change default settings, and choose alternatives easily on iOS. They’re concerned that Apple’s
practices might limit user choice within its ecosystem, leading to ecosystem captivity.
Concerns Over Meta introduced a subscription model in the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, allowing users to use Face-
‘Binary Choice’ of book and Instagram without ads or continue using them for free with personalized ads. Regulators
Meta found the model’s “binary choice” insufficient in providing a real alternative for users who don’t
consent, failing to prevent data accumulation by gatekeepers.
Antitrust Concerns E.g., Facebook (Meta) is facing antitrust lawsuits and probes for acquiring potential competitors like
Instagram and WhatsApp, along with concerns about its control over digital advertising and social
networking markets.
Amazon is under antitrust scrutiny for its treatment of third-party sellers, predatory pricing allega-
tions, and potential conflicts of interest as both a retailer and a marketplace operator.
Antitrust laws aim to promote fair competition, prevent monopolistic practices, and ensure con-
sumers have access to a variety of high-quality products at fair prices.
Existing governance frameworks in place to regulate technologies for responsible use:

• Competition Act, 2002 and Competition Commission of India (CCI): The Competition Act, 2002 is the primary leg-
islation governing antitrust issues (unfair competitive practices) in India for regulating Big Tech companies.
o CCI is responsible for checking monopolistic practices and ensuring fair competition.
o E.g., Recently CCI imposed heavy penalties on misuse of Google’s dominant position in the online search
market
• Competition Amendment Bill, 2022: It mandates the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to establish regula-
tions for assessing if an enterprise has significant business operations in India. This strengthens the Commission’s
review process, particularly in digital and infrastructure sectors, previously underreported due to lower asset or
turnover values not meeting jurisdictional thresholds.
Current Affairs 30
• Information Technology Act, 2000: The Act provides a legal framework for electronic governance by giving recogni-
tion to electronic records and digital signatures.
o However, the act is old and doesn’t cover all aspects of technology misuse.
• National Regulatory Frameworks: E.g. The National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (2018)
• Industry Self-regulation: Technology companies often develop their own codes of conduct and industry standards
to govern the responsible use of technologies. Self-regulation can provide flexibility and adaptability to rapidly
evolving technologies.
o However, it may lack enforceability and uniformity across different industries and regions.
o E.g. self-regulation of OTT platforms
• Multi-stakeholder Initiatives: Collaborative efforts involving governments, businesses, civil society organizations,
and academia play a crucial role in technology governance. These initiatives focus on dialogue, knowledge sharing,
and best practice development.
o Examples include the Global Network Initiative (GNI) and the Partnership on AI (PAI).
• The RBI’s ‘Payments Vision 2025’ aims to regulate big tech and fintech in the payments sector.
Regulation of tech companies in other countries:

Country Mechanism Description
Europe Digital Markets Act The Digital Markets Act (DMA) aims to ban harmful business practices by large digital
(DMA) and Digital players, creating a fairer and more competitive economic space. The Digital Services Act
Services Act (DSA) (DSA) targets various online services, including websites, internet infrastructure ser-
vices, and online platforms.
USA Anti-trust legisla- The United States has adopted anti-trust legislation to address the dominance of Big
tion Tech companies. These measures include giving states greater power in competition
cases and increasing funding for federal regulators.
Australia Competition watch- The competition watchdog in Australia has recommended tighter regulations for Face-
dog recommenda- book and Google to improve media competition.
tions
Additionally, the Online Safety Act grants the power to force social media companies
to delete posts constituting online bullying and imposes fines on companies and hosts
involved in the alleged abuse.
Global cooperation can contribute to the development of global standards for technology governance in the following
ways:
1. Information Sharing and Best Practices: E.g, India can adopt legislation similar to the EU’s Digital Services Act to
regulate India’s service marketplace.
2. Harmonization of Standards: Global cooperation can facilitate the harmonization of standards across countries and
regions E.g., Algorithmic Accountability, to identify, assess and penalise harmful algorithmic amplification by Tech
companies
3. Capacity Building and Technical Assistance: Global cooperation supports capacity-building efforts in developing
countries by providing technical assistance and knowledge transfer.
4. Norm Setting and Policy Guidance: These norms can address issues such as AI ethics, privacy protection, autono-
mous systems, and digital rights.
5. Multilateral Governance Mechanisms: E.g., for regulating the flow of funds, drugs, etc. using the Dark Web and
other unregulated technology networks.
The Standing Committee on Finance submitted its report on ‘Anti-Competitive Practices by Big Tech Companies’ in De-
cember 2022.
Key observations and recommendations include:

1. Regulating Digital Markets: Evaluate competitive behaviour in digital markets before monopolization occurs, sug-
gesting the identification of Systemically Important Digital Intermediaries (SIDIs) and yearly reporting to the Com-
petition Commission of India (CCI).
2. Digital Competition Act: Introduce legislation to ensure a fair digital ecosystem.
3. Self-Preferencing: SIDIs must not favour their own services over competitors’ on their platforms.
4. Data Usage: SIDIs should handle user data responsibly, avoiding merging data from core services without consent
and restricting data access to third-party services.
Current Affairs 30
5. Revamping CCI: Strengthen the CCI with a special- What is India’s Global South Vision?
ized digital markets unit to monitor SIDIs and ad- India’s Global South Vision emphasizes fostering strategic
dress anti-competitive behaviour. partnerships with nations in the Southern Hemisphere,
6. Third-Party Applications: SIDIs should allow and aiming for a more equitable and inclusive global order. It
technically enable the use of third-party applications focuses on economic cooperation, multilateralism, and soli-
without transferring data to foreign governments. darity among developing countries to address common chal-
7. Bundling and Tying: SIDIs should not force users to lenges and promote sustainable development.
subscribe to additional services to use their core
platform. Africa’s Importance for India’s Global South Vision:
8. Anti-Steering: SIDIs should not restrict business us- 1. Economic Partnerships: India and Africa boast im-
ers from steering customers to offers outside the mense economic potential, with Indian investments
platform. exceeding $98 billion in 2023 and bilateral trade to-
talling $100 billion.
Conclusion 2. Strategic Influence: Africa’s presence in global fo-
Collaborative efforts can help address the challenges posed rums is pivotal for India’s vision of rule-based glob-
by emerging technologies, promote ethical and responsible al governance, as demonstrated by India’s advocacy
technology use, and ensure a globally inclusive and sustain- for the African Union in the G20 summit.
able digital future. 3. Energy Security: Cooperation in the energy sector is
crucial, with Africa possessing 30% of the world’s
Insta Link: critical mineral reserves essential for India’s transi-
RBI to regulate bigtech and fintech tion to a low-carbon future, particularly in solar pan-
el and battery production.
Mains Link:
Q. There is growing support for regulating big tech com- Other aspects of India-Africa Relations:
panies such as Facebook and Google. Discuss the reasons. Aspect Details
(15M)
Cultural India’s relations with Africa are deeply root-
ed in cultural and civilizational ties, reflecting
Prelims Link:
ideologies of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam” and
Q. With reference to ‘consumers’ rights/privileges under
“Ubuntu”
the provisions of law in India, which of the following state-
ments is/are correct? (UPSC 2012) Political India offers assistance in defence capabilities,
1. Consumers are empowered to take samples for food promoting security cooperation and counter-
testing. ing China’s military presence
2. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer fo- India and Africa cooperate on global issues, ad-
rum, no fee is required to be paid. vocating for the interests of developing coun-
3. In case of death of consumer, his/her legal heir can file a tries and pursuing reforms in global gover-
complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf. nance institutions
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: S h a r e d India views Africa as a foreign policy priority,
(a) 1 only Vision offering support without conditionality or a
(b) 2 and 3 only hidden agenda.
(c) 1 and 3 only
Hamid Ansari has ives 4 imperatives for coop-
(d) 1, 2 and 3
eration between India and Africa
Ans: C
1. Common historical experiences and
Topics: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agree- cultural links.
ments involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. 2. Complementarities in strengths and
capabilities.
5. INDIA’S STRATEGIC FOCUS: CENTERING 3. A common approach in meeting de-
AFRICA IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH VISION velopmental challenges.
4. Convergence of views of global
Context: matters.
India’s relationship with African nations is crucial in its vi- PM Modi- The warmth and depth of the con-
sion for the Global South, especially as it seeks to navigate a nections between Indian and African countries
changing global landscape. have been the pillars of India’s foreign policy,
leading to a “strong emotional link”.
Current Affairs 30
Develop- India offers training and capacity-building pro- flicts and monopolization of power.
ment As- grams through the ITEC program 4. Inter-Tribal Scrimmage: Frequent clashes over re-
sistance India has worked with Japan to create the sources.
5. Terrorism: Threats from Islamic extremism and glob-
Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC)
al networks.
India has increased lending to Africa to count- 6. Changing Climate: Vulnerability to climate change
er China’s influence, including $32 billion in impacts.
credit across 42 African countries over the past 7. Runaway Food Inflation: High food prices affecting
decade. millions.
H e a l t h Indian pharmaceutical companies provide af- 8. External Interventions: Military interventions wors-
Collabo- fordable generic medicines en situations.
ration India deploys medical teams and offers techni- 9. Return of Military Generals: Reemergence of mili-
cal assistance to combat diseases like HIV/AIDS, tary leadership.
malaria, and Ebola in African countries. 10. Competition and External Players: Various external
actors, including China, Russia, the US, EU, Japan,
Defence India has signed MoUs with all African nations
Turkey, and UAE, are actively vying for influence in
Coopera- on the Indian Ocean Rim (IOR)
Africa, seeking market access, resources, and politi-
tion Hosts the India-Africa Defence Dialogue (IADD) cal power.
at the defence ministers’ level
Conducts trilateral maritime exercises to en- How can India help Africa?
hance maritime cooperation with countries like Area Strategies
Tanzania and Mozambique.
Political Sup- Use diplomatic influence to support
Technol- India sets up a fibre-optic network for satellite port peace, democracy, and development. Ad-
ogy and connectivity, telemedicine, and tele-education vocate for African interests in global fo-
D i g i t a l in Africa under the Pan African e-Network Proj- rums. Foster regional cooperation through
Coopera- ect support for African Union initiatives such
tion Introduces initiatives like e-VidyaBharti and as such as the African Continental Free
e-ArogyaBharti (e-VBAB) to provide free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the African
tele-education and medical education to Afri- Peace and Security Architecture (APSA)
can students and healthcare professionals. E c o n o m i c Enhance trade and investment ties. Pro-
E d u c a - Collaboration between Indian and African ed- Partnership vide market access and preferential tar-
tion and ucational institutions enhances educational iffs. Offer Indian innovations and force
Skill De- opportunities and skill development, facilitated multipliers
v e l o p - by programs like ITEC. Promote India-Africa trade through
ment the creation of an Africa Growth Fund
R e n e w - Joint initiatives in renewable energy and (AGF) to enhance access to finance
able En- sustainable development, such as the Inter- Security Co- Provide training, equipment, and intel-
ergy and national Solar Alliance (ISA), combat climate operation ligence to security forces. Contribute to
Sustain- change with the participation of 38 African peacekeeping missions. Collaborate in
ability member countries. countering terrorism, piracy, and orga-
P e a c e - India and Africa collaborate in global forums, nized crime
keeping advocating for peace, stability, and reforms in Poverty and Adapt Indian microfinance and agricul-
and Di- global institutions like the UN Security Council Hunger tural practices to empower communities
plomacy and the WTO in Africa. Utilize South-South cooperation
India led the proposal for including the African platforms for knowledge exchange
Union in the G20. Health and Provide affordable healthcare solutions
Disease Bur- using expertise in generic drug produc-
Challenges faced by African countries: den tion and telemedicine. Joint research ef-
1. Misgovernance: Poor governance, corruption, and forts on infectious and neglected tropical
lack of accountability e.g., countries like Ethiopia, diseases
Sudan, and the Central African Republic face insur-
Inclusiveness E.g., India advocated for AU’s full mem-
gency, ethnic violence, and terrorism
of Global bership in G20 (accepted under India’s
2. Unplanned Development: Rapid population growth,
South G20 Presidency)
urbanization, and environmental degradation.
3. Dominance of Ruling Tribes: Ethnic and tribal con-
Current Affairs 30
Piracy and Conduct joint military exercises. Share 2. held in 2015 was the third such Summit
Terror information and capacity-building pro- 3. was actually initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951
grams Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
Climate Ac- Collaborate on projects to mitigate climate
(b) 2 only
tion change impacts. Support initiatives like
(c) Both 1 and 2
the Great Green Wall
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
UN Reforms Advocate for equitable representation of Ans: A
Africa in international organizations, in-
cluding the UN Security Council
6. DEFENCE DIPLOMACY BY INDIA
Implement- Form a team led by the MEA’s Secretary
ing the ‘Road- for Africa and a Deputy National Security Context:
map 2030’ Adviser. Following this roadmap will bol- Recently, India announced that it will send 16 Defence At-
ster India’s partnership with Africa, en- tachés (DA) to a number of its missions in Africa and oth-
hancing global stature. er countries (such as Ethiopia, Djibouti, Mozambique, Ivory
The Roadmap 2030 is a set of policy rec- Coast, Philippines, Armenia, Poland etc.) for the first time
ommendations that aims to deepen and in a sign of expanding focus on military/defence diplomacy
diversify the relationship between India
and Africa. What are Defence Attachés (DA) and what are their func-
Several challenges have hindered the realization of India-Af- tions?
rica’s potential. One major obstacle is the lack of a compre- Defence Attachés (DAs) are military officers assigned to for-
hensive and focused African policy by India, which has led eign embassies and diplomatic missions to represent their
to a lack of strategic direction in its engagement with African country’s defence interests abroad. Their primary role is to:
countries. 1. Foster defence cooperation, promote dialogue, cooper-
Additionally, China’s dominant presence in Africa has raised ation, and mutual understanding
concerns about India’s limited involvement and competi- 2. Facilitate military-to-military relations (facilitate de-
tion in the region. The disparity in investment between India fense procurements, and promote defense exports)
and China, the impact of multilateral treaties on trade, and 3. Gather intelligence on defence-related matters in the
issues related to political instability and terrorism further host country
complicate the relationship. 4. Serve as liaisons between their home country’s defence
establishment and the host nation’s defence authorities
Conclusion 5. Provide strategic advice to their governments on de-
India’s robust ties with Africa present vast opportunities for fence policy, regional security issues, and emerging
economic, political, and social collaboration. Prioritizing threats
engagement with African nations is crucial for India’s lead-
ership in the Global South. Amid global transformations, the Status of DAs:
synergy between India and Africa promises a mutually bene- The number of Defense Attachés from other countries in
ficial and prosperous future. India exceeds 120, in contrast, India previously had just
In this regard, PM Modi has stated that “Just as India and around 50 defence wings abroad.
Africa fought colonialism together, we will work together The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961,
for a just, representative and democratic global order that grants diplomatic status to Defense Attachés (DAs). Accord-
has a voice and a role for one-third of humanity that lives ing to the Convention, DAs are classified as members of the
in Africa and India.” diplomatic staff, affording them full immunity while serving
in their diplomatic capacity.
Insta Links:
• India-Africa ties Need for additional Defence Attachés by India:
Need Description
Mains Link:
1. Enhanced India’s increasing defence engagement
Q. How does India see its place in the economic space of
Defence En- with multiple countries necessitates more
rising natural resource-rich Africa? (UPSC 2014)
gagement military attachés to effectively manage
Q. Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and
and strengthen these relationships.
cons. Critically Examine. (UPSC 2015)
India has defence cooperation agree-
Prelims Link: ments of one kind or the other with over
Q. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2016) 50 countries.
1. The India-Africa Summit
Current Affairs 30
2. Achieving The target for 2024-25 is Rs 1,75,000 demonstrate India’s growing defense export capa-
Defence Tar- crore worth of total annual defence pro- bilities and partnerships.
gets duction, which would include an export 5. Regional Focus: India has been focusing on en-
target of worth ₹35,000 crore. hancing defense ties with Southeast Asian nations
(through its SAGAR doctrine initiative), particularly
3. Facilitating Several African countries have expressed
in the context of the South China Sea disputes. This
Defence Pro- interest in buying Indian military equip-
includes supplying defense platforms, joint produc-
curements ment, hardware, and platforms. India has
tion initiatives, and conducting naval war drills with
provided a line of credit to African coun-
countries in the region.
tries to buy military platforms and weap-
6. Strategic Partnerships: India has been deepening
onry from India
defense cooperation with countries like Vietnam, In-
4. Securing In light of emerging challenges to global donesia, and Malaysia through various agreements,
Supply Chains supply chains esp. strategic minerals such joint exercises, and supply contracts. These partner-
as Gold, Cobalt (in Ghana) etc. ships aim to bolster maritime security and counter
5. Mitigating With the changing dynamics of nation- aggressive behaviour in the region, particularly from
National Se- al security threats, more attachés can China.
curity Risks help identify and mitigate potential risks 7. Support for International Law: India has expressed
by enhancing intelligence gathering and support for international law, including the United
sharing. Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UN-
E.g., In Central Asia, India has an air force CLOS), particularly in the context of the South China
facility and a military hospital, to manage Sea disputes.
risks from Afghanistan and other coun- 8. Humanitarian Assistance: India leads in Humanitar-
tries ian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) opera-
tions in the region, coordinating with partner coun-
6. Strengthen- Additional attachés can bolster India’s
tries and conducting exercises like PANEX-21 with
ing Defence defence diplomacy efforts by expanding
BIMSTEC nations.
Diplomacy its presence in key strategic regions and
9. Engagement in West Asia: India fosters security co-
enhancing bilateral and multilateral coop-
operation with West Asian monarchies through joint
eration.
naval exercises, signalling a shift from traditional dy-
7. Defending E.g., As per the terms of the Indo-Bhutan namics and addressing emerging challenges in the
partner coun- treaty, India has discharged its obligation region.
tries to defend the security of Bhutan. It has 10. India has a substantial presence in UN Peacekeeping
maintained a key Indian military training Forces
establishment in Bhutan since 1969.
To know about India’s Defence Exports Reaching an All-time
What is Defence Diplomacy? High: Click Here
Defence diplomacy is the strategic use of a country’s mil-
itary capabilities to advance its foreign policy objectives Conclusion:
through cooperation with other nations. India is focusing on managing the fallout from Afghanistan
while addressing Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific.
India’s steps towards defence diplomacy: Leveraging defence forces for regional diplomacy, India aims
1. Establishment of additional Military Wings: These to sustain cooperative engagement and partnerships, re-
wings are optimized from existing billets and aim to quiring increased investment in naval capabilities. The Rus-
bolster defence cooperation and presence in these so-Ukraine war underscores the need for India to diversify
regions. its defence portfolio and prioritize indigenous technology. To
2. Engagement through Joint Exercises: Indian armed align foreign and defence policies, national interests should
forces have been participating in joint exercises be paramount.
with foreign armies, engaging with 110 countries
through defence cooperation activities (E.g., military Mains Link:
exercises like Milan and Malabar) Q. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is
3. Multilateral Engagement: India has been active- now set to be liberalized: What influence this is expected to
ly engaging in multilateral forums and conferences have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long
such as the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference run? (UPSC 2014)
(IPACC) and the India-Africa Army Chiefs’ Conclave
(IACC) Prelims Link:
4. Defense Exports: E.g., Recent deals with countries Q1. Consider the following in respect of the Indian Ocean
like the Philippines for Brahmos cruise missiles
Current Affairs 30
Naval Symposium (IONS): (UPSC 2017)
1. The inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian
Ocean Region.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: B
Q2. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (UPSC 2016)
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
Ans: C
Topics: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
7. ISRAEL-IRAN CONFLICTS: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

Context:
Iran recently launched a series of air strikes on Israel, employing 200-300 drones and ballistic missiles. The attacks, exe-
cuted by Iran’s para-military force, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, were in response to Israeli war jets targeting an
Iranian consulate in Syria. Iran dubbed the attack “Operation True Promise”.
The attack signals a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, moving beyond previous skir-
mishes involving Israel and Hamas.
Events that led to the Attack:

Event Date Description
US Withdrawal 2018 Israel praises the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, which it had lobbied against,
from Iran’s Nucle- viewing it as a historic move by President Trump.
ar Deal
Assassination of 2020 Israel welcomes the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani by a US drone strike in
Iran’s Army Gen- Baghdad, prompting retaliatory missile attacks by Iran on American bases in Iraq.
eral
Hamas Attack on October Hamas, supported by Iran, launched a missile and land attack on Israel, leading to Israeli
Isreal 2023 airstrikes on Gaza in response.
Israel Raids November Israel conducts raids on medical facilities in Gaza, citing Hamas’s presence, and using
2023 them for warfare.
Houthi Group’s November The Iran-backed Houthi group’s landing on a cargo vessel in the Red Sea initiates the
Red Sea Incident 2023 ‘Red Sea Crisis,’ contributing to regional tensions and supply chain issues.
Escalation of Is- December Israel intensifies ground offensives in Gaza, resulting in a rise in casualties and refugees,
rael’s Ground Of- 2023 prompting international calls for a peaceful resolution.
fenses
Airstrike on the April 2024 Suspected Israeli airstrike on the Iranian embassy in Damascus results in casualties,
Iranian Embassy heightening tensions further.
Iran’s Missile At- April 2024 Iran launches a missile attack on Israel, allegedly in response to an Israeli strike on Iran’s
tack on Israel consulate in Syria, marking the first direct attack on Israel from Iranian territory.
Isreal strikes back April 2024 Isreal attacked Iran’s airforce base (however, denied by Iran)
Current Affairs 30
Iran and Israel’s Conflict:
Iran and Israel have a long-standing history of enmity, largely stemming from ideological and geopolitical differences.
Period Key Events

Pre-1979 Iran-Is- Iran recognized Israel after its formation in 1948. Despite the Arab-Israeli conflict, Iran established
rael Ties diplomatic ties with Israel.
During Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi’s rule from 1941 to 1979, Iran pursued a pro-Western foreign
policy. Despite economic boycotts from Arab states, Iran maintained diplomatic ties with Israel and
even sold oil to Israel.
Israel, under Prime Minister David Ben Gurion, adopted the “periphery doctrine,” forming alliances
with non-Arab, mainly Muslim, countries like Turkey and pre-revolution Iran to counter Arab hostility.
The 1979 Revolu- Iran’s Islamic Revolution led to a shift in view towards Israel as an occupier of Palestinian land. Aya-
tion tollah Khomeini labeled Israel as “Little Satan.”
Post-1979 Shad- Both countries engaged in indirect conflicts through proxies and limited strategic attacks. Israel tar-
ow War geted Iranian nuclear facilities through a computer Virus (Stuxnet). Iran supported anti-Israel militant
groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Fig: Iran’s Proxy groups
Current Affairs 30
Impact of Middle-East Escalation:
Impact Description
Increasing Re- Heightened tensions could lead to military action, escalating the conflict regionally. Other countries
gional Escala- such as Syria, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia could be drawn into a broader conflict.
tion Israel is believed to be nuclear-capable therefore conflict can lead to a nuclear flashpoint
Potential to Escalation could disrupt crude oil supplies, impacting global oil prices and economies heavily reliant on
Disrupt Oil Sup- oil imports.
plies With Iran being a key producer of crude oil within OPEC, volatility in oil prices may increase due to dis-
ruptions in shipping routes and geopolitical tensions.
Spike in Infla- Increased geopolitical tensions may lead to commodity price hikes and capital outflows, affecting glob-
tion and Capital al markets.
Outflow
Trade and Trav- Recent events include Iran seizing an Israel-linked ship near the Strait of Hormuz and Houthis hijacking
el Disruptions a commercial ship in the Red Sea. These incidents affect global trade routes.
India faces challenges balancing relationships with Iran and Israel, aiming to maintain stability in the region.
Aspect Israel’s Importance for India Iran’s Importance for India
Economic and India is Israel’s third-largest trade partner Iran has been a major supplier of crude oil to India, contrib-
Commerce in Asia. Bilateral merchandise trade has uting significantly to India’s energy security.
grown significantly.
Defence India imports critical defence technologies Both countries share geopolitical concerns, especially re-
from Israel. Nearly 41% of Israel’s defence garding terrorism and stability in the region.
exports go to India.
Energy India has exploration licenses for natural US sanctions on Iran have impacted India’s oil imports,
gas extraction from Israel’s gas fields, di- highlighting Iran’s importance for India’s energy needs.
versifying the relationship.
Science & India-Israel Industrial R&D Fund promotes Strategic collaboration on space projects, including satellite
Technology joint projects. launches, strengthens bilateral ties.
Strategic Lo- Isreal connects the Red Sea to the Mediter- Iran’s strategic location (including Chabahar Port) enhances
cation ranean Sea through land India’s connectivity and economic interests in the region.
India’s Position:
India calls for immediate de-escalation and a return to diplomacy to resolve conflicts. India’s position is on the ‘Two-State
Solution’ of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
What should India do?

India must carefully balance engagements with key regional actors in the Middle East, considering their diverse interests
and orientations. India should prioritize non-ideological engagements in the region to support its expanding interests in
the Middle East.
What Should be done to de-escalate the situation?

1. UN Reaction: The UN urges Iran and Israel to show restraint amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Secre-
tary-General warned against further escalation and mutual accusations, emphasizing the need for peace.
2. Sustainable Ceasefire and Two-State Solution: Israel should accept a ceasefire in Gaza, open borders for humanitar-
ian aid, and work towards a two-state solution for long-term peace.
3. Dialogue and Diplomacy: International mediation and direct talks facilitated by neutral parties could build trust and
find common ground between Iran and Israel.
4. Addressing Nuclear Proliferation Concerns: Iran should adhere to the JCPOA and allow international inspections,
while Israel could recognize Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy.
5. Regional Cooperation: Promoting cooperation within regional organizations could address security concerns and
foster stability.
6. Long-Term Vision for the Middle East: Establishing a comprehensive security architecture and addressing underly-
ing issues can contribute to peace and reconciliation.
Current Affairs 30
7. Normalization of Relations: Steps towards diplomat- How does high defence export help India?
ic normalization, such as exchanging ambassadors Benefit Explanation
and reopening embassies, could promote peace, as
Economic Growth Boosts the economy through in-
seen in recent agreements between Israel and some
creased revenue, job creation, and
Arab states.
enhanced manufacturing capabilities.
Insta Link: It reduces India’s import depen-
Gaza conflict: India-Israel Relations dence. India allocates around 1.8% of
its GDP towards defence spending
Prelims Link: Technological Ad- Drives innovation and technological
Q. The term “two-state solution” is sometimes mentioned vancement growth in the defence sector, foster-
in the news in the context of the affairs of (UPSC 2018) ing advancements in other industries.
(a) China Diplomatic Rela- Strengthens diplomatic ties with im-
(b) Israel tions porting countries, facilitating strate-
(c) Iraq gic partnerships and cooperation.
(d) Yemen
Global Influence Enhances India’s stature in the global
Ans: B
arena, positioning it as a reliable de-
fence partner.
Topics: Important International institutions, agencies and
fora, their structure, mandate. India has been successful in exporting
products such as personal protective
items, offshore patrol vessels, and
avionics to countries like Maldives, Sri
GENERAL STUDIES – 3 Lanka, Russia, France, Nepal, Mauri-
tius, Sri Lanka, Israel, Egypt, the UAE,
Topics: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mo- and Chile
bilization of resources, growth, development and employ-
Self-Reliance Reduces dependency on imports,
ment.
promoting indigenous production
and self-sufficiency in defence capa-
1. INDIA’S DEFENCE EXPORTS REACHES AN bilities.
ALL-TIME HIGH Military Modern- Supports modernization of armed
ization forces by providing access to ad-
Context: vanced technologies and equipment.
India’s defence exports soared to a record high of Rs. 21,083 Balance of Trade Contributes to a positive balance of
crore in FY 2023-24, marking a remarkable growth of 31 trade, helping to offset costs of de-
times over the past decade and a 32.5% increase from the fence procurement and imports.
previous fiscal year.
Integration with Exporting defence products to major
Global Defense countries like Italy, Nepal, etc., inte-
Key achievements:
Value Chain grates India into the global defence
1. Record High Exports: Indian defence exports
value chain, enhancing its strategic
reached an all-time high of Rs. 21,083 crores in FY
relevance and influence in the inter-
2023-24, indicating a substantial growth trajectory.
national arena.
2. Remarkable Growth: The defence export sector wit-
nessed a remarkable growth of 31 times over the
past decade, compared to FY 2013-14, showcasing Steps taken by India:
significant expansion and development. Steps Related Steps Taken
3. Increased Export Authorizations: The number of ex- Enhanced Foreign Liberalization of FDI policy allowing
port authorizations rose to 1,507 in FY 2023-24, in- Direct Investment up to 74% FDI under automatic route
dicating a growing demand for Indian defence prod- (FDI) and 100% by government approv-
ucts and technologies in the global market. al (e.g., The Swedish Arms Major
4. Private Sector Contribution: The private sector SAAB’s Announcement: First 100%
played a significant role, contributing approximately FDI project for manufacturing Carl
60% to defence exports, highlighting the increasing Gustav M4 rocket system in India.)
participation and capability of private defence firms Innovation for De- Launch of iDEX scheme involving
in meeting export demands fence Excellence Start-ups & Micro, Small and Medi-
(iDEX) um Enterprises (MSMEs).
Current Affairs 30
Defence Acqui- Implementation of new procurement fence orders from countries such as Oman, Myan-
sition Procedure category - Buy (Global-Manufacture mar, Mauritius, and Vietnam.
(DAP) 2020 in India). The Defence Acquisition 3. Lack of Competitiveness: Indian defence products
Procedure ensures 50% indigenous are often perceived as having lower quality and
content in procurement. higher costs compared to major exporters like the
US, Russia, and Israel.
Establishment of Establishment of two Defence Indus-
4. Limited Export Portfolio: India’s defence exports are
Defence Industrial trial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and
restricted to a few countries and product categories,
Corridors Tamil Nadu
hindering its ability to fully tap into the global de-
fence market.
Priority to the pro- Notification of four ‘Positive Indige- 5. Bureaucratic Hurdles: The defence export process
curement of cap- nization Lists’ of a total of 411 items in India involves bureaucratic hurdles and red tape,
ital items falling of Services and three ‘Positive In- making it challenging for exporters to navigate.
in the Buy Indian digenization Lists’ of a total of 3,738 6. Unclear Policy: India lacks a well-defined defence
(IDDM) Category items of Defence Public Sector Un- export policy, leading to confusion and uncertainty
dertakings (DPSUs). among potential exporters.
Simplification of Industrial licensing 7. Dependence on Imports: Despite strides in indige-
process with longer validity period. nization, India still relies heavily on imports for its
defence equipment, limiting its capacity to export
Rationalized Defence Product List
advanced defence technology.
which required an Industry License.
Launch of an indigenization portal To boost its defence exports, India can focus on:
namely SRIJAN to facilitate indigeni- 1. Dedicated Export Infrastructure: Establishing spe-
sation by Indian Industry including cialized infrastructure for training, market intelli-
Micro, Small and Medium Enterpris- gence, and handholding of defence exporters, in-
es (MSME). cluding training programmes for PSU officers and
Financial Invest- Increased Domestic Procurement setting up a dedicated Export Promotion Council for
ments Budget: From 40% to 75% of the to- the Defence Sector.
tal capital procurement budget dedi- 2. Trade Support: Providing dedicated support from
cated to domestic procurement. regulatory agencies to streamline approval pro-
Increasing Private Contributions cesses for production and export compliances, and
DRDO Review of Defence Research and De- facilitating participation in trade fairs, Buyer-Seller
velopment Organisation (DRDO) and Meets, and knowledge-sharing platforms.
focus on building “Fit to Purpose” 3. R&D Infrastructure: Exploring joint or co-develop-
capabilities ment opportunities with other countries through
the Department of Defence Production, and being
Participation of Initiatives like Nari Shakti and the
open to sharing R&D infrastructure with potential
Women opening of Sainik Schools and the
buyers, such as offering fighter aircraft or rocket
National Defence Academy to wom-
launcher systems developed through joint/co-devel-
en have significantly increased the
opment arrangements.
participation of women in the armed
forces.
Conclusion
Naval Platform De- Development of naval platforms in- Self-reliance in defence manufacturing is significant not only
velopment cluding projects like the INS Vikrant for India’s defence capabilities but also for ensuring sover-
and Project 17A frigates. eignty and security. Building a private industrial base with
Other Develop- Launch of Mission DefSpace proactive policies, funding RnD, creating low-interest re-
ments gimes to bring down capital costs, addressing issues of ex-
change rates and providing stability can help India’s defence
Issues with India’s defence exports include: manufacturing sector become globally competitive.
1. Failure to Convert Interest into Business Action: De-
spite interest from countries like Indonesia, Malay- Mains Link:
sia, and others in products like BrahMos and Akash Q. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is
missile systems, India has struggled to translate this now set to be liberalized: What influence this is expected to
interest into concrete business deals. have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long
2. Inability to Secure Big Naval Defence Orders: India run? (UPSC 2014)
has faced challenges in securing significant naval de-
Current Affairs 30
Prelims Link: Household net savings are the total money and investments
Q. Consider the following in respect of the Indian Ocean families have, like deposits, stocks and bonuses, minus any
Naval Symposium (IONS): (UPSC 2017) money they owe, like loans and debt.
1. The inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the
chairmanship of the Indian Navy. Why are domestic savings important for India’s economy?
2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase mar- Domestic savings are vital for India’s economy as they fuel
itime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of investment in key sectors like infrastructure and industries.
the Indian Ocean Region. This capital formation supports economic growth, job cre-
Which of the above statements is/are correct? ation, and prosperity.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only What is Household debt?
(c) Both 1 and 2 Household debt refers to the total amount of money that
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 individuals owe to creditors, such as banks, financial institu-
Ans: B tions, or other lenders.
Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Reasons for declining Household savings in India and In-
Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (UPSC 2016) creasing Household Debt:
(a) Amphibious warfare ship Reasons for Declining Reasons for Increasing
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine Household Savings in India Household Debt
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
Low-interest rates discour- Higher borrowing for con-
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier
age saving sumption, including con-
Ans: C
sumer durables
Rising inflation reduces pur- Increased reliance on debt
2. INDIA’S DECLINING NET HOUSEHOLD chasing power to fund expenses and in-
SAVINGS vestments
Global Economic uncer- Growth in non-mortgage
Context:
tainty (such as the Rus- loans, such as farm and
Recent data from the Reserve Bank of India reveals that In- sia-Ukraine war, and Gaza business loans
dia’s net household savings are at a 47-year low, standing Crisis) led to precautionary
at 5.3% of the GDP in the fiscal year 2023, down from 7.3% saving
in 2022.
• This decline is accompanied by a sharp increase in Changing consumer mind- Credit widening, with more
household debt (at 5.8% of GDP) reaching the sec- set favouring current con- borrowers taking out loans,
ond-highest level since the 1970s. sumption over saving for rather than credit deepen-
the future ing
What is the Household Saving Rate? Lack of adequate financial
The Household Saving Rate refers to the percentage of dis- literacy and planning
posable income that households save instead of spending Increasing costs of living
on consumption. It is a key economic indicator that reflects outpacing income growth
the propensity of households to save for the future. As households borrow more to support consumption, their
savings diminish. Increased borrowing means more income
Household savings consist of three main parts: goes toward debt repayment, reducing the amount avail-
1. Financial assets: This includes cash, bank deposits, able for savings.
retirement funds, insurance policies, stocks, and
other investments. The fall in household savings can have several macroeco-
2. Physical assets: These are investments in tangible nomic implications:
assets like real estate, land, and property. 1. Increased household debt: The fall in household
3. Gold and silver ornaments: Savings in the form of savings means people have less money set aside for
precious metals like gold and silver jewellery or bul- the future, which can lead to more borrowing.
lion. 2. Impact of high-interest rates: Policy measures like
higher interest rates aimed at controlling inflation
A higher saving rate indicates greater financial prudence can inadvertently lead to increased household debt
and potential for investment, while a lower saving rate may levels, potentially trapping them in a debt cycle.
suggest higher consumer spending and less savings for fu- 3. Effect on demand: High-interest rates can weigh on
ture needs. households’ ability to consume, thereby reducing
demand in the economy.
Current Affairs 30
4. Fragility and joblessness: This shift towards a more income instability for Indian households.
financialized economy could make the economy
fragile and potentially lead to job losses Insta Links:
5. Rising inequality - The rise in financial liabilities with Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2022-23
falling asset levels could be a sign of rising inequality.
6. Dependence on foreign capital – A dip in household Prelims Link:
savings would lead to more dependence on foreign Q. As per the NSSO 70th Round “Situation Assessment
capital to fund growth. Survey of Agricultural Households”, consider the following
statements: (UPSC 2018)
Steps to Increase Household Savings in India: 1. Rajasthan has the highest percentage share of agricul-
1. Implement initiatives to enhance financial literacy tural households among its rural households.
among households, empowering them to make in- 2. Out of the total agricultural households in the country, a
formed decisions about savings and investments. little over 60 percent belong to OBCs.
2. Introduce tax incentives or deductions for savings 3. In Kerala, a little over 60 percent of agricultural house-
instruments such as retirement accounts, fixed de- holds reported to have received maximum income from
posits, and insurance policies to encourage house- sources other than agricultural activities.
holds to save more. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
3. Government Savings Schemes: Promote govern- (a) 2 and 3 only
ment-sponsored savings schemes like the Public (b) 2 only
Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificate (c) 1 and 3 only
(NSC), and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) to attract (d) 1, 2 and 3
households to invest in safe and secure avenues. Ans: C
4. Employer Contributions: Encourage employers to
contribute to their employees’ retirement savings Q2. In a given year in India, official poverty lines are higher
through schemes like the Employees’ Provident in some States than in others because (UPSC 2019)
Fund (EPF) and the National Pension System (NPS). (a) poverty rates vary from State to State
5. Financial Inclusion: Expand access to banking and (b) price levels vary from State to State
financial services in rural and underserved areas to (c) Gross State Product varies from State to State
include more households in the formal financial sys- (d) quality of public distribution varies from State to State
tem, offering them opportunities to save. Ans: B
Steps to Reduce Household Debt in India: Topics: Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the
1. Debt Counseling Services: Establish debt counsel- country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems
ling services to provide guidance and support to storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce
households struggling with debt management, and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid
2. Regulation of Lending Practices: Implement stricter of farmers.
regulations on lending practices by financial institu-
tions to prevent predatory lending and discourage 3. CROP DIVERSIFICATION IN INDIA
households from taking on excessive debt burdens.
3. Debt Relief Programs: Introduce debt relief pro- Context:
grams or schemes to assist households facing finan- West Bengal farmers are shifting from wheat cultivation to
cial hardship esp. farmers. more lucrative options like bananas, lentils, and maize, espe-
4. Alternative Financing Options: Promote alternative cially in border districts like Murshidabad and Nadia.
financing options such as peer-to-peer lending, mi-
crofinance, and community-based savings and credit Reasons Behind the Shift from Wheat Production:
groups as alternatives to traditional banking loans, 1. Wheat Blast Disease: The emergence of wheat blast
offering households access to affordable credit disease in Bangladesh in 2016 led to a two-year ban
sources with reasonable terms and conditions. on wheat cultivation in border areas of West Bengal.
This prompted farmers to explore alternative crops
Conclusion: due to the severe yield losses caused by the fungal
While some interpret reduced savings in India as a sign of infection.
confidence in future income prospects, others express con- 2. Economic Viability: Farmers have turned to alterna-
cerns about financial fragility and sustainability, especially tive crops like bananas due to their higher profitabil-
given India’s low per capita income among G20 nations. ity compared to wheat. Stagnant wheat prices and
The situation underscores the delicate balance between concerns over water consumption further incentiv-
consumption aspirations, inadequate public amenities, and ized the shift.
Current Affairs 30
3. Shift to Higher Output Crops: Maize cultivation has surged in the area, with production increasing eightfold from
2011 to 2023. Despite lower prices per quintal compared to wheat, maize offers higher per-hectare output and
demand from poultry and food processing industries, making it a lucrative alternative.
4. Pulses and oilseed production have also seen significant growth in the region.
Other reasons for this shift in West Bengal and other parts of India:
1. Nutrient deficiency in soil: Continuous cultivation of the same crops depletes specific nutrients from the soil, lead-
ing to soil nutrient deficiency and decreased microfauna population. Example: Rice-wheat system in Northwestern
India replacing traditional crops like pulses and oilseeds.
2. Resource use efficiency: Monocropping reduces resource-use efficiency. Introducing diverse crops and cropping
patterns helps revive soil health and improve resource-use efficiency.
3. Urbanization: Increased food demand due to population growth and urbanization stresses agricultural land, leading
to crop intensification and substitution of food crops with commercial crops.
4. Infrastructure facilities: Improved irrigation, transport, storage, and marketing facilities allow farmers to diversify
towards more profitable crops.
5. Government incentives: Initiatives like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana and state government financial incentives
encourage farmers to change cropping patterns.
6. Erratic rainfall: Sudden adverse weather conditions like erratic rainfall, drought, and pest outbreaks compel farmers
to diversify their cropping patterns for risk mitigation.
What is Crop Diversification?

Crop diversification refers to the practice of growing a variety of crops on a farm instead of focusing on just one or a few
crops. Crop diversification in India represents a strategic shift from the traditional monoculture farming practices towards
a more varied cultivation approach. Through diversifying crops, farmers can reduce dependency on a single crop, thereby
increasing resilience against climatic and economic fluctuations
Types of crop diversification:
Current Affairs 30
The trend of crop diversification in India:
• Towards Cash crops: e.g., growing more cash crops like fruit and vegetables instead of food grains.
• Shifted to horticulture: Since good inputs (seeds and know-how) are available, farmers are growing horticultural
crops along with or as an alternative to food grains.
o India produces 10% of the world’s production of fruits and holds the first place in the case of fruits like
papaya, mango, and banana, among others.
• Water intensive to water efficiency patterns: Some water intensive Food grains (paddy) and cash crops (such as
sugarcane) losing interest in favour of water-efficient crops or pulses and oil seeds.
o These are not only water-efficient but also climate-resilient.
• Organic farming: Many regions of the country have also seen an increase in cropping area under organic farming.
States like Sikkim have become fully organic states.
• ZBNF: Many states like Maharastra, and Telangana are promoting Zero Budget Natural farming, under it use of
chemicals for growing crops is discouraged.
Significance/Benefits of Crop Diversification in India:

Significance Description
For farmers Income Stabilization: In Karnataka, the cultivation of millets, alongside traditional crops, has provided
farmers with an alternative income source, buffering them against the price volatilities of mainstream
crops.
Market Demand Fulfillment: By growing organic produce in Sikkim, farmers are tapping into the growing
market demand for organic food, both domestically and internationally, ensuring higher profitability.
Reduced Price Dependency: Farmers in Tamil Nadu diversifying into pulses and oilseeds have found
these crops to be less subject to international price fluctuations than cash crops like cotton and sugar-
cane.
Alternative Market Channels: In Kerala, diversification into spice crops like turmeric and ginger has
opened up new market channels, including export markets, offering farmers lucrative alternatives.
Environment Reduced chemical use benefits the environment.
Pest and Disease Management: Intercropping can reduce the need for chemical pesticides, promoting
natural pest control.
Availability of water: Promotes efficient water use, reducing irrigation demands.
Soil Health Improvement: Planting leguminous crops improves soil fertility, benefiting subsequent crops.
Government Improves food security and nutrition, reducing malnutrition and anaemia.
Enhances socio-economic status through quality food production.
Trade Reduces import dependence, particularly for pulses and oilseeds, benefiting the economy.
Market Opportunities: Diversifying into niche markets, like organic farming, can lead to higher prices for
produce.
Source of Biofuels: Crops like Jatropha and Pongamia can be used for biofuel production, offering addi-
tional income streams for farmers and contributing to energy security
Risk Reduction Diversification helps in mitigating the impact of adverse weather conditions, such as drought, by ensur-
ing some level of harvest.
Government Initiatives for Crop Diversification

1. National Food Security Mission (NFSM): Encourages farmers to grow pulses and oilseeds in addition to cereals.
2. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Focuses on improving water use efficiency through micro-irriga-
tion, supporting the cultivation of less water-intensive crops.
3. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Promotes organic farming, facilitating diversification into high-value
organic crops.
4. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY): Provides flexibility and autonomy to states to prioritize their agriculture and
allied sector investments, including diversification efforts.
4.1. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP), a sub-scheme of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) is being im-
plemented in the Original Green Revolution States viz; Haryana, Punjab & Western Uttar Pradesh since
2013-14 to divert the area of water-intensive paddy crop to alternative crops like pulses, oilseeds, coarse
cereals, Nutri cereals etc
5. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): Aims at holistic growth of the horticulture sector,
encouraging farmers to diversify into horticultural crops.
Current Affairs 30
6. Mera Pani-Meri Virasat Scheme (Haryana): Pro- olutions helped in poverty alleviation and food security in
vides financial aid to farmers transitioning from pad- India? (UPSC 2017)
dy cultivation to water-saving alternatives such as
pulses, oilseeds, millets, and vegetables. Topics: Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in
industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth.
Challenges with the Crop Diversification in India:
1. Market Risks and Limited Opportunities: Farmers
may hesitate to switch from established crops like 4. DISINVESTMENT IN INDIA: A KEY AGEN-
rice and wheat due to fluctuating market prices and
limited demand for alternative crops, potentially DA FOR THE NEXT GOVERNMENT
leading to income loss.
2. Financial Constraints: Diversifying crops requires ad- Context:
ditional investment in seeds, equipment, and knowl- The Union Finance Minister recently reaffirmed the govern-
edge, which smallholder farmers may lack. Creating ment’s commitment to the privatisation policy. The policy,
a market for nutritious crops like millet also requires part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat package, aims for disinvest-
investment in processing facilities. ment in both strategic and non-strategic sectors, with a plan
3. Lack of Infrastructure and Storage: Perishable diver- to maintain minimal presence of central public-sector enter-
sified crops need specialized storage and transporta- prises (CPSEs).
tion facilities, which are often lacking in rural areas.
Without proper infrastructure, there’s a risk of spoil- What is Disinvestment?
age, resulting in wasted produce and lost income. Disinvestment is the process of reducing or liquidating gov-
4. Clash With Dietary Habits: Crop diversification ernment ownership in a company or asset, typically through
could disrupt established market dynamics and con- the sale of shares or assets to private or public investors. It
sumption patterns in regions where rice and wheat is often undertaken to raise capital, improve efficiency, or re-
are staple foods, potentially affecting market accep- duce government intervention in the economy.
tance and farmer livelihoods.
Process of Disinvestment in India:
The way forward and Conclusion: In India, the disinvestment process is overseen by the De-
Moving forward, India can explore innovative approaches partment of Investment and Public Asset Management
to promote crop diversification and sustainable agriculture. (DIPAM), operating under the Ministry of Finance. DIPAM’s
One such avenue is agri-tourism and ‘U-Pick’ farms, where main goal is to manage the government’s investments in
tourists can engage in experiential agriculture by harvesting public sector enterprises and supervise the disinvestment
fruits and vegetables directly from the fields. This not only of government equity in these enterprises. Additionally, in
offers farmers additional income but also fosters a connec- 2005, the government established the National Investment
tion between consumers and agriculture, promoting appre- Fund (NIF) to serve as a channel for the proceeds generated
ciation for diversified crops. from the disinvestment of Central Public Sector Enterpris-
es. The creation of NIF aimed to ensure transparent and ef-
Moreover, advancements in gene editing techniques like ficient utilization of these funds for various developmental
CRISPR present an opportunity for biofortification, enhanc- purposes.
ing the nutritional value of crops to address malnutrition
concerns and open new markets for biofortified produce. Approaches:
1. Minority Disinvestment: Govt. retains >51%, ensur-
Additionally, integrating regenerative agriculture practices ing control.
such as cover cropping, composting, and no-till farming 2. Majority Divestment: Govt. hands control but re-
with diversified crop rotations can contribute to sustainable tains some stake.
diversification. These practices not only improve long-term 3. Complete Privatisation: 100% control transferred
crop yields but also sequester carbon, mitigating the impacts (full privatisation)
of climate change on agriculture.
Methods of Disinvestment:
Mains Links: Methods Description
Q. How did India benefit from the contributions of Sir M.
Initial Public Offering (IPO) Offer of shares by an unlist-
Visvesvaraya and Dr. M.S. Swaminathan in the fields of wa-
ed Public Sector Enterprise
ter engineering and agricultural science respectively? (UPSC
(PSE) or the Government to
2019)
the public for subscription
for the first time.
Q. Explain various types of revolutions, that took place in Ag-
riculture after Independence in India. How have these rev-
Current Affairs 30
Further Public Offering Offer of shares by a listed

(FPO) Public Sector Enterprise
(PSE) or the Government to
the public for subscription.
Offer for Sale (OFS) Auction of shares by pro-
moters through the Stock
Exchange platform. This
method has been exten-
sively used by the Govern-
ment since 2012.
Strategic Sale Sale of a substantial portion
of Government sharehold-
ing (up to 50% or as deter-
mined) of a PSE along with
transfer of management
control.
Institutional Placement Pro- Offering where only Quali-
gram (IPP) fied Institutional Buyers can
participate. These buyers
are perceived to possess
the expertise to invest in
capital markets. In recent years, the government has largely met or exceeded
its disinvestment targets, notably surpassing goals in 2017-
CPSE Exchange Traded Fund Disinvestment through the 18 and 2018-19. In the fiscal year 2023-24, the revised esti-
(ETF) ETF route allows the simul- mate for disinvestment revenue was Rs 30,000 crore, lower
taneous sale of the Gov- than the initially budgeted Rs 51,000 crore.
ernment’s stake in various
PSEs across diverse sectors Recent examples of disinvestment in India:
through a single offering. 1. IPO of 3.5% LIC shares
2. Privatisation of Air India
Trends of Disinvestment in India: 3. Sale of minority holdings in CPSEs including IDBI
The trend of disinvestment in India has evolved significantly Bank, SCI, Concor, and others
since 1991. Initially slow due to political constraints, it gained
momentum in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with signifi- Latest Disinvestment Policy
cant earnings between 1999 and 2004. However, between The latest disinvestment policy classifies the public sector
2004 and 2009, disinvestment slowed again due to political into strategic and non-strategic sectors.
pressures. From 2009 to 2014, there was a resurgence, with 1. In non-strategic sectors, the government will exit all
earnings rising to INR 1.2 lakh crore. Since 2014, there has businesses except for a ‘bare minimum’ presence in
been a rapid increase in disinvestment revenues, totalling four key strategic sectors:
INR 4.48 lakh crore by 2020. Recent initiatives like the At- i. Atomic energy, space and defence
manirbhar Bharat package and the National Monetisation ii. Transport and telecommunications
Pipeline aim to further enhance private sector participation iii. Power, petroleum, coal, and other
and unlock the value of public assets. minerals
iv. Banking, insurance, and financial
services
2. States will be incentivized for disinvestment in their
public sector companies.
This policy marks a departure from past approaches, provid-

ing a framework for deciding the ownership pattern of 439
CPSEs. It also includes the monetization of surplus land and
the creation of the National Land Monetization Corporation.
Current Affairs 30
Challenges related to Disinvestment in India: b. Establishment of an independent profes-
Challenges Description sional agency to accelerate the Asset Mone-
tization Program.
Political SensitivityDisinvestment is a politically sen-
2. Increase operational autonomy and governance
sitive issue in India, with opposi-
measures for PSEs, such as listing on stock exchang-
tion from various political parties
es, to enhance transparency and performance.
and trade unions.
3. Provide fair valuation of government entities to
Valuation Complexity Valuing public sector enterprises boost bidder confidence in the disinvestment pro-
can be challenging due to their cess.
unique structures and market 4. Reduce government involvement in the manage-
conditions, leading to potential ment and operations of PSEs by reforming boards
discrepancies. and organizational structures to attract more buyers
Labour Concerns Disinvestment often raises fears and achieve better valuations.
among employees regarding job 5. Communicate the economic benefits of disinvest-
security and wage cuts, leading ment to counter political resistance and public scep-
to potential resistance and labour ticism.
unrest. 6. Focus on selling assets based on market appeal
Investor Appetite Finding suitable buyers for shares rather than solely unloading underperforming ones,
in public sector enterprises (e.g., including profitable enterprises.
in the case of Air India), especially
those with poor financial perfor- Conclusion:
mance, can be difficult. Disinvestment is vital for India’s economic growth. Experts
note that transferring ownership of PSEs to private entities
Regulatory Hurdles Disinvestment processes are sub-
through disinvestment enhances economic efficiency. They
ject to complex regulatory frame-
also suggest that the size of disinvestment alone doesn’t
works, including approval require-
significantly improve PSU performance; rather, changes in
ments and compliance standards.
leadership and market factors like innovation and technolo-
Legal Risks Disinvestment decisions and pro- gy drive economic efficiency.
cesses can face legal challenges,
including disputes over valuation, Insta Links:
terms, and adherence to regula- • Disinvestment of Public Sector Units (PSUs)
tions.
Bureaucratic Delays Bureaucratic procedures and de- Prelims Links:
cision-making processes can slow Q1. In the context of governance, consider the following:
down the disinvestment process, (UPSC 2010)
leading to inefficiencies and de- 1. Encouraging Foreign Direct Investment inflows
lays. 2. Privatization of higher educational Institutions
Economic Impact Disinvestment proceeds may 3. Down-sizing of bureaucracy
impact government revenue 4. Selling/offloading the shares of Public Sector Undertak-
streams and fiscal deficits, requir- ings
ing careful management and plan- Which of the above can be used as measures to control the
ning for economic stability. fiscal deficit in India?
Private monopoly Complete privatization can lead to (a) 1, 2 and 3
public monopolies transforming (b) 2, 3 and 4
into private monopolies, which (c) 1, 2 and 4
may exploit their dominant po- (d) 3 and 4 only
sition to raise service costs and Ans: D
maximize profits.
Q2. Why is the Government of India disinvesting its equi-
Way Forward: ty in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)? (UPSC
1. NITI Aayog recommends: 2011)
i. Direct submission of disinvestment 1. The Government intends to use the revenue earned
proposals to CCEA for faster pro- from the disinvestment mainly to pay back the external
cessing. debt.
a. Appointment of advisors and asset valuers 2. The Government no longer intends to retain the man-
to expedite disinvestment. agement control of the CPSEs.
Current Affairs 30
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: D
Topics: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
5. OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF GREEN HYDROGEN IN INDIA

Context:
India is making strides in embracing green hydrogen as a promising alternative fuel, evident from the Ministry of New and
Renewable Energy’s Rs 496 crore scheme supporting pilot projects.
Definition of Green Hydrogen:

Green hydrogen is produced through a process called electrolysis, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using
renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.
In August 2023, the Union Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, provided a definition for green hy-
drogen, specifying it as having a well-to-gate emission (encompassing water treatment, electrolysis, gas purification, drying
and compression of hydrogen) not exceeding 2 kg CO2 equivalent per kg H2. In contrast, grey hydrogen (produced using
fossil fuels), on average, emits 10 kg of CO2 per kg of H2 produced.
Nodal Agency:
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) (under the Union Ministry of Power) is the nodal authority responsible for accrediting
agencies for monitoring, verifying and certifying green hydrogen production projects.
Initiatives for Green Hydrogen:

1. Oil India Limited (OIL) recently commissioned India’s first 99% pure green hydrogen plant in eastern Assam’s Jorhat
2. NTPC (in Kawas, Surat)has started India’s 1st Green Hydrogen Blending operation in the Piped Natural gas (PNG)
Network.
3. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has given approval for a 5% blending of green hydrogen
with PNG (later to be scaled to 20%)
4. Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has collaborated with business management consultant
5. The Green Billions (TGBL) to manage its waste and generate it into useable green hydrogen (under the waste-to-hy-
drogen project)
6. Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP)to mobilise finance and speed up green energy development
7. The Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas launched India’s inaugural Green Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus in New
Delhi in September 2023.
Current Affairs 30
Significance of Green Hydrogen energy:
• Emission reduction: IEA (International Energy Agency) points out, that the method of obtaining green hydrogen
would save the 830 million tonnes of CO2 that are emitted annually when Hydrogen is produced using fossil fuels.
• Viable alternative: With green hydrogen, if the production costs fall by 50 % by 2030, it could certainly evolve as
one of the fuels of the future. Also, hydrogen is easy to store, which allows it to be used subsequently for other
purposes and at times other than immediately after its production.
• Energy Security and Independence: As fossil fuels are finite and susceptible to global supply fluctuations, green
hydrogen fosters energy independence.
• Creating New Industries and Jobs: According to IRENA, the green sector employed 11 million people in 2018, with
projections of over 42 million jobs by 2050.
• Decarbonizing Difficult-to-Decarbonize Sectors: Sectors like heavy industry and aviation, hard to decarbonize, can
benefit from green hydrogen substitution. This helps mitigate their significant carbon emissions.
Applications of Green Hydrogen:

Applications Details
Agriculture Sector Green hydrogen can replace traditional fertilizers in agriculture by producing carbon-free am-
monia.
Ammonia production currently relies on fossil fuels, but green ammonia offers improved effi-
ciency and reduced soil acidity.
Green hydrogen-powered farm machinery, such as tractors and harvesters, can reduce green-
house gas emissions in agriculture.
Water Management Green hydrogen can power desalination plants, converting saltwater into freshwater for sus-
tainable water management.
Transport Sector Hydrogen fuel cells in vehicles produce zero emissions and offer a longer range and faster refu-
elling compared to battery electric vehicles.
Industrial Sector Green hydrogen production using excess renewable energy can reduce energy costs and pro-
mote sustainable development.
On-site production and storage make green hydrogen a reliable energy source, reducing de-
pendence on the electricity grid.
Green hydrogen production from waste materials like municipal solid waste and agricultural
waste can reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Using green hydrogen to power fuel cells increases energy efficiency compared to traditional
combustion engines, reducing overall energy consumption.
Challenges in Green Hydrogen Production:

Not Sufficient Green hydrogen constitutes less than 1 per cent of the world’s hydrogen production and usage
(as per the Global Hydrogen Review 2023 by the IEA)
Green hydrogen production needs to grow significantly to align with Net Zero Emissions goals.
Energy Inefficient 30% of renewable energy is lost while producing hydrogen
Carbon Emissions Existing methods involve fossil fuels with high carbon emissions.
Low Adoption Low-emission hydrogen adoption in various sectors is slow.
Economic Sustainabil- Low economic sustainability of extracting green hydrogen.
ity For transportation fuel cells, hydrogen must be cost-competitive with conventional fuels and
technologies on a per-mile basis
Access to Critical Min- Access to critical minerals such as nickel, platinum group metals and rare earth metals could
erals hinder scaling up electrolyser manufacturing capability in India
Safety Issues Green hydrogen is highly flammable, requiring specialized handling and storage. Establishing
safety protocols and regulations is essential for ensuring its safe management.
Current Affairs 30
Government Initiatives for Bio and Green Hydrogen:
Initiative Key Points
Global Biofuel Alliance Leading efforts to establish global standards for hydrogen from biomass.
National Hydrogen Targeting a production increase to 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030, meeting 40% of do-
Mission mestic requirements.
Production Linked In- Proposing a Rs 15,000-crore PLI scheme for electrolysers.
centive (PLI) Scheme
Green Hydrogen Mis- Development of Green Hydrogen Production Capacity of at least 5 MMT (Million Metric Tonne)
sion per annum; Renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country by 2030
Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT): Funding domestic electrolyser
manufacturing and green hydrogen production.
Green Hydrogen Hubs: Identifying and developing states/regions for large-scale hydrogen pro-
duction/utilization.
Strategic Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (SHIP): Under this Public-private partnership frame-
work R&D will be facilitated under the mission.
International Collabo- Actively partnering with other countries, research institutions, and private entities for expertise
ration and technology development.
Renewable Energy In- Integrating green hydrogen production with India’s expanding renewable energy capacity for
tegration improved efficiency and sustainability.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) (In collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways) in
India has launched a new pilot project for the production of Green Hydrogen with the following components:
1. Funding Allocation: Rs 496 crore allocated until 2025-26.
2. Pilot Project Support: Focus on testing green hydrogen as a vehicle fuel.
3. Infrastructure Development: Establishment of hydrogen refuelling stations.
4. Project Execution: Selected company or consortium as executing agency.
5. Viability Gap Funding (VGF): Approval by MNRE based on project appraisal.
6. Timeframe: Completion of pilot projects within two years.
To learn about Bio-hydrogen Click here

Way forward:
1. Reduce Production Cost: Develop efficient technologies for electrolysis. Integrate green hydrogen production with
renewable energy.
2. Implement Regulatory Incentives: Offer tax credits and subsidies to promote adoption.
3. Improve Infrastructure: Establish dedicated infrastructure and supply chains. Develop efficient and cost-effective
supply chains.
4. Coordinate Among Stakeholders: Ensure alignment of policies, standards, and regulations.
5. Raise Awareness and Capacity: Educate potential users and producers about benefits. Demonstrate safety and
feasibility in various sectors.
6. Develop skills and competencies for production and utilization.
Insta Links:
India’s green hydrogen challenge
Mains Links:
Q. What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated by the Government of India? (UPSC
2020)
Topics: Conservation related issues, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
6. CHALLENGES POSED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS IN INDIA

Context: The challenges posed by renewable energy development, particularly in the context of solar parks, underscore the
complex intersection between sustainable energy goals and local socio-economic and environmental concerns.
Current Affairs 30
India’s Renewable Energy Status:
India is the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. In the fiscal year 2023-24, India added over 18 GW of re-
newable energy capacity, a 21% increase from the previous year, led by solar (approx. 13 GW) and wind (approx. 2 GW)
installations. Total installed capacity has risen from over 76 GW in 2014 to approx. 179 GW by October 2023, nearly 2.34
times higher.
India aims to install 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, significantly up from the previous 450 GW target.
Examples of large-scale solar Park in India:

Solar Park Name Location Capacity Land Area
Khavda Solar and Wind Park Near Vighakot village, Kutch, Gujarat 30 GW 72,600 hectares
Pavagada Solar Park Karnataka 2,050 MW 13,000+ acres
Bhadla Solar Park Bhadla village, Jodhpur District, Rajas- 2.25 GW 14,000 acres
than
Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh 1,000 MW Almost 6,000 acres
Park
Charanka Solar Park Gujarat
Large-Scale Renewable Energy Parks: Positive Impacts

1. Steady Income for Landowners: Farmers in areas like Pavagada, Karnataka, gain a reliable annual income
by leasing their land to solar parks.
2. Renewable Energy Production: These parks play a vital role in India’s renewable energy output, reducing
reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the country’s goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.
3. Employment Opportunities: The development of large-scale renewable energy projects creates job op-
portunities locally, fostering employment growth in the regions where they are established.
Challenges Posed by the Renewable Energy Projects:

Issue Description
Land Use Challenge Large-scale renewable energy projects, especially solar parks, require extensive land use. India
may need 50,000-75,000 sq. km of land, about half the size of Tamil Nadu, to achieve its Net
Zero targets. This poses a challenge as it may lead to the conversion of agricultural land.
Impact on Food Security Conversion of agricultural land for renewable energy could affect food security. India needs at
least 400,000 hectares of land by 2030 to meet renewable goals, potentially disrupting agri-
cultural practices and reducing available farming land.
Loss of Common Lands Near Bhadla, Rajasthan, solar parks have led to the loss of sacred common lands and grazing
areas, negatively impacting local farmers and pastoralists.
Resource Competition Large water demand for maintaining solar panels can conflict with local water needs, impact-
ing water security.
Biodiversity and Ecosys- Construction of solar parks can lead to biodiversity loss, especially in sensitive ecosystems like
tem Disruption deserts, impacting the overall ecological balance.
Regional Divide in Renewable Energy Projects:

According to the Central Electricity Authority’s report on Optimal Generation Capacity Mix, by 2030, solar and wind will make up
almost 51 per cent of total generation capacity and almost 31 per cent of all generated power. If these projections materialise, they are
likely to have major fiscal consequences for the coal-rich states of the East (where the majority of poor people live)
The concentration of RE assets in West and South

India’s massive RE build-out so far has largely benefited western and southern states. In August 2023, 92.5 per cent of all grid-connected
RE generation came from eight states(Central Electricity Authority).
The main reasons behind this are;

1. Higher insolation and wind density: Instrumental in the generation of solar and wind power respectively.
○ Eg: Rajasthan for solar power and Tamil Nadu for wind power.
2. Favourable state finances: Coal-rich states lack diversity in terms of revenue sources and experience higher fiscal strain.
Current Affairs 30
○ Eg: States like Jharkhand and Odisha de-
pend a lot on coal royalties.
3. Investment environment: Southern and Western
states have better fiscal and budgetary condition
that promotes investor confidence.
4. Land availability and cost of RE: According to Bridge
to India, a renewable power consultancy, the lack of
easy availability of renewable resources and land
together are the main hindrances in the growth of
renewable energy in the eastern region.
Impacts on the revenue of coal-rich states

1. The decline in royalties: Coal royalties as a pro-
portion of overall state revenue will decline as coal
growth starts slowing later this decade
2. Increase in cost of power: The cost of power pro-
curement will increase as new RE contracts are lay-
ered on top of existing commitments for firm power.
3. Increase in power import: Grid-scale energy stor-
age technologies are unlikely to be adopted at a
large scale by the end of the decade. Since most
coal-rich states have limited grid-scale RE-deploy-
ment, they will have to import more power from
other states.
4. Worsen budget deficits: Declining royalties and
increasing imports could worsen the budget defi-
cits of RE-poor power-importing states by almost
8.66 per cent on average(beyond the norms of the
FRBM Act, 2003).
5. Displacement of RE integration costs: By giving
inter-state transmission waivers to an entire gen-
eration of new RE projects, the integration costs of
the energy transition are displaced onto state PSU
balance sheets without necessarily facilitating com-
pensatory investment in upgraded transmission ca-
pacity, which can better manage the variability of
the new RE projects.
6. Global market dynamics: International demand for
cleaner energy sources could influence India’s energy export market. States with significant renewable energy assets may ben-
efit from such global dynamics, potentially affecting the overall economic landscape.
Way forward
Action Description
Expand Community En- Involve local communities in planning and decision-making for solar park developments to
gagement align projects with local needs, similar to community leasing in Pavagada.
Revise Legal Frameworks Strengthen laws to require Environmental and Social Impact Assessments for solar parks,
preventing adverse effects on local communities and ecosystems.
Promote Agrivoltaics Implement agrivoltaic systems combining agriculture with solar energy, providing dual land
use for energy production and farming, maximizing land efficiency and supporting local econ-
omies.
Enhance Training Pro- Develop targeted training programs to equip local populations with new skills, ensuring they
grams benefit from shifts in employment opportunities due to renewable energy projects.
Balanced Regional Devel- Give RE-poor states a bigger stake in the energy transition, reviving the philosophy of bal-
opment anced regional developmentalism, and providing preferential lending for RE projects in these
states.
Greater Voice in Federal Provide RE-poor states with a greater voice in federal power negotiations, possibly through
Power Negotiations the revival of institutions like the Inter-State Council.
Financial Transfers to RE- Ensure explicit financial transfers to RE-poor states through mechanisms like the Finance
poor States Commission, promoting collaborative industrial policy through just transition mechanisms.
Conclusion
Green industrial policy should not be the exclusive privilege of historically well-endowed states. Otherwise, the energy transition will
simply be yet another drain of resources from India’s least developed to its most developed regions. Policy measures that support both
Current Affairs 30
the decline of traditional energy sources and the rise of renewables will play a key role in managing these transitions effectively.
Insta Links:
Perspective- India’s Green Energy Transition
Prelims Link:
Q. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Earth Hour’: (UPSC 2014)
1. It is an initiative of UNEP and UNESCO.
2. It is a movement in which the participants switch off the lights for one hour on a certain day every year.
3. It is a movement to raise awareness about climate change and the need to save the planet.
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: C
Q. With reference to ‘Water Credit’, consider the following statements: (UPSC 2021)
1. It puts microfinance tools to work in the water and sanitation sector.
2. It is a global initiative launched under the aegis of the World Health Organisation and the World Bank.
3. It aims to enable poor people to meet their water needs without depending on subsidies.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: C
Topics: Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in inter-
nal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.
7. PREVENTION OF MONEY LAUNDERING ACT (PMLA): IMPORTANCE AND CONCERNS

Context:
The article discusses the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which was initially aimed at combating the launder-
ing of drug money but has expanded to include various unrelated offences over time.
Recently, the Punjab and Haryana High Court clarified that courts can release an accused of money laundering from police
custody without fulfilling the conditions mandated by the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002
What is Money Laundering?

Money laundering is a process used to hide the or-
igins of illegally obtained money, making it appear
legitimate. It involves three stages:
1. Placement, where illicit funds enter the fi-
nancial system
2. Layering, where funds are moved through
complex transactions to conceal their
source
3. Integration, where laundered funds are re-
introduced as legitimate.
Methods include structuring, trade-based launder-

ing, shell companies, and real estate transactions.
Current Affairs 30
About PMLA:
Need for Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA):

Global Urgency: Prompted by global concerns over drug trafficking, the PMLA was enacted to prevent the launder-
ing of proceeds from drug crimes, in line with UN conventions.
1. Establishment of FATF: Following the establishment of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in 1989, measures like
the PMLA were adopted to combat money laundering worldwide.
2. UNGA Resolution: A 1990 resolution by the UN General Assembly emphasized the need for legislation to prevent
drug money laundering, prompting India to enact the PMLA.
3. Narasimham Committee Recommendations: Recommendations from the Narasimham Committee highlighted the
necessity of addressing money laundering within India’s financial system, contributing to the formulation of the
PMLA.
4. Adherence to International Standards: The PMLA aligns with international standards and recommendations, ensur-
Current Affairs 30
ing India’s compliance with global efforts to combat money laundering.
5. Legislative Authority and Scope: Enacted under Article 253 of the Constitution (it empowers the government to
make laws for implementing the international conventions), the PMLA enables India to remain in alignment with
world standards on Money Laundering.
Amendment to PMLA: Recently in 2023, the Finance Ministry amended the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
and rules in line with the recommendations of the FATF.
Recent amendments made to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA):

• Defines PEPs (Politically Exposed Persons): Individuals who have been entrusted with prominent public functions
by a foreign country, thereby bringing Indian legal uniformity in line with FATF norms
• For Cryptocurrencies: Virtual digital assets (VDA) trade has been brought under PMLA.
o New rules mandate crypto exchanges and intermediaries dealing in virtual assets to maintain the KYCs of
their clients and report suspicious transactions to financial intelligence units.
• Due diligence documentation requirements: It has now been extended. It now includes the submission of details
such as names of persons holding senior management positions, names of partners, etc.
• Beneficial Owners’: Lowered the threshold for identifying beneficial owners by reporting entities, where the client
is acting on behalf of its beneficial owner.
o The term ‘beneficial owner’ refers to those with the entitlement of more than 25% of shares or capital or
profit of the company, which has now been reduced to 10%.
• NPOs: Reporting entities are now required to register details of the client if it’s a non-profit organization (NPO) on
the DARPAN portal of NITI Aayog.
• Clarification on Proceeds of Crime: Proceeds of Crime now encompass not only property derived from scheduled
offences but also from any criminal activity related or similar to the scheduled offence.
• Redefined Money Laundering: Previously dependent on a predicate or scheduled offence, money laundering is now
treated as a distinct standalone crime through an amendment.
Crucial Role Played by PMLA:

Role Examples
Legal Framework The PMLA provides a legal basis for investigating and prosecuting cases such as the 2G spec-
trum scam and the AgustaWestland case
Asset Seizure and Con- Enforcement agencies, under the PMLA, have seized assets worth millions of dollars in cases like
fiscation the Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya frauds
International Compli- India’s adherence to FATF recommendations, as mandated by the PMLA, has facilitated interna-
ance tional cooperation in cases like the Panama Papers scandal
Financial Intelligence The FIU-India, established under the PMLA, coordinates with law enforcement agencies to ana-
Unit (FIU) Coordination lyze financial data and detect suspicious transactions, contributing to successful prosecutions in
cases like the HSBC black money probe
Monitoring Financial Mandatory reporting of high-value transactions by banks under the PMLA has led to the detec-
Transactions tion of suspicious activities, as seen in cases like the INX Media money laundering case
Enhanced Due Dili- Banks and financial entities, under PMLA regulations, conduct rigorous KYC checks to prevent
gence money laundering e.g., PMC Bank scam
Establishing the Source Through PMLA investigations, authorities have been able to establish the source of illicit funds,
of Funds as seen in cases like the Saradha chit-fund scam
Deterrent to Criminals High-profile convictions, such as in the Satyam scam, serve as examples of the deterrent effect
of PMLA enforcement.
Challenges with PMLA Enforcement:

1. Definition of “Proceeds of Crime”: Some argue it’s overly broad, risking the inclusion of lawful transactions.
2. Inclusion of Non-Drug Offences: PMLA encompasses offences beyond its original focus, diluting its purpose.
3. The burden of Proof on Accused: Critics find the burden of proof unreasonably high, potentially impacting fair trials.
4. Concerns of Overreach: E.g., Opposition political parties have alleged misuse of PMLA by ED to arrest party author-
ities including the sitting CM of Delhi
5. Stringent Bail Conditions: In 2018, the Supreme Court found aspects of the PMLA bail provision unconstitutional in
Nikesh Tarachand Shah vs Union of India, citing violations of Articles 14 and 21.
a. However, in 2022, the Court upheld the validity of key provisions empowering the Enforcement Directorate
(ED) to arrest, conduct searches, seizures, and attach proceeds of crime.
Current Affairs 30
6. Lack of Written Communication for Arrest: Arrests GENERAL STUDIES – 4
without written communication violate constitu-
tional rights. Challenges in PMLA Enforcement: Examples of Ethics
7. Complex Legal Procedures: Legal intricacies can lead
to delays and inefficiencies in prosecution.
8. Inadequate Training and Resources: Enforcement
1. EXAMPLE 1: BAN ON DIVERSITY PRO-
agencies may lack the necessary resources for effec- GRAMS IN THE US
tive implementation.
Context:
Reforming PMLA, 2002: Key Suggestions Many U.S. universities have ended diversity programs, im-
1. Parliamentary Committees: Recommended period- pacting minority students.
ic reviews and amendments to the PMLA to address
emerging challenges and ensure its relevance and What are Diversity Programs?
effectiveness. Diversity programs in US universities aim to address inequal-
2. Refinement of “Proceeds of Crime” Definition: De- ities by giving special consideration to minority students,
fine “Proceeds of Crime” precisely to avoid ambigu- such as Black, Indian American, Hispanic, and Native Amer-
ity. ican students. These programs include initiatives like affir-
3. Reassessment of Burden of Proof: Evaluate the bur- mative action in admissions, race-based scholarships, and
den of proof, ensuring fairness and constitutional diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. They seek to
rights. promote diversity and provide opportunities for underrepre-
4. Safeguards Against Officer Overreach: Establish sented groups in higher education.
oversight to monitor law enforcement actions.
5. Review of Stringent Bail Conditions: Streamline bail Ethical issues concerned here are:
procedures without compromising investigations. 1. Equal Opportunity vs. Meritocracy: The debate over
6. Periodic Review and Amendment: Establish a mech- whether affirmative action and diversity programs
anism for periodic review and amendment of PMLA. promote equal opportunity for minority students or
7. Enhanced Independence and Transparency of ED: undermine the principle of meritocracy
Improve reporting and disclosure of ED activities. 2. Academic Freedom vs. Ideological Control: The re-
8. Public Awareness and Education: Conduct cam- strictions and bans on diversity, equity, and inclusion
paigns to educate the public on PMLA’s purpose and (DEI) programs raise concerns about academic free-
procedures. dom and the imposition of ideological control over
9. Consultative Approach: Engage in open dialogues to educational institutions
address concerns and gather diverse perspectives. 3. Ethical Responsibilities of Institutions: Universities
and educational institutions grapple with their ethi-
Conclusion: cal responsibilities to promote diversity, equity, and
The PMLA serves as a critical tool in India’s arsenal against inclusion
money laundering. However, to fully leverage its potential, 4. Ethical implications of rolling back diversity initia-
addressing the challenges in its implementation is essen- tives prompt questions about societal moral obliga-
tial. By strengthening the framework and execution of the tions to address systemic racism and promote equi-
PMLA, India can more effectively combat the complex and ty.
evolving nature of money laundering. 5. Systemic Inequality: The long-standing inequalities
faced by minority students in higher education, in-
Insta Links: cluding disparities in access to resources, opportuni-
• EDITORIAL ANALYSIS: Questionable searches under ties, and representation
the Money Laundering Act
Mains Link: 2. EXAMPLE 2: SENDING INDIAN WORKERS

TO CONFLICT ZONE
Q. Discuss how emerging technologies and globalization con-
tribute to money laundering. Elaborate measures to tackle Context:
the problem of money laundering both at national and inter- The first batch of 64 Indian construction workers from Hary-
national levels. (UPSC 2021) ana and Uttar Pradesh is heading to Israel amid the Gaza
war. Israeli construction industry requested 100,000 Indian
workers to replace Palestinians.
Current Affairs 30
The NSDC International (with 49% government ownership), Ethical lessons from his life:
facilitates Indian workers’ mobility to Israel under a Govern- Fali S Nariman exemplified ethical values throughout his ca-
ment-to-Government agreement reer, demonstrating integrity, courage, and accountability.
One notable example is his acknowledgement of past er-
Advantages: rors, such as defending Union Carbide after the Bhopal trag-
1. Economic Opportunity: Indian workers have access edy. Despite the professional ramifications, Nariman had the
to higher wages in Israel compared to their home courage to admit his mistake, showcasing his commitment
country, providing economic opportunities for them to ethical conduct over personal gain.
and their families.
2. Skill Development: Workers gain valuable skills and Additionally, his principled stands during critical junctures,
experience through international work, potentially such as resigning from the post of Additional Solicitor Gen-
improving their long-term employability and earn- eral during the Emergency and returning the brief of the Gu-
ing potential. jarat Government in protest against attacks on the Christian
3. Diplomatic Relations: Facilitating the movement of community, underscored his unwavering commitment to up-
workers between India and Israel strengthens diplo- holding ethical principles in the face of adversity.
matic ties and promotes cooperation between the
two nations. 4. EXAMPLE 4: LIVING WILL
4. Meeting Labour Demand: Israel’s construction in-
dustry benefits from the influx of skilled labour to fill Context:
gaps created by the cancellation of Palestinian work Recently, 30 people in Thrissur in Kerala have executed liv-
permits. ing wills.
Ethical Concerns: What is a Living Will?

1. Safety and Security: Sending workers to a conflict A living will is a legal document that allows individuals to
zone raises concerns about their safety and well-be- outline their preferences for medical care or the termina-
ing amid ongoing violence and instability. tion of medical support in situations where they are unable
2. Exploitation: There’s a risk of workers from outside to make those decisions themselves. It details their wishes
Israel being mistreated or exploited, particularly if regarding treatments, life-sustaining measures, and end-of-
they lack adequate legal protections or support sys- life care, ensuring that their desires are respected and fol-
tems. lowed by healthcare providers and family members.
3. Moral Dilemmas: Workers may face ethical dilem-
mas when witnessing or being exposed to violence, The Supreme Court’s 2018 ruling affirmed the right to die
suffering, or human rights abuses, potentially lead- with dignity and eased procedures for creating living wills.
ing to psychological trauma.
4. Displacement of Local Workers: Importing foreign Ethical Issues with Living Will:
labour may negatively impact local Palestinian work- 1. Autonomy vs. Accuracy: While living will uphold
ers by reducing job opportunities or driving down individual autonomy by allowing people to express
wages in the region’s labour market. their healthcare preferences, there may be concerns
about the accuracy of these preferences over time
A framework agreement ensures the safety of Indian work- or whether they truly reflect the individual’s wishes
ers in Israel: at the time of decision-making.
1. Indian workers receive equal labour rights as Israeli 2. Interpretation Ambiguity: Instructions in living wills
citizens. can lead to disagreements.
2. They are provided with proper lodging, medical in- 3. Emotional Challenges: Creating a living will can be
surance, social security coverage, and lawful wages emotionally difficult for individuals and families.
and benefits. 4. Cultural and Religious Conflicts: Living wills may
clash with cultural or religious beliefs.
3. EXAMPLE 3: FALI S NARIMAN 5. Legal Framework Variability: Laws surrounding liv-
ing will vary, posing fairness and accessibility con-
Fali S Nariman’s legal career spanned 74 years, during which cerns.
he played a pivotal role in shaping Indian constitutional law. 6. Quality of Life Assessments: Deciding on life-sus-
Known for his unwavering principles, Nariman was not only taining treatments raises subjective quality of life
a successful lawyer but also a moral guide to governments, issues.
the judiciary, and the legal fraternity
Different countries have varying laws regarding euthanasia
and assisted suicide:
Current Affairs 30
1. NETHERLANDS, LUXEMBOURG, and BELGIUM per- during a trip to Paris in 2015. The recent audit report high-
mit both euthanasia and assisted suicide for indi- lighted that they changed hotels and overstayed for a meet-
viduals experiencing “unbearable suffering” with no ing meant for a lower-ranking official.
chance of improvement.
2. SWITZERLAND prohibits euthanasia but permits as- The ethical issues highlighted in this case:
sisted dying in the presence of a doctor or physician. 1. Misuse of Authority: The senior IAS officers mis-
3. CANADA initially allowed euthanasia and assisted used their authority by making unauthorized expen-
dying for mentally ill patients, but this decision has ditures and changing the purpose of the trip to Paris.
faced widespread criticism. 2. Financial Impropriety: The officers incurred un-
4. The US has diverse laws across states, with euthana- authorized expenses amounting to over Rs 6 lakh,
sia permitted in some, such as Washington, Oregon, which were not justified and did not follow proper
and Montana. procedures.
5. The UK deems euthanasia illegal and considers it 3. Lack of Transparency: The officers did not obtain
equivalent to manslaughter. proper approvals or certificates regarding the visit,
and the purpose of the trip was misrepresented.
To know more about the Legal aspect of Living Will Click 4. Breach of Trust: By overstaying and switching hotels
Here without proper authorization, the officers breached
the trust placed in them by the government and tax-
payers.
5. EXAMPLE 5: LONGEVITY INDIA INITIA- 5. Violation of Norms: The officers exceeded the al-
lowed duration for foreign travel, did not obtain
TIVE necessary approvals, and disregarded established
norms and procedures.
Context:
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has launched the ‘Lon-
gevity India Initiative’ to promote healthy ageing by re- 7. EXAMPLE 7: NESTLE INFANT MILK IN
searching overcoming challenges associated with growing POORER COUNTRIES HAS A HIGHER SUG-
older. AR CONTENT COMPARED TO DEVELOPED
The initiative focuses on identifying early disease indicators,
COUNTRIES.
researching ageing biomarkers, and developing new thera-
Context:
peutics and technologies.
Public Eye, a Swiss investigative organization, along with the
International Baby Food Action Network, uncovered this is-
Ethical Values exhibited by the Initiative are:
sue. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that ear-
1. Respect for Human Dignity: By challenging the idea
ly exposure to sugar can lead to a lifelong preference for it,
that ageing is inevitable and aiming to increase hu-
heightening the risk of obesity and other chronic diseases.
man healthspan
2. Collaboration and Partnership: The involvement
Ethical Issues in this case:
of multiple stakeholders, including researchers, cli-
1. Health Impact: Higher sugar content in infant milk
nicians, industry partners, philanthropists, and civil
can lead to health issues such as obesity and chronic
society
illnesses, especially considering the vulnerability of
3. Equity and Inclusivity: By considering factors like
infants.
lifestyle and culture, especially in a diverse country
2. Transparency: There’s a lack of transparency regard-
like India
ing the nutritional content of Nestle infant milk, par-
4. Responsibility and Accountability: The initiative
ticularly in poorer countries
recognizes the urgency of addressing the growing
3. Targeting Vulnerable Populations: Marketing prod-
burden of ageing in the country and emphasizes the
ucts with higher sugar content to poorer countries,
need for diverse stakeholders to come together and
where health resources and education might be lim-
take responsibility for developing solutions.
ited, can be seen as exploitative and unethical.
4. Equity: Discrepancies in sugar content between
6. EXAMPLE 6: MISUSE OF PUBLIC MONEY products sold in different countries can raise ques-
BY THREE IAS OFFICERS tions about equity and fairness in access to healthier
nutritional options.
Context: 5. Breach of trust: Selling an inferior product breaches
Three senior IAS officers from the Chandigarh Adminis- consumer trust.
tration made unauthorized expenditures of over Rs 6 lakh
Current Affairs 30
Regulations: The Codex Alimentarius sets global standards for food safety and quality, established by the joint effort of the
Food and Agriculture Organization and WHO. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 defines regulations and es-
tablishes the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India as the apex regulatory body for ensuring food safety and quality.
8. SIBLING RELATIONSHIPS ARE IMPORTANT

Context:
A recent study proves that Sibling Rivalry is Good for Children
Sibling relationships offer a blend of camaraderie and competition, shaping identity and social skills while providing com-
panionship and support. Celebrations like National Siblings Day in the U.S., Brothers and Sisters Day in Europe, and Raksha
Bandhan in India highlight the importance of cherishing these bonds.
Fighting among siblings is not just inevitable, it is educational. How?

Aspect Explanation
Development of Con- Sibling fights often serve as a training ground for conflict resolution. Children learn negotiation,
flict Resolution Skills compromise, and problem-solving skills by resolving disputes with their siblings.
For example, two siblings arguing over sharing toys might learn to negotiate and find a compro-
mise where they take turns playing with the toys.
Understanding of Dif- Sibling conflicts provide opportunities for children to understand different viewpoints and em-
ferent Perspectives pathize with others
For instance, if siblings disagree over which TV show to watch, they learn to consider each other’s
preferences and compromise, enhancing their empathy and understanding.
Assertion of Personal Sibling fights help children establish and assert personal boundaries. Through disagreements,
Boundaries they learn to communicate their needs and preferences assertively, fostering independence and
self-confidence.
For example, if siblings argue over borrowing clothes, they learn to respect each other’s belong-
ings and set boundaries.
Preparation for Re- Dealing with conflicts among siblings prepares children for challenges they may encounter in
al-world Challenges other relationships and social settings. By navigating disagreements with siblings, children de-
velop skills to handle conflicts with peers, colleagues, and friends in the future.
For instance, resolving disputes over chores with siblings can teach children how to negotiate and
collaborate in group projects at school or work.
Cultivation of Resil- Sibling conflicts teach children to cope with adversity and bounce back from disagreements.
ience Through conflicts, they learn to manage emotions, adapt to changing situations, and maintain
relationships despite disagreements, fostering resilience.
For example, siblings who argue over sharing snacks may learn to forgive and forget, strengthen-
ing their bond and resilience.
Sibling rivalry arises from competition for parental attention, resources, and status. It can stem from perceived inequalities
or differences in treatment. While it may lessen with age, it can persist into adulthood, albeit in different forms such as jeal-
ousy or comparison.
Views of Thinkers:
Thinker Perspective
Confucius Emphasized the importance of family harmony and filial piety, considering sibling relationships as
foundational for societal harmony
Mahatma Gandhi Advocated for strong family bonds, including sibling relationships, as a source of support and solidar-
ity
R a b i n d r a n a t h Highlighted the role of siblings in shaping one’s identity and values: Bonds formed in childhood have
Tagore a lasting impact on an individual’s character and worldview.
Current Affairs 30
Sigmund Freud Acknowledged the complex dynamics of sibling relationships: Rivalry and affection playing crucial
roles in shaping behaviour.
Jean Piaget Noted that sibling interactions contribute to cognitive development, as children learn social skills,
perspective-taking, and problem-solving through their interactions and conflicts with siblings.
Margaret Mead Recognized siblings as influential socializing agents, shaping attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours, and
contributing to the transmission of cultural norms and values within a family and society.
9. ETHICAL CONCERNS REGARDING MISUSE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Context:
The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the misuse of social media platforms, initiating contempt proceedings
against an Assam legislator for a misleading Facebook post about a pending case.
Factors responsible for misuse of Media:

The misuse of social media platforms stems from various factors, including the rapid growth of the internet coupled with
the anonymity it provides, the expanding user base, and the ambiguity surrounding the legal responsibilities of social
media platforms. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence, such as deepfake technology, have exacerbated the
issue, while the absence of robust grievance redressal mechanisms further compounds the problem.
Negative Impact of Misuse of Media:

The negative impacts of this misuse are far-reaching, leading to the propagation of prejudiced narratives based on incom-
plete or inaccurate information, excessive trolling, and unjustified public opinions. Furthermore, it results in defamation,
invasion of privacy, the dissemination of morphed images, and disrespect to religious sentiments. There is also a growing
concern about the fear of bias in judicial decisions due to public pressure and the spread of disharmony, financial fraud, and
incitement of violence.
In response, governments have implemented measures such as the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and
Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 and the establishment of PIB’s Fact Check Unit to address misinformation. They have
also issued advisories to intermediaries and taken actions like blocking OTT platforms from publishing obscene or vulgar
content.
The ethical issues in the case include:

1. Misuse of Freedom of Expression: Posting misleading information on social media under the guise of freedom of
speech can mislead the public and undermine the integrity of the judiciary.
2. Integrity of the Judiciary: False claims about court proceedings can erode public trust in the judicial system and
compromise the administration of justice.
3. Accountability of Public Figures: Elected officials, like the Assam legislator in this case, have a responsibility to up-
hold ethical standards and avoid spreading misinformation, especially regarding legal matters.
4. Social Media Abuse: The case highlights the broader issue of social media abuse, including trolling and spreading
false information, which can have serious consequences for individuals and institutions.
Views of Thinkers:
Thinker Perspective
Mahatma Gandhi Warned about the potential misuse of technology for nefarious purposes, emphasizing the need for
ethical considerations and responsible use to prevent harm to society.
Plato Expressed concerns about the power of rhetoric and persuasion in shaping public opinion, cautioning
against the manipulation of truth and dissemination of false information through media.
S w a m i Highlighted the importance of moral and ethical values in technological advancements, urging indi-
Vivekananda viduals to use social media responsibly and ethically to promote positive social change.
Marshall McLu- Introduced the concept of the “global village” and the pervasive influence of media on society, rais-
han ing concerns about the homogenization of culture and the loss of critical thinking skills.
Amartya Sen Stressed the importance of freedom of expression in a democratic society but cautioned against the
unchecked spread of misinformation, advocating for measures to ensure media accountability.
Current Affairs 30
10. VOLUNTARY CODE OF ETHICS FOR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS

Context:
The Election Commission of India (EC) requested X (formerly Twitter) to take down four election-related posts, citing vio-
lations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). X complied with the requests but disagreed with the orders, citing freedom
of expression. The EC reminded X of the Voluntary Code of Ethics for social media platforms, established in 2019, which
includes rules for spreading awareness about elections and timely action on legal requests.
The Internet & Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and its members agreed to adhere to the “Voluntary Code of Ethics”
during all future elections.
Aim: The code, aimed at addressing paid advertisements that breach Election Commission norms, was implemented during
the last Lok Sabha polls in 2019.
Social media platforms took action on 909 reported violations during the last Lok Sabha polls, marking the first voluntary
adoption of such norms by internet-based companies for online poll campaigns.
Features of the Code of Ethics:

Feature Description
No political campaign in the last Social media platforms will not allow any political campaigns to run during this period
48 hours before polling to enable voters to make informed decisions without campaign influence.
Information, education, and Platforms will conduct campaigns to raise awareness about electoral laws and related
communication campaigns instructions.
Dedicated grievance redressal Platforms have established a channel to address complaints reported by the Election
channel Commission of India (ECI) with high priority.
Notification mechanism for po- ECI can notify platforms of potential violations of electoral laws, including Section 126
tential violations of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, through a dedicated mechanism.
Pre-certification of political ad- All political advertisements must be pre-certified by the Media Certification and Mon-
vertisements itoring Committees, following the Supreme Court’s directions.
Transparency in paid political ad- Platforms will ensure transparency in paid political advertisements, utilizing their ex-
vertisements isting labels/disclosure technology for such ads.
Challenges in enforcing the Code of Ethics:

Enforcing the code of ethics on social media presents significant challenges due to its extensive penetration and the ability
of anyone to upload content, making regulation by the Election Commission of India (ECI) or social media platforms nearly
impossible. The ECI can only address content brought to its attention, leaving much unregulated. Fake news proliferates
despite government efforts and political proxy advertisements via fan pages complicate matters. Social media platforms ex-
press concerns about encroachment on their freedoms, including privacy and freedom of speech. Establishing and staffing
a monitoring mechanism for social media content is daunting, and the effectiveness of such monitoring remains uncertain.
Suggestions:
The way forward involves social media platforms promptly adhering to the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) directives
regarding content and taking swift action accordingly. Users must be educated to differentiate between fake and accurate
news. Social media platforms are urged to operate within moral frameworks during elections, fostering constructive en-
gagement. They should also ensure content alignment with global peace and harmony. Political parties should commit to
fair social media usage. Monitoring public content is essential for fair elections. Like candidate expenditure limits, political
parties should have similar restrictions. ECI should enforce a 48-hour ban on political advertisements on social platforms.
Additionally, dedicated ECI machinery is necessary to manage political content on social media during elections.
11. UK: DEPORTATION OF ASYLUM SEEKERS TO RWANDA

Context: The UK Parliament passed a bill allowing asylum seekers arriving irregularly to be deported to Rwanda, a move
spearheaded by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to curb Channel crossings. Despite opposition, the bill cleared both houses and is set
to become law. It will apply to anyone who arrives in the UK without prior permission, even if their aim is to claim asylum
on legitimate grounds
Current Affairs 30
However, critics, argue that it’s cruel and ineffective.
Ethical issues include:

1. Questions about the safety and well-being of individuals being sent to Rwanda
2. The fairness of the deportation process
3. The potential for exploitation or harm of vulnerable populations
4. By overriding laws preventing deportation and compelling courts to treat Rwanda as a “safe country,” there’s a clear
violation of the rule of law.
5. Rwanda’s human rights record, marred by allegations of ill-treatment of dissidents, journalists, and refugees, raises
serious doubts about the ethical implications of such a decision.
6. Sending refugees to a country where they may face persecution violates the core principle of non-refoulment in
international refugee law, as outlined in the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 protocol.
Thinkers’ Views:
Ethical Thinker View on Asylum Seekers and Refugees
Mahatma Gandhi Advocated for compassion and support towards asylum seekers and refugees, emphasizing the
principles of nonviolence and empathy.
Rabindranath Tag- Emphasized the importance of hospitality and universal brotherhood, promoting acceptance and
ore integration of refugees into society.
Swami Vivekanan- Would likely advocate for providing refuge to those in need, viewing it as a moral duty and an expres-
da sion of humanitarianism.
Nelson Mandela Emphasized the importance of solidarity and support for refugees, drawing from his own experience
of fighting against discrimination and injustice.
Aung San Suu Kyi Advocated for the protection of refugees’ rights and the promotion of democracy and human
rights as essential for ensuring their well-being and dignity.
India’s stance on refugees:

India is not a party to the Refugee Convention, as it hasn’t ratified either the 1951 Convention or its 1967 Protocol, and
India lacks a national refugee protection framework. Nonetheless, India extends asylum to numerous refugees from neigh-
bouring states and adheres to UNHCR’s guidelines for other nationals, particularly from Afghanistan and Myanmar. For asy-
lum-seekers from non-neighbouring countries, India conducts Refugee Status Determination (RSD) before granting asylum
12. MISLEADING ADVERTISEMENTS AND ISSUES RELATED TO IT

Context:
The Supreme Court has urged the government to take action
against Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies for
using misleading advertisements, especially those targeting
families with babies and schoolchildren.
In another case, the Supreme Court criticized the Union govern-

ment for its inaction against Patanjali Ayurved over misleading
advertisements and ordered the company’s MD Acharya Bal-
akrishna and co-founder Yoga guru Ramdev to submit their pub-
lic apology published in newspapers.
Concerns were raised amid reports of higher sugar content in

Nestle’s baby food products.
What are Misleading Advertisements?

Misleading advertisements are promotional messages or claims
that deceive or mislead consumers about the characteristics,
benefits, or efficacy of a product or service. These ads may con-
tain false or exaggerated information, leading consumers to
make purchasing decisions based on inaccurate perceptions
Current Affairs 30
Examples of misleading advertisements:
Company Misleading Claim
Detox Tea Co. “Lose 10 lbs in 7 days with our tea”
Beauty Products Inc. “Eliminates wrinkles in one day”
Bourn Vita “Our drink is low in sugar” (when it contains high sugar content)
Fresh Teeth Inc. “Whitens teeth 10 shades in one use”
Hair Care Co. “Regrows hair in 2 weeks”
Social Networking Inc. “100% safe and secure”
Impact of misleading advertisement:

Impact Examples
Loss of Customer Volkswagen used deceptive advertising to market their diesel cars as environmentally friendly,
Trust causing damage to the environment and a loss of trust in the company by customers.
Negative Brand PepsiCo’s advertising campaign for Aquafina bottled water, which claimed the water was “pure, per-
Image fect and refreshing,” was misleading because the water was sourced from tap water.
Legal Conse- L’Oreal was sued by the Federal Trade Commission (USA) for advertising that their anti-ageing creams
quences could mimic the effects of a surgical facelift.
Health Impact For example, sugary drinks such as soda are associated with many health problems.
Ethical impact Unfair Competition, Breach of Trust, Deception and Manipulation
Legal provisions against misleading advertisements:

Legal Provisions Description
CCPA’s Guidelines to Pre- Issued in 2022, these guidelines cover goods, products, and services, and aim to prevent
vent False or Misleading false or misleading advertising.
Advertisements
Food Safety and Standards Specifically deals with food (and related products), and regulates product claims, while the
Regulations, 2018 above guidelines deal with goods, products and services.
Cable Television Network Advertisements must not draw inferences that it has “some special or miraculous or su-
Rules, 1994 pernatural property or quality, which is difficult to prove.
FSS Act 2006 Misleading ads are punishable under Section 53 of the Food Safety and Standards Act,
2006.
Consumer Welfare Fund Set up under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017, this fund promotes and
protects the welfare of consumers.
Central Consumer Protec- Monitors and enforces consumer protection laws facilitates consumer education, and
tion Council provides consumer redressal mechanisms.
Consumer Protection These mandatory rules require sellers to take back defective or deficient goods, withdraw
(E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 services, or provide refunds if goods or services do not meet the description on the plat-
form.
Advertising Standards A self-regulatory organization that monitors ads and deals with complaints against them
Council of India (ASCI) in India.
The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) had previously released guidelines on
dark patterns in digital advertisements, urging companies not to mislead customers
through omission, exaggeration, implication, or ambiguity.
Thinker’s view on Misleading Advertisements:

Ethical Thinker Views
Mahatma Gandhi Misleading people is a violation of truthfulness and honesty.
Chanakya Emphasized the importance of ethical conduct in business and the detrimental effects of deceptive
practices.
Current Affairs 30
Swami Vivekanan- Advocated for truth and integrity, promoting the welfare of society.
da
Immanuel Kant Misleading people violate the principle of treating individuals as ends in themselves, rather than
means to an end.
Insta Links
• Regulating misleading advertisements

Mains Links
Q. Do you think that the brand ambassadors of products should be held accountable for misleading advertisements and
endorsements? Examine. (250 Words)

Prelims Links
Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2018)
1. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 replaced the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.
2. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is under the charge of the Director General of Health Services
in the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: A
13. GUIDELINES FOR THE ELIMINATION OF CORPORAL PUNISHMENT IN SCHOOLS

(GECP)
Context:
The Tamil Nadu School Education Department has released Guidelines for the Elimination of Corporal Punishment in Schools
(GECP), focusing on safeguarding students’ physical and mental well-being.
The guidelines, issued jointly by the Director of School Education and the Director of Elementary Education, address vari-
ous forms of harassment, in line with the Right to Education Act, 2009. Measures include awareness camps, prompt com-
plaint resolution, and the establishment of monitoring committees at each school. Affirmative actions against corporal
punishment and promoting a positive environment are also emphasized. District-level officers are instructed to ensure
schools implement these guidelines effectively.
What is Corporal Punishment?

Corporal punishment refers to the use of physical force against students as a means of discipline or punishment in educa-
tional settings. It can include actions such as hitting, spanking, or other forms of physical punishment inflicted by teachers
or school authorities on students.
Key legal provisions related to the prohibition of corporal punishment:

1. Article 39 of the Constitution: Mandates the State to protect childhood and youth from exploitation, including
physical and mental abuse.
2. Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act 2009: Section 17 of the Act explicitly prohibits phys-
ical and mental harassment of children in schools, making it a punishable offence.
3. NCPCR guidelines: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) provides guidelines for elimi-
nating corporal punishment. This includes promoting positive engagement with children and establishing Corporal
Punishment Monitoring Cells in every school to ensure compliance with anti-corporal punishment measures.
Current Affairs 30
Ethical Issues with Corporal Punishment:
Ethical Issue Description
Physical and psychological Corporal punishment can cause physical injuries, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other men-
harm tal health issues.
Perpetuation of violence By using violence as a disciplinary measure, corporal punishment may normalize and per-
petuate violence in society.
Discrimination and dispro- Corporal punishment may be applied disproportionately or discriminatorily based on fac-
portionate impact tors such as gender, race, or socioeconomic status.
Ineffectiveness as a disci- It may fail to promote positive behavioural changes or moral development, teaching chil-
plinary measure dren to fear punishment rather than learn from their mistakes.
Impact on education Corporal punishment can lead to higher school dropout rates and poor learning outcomes
due to the atmosphere of fear and intimidation it creates in classrooms.
Thinker’s views on Corporal Punishments:

Thinker View on Corporal Punishment
Mahatma Gandhi Opposed corporal punishment, advocated for nonviolent methods of discipline and education.
Rabindranath Tagore Condemned corporal punishment, believed in nurturing individual creativity and moral develop-
ment through positive reinforcement.
Maria Montessori Advocated against corporal punishment, and promoted child-centered education focused on nur-
turing independence and self-discipline.
Jean-Jacques Rous- Opposed corporal punishment, believed in the natural goodness of children and the importance
seau of freedom in education.
John Dewey Criticized corporal punishment, and emphasized experiential learning and democratic principles
in education.
14. DIGITAL DILEMMA: CHILDREN’S DIGITAL SCREEN TIME

Context:
In several studies, it has been found that screen time among children is more than 2 hours a day
Reasons for the increase in children’s screen time:

1. Role Modeling: Children mimic their parents, family, and peers.
2. Educational and Recreational Needs: Mobile use surged during the COVID-19 pandemic for learning and entertain-
ment.
3. Working Parents: Mobile phones are often given to children for safety and communication.
4. Accessibility: The widespread availability of smartphones, tablets, and computers has made screens more accessi-
ble than ever.
In today’s digital age, children are increasingly immersed in screens, from smartphones to computers, raising concerns about
their health. While screens offer educational and entertainment opportunities, excessive screen time has health implica-
tions:
1. Sedentary Lifestyle: Leads to obesity and cardiovascular issues.
2. Sleep Disruption: Blue light affects sleep quality and duration.
3. Eye Strain: Causes discomfort and vision problems.
4. Behavioural Issues: Linked to attention deficits and impulsivity
5. Cognitive ability and social skills: High screen time can hinder the development of important Cognitive, social and
emotional skills, such as empathy.
6. Cyber Bullying and Child Abuse: Incidents of bullying and abuse are rising. Young girls are more prone to them.
Recent initiatives in child well-being:

1. WHO Guidelines: It recommends no screen time for babies under 2 years old, with limited screen time for those
aged 2 to 4. Additionally, implementing parental controls and filters can help block access to unsuitable content and
products, ensuring a healthier screen time experience for children.
Current Affairs 30
2. Manodarpan Initiative: Launched by the Ministry of Education, it provides psychosocial support to students for
mental health and emotional well-being.
3. CCPWC (Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children) Scheme: An initiative of the Ministry of Home Af-
fairs aimed at preventing cybercrime against women and children, ensuring a safe online environment.
To mitigate risks, strategies include setting limits, promoting active screen use, creating screen-free zones, leading by
example, and educating families. Balancing screen time with other activities is crucial for children’s holistic development.
CONTENT FOR MAINS ENRICHMENT

Context Usage
1. EMPATHIC VOICE Context:
Hume AI has developed the world’s first conversational AI with emotional intelligence,
INTERFACE (EVI)
named Empathic Voice Interface (EVI).
• This technology can interpret human emotions and respond with empathy, aim-
ing to enhance human well-being.
• Powered by an empathic large language model (eLLM), EVI understands tones of
voice and word emphasis to optimize interactions.
• Its integration capability allows it to power various applications, potentially rev-
olutionizing fields like AI assistants, customer support, and therapy
The ethical values of the company named after philosopher David Hume revolve around
building AI that prioritizes human goals and emotional well-being.
This approach is guided by the recognition that emotions play a crucial role in driving
human choices and overall well-being.
By focusing on these principles, the company seeks to develop AI systems that not only
understand human emotions but also work to enhance them, ultimately contributing
to a more ethically grounded and human-centric approach to artificial intelligence de-
velopment
2. BILINGUAL Context:
Bilingual Braille signage in English and Tamil will be available at all polling stations across
BRAILLE AT POLLING
30 Assembly constituencies in the Puducherry Union Territory for the upcoming Lok
BOOTHS Sabha election.
This initiative aims to facilitate visually-impaired voters in casting their ballots independent-
ly. The Braille signage will contain candidate details, allowing voters to easily identify and
vote for their chosen candidate. Additionally, visually impaired voters have the option to
bring a companion if they prefer, as per Rule 49N of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961.
Ethical values depicted in the scenario:
1. Inclusivity: Braille signage ensures equal access to voting.
2. Empathy: Independent voting options show understanding for visually impaired
voters.
3. Transparency: Clear Braille signage enhances electoral process clarity.
4. Accountability: Officials ensure support for visually impaired voters.
5. Respect: Accommodations reflect dignity and autonomy.
Current Affairs 30
3. INNOVATIVE TAX- Context:

Toronto’s latest tax innovation, the ‘stormwater charge,’ aims to tackle urban flooding by
ES
penalizing properties with excessive concrete.
Type Tax Description
Historical Russia’s Beard Tax In 18th-century Russia, a tax was levied
Unusual Taxes on beards to encourage a more Western,
clean-shaven appearance.
Britain’s Window Tax In the same era, British homes were taxed
based on the number of windows, a strate-
gy aimed at the wealthy
Modern Unusu- Toronto’s ‘Stormwater This proposed tax in Toronto is based on
al Taxes Charge’ the ratio of permeable to impermeable
surfaces on properties, intending to miti-
gate flooding.
Switzerland and Ger- Depending on the breed and weight of the
many’s Dog Tax dog, owners can be taxed differently, with
larger breeds like Bull Terriers and Great
Danes incurring higher taxes.
Sweden’s Baby Name A tax is imposed on families choosing
Tax names that are deemed confusing, offen-
sive, or hard to pronounce, such as the
case of a family who named their daughter
Metallica.
These taxes serve diverse purposes: influencing behaviour, raising funds, promoting so-
cial norms, targeting specific groups, and regulating choices.
In news How to use?

4. UNHRC RES- Context:
The United Nations Human Rights Council recently made a historic decision by adopting a res-
OLUTION ON IN-
olution aimed at combating discrimination and harmful practices against intersex people.
TERSEX PEOPLE
Who are Intersex people?
Intersex people are individuals born with sex characteristics (such as sexual anatomy, repro-
ductive organs, hormonal patterns, and/or chromosomal patterns) that do not align with typ-
ical binary notions of male or female bodies. They may have any gender identity or sexual
orientation. Experts estimate that up to 1.7% of the population are born with intersex traits.
Intersex individuals are distinct from transgender individuals, as the former’s physical charac-
teristics do not necessarily match their gender identity.
The resolution calls upon member states to address root causes of discrimination, such as
stereotypes and misinformation, and to ensure the rights to bodily integrity and autonomy
for intersex individuals.
The resolution on intersex rights promotes ethical values such as combating discrimination,
ensuring the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, and addressing root
causes of human rights violations.
Current Affairs 30
5. RISING ROLE Context:

More Indian women are actively participating in financial decision-making, with 98% of ur-
OF WOMEN IN
ban women involved in long-term family decisions, including household financial investments,
FINANCE AND according to the recent AMFi-CRISIL report.
WORKFORCE • Female LFPR up to 41.5% (Oct 2023) from 24.6% (2017-18), with rural women show-
ing a faster growth rate
• 47% of women make independent financial decisions. Autonomy varies with income,
age, and affluence stage
Challenges in Women’s Financial Autonomy: Socio-cultural: Patriarchy, gender stereotypes.,

Lower workforce participation, gender pay gap, unpaid domestic work burden
Significance of Women’s Role in Financial Decision-Making:

1. Social Impact: Empowerment, gender equality, reduced conflict, better education, and
healthcare.
2. Economic Impact: Financial literacy, wealth management, entrepreneurship, and in-
novation.
Values exhibited:
1. Gender equality: Addressing disparities and promoting equal opportunities.
2. Social justice: Reducing gender-based discrimination and fostering inclusivity.
3. Empowerment: Enhancing autonomy and decision-making power.
4. Fairness: Ensuring equitable treatment and opportunities for all genders.
5. Respect: Valuing diverse perspectives and contributions in the workforce.
6. JAPAN’S ‘Womenomics’ refers to a set of economic policies and reforms aimed at promoting women’s
participation in the workforce and enhancing gender equality in the economy.
“WOMENOMICS”
The term was popularized in Japan under the administration of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as
REFORMS part of his broader economic agenda known as ‘Abenomics.’
The ‘womenomics’ reforms in Japan included various initiatives:
1. Improving access to childcare and early childhood education to enable more women
to enter or re-enter the workforce.
2. Enhancing support for work-life balance, including flexible working arrangements and
parental leave policies.
3. Promoting women’s leadership and career advancement through initiatives such as
gender diversity targets and mentorship programs.
4. Increasing efforts to combat gender discrimination and bias in the workplace.
5. Encouraging businesses to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for
women employees.
‘Womenomics’ seeks to leverage the untapped potential of women in the workforce to drive
economic growth, address demographic challenges, and achieve greater gender equality in
society.
7. NTPC’S GIRL Context: NTPC launches a new edition of the Girl Empowerment Mission, aligning with the
Government of India’s Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative. The program aims to tackle gender
EMPOWERMENT
inequality by nurturing girls’ imaginations and offering them opportunities for development.
MISSION Starting April 2024, nearly 3,000 underprivileged children will benefit from the 1-month work-
shop across 42 locations, totalling over 10,000 beneficiaries. It will include programmes for
empowering girls through leadership development and holistic skill-building in health, hygiene,
safety, fitness, sports, and yoga.
Why in News? How to Use in Answers?
Current Affairs 30
8. KUSUM JAIN Context: Kusum Jain, a champion for children’s rights, founded the Parents Forum for Mean-
ingful Education (PFME) to address injustices faced by school children. She fought against
corporal punishment and challenged exam secrecy laws, aiming to ensure transparency and
dignity for students. Despite facing challenges and personal injury, she remained steadfast in
her advocacy, leaving behind a legacy of tireless dedication to the cause.
Ethical Values Shown by Her:
1. Advocacy: Kusum Jain demonstrated a commitment to advocating for children’s
rights and well-being.
2. Courage: She showed bravery in challenging entrenched systems and fighting for
meaningful change.
3. Persistence: Despite facing obstacles and setbacks, Kusum Jain remained steadfast in
her pursuit of justice for children.
4. Compassion: She exhibited care and concern for the welfare of children affected by
injustices in the education system.
5. Integrity: Kusum Jain maintained a strong sense of moral principles and honesty in
her advocacy efforts.
9. 4PS (POLITICAL Context: India’s development strategy, characterized by the 4Ps (Political Leadership, Public
Financing, Partnerships, and Participation), has led to significant success in national programs.
LEADERSHIP, PUB-
LIC FINANCING, Explanation of each of the 4Ps using Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Example:
PARTNERSHIPS, P Explanation Examples

Political Setting the vision, direction, and Government’s initiative to tackle open
AND PARTICIPA-
Leadership institutional framework for de- defecation through the Swachh Bharat
TION) velopment initiatives. Mission. Creation of institutional
mechanisms to implement large-scale
programs.
Public Allocation of financial resources Allocation of approximately $20 billion
Financing by the government towards de- towards sanitation initiatives under
velopment projects and initia- the SBM. Investment in infrastructure
tives. development for poverty reduction.
Partnerships Collaborative efforts involving Collaboration with international orga-
multiple stakeholders to achieve nizations like the World Bank, NGOs,
development goals. and local administrations for imple-
menting the SBM. Partnership with
communities and media.
People’s Engagement and involvement Empowering communities to build toi-
Participation of communities in development lets and end open defecation under
activities, fostering ownership the SBM. Women and girls leading
and sustainability. efforts to declare villages open defeca-
tion-free.
Usage: The 4Ps framework can be used to explain the success of schemes in India e.g. Swachh
Bharat Mission, Mission Lifestyle etc.
Current Affairs 30
10. INNOVATION What is the Innovation trap?

TRAP It refers to a situation where organizations strive to innovate but inadvertently fall into pat-
terns of thinking and behaviour that stifle genuine creativity and progress. This trap often
arises when organizations prioritize conformity, rely too heavily on past successes, or resist
challenging the status quo.
Explanation using example:

Kodak’s downfall can be attributed to its reluctance to embrace digital photography despite
inventing the first digital camera in 1975. Instead of capitalizing on this innovation, Kodak
continued to focus on its traditional film business, believing that digital photography was just
a passing fad. This lack of foresight and innovation allowed competitors like Canon and Nikon
to gain a foothold in the digital camera market.
How does the “Elephants in Denmark” trick demonstrate ‘Herd Mentality’?
It is a mental exercise that demonstrates herd behaviour and conformity in decision-mak-

ing. Participants are asked to follow a series of steps involving multiplication, addition, sub-
traction, and association with letters and words, ultimately leading them to think of a grey
elephant in Denmark. The trick reveals how individuals, despite believing they are making
unique choices, often end up following a predetermined pattern or suggestion, akin to herd
mentality.
How to Overcome Innovation Trap and Herd Mentality?

1. Encourage alternative thinking: Foster a culture that values diverse perspectives and
encourages employees to challenge conventional wisdom.
2. Empower outliers: Identify individuals who challenge the status quo and support
them in developing and implementing innovative ideas.
3. Create a culture of experimentation: Promote a mindset where failure is seen as
a learning opportunity, and provide resources for experimentation and exploration.
4. Measure outcomes, not just outputs: Shift focus from simply generating ideas to
evaluating the impact and effectiveness of those ideas in achieving organizational
goals.
5. Establish structured recognition programs: Reward and recognize individuals and
teams that demonstrate innovative thinking and drive meaningful change.
6. Foster collaboration and open communication: Encourage cross-functional collab-
oration and create channels for sharing ideas and feedback across the organization.
Current Affairs 30
WHY IN NEWS? HOW TO USE IN ANSWERS?

11. RANDOM- Context: Randomized Control Trials (RCTs), pioneered by Sir Austin Bradford Hill, revolu-
tionized TB treatment.
IZED CONTROL
What is RTC?
TRIALS (RCTS)
Randomized Control Trials (RCTs) are a type of scientific experiment commonly used in med-
ical research and other fields to assess the effectiveness of interventions or treatments. In
an RCT, participants are randomly assigned to either the treatment group, which receives
the intervention being studied, or the control group, which does not receive the interven-
tion or receives a placebo. This random assignment helps ensure that any differences ob-
served between the two groups are due to the intervention itself and not to other factors.
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have revolutionized medicine, providing an impartial

way to assess treatment efficacy. They’ve led to major breakthroughs like aspirin preventing
heart attacks, HIV antiretroviral therapies, and COVID-19 vaccines. RCTs tested streptomy-
cin, the first effective antibiotic for TB, transforming TB management. Sir Austin Bradford
Hill’s work introduced the ‘Bradford Hill Criteria,’ vital in modern epidemiology. These cri-
teria confirmed links between factors like alcohol and heart disease, and smoking and lung
cancer, shaping public health policies and perceptions.
Kremer and fellow economists Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo won the 2019 Nobel Prize
winner in Economics for experiments using RTCs
Current Affairs 30
12. ‘MILLION MI- Context:

The Embassy of Israel in India has joined the ‘Million Miyawaki’ project, aimed at improv-
YAWAKI’ PROJECT
ing air quality in Indian cities through mass afforestation in urban spaces. In collaboration
with the Million Miyawaki Foundation, the embassy will plant a million trees in Delhi-NCR,
creating forest-like Miyawaki plantations with up to 30 locally sourced species (as part of
Earth Day celebrations)
About Miyawaki Method:
It is inspired by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, and boosts greenery in compact spaces.
It fosters multi-layered forests with quick growth, mimicking natural biodiversity. Though
they lack some natural forest attributes like medicinal properties, they serve as effective
carbon sinks and mitigate ecological damage from activities like mining.
What is Earth Day?

Earth Day, originating in 1970 after widespread protests against environmental degrada-
tion is now observed globally on April 22nd. Coordinated by EARTHDAY.ORG, formerly Earth
Day Network, its aim is to mobilize a massive environmental movement for transformative
change.
Notably, the Paris Agreement, a landmark climate accord, was signed on Earth Day in 2016.
It underscores a collective responsibility, as outlined in the 1992 Rio Declaration, to achieve
a balance between economic, social, and environmental needs for present and future gen-
erations. Other important environmental days include World Water Day on March 22nd,
World Biodiversity Day on May 22nd, and World Environment Day on June 5th. Addition-
ally, Earth Hour, an initiative by the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), occurs annually
on the last Saturday of March, urging individuals worldwide to switch off lights from 8:30
pm to 9:30 pm to raise awareness about climate change and environmental conservation.
13. LIBERAL DE- Context:
The recent student protests on US campuses against the war in Gaza, have highlighted a
MOCRACY
complex crisis involving liberal democracy, universities, and the nature of protest itself.
The protests reflect a crisis of liberal democracy due to the political system’s failure to ad-
dress atrocities in Gaza and its impact on young people’s (primarily students) sense of po-
litical agency. Additionally, the crackdown on free speech during these protests signals a
deeper crisis of democracy and polarization within the United States.
What is Liberal Democracy?

Liberal democracy is a form of government characterized by the protection of individual
rights and freedoms, the rule of law, free and fair elections, and a system of checks and
balances. It emphasizes principles such as equality before the law, freedom of speech, press,
and assembly, and the separation of powers between different branches of government.
The solution to address the crisis of liberal democracy stemming from student protests in
universities involves promoting dialogue and understanding between students and univer-
sity administrations, respecting freedom of speech and expression while ensuring safety
and order on campus, and encouraging constructive engagement with issues through chan-
nels such as forums, debates, and student-led initiatives.
Current Affairs 30
FACTS FOR PRELIMS
GS-1
1. MOHINIYATTAM
Context:
The Kerala Kalamandalam, a prestigious cultural institution, has announced a significant policy change allowing male danc-
ers to learn Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form previously reserved exclusively for women.
2. 100 YEARS OF VAIKOM SATYAGRAHA

Context:
The Vaikom satyagraha, initiated in 1924 in Vaikom, Travancore, marked the beginning of temple entry movements in India
About Description
Vaikom Satyagra- It was a historic non-violent movement against untouchability and caste discrimination in
ha (March 30, 1924 to the country. It marked the start of temple entry movements across India.
November 23, 1925)
Issue The Kingdom of Travancore had a rigid and oppressive caste system, and the people belong-
ing to the oppressed classes, especially the Ezhavas, had no right to walk on the four roads
surrounding the Vaikom Mahadeva temple (District: Kottayam, Kerala)
Leaders Spearheaded by Congress leader T.K. Madhavan; K.P. Kesava Menon (then secretary of Kerala
Congress) and Congress leader and educationist K. Kelappan (also known as Kerala Gandhi)
The course of the Move- The Congress Untouchability Committee decided to start the movement at the Mahadeva
ment temple in Vaikom. On March 30, 1924, volunteers from three different communities were
sent to walk on the prohibited roads each day.
Current Affairs 30
Support to the Move- ‘Periyar’ E.V. Ramasamy was requested to lead the campaign
ment Members of forward castes marched from Travancore to the royal palace at Thiruvananthapu-
ram, in a show of solidarity for the social reform
Akalis (Sikhs) from Punjab gave their support by opening a community kitchen (langar) for
the volunteers
Chattampi Swamikal and Sree Narayana Guru gave support to the movement.
Mahatma Gandhi arrived at Vaikom in March 1925 to arrive at a compromise and settle the
issue once and for all.
The success of the Move- • Oppressed castes were given the right to move on public roads in the vicinity
ment of all temples in Travancore.
• The movement paved the way for the historic Temple Entry Proclamation
(1936) by the Maharaja of Travancore, which lifted the age-old ban on the
entry of marginalized castes into Travancore temples.
• It was one of the most non-violent struggles against caste oppression and
discrimination.
3. KUCHIPUDI
Context:
Kuchipudi, a traditional dance-drama performance, has evolved from being male-dominated to a classical dance form with
the prominence of female dancers across India.
• However, in the village of Kuchipudi in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, the art form faces challenges, including a
lack of interest among the younger generation and insufficient government support.
Current Affairs 30
4. VOLCANIC VORTEX RINGS Mount Etna is known for its volcanic activity, which has been
documented since 1500 BCE, and is a UNESCO World Heri-
Context: tage Site
Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and among the most active
volcanoes, has been producing rare smoke rings known as
volcanic vortex rings. 5. GIANT ROGUE WAVES
• These circular rings of gas, primarily water vapour,
emerge from a newly formed pit crater on the vol- Context: A University of Melbourne expedition to the South-
cano’s north side.
ern Ocean has uncovered that wind is a significant factor in
the creation of massive rogue waves.
How Volcanic Vortex Rings are formed? • The team utilized advanced technology to capture
• The phenomenon occurs when gas is rapidly re- three-dimensional images of ocean waves, reveal-
leased through a nearly circular vent, forming per- ing insights into their behaviour.
fectly circular rings. • They found that rogue waves arise from strong
• Volcanic vortex rings were first observed at Etna in winds and unpredictable waveform patterns, with
1724 and have since been documented at various the wind playing a crucial role in their formation
volcanoes worldwide. during the ‘young’ stage of waves.
• They can linger in the air for up to 10 minutes but
may disintegrate quickly in windy conditions.
About Rogue Waves:
Rogue waves are large, unpredictable, and dangerous ocean
waves that are at least twice the height of the surrounding
waves.
They can be formed when multiple wave crests pass through

a single point, or from a combination of waves and currents.
Rogue waves are rare, but they can be a threat to ocean

liners, capital ships, and land structures.
6. FOURTH GLOBAL MASS CORAL BLEACH-

ING EVENT
Context:
NOAA’s Coral Reef Watch (CRW) and the International Coral
Reef Initiative (ICRI) have confirmed the occurrence of the
fourth global mass coral bleaching event in 2023-2024.
About Mount Etna: • This event, the second in the last decade, coincides
Mount Etna is an active volcano on the east coast of Sicily, with unprecedented ocean heat recorded in 2023
Italy, and the tallest active volcano in Europe at 3,329 me- and 2024.
ters (11,014 feet).
It’s also the largest of Italy’s three active volcanoes and is

about twice the height of Mount Vesuvius.
Current Affairs 30
Rivers in News
River Name Jiadhal River Noyyal River

Issues Disruption of flow due to climate change Pollution and choking by plastics and sewage
Origin Lower Himalayan ranges in Arunachal Velliangiri Hills (South-Kailash) in Tamil Nadu
Pradesh
Tributary of Brahmaputra (northern tributary) Joins the Cauvery River
Flows Through Assam, meets Brahmaputra near Majuli Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Karur, Erode districts
Island
Characteristics Flashy river, prone to sudden floods The Central Government provides financial assistance from
with high sediment load and debris, the National River Restoration Fund, managed by the Min-
frequently changes course during flash istry of Jal Shakti
floods
7. GI TAGS GRANTED TO 60 PRODUCTS

Context:
Over 60 products from across India have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, marking the largest batch of GI tags
awarded at once.
Some of the Major products GI tagged are:
Current Affairs 30
Region Product Description

Assam Asharikandi Terracotta Asharikandi Terracotta Craft refers to a traditional craft form practised in the village
Craft of Asharikandi in Assam. It involves the creation of pottery and other decorative
items using locally sourced terracotta clay.
Pani Meteka Craft It refers to a type of traditional craft that involves weaving straw or
reeds into decorative objects such as baskets, hats, and ornaments.
Sarthebari Metal Craft Exquisite metalwork, particularly in brass and bell metal.
Jaapi (Bamboo Head- Traditional Assamese hat made from bamboo and leaves.
gear)
Current Affairs 30
Mishing Handloom Textiles woven by the Mishing community

Products
Bihudhol Traditional drum used in Assam’s Bihu celebrations.
Bodo Dokhona Traditional attire of Bodo women.
Bodo Eri Silk Fabric made from the silk of Samia ricini, known as the fabric of peace.
Bodo Jwmgra A traditional scarf is part of Bodo culture.
Bodo Gamsa The traditional dress worn by Bodo men.
Current Affairs 30
Bodo Thorkha Musical instruments are integral to Bodo culture.
Bodo Sifung Long flute used in Bodo music.
Varanasi Banaras Thandai Traditional drink made with milk, nuts, seeds, and spices.
Banaras Tabla Percussion instrument rooted in Banaras’ musical tradition.
Banaras Shehnai Wind musical instrument synonymous with Banaras’ cultural ethos.
Current Affairs 30
Banaras Lal Bharwa- A specific variety of stuffed red chilli is typical of Banaras.
mirch
Banaras Lal Peda A sweet delicacy made from condensed milk, famous in Banaras.
Tripura Pachra-Rignai Traditional dress is worn by women in Tripura on special occasions.
Matabari Peda Sweet preparation is unique to the Matabari area in Tripura.
Current Affairs 30
M e g h a - Garo Textile Weaving Textiles woven by the Garo community, incorporating traditional motifs and tech-
laya niques.
Lyrnai Pottery Traditional pottery from the Lyrnai area, known for its distinctive style and utility
(also called Black Pottery of Meghalaya)
Chubitchi Alcoholic beverage.
About GI Tags:
A Geographical Indication (GI) is a designation used on products with a specific geographical origin, indicating qualities
or reputation linked to that origin. To date, around 635 products in India have been given the GI tag. The first GI tag in the
country was given two decades ago to the famous Darjeeling tea.
Internationally recognized under the Paris Convention, GI is part of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), covered by the WTO’s
TRIPS Agreement, Madrid Agreement, and Lisbon Agreement.
In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999.
Administered by the Registrar of Geographical Indications (RGI), it identifies agricultural, natural, or manufactured goods,
providing legal protection for 10 years (renewable). The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Minis-
try of Commerce and Industry, oversees GI registration, offering protection against unauthorized use, promoting exports,
and ensuring quality and distinctiveness.
Current Affairs 30
8. SRINAGAR (CONSIDERED FOR WORLD CRAFT CITY)

Context:
Srinagar is being considered for the prestigious World Craft City (WCC) title by the World Crafts Council International
(WCCI).
Arts and Crafts of Srinagar City:

Craft Description
Pashmina shawls Luxurious woollen shawls made from the wool of Pashmina goats are known for their softness and
warmth.
Carpets Hand-woven carpets featuring intricate designs and vibrant colours, often showcasing traditional
motifs.
Papier mâché Decorative objects crafted using molded and painted paper pulp.
Walnut wood carv- Beautiful furniture pieces, decorative panels, and small items such as boxes and bowls.
ing
Current Affairs 30
Hand-knotted car- Meticulously handcrafted carpets with elaborate patterns and designs, made using traditional
pets techniques passed down through generations.
Kani shawls Shawls are woven using the Kani technique, where each thread is individually looped and woven
into the fabric, creating intricate patterns and designs.
Khatamband (wood- Traditional woodwork features intricate geometric patterns and designs, commonly seen in ceilings
en ceiling) and architectural features.
Sozni embroidery Delicate embroidery is done with fine needlework, embellishing fabrics with intricate patterns and
motifs.
Crewel embroidery Embroidery style using wool threads to create elaborate designs on fabrics like cotton or silk (typ-
ically features floral motifs)
Current Affairs 30
About WCC:
The World Craft City (WCC) initiative was launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council International (WCCI), a Kuwait-based
organization. It acknowledges the contributions of local authorities, craftspeople, and communities to cultural, economic,
and social development worldwide. WCC aims to establish a network of craft cities globally, promoting the principles of the
creative economy and preserving traditional crafts.
9. ATOMIC CLOCKS
Context:
India is deploying atomic clocks nationwide to synchronize all digital devices with Indian Standard Time, enhancing uni-
formity and national security.
About Atomic Clocks:

Topic Information
Atomic Clock An atomic clock is a highly accurate timekeeping device that combines a quartz crystal oscillator with
an atom, typically caesium or hydrogen, to measure time precisely. It uses the consistent frequency of
atoms to maintain accurate time, making it more stable than conventional quartz clocks.
It was Invented in 1955 by Louise Essen. It combines a quartz crystal oscillator with an atom for precise
timekeeping.
Types of Atom- Caesium and hydrogen maser atomic clocks
ic Clocks Hydrogen maser clocks are more accurate and used in scientific research.
Working Quartz crystal oscillators are commonly used in modern clocks, vibrating at a precise frequency when
voltage is applied. However, they become slightly slow every hour and require frequent adjustments.
Atomic clocks are like super accurate timekeepers. They use special atoms, usually caesium atoms,
which vibrate at a very steady rate. By sending microwaves to these atoms, we can make them vibrate
even more regularly. Then, we compare these vibrations with the vibrations of a quartz crystal in a reg-
ular clock. The most advanced atomic clocks lose just one second every 300 billion years.
Atomic Clocks Council of Industrial and Scientific Research(CSIR)-National Physical Laboratories (NPL) New Delhi
in India maintains Indian Standard Time with caesium and hydrogen maser clocks.
CSIR-NPL are now setting up new atomic clocks in Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, and Hyderabad, in addition to
the existing ones in Faridabad and Ahmedabad. By June, these new clocks will be installed, and the gov-
ernment will require all device manufacturers to sync with Indian Standard Time.
Currently, timekeeping relies on satellites, but the government aims to connect all atomic clocks using
optical cables for enhanced security.
Implementa- By the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and NPL. It will ensure “one nation, one time” by June this year.
tion
Need for Indig- Ensures national security and independence in timekeeping.
enous Atomic During the Kargil War in 1999, the US turned off GPS for the Indian Army, causing location inaccuracies.
Clocks This prompted India to develop its own precise clock.
At present, most software operating modules, such as Windows and Android, rely on US-based Network
Time Protocol servers.
Only four countries—the United States of America, The United Kingdom, Japan and South Korea—
have developed their atomic clocks
Indian Stan- Indian Standard Time (IST) was adopted on September 1, 1947, with only one-time zone for the whole
dard Time (IST) country. It is calculated from 82.5 degrees East longitude, near Mirzapur (Allahabad, UP). IST is 5.5 hours
ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
10. SWELL WAVES

Context: Coastal areas in southern and central Kerala experienced inundation from swell waves, locally known as ‘Kallak-
kadal,’ prompting alertness from disaster management authorities.
• The phenomenon is not common for this time of the year, as noted by the fishing community.
Current Affairs 30
Swell waves refer to ocean waves that have travelled over long distances from their area of origin, usually generated by
distant weather systems or storms.
These waves typically have a consistent and smooth appearance and can travel thousands of kilometres across the ocean’s
surface without breaking.
Swell waves are a significant factor in shaping coastal areas and can cause inundation and erosion when they reach shore.
11. NEGATIVE LEAP SECOND

Context:
A recent study suggests that the accelerated melting of glaciers and ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica due to climate
change is affecting Earth’s rotation, potentially postponing the need for a “negative leap second” to keep clocks aligned
with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
• As the redistribution of liquid from melting ice slows down Earth’s rotation, the previously anticipated implemen-
tation of the negative leap second in 2026 may be delayed until 2029 or later.
A negative leap second refers to a proposed adjustment to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) where one second would be
subtracted from the standard timekeeping system.
This adjustment was intended to compensate for the Earth’s gradually increasing rotational speed, which would make days
slightly shorter over time.
It is opposite of positive leap second (one-second addition to clocks). It is done when length of day is rising (Earth is spin-
ning more slowly).
12. 125 YEARS OF KODAIKANAL SOLAR OBSERVATORY

Context:
The 125th anniversary of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO) was celebrated recently on April 1, 2024, by the Indian Insti-
tute of Astrophysics (IIA)
Current Affairs 30
Aspect Description
What is Kodaikanal It is an observatory owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Established in
Solar Observatory 1899, it is located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, and focuses on solar studies
(KoSO)?
Need for such an ob- The great Drought of 1875-1877 emphasized the need for solar studies to understand weather
servatory patterns. India’s geographical significance further underscores the importance of such research,
given its impact on global weather.
Origin The concept originated in the late 19th century. Solar Physics Observatory was approved in Au-
gust 1893. The foundation stone was laid by Lord Wenlock in 1895. March 14, 1901, marked the
commencement of systematic observations
Location Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu
The place was chosen due to its favourable atmospheric conditions and high-altitude, dust-free
environment. These factors provide clear and stable viewing conditions for solar observations,
making it an ideal site for studying the Sun’s activities and phenomena.
Instruments at KoSO Initially focused on sunspots, prominences, and solar radiation. Advanced instruments include
the H-alpha telescope and the White Light Active Region Monitor (WARM)
Significant achieve- Identified the Evershed Effect (a phenomenon observed in sunspots where gas flows radially
ments of KoSO outward from the centre of the sunspot)
Expanded research scope to cosmic rays, radio astronomy, ionospheric physics, and stellar phys-
ics
About the Indian Insti- Indian Institute of Astrophysics (founded in 1971; HQ: Bengaluru), is an autonomous research
tute of Astrophysics institute wholly funded by the Department of Science and Technology. IIA conducts research
primarily in the areas of astronomy, astrophysics and related fields
About Kodaikanal Kodaikanal is a hill town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It’s set in an area of granite
cliffs, forested valleys, lakes, waterfalls and grassy hills.
Current Affairs 30
13. 5,200-YEAR-OLD HARAPPAN SETTLEMENT

Context:
Archaeologists, have unearthed a 5,200-year-old Harappan settlement at Padta Bet in Gujarat’s Kachchh district, near the
Juna Khatiya necropolis.
• The excavation revealed evidence of Early Harappan to Late Harappan period occupation, including pottery, arte-
facts, animal bones, and structural remains.
• Unique ceramics suggest a local pottery tradition, while the site’s strategic location atop a hillock offered a com-
manding view of the surrounding landscape and access to water from a nearby stream.
• Artefacts such as semi-precious stone beads, tools, and animal bones indicate animal domestication and shellfish
exploitation.
14. IMD WARNS OF MORE TORNADOES IN THE BAY OF BENGAL

Context:
IMD warns of more tornadoes in West Bengal after a recent one killed 5 and over 100 injured in Jalpaiguri.
What is a Tornadoes?
A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground. It is often visible as a fun-
nel-shaped cloud and is capable of causing significant damage to structures and landscapes.
Current Affairs 30
Structure of a Tornado:
Aspect Tornado Tropical Cyclone

Definition A rapidly rotating column of air that extends A large-scale, atmospheric wind and rainstorm that rotates
from a thunderstorm to the ground. around a low-pressure centre.
Location Typically occurs over land Typically occurs over oceans
Size Much smaller in size, with diameters on the Much larger in size, with diameters ranging from tens to
order of a few hundred meters. hundreds of kilometres.
Formation Forms from severe thunderstorms Forms over warm ocean waters
Duration Short-lived, lasting from a few seconds to a Can last for several days, moving across large distances.
few hours.
Speed Moves more slowly, typically at speeds of Moves quickly, with forward speeds ranging from 30 to 70
10 to 20 mph (16 to 32 km/h) mph (48 to 113 km/h)
Wind Shear Require substantial vertical shear of hori- Require very low values of tropospheric vertical shear
zontal winds
Temperature Produced in regions of large temperature Generated in regions of near-zero horizontal temperature
Gradient gradient gradient
Damage Can cause localized, but severe damage, Can cause widespread damage, including flooding, storm
including the destruction of buildings and surges, and high winds.
trees.
Current Affairs 30
15. IKSHVAKU-ERA 16. TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE

Context: Context:
Recently around 3,730 lead coins were unearthed in an A total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over
earthen pot at Phanigiri, a renowned Buddhist heritage site Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This type of solar
in Telangana. eclipse is a rare event for any particular spot.
• The coins, bearing an elephant symbol on the ob- • According to Royal Museums Greenwich, once a
verse and a Ujjain symbol on the reverse, are be- place on Earth witnesses a total solar eclipse, it will
lieved to belong to the Ikshvaku period. be about 400 years before that part sees the next
• Phanigiri is considered an important Buddhist mon- one.
astery located strategically on the hilltop, along the • A total solar eclipse is a rare event because it oc-
ancient trade route connecting the west and east curs when the Moon passes directly between the
coast of the Deccan. Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on the Earth’s
surface.
About the Ikshvaku era: • Total solar eclipses are infrequent because the
During the third and fourth centuries CE, the Ikshvaku Moon’s orbit is tilted with respect to the Earth’s or-
dynasty ruled the eastern Krishna River valley from their bit around the Sun, causing the Moon’s shadow to
capital at Vijayapuri (modern Nagarjunakonda in Andhra usually pass above or below the Earth.
• Additionally, the umbra, or the darkest part of the
Pradesh). Moon’s shadow where a total eclipse is visible,
Also known as the Andhra Ikshvakus or the Ikshvakus of covers only a small portion of the Earth’s surface
Vijayapuri, they were Shaivites following Vedic rituals, but during each event.
Buddhism flourished during their reign.
Consequently, a specific location on Earth may witness a to-
They practised both Buddhism and Brahminism, evident in tal solar eclipse only once every 400 years.
their architectural projects.
The dynasty’s reign marked a period of cultural and religious
growth but ended with the rise of Pallava rule.
17. ARCTIC’S POLAR VORTEX

Context:
In a surprising turn of events, scientists observed the Arctic’s
polar vortex spinning in the opposite direction, marking
one of the six strongest occurrences of its kind since 1979.
• The polar vortex is a massive spinning wheel of
freezing cold air that forms high in the atmosphere
near the North Pole, held together by a strong west-
to-east wind current.
• This wind current, often referred to as the polar
night jet, can reach speeds comparable to a Cate-
gory 5 hurricane.
• The reversal in the vortex’s direction was attributed
to “Sudden Stratospheric Warming events,” which
caused an influx of ozone from lower latitudes
around the Arctic.
About Polar Vortex:

The polar vortex is a large, persistent circulation of frigid air
located in the stratosphere and typically centred near the
Current Affairs 30
Earth’s poles. climate and ocean circulation patterns.
It is characterized by a strong wind current that circulates

from west to east, trapping cold air within the polar regions
during the winter months.
The polar vortex plays a crucial role in maintaining the polar

climate and can influence weather patterns in mid-latitude
regions.
Occasionally, disruptions in the polar vortex can occur, lead-

ing to phenomena such as sudden stratospheric warming
events, which can result in shifts in weather patterns and
colder temperatures in regions outside of the polar areas.
19. MOUNT RUANG

Context:
Indonesian authorities issued a tsunami alert after Mount
Ruang volcano erupted five times, expelling ash and lava.
• The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster
18. SOUTHERN OCEAN Mitigation issued the highest-level alert, warning of
potential hazards including the collapse of the vol-
Context: cano into the sea, which could trigger a tsunami.
The Southern Ocean is known for having the cleanest air on • Indonesia, with 120 active volcanoes, faces frequent
Earth, a fact previously attributed mainly to minimal hu- volcanic activity due to its location along the Ring
man activity. of Fire.
• However, recent research has unveiled that clouds
and rain play a significant role in keeping the air
pristine.
Role of clouds:
• The Southern Ocean experiences unique cloud
patterns, particularly honeycomb-shaped clouds,
which regulate climate by reflecting or allowing
sunlight.
• These clouds generate sporadic but intense rain
showers, effectively washing aerosol particles out
of the air.
About Southern Ocean:

The Southern Ocean is the body of water that surrounds
Antarctica and is bounded by the continents of Antarctica,
South America, Africa, and Australia.
It is the southernmost ocean on Earth and is characterized

by its vast expanse of open water, strong currents, and
harsh climate conditions.
The Southern Ocean plays a critical role in regulating global
Current Affairs 30
20. TRIBES IN NEWS
Tribe Description
Shompen Tribe Shompen tribe, residing in the dense rainforests of Great Nicobar Island, cast their first vote in
the Lok Sabha Election.
Belonging to the Mongoloid group, they are one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups,
with an estimated population of 229 according to the 2011 Census. They live a semi-nomadic
lifestyle, hunting wild pigs, pythons, monitor lizards, and crocodiles.
Pahariya tribe Jharkhand’s Pahariya tribe, primarily residing in Jharkhand and West Bengal, aims for seed inde-
pendence through community-led Seed banks.
Pahariya engage in shifting agriculture and worship deities specific to their households, clans,
and villages. The Pahariyas speak the Mal Pahariya language influenced by local dialects and have
a mixed language of Santali, Bengali, and Hindi.
21. ROSS ICE SHELF

Context:
Researchers have discovered that the massive Ross Ice Shelf makes sudden jumps twice a day.
• These sudden shifts, akin to tremors along earthquake faults, could weaken the Ross Ice Shelf over time, poten-
tially accelerating ice melt rates and contributing to sea level rise.
• A sudden jump occurs when two sections of ice press against each other (rubbing creates tension), just as tectonic
plates on Earth cause earthquakes.
• The research team emphasises that icequakes and fractures are natural occurrences on ice shelves.
Current Affairs 30
22. CHITHIRAI FESTIVAL 23. AVAR NOMADS OF EUROPE

Context:
Context: Recent ancient DNA analysis sheds light on the vanished
Lord Kallazhagar’s annual ritual in Alagar Temple, Madurai Avar nomads of Europe, revealing intricate family ties and
during the Chithirai festival saw thousands of devotees gath- social dynamics.
ering to witness his ceremonial entry into the Vaigai river.
They uncovered a patrilineal society where men maintained
The festival, merging narratives of Lord Kallazhagar and lineage continuity, while women fostered social cohesion
Goddess Meenakshi’s marriage, holds historical significance through marriage outside their paternal community. Addi-
and promotes harmony. tionally, the study identified unique social practices such as
levirate unions and highlighted a transition in lineage coin-
About Alagar Temple: ciding with political shifts.
It is situated at the base of Alagar hills in Madurai, Tamil
Nadu, and is one of Lord Vishnu’s 108 abodes, revered as About Avars:
Kallazhagar. Enclosed by fortress walls, it boasts six corri- They were the nomadic people from eastern central Asia,
dors and is mentioned in the Tamil epic Silappadikaram and who thrived from the 6th to 9th centuries. Seen as succes-
Alvars’ hymns. The temple’s mandapam pillars showcase sors to the Huns, they were hired by the Byzantine Empire
Nayaka’s art style, adding to its historical and architectural for military campaigns. A strict patrilineal descent system
significance. characterized their society, and they avoided inbreeding,
engaging in limited intermarriage with non-Avar groups.
About Vaigai River: They were renowned for their way of life and warfare.
It originates in the Western Ghats (Varushanad Hills)
and flows through the Pandya Nadu region of Tamil Nadu. 24. BRU COMMUNITY
Stretching 258 kilometres, it ultimately joins the Palk Strait
near the Pamban Bridge in Ramanathapuram district. Vaigai Context:
holds historical significance as it flowed through Madurai, In a historic moment, Bru voters in Tripura participated in
the capital of the ancient Pandya kingdom, and is men- the Lok Sabha elections for the first time, having previous-
tioned in Sangam literature. ly voted only in assembly elections. These voters, resettled
from relief camps, cast their ballots at various polling sta-
tions across the state.
About the Bru community (also known as Reangs):

They historically inhabited Mizoram, Tripura, and parts of
southern Assam. In Tripura, they are recognized as a Par-
ticularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). Following ethnic
conflicts in 1997, over 30,000 Brus fled Mizoram and sought
refuge in Tripura. In 2020, a quadripartite agreement was
signed to facilitate their permanent settlement in Tripura, in-
volving the Centre, Tripura and Mizoram governments, and
Bru representatives.
25. DECREASING SOLAR RADIATION

AVAILABILITY IN INDIA
Context:
Solar radiation available for electricity conversion in India is
decreasing, attributed to increased aerosol load and cloud-
ing.
Scientists from IMD suggest installing more efficient solar

panels to counter this. Their analysis, based on data from 13
stations from 1985 to 2019, showed a decline in solar photo-
voltaic (SPV) potential across various locations.
Current Affairs 30
India’s solar energy capacity stands at about 81 GW, with nuclear energy’s deployment was emphasized for
a potential of 748 GW peak. The country ranks 5th globally accelerating its role in combating climate change.
in solar power capacity. Initiatives like the PLI Scheme and a. The Global Stocktake monitors the Paris
Solar Park Scheme aim to promote solar power. Agreement’s (2014) progress and links na-
tional contributions to its goals. Its aim is to
GS-2 enhance climate ambition by evaluating col-
lective efforts.
b. Currently, nuclear energy is responsible for
1. ASSOCIATION OF DEMOCRATIC RE- around 25 % of global low-carbon electric-
FORMS (ADR) DATA ity production
3. Atoms4NetZero Initiative: The Summit collaborates
Context: with IAEA’s ‘Atoms4NetZero’ program, aimed at
An analysis by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) supporting Member States’ efforts to utilize nuclear
reveals concerning statistics about sitting Lok Sabha MPs in energy in achieving net zero emissions.
India. 4. Technological Advancements: Advances such as
Fusion Energy, and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs),
Key Findings: with capacities of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, were
• Out of 514 MPs analyzed, 44% face criminal charges, highlighted as promising developments in nuclear
with 29% facing serious charges like murder, at- technology.
tempt to murder, and crimes against women. 5. Challenges: Safety concerns post-Fukushima, vul-
• Among those facing serious charges, nine have mur- nerability to cyber-attacks, and high upfront costs
der cases against them.
• Additionally, 5% of sitting MPs are billionaires, with were acknowledged as challenges that need to be
assets exceeding ₹100 crore. addressed for the wider adoption of nuclear energy.
• Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, 6. IAEA’s Role: The International Atomic Energy Agency
Telangana, and Himachal Pradesh stand out with (IAEA), as the organizer, underscored its role in pro-
more than 50% of their MPs facing criminal charges. moting safe, secure, and peaceful nuclear technolo-
• The report also provides insights into the education- gies worldwide.
al background, age, and gender distribution among
sitting MPs, revealing that 73% have graduate or Status of Nuclear Energy in India:
higher educational qualifications, while only 15% Nuclear energy contributes about 3% to India’s electricity
are women.
generation, with 23 reactors in operation, producing 7480
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) is a non-par-
MW. There are at least ten more reactors that are un-
tisan, non-governmental organization in India that works
der construction, and the capacity is supposed to triple to
for electoral and political reforms, and to strengthen de-
22,480 MW by 2031-32. Most reactors are Pressur-
mocracy and improve governance.
ized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). India’s first 700 MWe
PHWR unit, the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP-3),
It was founded in 1999 by professors from the Indian Insti-
started in 2021. The government plans to establish new
tute of Management (IIM).
plants like the one in Gorakhpur, Haryana. India is devel-
The ADR’s goals include: Electoral and political reforms, Em-
oping “Bhavni,” its first indigenous thorium-based nuclear
powering the electorate, Greater accountability of political
plant, utilizing Uranium-233. The experimental thorium
parties, and Inner-party democracy and transparency.
plant “Kamini” is already operational in Kalpakkam
2. FIRST-EVER NUCLEAR ENERGY SUMMIT About IAEA (founded: 1957; HQ: Vienna, Austria)
The IAEA promotes safe and peaceful nuclear technologies
Context: worldwide. It operates under the UN system and oversees
World leaders from over 30 countries (including India) and nuclear inspections under the NPT. The Additional Protocol
the EU convened at the recently inaugurated Nuclear Ener- allows it to verify peaceful nuclear material use. India is a
gy Summit in Brussels, emphasizing nuclear power’s role in member.
achieving energy security, climate goals, and sustainable de-
velopment.
Key Takeaways from the Nuclear Energy Summit:

3. NICES PROGRAMME
1. Promotion of Nuclear Energy: The summit aimed
Context: The National Information System for Climate and
to promote nuclear energy as a vital component of
Environment Studies (NICES), operated by ISRO and oth-
achieving low-carbon electricity production.
er ministries, invites Indian researchers to combat climate
2. Historic Inclusion in Global Stocktake: Following its
change.
inclusion in the Global Stocktake at COP28 in 2023,
Current Affairs 30
• Potential areas include Space-based ECVs, Climate unrecognised parties are allotted free symbols
Indicators, Climate Change Challenges, and Weath- during elections.
er Extremes. • Unrecognised parties can apply for a common sym-
The National Information System for Climate and Environ- bol if they meet certain criteria, including securing
ment Studies (NICES) program was conceptualized in 2012 at least 1% of votes in the previous election or hav-
and is operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation ing elected representatives.
(ISRO) and the Department of Space, along with other min- • The recent denial of a common symbol to Viduth-
alai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and the allotment of
istries, under the framework of the National Action Plan on a new symbol to Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) have
Climate Change. raised questions.
Its primary objective is to generate and disseminate long- The current rules may need amendment to ensure fair treat-
term Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) derived from Indian ment based on past electoral performance and representa-
and other Earth observation satellites, which are essential tion.
for understanding Earth’s climate.
6. DRAFT MODEL RULES FOR CHILDBIRTH
4. BIMSTEC CHARTER REGISTRATION
Context: Context:
Nepal’s Lower House of Parliament endorsed the BIMSTEC The Home Ministry has drafted Model Rules requiring par-
Charter recently. ents to record their religion separately when registering the
• The BIMSTEC Charter aims to enhance collabora- birth of a child, departing from the previous practice of re-
tion among member countries, including Bangla- cording the family’s religion.
desh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, • The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment)
and Thailand, in areas such as economic prosperity, Bill, 2023, allows the birth certificate to serve as a
social progress, and connectivity. single document for various purposes such as ad-
• BIMSTEC, established in 1997, seeks to foster coop- mission to educational institutions, obtaining a
eration and development in the region. driving license, and registering for Aadhaar.
• The bill also facilitates digital registration and aims
The BIMSTEC Charter is a foundational document that out- to establish national and state-level databases of
lines the principles, objectives, and framework for coopera- registered births and deaths, facilitating efficient
delivery of public services and benefits.
tion among member states of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for • Additionally, it includes provisions for collecting the
Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMS- Aadhaar numbers of parents for birth registration.
TEC).
It establishes the legal basis for the organization and defines

its structure, functions, and decision-making processes.
7. 75 YEARS OF NATO
Context:
The charter aims to promote regional cooperation and inte-
NATO, founded in 1949, celebrates 75 years with recent ex-
gration among BIMSTEC member countries, which include
pansion and renewed unity.
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and
Thailand.
NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is a military al-
Key areas of cooperation covered by the charter include
liance of 32 countries from North America and Europe. It
economic development, trade, investment, technology
aims to safeguard the freedom and security of its members
transfer, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges.
through collective defence against aggression.
The endorsement and ratification of the BIMSTEC Charter by
member states are essential for its implementation and the
effective functioning of the organization.
5. POLITICAL PARTIES’ SYMBOLS

Context:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) allocates symbols to
political parties and candidates based on the Election Sym-
bols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968.
• Recognized parties have reserved symbols, while
Current Affairs 30
3. Supporting non-proliferation efforts
4. Addressing climate change and economic challenges
About GCC:
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) (est. 1981; HQ: Riyadh
(Saudi Arabia)) is a political and economic union formed by
Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United
Arab Emirates. It aims to promote cooperation among mem-
ber states. Initially proposed as a “Gulf Union” for deeper
coordination, its military arm, the Peninsula Shield Force,
was created in 1984.
8. SUVIDHA PORTAL
Context:
Since the announcement of General Elections 2024, over
73,000 applications have been received on the Suvidha Por-
tal, with more than 44,600 requests approved.
• The portal ensures transparency and a level playing
field for political parties and candidates by adher-
ing to the First in First out principle.
• It caters to a wide range of permission requests
such as organizing rallies, opening temporary party
offices, and distributing pamphlets.
• The data available on the portal aids in scrutinizing
election expenditures, contributing to greater ac- 10. PALESTINIAN MEMBERSHIP APPLICA-
countability. TION REFERRED TO UN COMMITTEE
Requests were highest from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Context:
Madhya Pradesh, with minimum requests from Chandi- The United Nations Security Council president has referred
garh, Lakshadweep, and Manipur. the Palestinian Authority’s application for full UN member-
ship to the committee on new member admissions.
The Suvidha portal is a technological solution created by • The committee will assess the application’s compli-
the Election Commission of India (ECI) to facilitate fair and ance with U.N. membership requirements before
transparent elections. potentially advancing it for a formal Security Coun-
cil vote
To become a UN member:
• A state submits an application to the Secretary-General,
9. GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL (GCC) accepting Charter commitments.
• The application is reviewed by the UNSC, needing ap-
Context: proval from 9 of 15 members and no vetoes from the 5
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) launched its ‘Vision for permanent members.
Regional Security’ in December 2023, aiming to establish a • If approved, it goes to the General Assembly, requiring
comprehensive framework for regional security. a two-thirds majority vote.
• Membership becomes effective upon the adoption of a
resolution.
Key highlights include:
1. Prioritizing negotiation over conflict
2. Combating terrorism and extremism
Current Affairs 30
11. PRINCIPLES FOR HARMONIOUS CON- 13. PEACE CLAUSE IN WTO

STRUCTION
Context:
Context: India has invoked the peace clause at the WTO for the fifth
The Supreme Court, while refusing to condone a 5659-day consecutive time for the marketing year 2022-23, as it
delay in an appeal, outlined eight principles deciding an ap- breached the prescribed subsidy limit for rice.
plication for condonation of delay. • Despite breaching the 10% domestic support ceil-
ing, there are no immediate repercussions due to
These include:
the peace clause, which provides immunity until a
• the public policy basis of limitation laws,
permanent solution is found.
• the strict interpretation of Section 3 and liberal in-
• India justifies its actions as necessary to meet do-
terpretation of Section 5 of the Limitation Act,
mestic food security needs.
• the balance between substantial justice and adher-
ence to limitation laws, The peace clause in the World Trade Organization (WTO)
• discretionary power of courts to condone delays, refers to an agreement that temporarily shields developing
• lack of entitlement based on others’ relief, countries from legal challenges for breaching the domestic
• non-necessity to consider case merits in delay con- support limits on agricultural subsidies.
donation,
• and adherence to statutory provisions in deciding It was established during the WTO’s Bali Ministerial Confer-
delay condonation applications. ence in 2013.
The Doctrine of Harmonious Construction is a legal princi- This clause allows developing countries to provide subsidies
ple used to interpret statutes and resolve conflicts between beyond the prescribed limits for certain agricultural prod-
laws or different parts of the same law. ucts, such as rice and wheat, without facing immediate re-
percussions.
When there’s inconsistency between statutes or provisions, The peace clause provides immunity until a permanent
the doctrine requires interpreting them in a way that har- solution is found, allowing developing countries to support
monizes their application. their domestic agricultural sectors while negotiations con-
tinue on more permanent subsidy rules.
This ensures that all provisions are given effect and the stat-
ute is understood as a whole. 14. CANDIDATES’ RIGHT TO PRIVACY
The principle assumes that Parliament intends for all provi-
sions to work together without contradiction. FROM VOTERS
Context:
The Supreme Court ruled that candidates have a right to
12. BILATERAL INVESTMENT TREATY privacy from voters and are not required to disclose every
aspect of their personal life and possessions.
Context:
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has directed the com- The judgment came in a case where an MLA’s election was
merce ministry to review the model text of bilateral invest- challenged for not declaring vehicles as assets. The Court
ment treaties (BITs) and propose enhancements to facili- ruled in favour of the MLA, stating that once sold, vehicles
tate business operations. cannot be considered assets.
• This move is prompted by India’s previous losses in
international arbitration cases against companies
like Vodafone and Cairn Energy over retrospective Statutory provisions regarding declarations by Election can-
tax imposition. didates as per RPA 1951:
• Model text of BIT: Union Cabinet adopted new 1. Section 33 of the Representation of People’s Act
Model BIT text in 2015, which replaced Indian Mod- (RPA), 1951, governs nominations for election can-
el BIT, 1993. didates and requires valid information presentation.
BITs are crucial for protecting and promoting investments 2. Section 36 of the RPA, 1951, allows scrutiny of nom-
between nations, and they are a focal point in India’s nego- inations by returning officers, who can reject nomi-
tiations with countries like the UK and the European Free nations for defects of a ‘substantial character’
Trade Association (EFTA).
What did SC say?
1. Supreme Court ruled that voters’ right to know is
not absolute.
2. A candidate’s privacy on matters irrelevant to their
candidature is not a corrupt practice under Section
Current Affairs 30
123 of the RPA, 1951.
3. Non-disclosure of certain personal items is not a substantial defect under Section 36 of the RPA, 1951.
4. Candidates are not obligated to disclose every item of movable property they own.
5. Suppressing information about expensive items like watches can be a substantial defect. Ownership of simple
items may not constitute a defect in disclosure.
Voters in India have certain rights protected by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Constitution:
1. Right to Know: Voters have the right to know about candidates’ criminal records, financial status, manifesto, etc.
2. Voting rights of NRIs: Non-resident Indians (NRIs) can vote in Indian elections.
3. Voting rights of Prisoners: Prisoners are not permitted to vote.
4. NOTA (Right Not to Vote): Voters can choose NOTA if they feel none of the candidates are suitable.
5. Tendered Voting Rights: Voters can vote separately if someone else has wrongly voted on their behalf.
6. Voting rights of Disabled or Infirm Citizens: The ECI assists disabled or infirm citizens in casting their votes.
15. CURATIVE PETITION

Context:
The Supreme Court’s decision to allow a curative writ petition in the DMRC case signifies an expansion of its powers be-
yond constitutionally prescribed processes.
• The curative writ, a sparingly used judicial innovation, aims to correct grave miscarriages of justice, as established
in the 2002 Rupa Hurra v Ashok Hurra case.
• However, the exercise of curative jurisdiction in a commercial case raises questions about the finality of the Su-
preme Court’s rulings and the principle of minimum judicial interference.
Curative petition is entitled, if petitioner establishes

• Violation of principles of natural justice; Judge failed to disclose his connection with the subject matter or there is
an apprehension of bias and judgement adversely affects petitioner.
16. REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE ACT, 1951

Context: The Election Commission (EC) has issued a directive to crackdown on anonymous political hoardings, requiring
the disclosure of the names of their publishers and printers for traceability and accountability.
• This move aims to regulate campaign financing and ensure accountability if the content violates the Model Code
of Conduct or statutory provisions.
• This decision follows representations received by the EC regarding hoardings lacking identification of printers or
publishers.
• Section 127A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, mandates the prominent display of the name and
address of the printer and publisher on election-related material.
This directive holds printers, publishers, and licensees/contractors of urban local bodies accountable for political adver-
tisements published on outdoor media.
17. MISLEADING ADVERTISEMENTS

Context:
The Supreme Court declined a second apology from Baba Ramdev and Patanjali in a contempt case over misleading adver-
tisements.
What are Misleading Advertisements?

Misleading advertisements are promotional messages or claims that deceive or mislead consumers about the characteris-
tics, benefits, or efficacy of a product or service. These ads may contain false or exaggerated information, leading consumers
to make purchasing decisions based on inaccurate perceptions
The Supreme Court criticized the deliberate violations of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act.
Current Affairs 30
The Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954 prohibits misleading claims about drugs and
magic remedies. Section 4 prohibits false impressions about a drug’s true character, while Section 5 bans the advertisement
of magic remedies for treatment, defining them as items alleged to have miraculous powers for diagnosis, cure, or mitiga-
tion.
18. REPORTS IN NEWS
Reports Descriptions
IMF’s Global Financial Key findings: The IMF warns of rising cyber threats endangering macro-financial stability, with
Stability Report 2024 extreme losses reaching $2.5 billion. Cyberattacks have nearly doubled since the pandemic,
with financial firms, especially banks, facing the brunt.
India ranks 10th in cybercrime, with advance fee payment frauds being the most common, ac-
cording to the World Cybercrime Index developed by the University of Oxford and UNSW Can-
berra
Plastic Overshoot Day Released by Earth Action
2024 Report Key Findings: In 2024, it’s projected for September 5th globally and April 23rd in India. There
has been over 7% rise in global plastic waste since 2021, with 12 countries responsible for 60%
of mismanaged plastic waste, including China, India, and Russia.
India is categorized as a Low-Waste-Producing Polluter with a high Mismanaged Waste Index
(MWI)
Plastic Overshoot Day (similar to Earth Overshoot Day) marks when global plastic waste surpass-
es the world’s capacity to manage it, leading to pollution.
Global hepatitis report Released by WHO
2024 India accounted for over 11% of the global burden of hepatitis B & C cases, ranking second after
China.
Hepatitis is liver inflammation caused by various factors, such as drugs, alcohol, and autoim-
mune disorders. Symptoms can range from jaundice and fever to chronic illness. The five main
strains are A, B, C, D, and E, with B and C leading to chronic disease, liver cirrhosis, cancer, and
death. While a vaccine exists for type B, none is available for type C.
World Hepatitis Day, observed on July 28 each year, aims to raise awareness about viral hepa-
titis and its global impact.
Government initiatives to tackle hepatitis include: the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program
(aiming to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030 in India); Universal Immu-
nization Programme (UIP) (provides free vaccination against hepatitis B and other vaccine-pre-
ventable diseases, including tuberculosis, polio, pneumonia, and measles, among others)
Financing for Sustain- Released by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA)
able Development Re- Key findings: Developing countries face a significant financing gap for achieving Sustainable De-
port 2024 velopment Goals (SDGs), estimated between $2.5 trillion and $4 trillion annually. Systemic risks
like the COVID-19 pandemic and more frequent disasters strain national financing frameworks
Recommendations: Enhance tax capacity to boost tax revenue for SDGs.
UN DESA (HQ: New York City; est.1948), supports countries in making informed decisions by
offering information via publications, databases, and international discussions at forums like the
UN General Assembly and ECOSOC. It releases report the World Social Report (since 1997)
19. INDIA-MAURITIUS TAX TREATY

Context: India and Mauritius amended their double taxation avoidance agreement (DTAA) to include a principal purpose
test (PPT) aimed at curbing tax avoidance.
• However, the amended protocol has not been ratified or notified by the Income Tax Department.
• There were concerns that investments through Mauritius might face increased scrutiny by tax authorities, poten-
tially affecting past investments as well.
Current Affairs 30
Double taxation occurs when the same income is taxed Homoeopathy is a system of alternative medicine based on
twice in two different jurisdictions before it becomes net the concept of “like cures like.”
income.
Developed in the late 18th century by German physician
To address this issue and encourage international economic Samuel Hahnemann, homoeopathy operates on the prin-
activities, countries sign Double Taxation Avoidance Agree- ciple of using highly diluted substances to stimulate the
ments (DTAAs). body’s natural healing processes.
These agreements establish agreed-upon tax rates and ju- According to homoeopathic theory, illnesses can be treat-
risdictions for specific types of income received by tax resi- ed by administering extremely small doses of substances
dents of one country from another country. that, in larger amounts, would produce symptoms similar to
those of the illness itself.
DTAA aims to prevent international double taxation and
promote capital investment, trade, and economic activities 22. ADJUDICATING AUTHORITY UNDER
between the signatory nations.
PMLA, 2002
The agreements may cover various categories of income, de-
Context:
pending on the types of businesses and holdings citizens
The Adjudicating Authority under the Prevention of Money
have in each other’s countries.
Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) has confirmed the attachment
of assets belonging to the Congress party-promoted Nation-
al Herald newspaper.
20. FINANCIAL SERVICES INSTITUTIONS
BUREAU (FSIB) What is Adjudicating Authority under PMLA, 2002?
The Adjudicating Authority under the Prevention of Mon-
Context: ey Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA) is responsible for confirm-
The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) has recom- ing provisional attachment orders (within 180 days) issued
mended Manoj Mittal, currently the Managing Director of by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in cases of suspected
IFCI, as the new Chairman and Managing Director of the money laundering. It ensures that assets suspected to have
Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). been acquired through proceeds of crime are properly dealt
• Additionally, Sanjay Shukla has been selected as the with according to the law. Once confirmed by the authority,
Managing Director of the National Housing Bank the attachment order allows the ED to take possession of
(NHB) the assets, leading to potential confiscation if the accused is
About FSIB: convicted.
Constituted in 2022 under Department of Financial Services The accused can continue to use the property until the ad-
(Ministry of Finance), by Central Government replacing judicating authority approves the seizure. After, the adjudi-
Bank Board Bureau. cating authority’s approval, ED will take control of it.
The Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB) is an orga- After the Adjudicating Authority confirms the attachment,
nization responsible for selecting directors for state-owned the accused can take the following actions:
banks and financial institutions in India. 1. Right to appeal: The accused can challenge the con-
firmation order at the PMLA’s Appellate Tribunal
It acts as a head-hunter, identifying and recommending within 45 days
suitable candidates for leadership positions within the fi- 2. Appellate tribunal: If the Appellate Tribunal con-
nancial sector. firms the order, the accused can appeal to the High
Court.
21. HOMOEOPATHY SYMPOSIUM 3. Status of property: The owner cannot access the
property until the trial is completed unless it’s re-
Context: leased.
The Homoeopathy Symposium concluded with a call for 4. Final confirmation: Once confirmed, for residential
global collaboration to enhance the efficacy and accep- property, the ED takes possession after the owner
tance of Homoeopathy worldwide. vacates.
• The event, attended by over 6,000 participants 5. Conviction outcome: If convicted, the trial court
including President of India, and seven Padma may order confiscation and transfer ownership to
awardees, focused on research, clinical practice, the central government.
and market insights in Homoeopathy.
Current Affairs 30
23. HOME VOTING

Context:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced a ground-breaking initiative for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, pro-
viding the option of home voting for elderly citizens above 85 years of age and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) with a 40%
benchmark disability.
• This initiative aims to enhance inclusivity and accessibility in the electoral process.
Additional steps taken by the Election Commission (EC) to promote inclusive voting include:
1. Abolishing Form-M requirement for Kashmiri migrants residing in Jammu and Udhampur, simplifying the
voting process for them.
2. Implementing Systematic Voter’s Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) to engage Persons with Dis-
abilities (PwDs) and educate their friends, families, and polling officials.
Current Affairs 30
3. Introducing the proposed Multi-Constituency Re- Composition Consists of a Chairperson, five full-
mote Electronic Voting Machine (RVM), enabling time Members, and seven deemed
migrant voters to vote from their current place of Members. Deemed Members include
residence. Chairpersons of other key Nation-
4. Allowing voting by postal ballot for special voters, al Commissions such as the National
service voters (including members of the armed Commission for Scheduled Castes, etc.
forces, police forces serving outside their states, The Protection of Human Rights
and government employees serving outside India), (Amendment) Act, 2019, provided
voters on election duty, and electors subjected to that a Judge of the Supreme Court can
preventive detention. be appointed as Chairperson in addi-
5. Facilitating proxy voting, allowing registered election to the person who has been the
Chief Justice of India.
tors, particularly service voters, to delegate their
voting rights to a representative of their choice. Tenure The tenure for both the Chairperson
and Members is three years or until
24. PRERANA PROGRAM the age of seventy years.
Context: Powers and Func- Has all the powers of a civil court
Recently the inaugural alumni meet of the Prerana Program tions while trying a suit under the Code of
was conducted virtually. Civil Procedure, 1908. Can inquire into
• The event aimed to assess the program’s impact any violation of human rights or neg-
and facilitate the exchange of insights among par- ligence in the prevention of such vio-
ticipants. lation by a public servant, either suo
• It featured students sharing positive experiences motu or on a petition. Can intervene
and the transformative effects of the program on in proceedings regarding allegations
their lives. of human rights violations pending be-
fore a court.
About Prerana Program:
• The Prerana Program, which began its pilot phase in Key Initiatives Guidelines to check the misuse of the
January 2024, has involved students from various power of arrest by the police. Elimina-
states and Union Territories, focusing on nine val- tion of manual scavenging.
ue-based themes. Challenges The Global Alliance for National Hu-
• It aimed to foster mentorship, encourage alumni man Rights Institutions (GANHRI) de-
engagement, and highlight the program’s influence ferred its re-accreditation mainly due
in driving positive change within communities.
to political interference in appoint-
ments, involving the police in probes
25. NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMIS- into human rights violations, etc.
SION (NHRC) OF INDIA Without accreditation, NHRC will be
unable to represent India at the UN
Context: Human Rights Council
During the recent Statutory Full Commission meeting orga-
nized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
of India, chaired by Justice Shri Arun Mishra, the emphasis
26. TOP-TIER SECURITY PARTNER
was placed on the need for collaborative strategies among
all seven National Commissions to ensure the protection of
Context:
human rights, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized
Australia’s new National Defence Strategy (NDS) highlights
sections of society.
India as a top-tier security partner, emphasizing the impor-
Aspect Details tance of its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in contrib-
Establishment Established in 1993 as a statutory uting to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
body under the Protection of Human • The strategy aims to deepen defence cooperation
Rights Act (PHRA), 1993, as amend- with India through practical initiatives and informa-
ed by the Protection of Human Rights tion sharing.
• Australia plans to allocate $330 billion to its Inte-
(Amendment) Act, 2006. Its establish-
grated Investment Programme (IIP) over the next
ment aligns with the Paris Principle, decade, indicating a commitment to enhancing de-
which sets out the international min- fence capabilities.
imum standards for national human • This investment is expected to raise defence spend-
rights institutions. ing to around 2.4% of Gross Domestic Product by
Current Affairs 30
2033-34. as well as partner countries to share new ideas and
India and Australia are also finalizing agreements for co- policy recommendations.
operation in hydrography and air-to-air refuelling, fur- • It aims to contribute to promoting and shaping ASE-
ther enhancing their strategic partnership. AN’s development path.
27. NATIONAL ORGAN AND TISSUE 30. MATERIAL RESOURCE OF THE COM-
TRANSPLANT ORGANISATION (NOTTO)-ID MUNITY(ARTICLE 39 (B))
Context: Context:
The Union Health Ministry has mandated that all cases of The Maharashtra government informed the Supreme Court
organ transplants, whether from living or deceased donors, that the phrase “material resources of the community” en-
must be assigned a unique National Organ and Tissue Trans- compasses both public and private resources, subject to ju-
plant Organisation (NOTTO)-ID for both the donor and the dicial review for redistribution.
recipient.
• This directive aims to curb commercial dealings in The case concerns Article 39(b) of the Constitution, direct-
organs, particularly those involving foreign citizens. ing the state to distribute material resources for the com-
• Hospitals are required to generate the NOTTO-ID mon good. The SC bench, comprising nine judges, seeks
from the NOTTO website. clarity on whether privately owned resources fall under this
NOTTO is a national-level organization under MOHFW which provision.
undertakes activities of coordination and networking for
the procurement and distribution of Organs and Tissues. Judicial views on “material resources of the community”
under Article 39(b) vary:
28. CHILDCARE LEAVE 1. In State of Karnataka v Shri Ranganatha Reddy
(1977), the majority opinion of SC excluded private
Context: properties from this category
The Supreme Court declared that denying childcare leaves 2. SC: Mafatlal Industries Ltd v Union of India (1996)
to mothers of children with disabilities violates the state’s supported a broad interpretation of “material re-
constitutional duty to ensure gender equality in the work- sources” to include both natural and man-made,
force. private and public properties.
• The court emphasized that women’s participation Private Property owners contest the state’s authority to ac-
in the workforce is a constitutional requirement quire properties for redistribution, citing violations of the
under Article 15, and denying childcare leaves could Right to Equality under Article 14.
force them to quit their jobs, especially if they have
children with special needs.
• The court also involved the Central Government in 31. ARTICLE 244(A) OF INDIAN CONSTI-
the case and ordered the state to reconsider child- TUTION
care leave policies in line with the RPWD Act.Top
of Form Context:
Rule 43-C of the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972 The people of the Diphu Constituency (Assam) have been
provides for 2 years (730 days) of CCL to female employees demanding the implementation of Article 244(A) of the Con-
with children under 18 years of age to look after their kids. stitution.
There’s no age limit in case of disabled child.
Article 244(A) of the Constitution allows for the creation
of an autonomous state within Assam, specifically in tribal
29. ASEAN FUTURE FORUM areas such as Karbi Anglong. This provision, added through
the Constitution (Twenty-second Amendment) Act of 1969,
Context: grants significant powers to the autonomous state, including
India’s External Affairs Minister, delivered remarks at the its own Legislature or Council of Ministers. Notably, it pro-
1st ASEAN Future Forum. vides more autonomy compared to the existing Autono-
• India supports ASEAN unity and centrality, empha- mous Councils under the Sixth Schedule by granting control
sizing the importance of a strong and unified ASE- over law and order.
AN in the Indo-Pacific region.
The history of this provision traces back to the 1950s when
About ASEAN Future Forum: demands for a separate hill state emerged among certain
• It was proposed by Vietnam at the 43rd ASEAN tribal populations of undivided Assam. By the 1980s, this
Summit in 2023.
• It is a common platform for ASEAN member states demand had escalated into an armed separatist insurgency,
with Karbi groups at the forefront. Leaders of Karbi Anglong
Current Affairs 30
and North Cachar Hills, part of this movement, were giv- Trade and Development” to mark its 60th anniversary.
en the option to remain in Assam or join Meghalaya. They • This strategic move reflects its commitment to en-
chose to stay in Assam based on promises of greater powers, hancing its impact and amplifying its voice on be-
including those outlined in Article 244(A). half of developing countries.
• The rebranding initiative includes a new visual iden-
tity aimed at better reflecting the organization’s
32. NOMINATION IN ELECTION work and values.
• The organization will adopt its new name and logo
Context: across all official channels in the six UN languages.
In the Surat Lok Sabha constituency, the BJP candidate won
uncontested due to the rejection of the Congress candi- About UNCTAD:
date’s nomination papers (due to alleged discrepancies in The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
the signatures of his proposers) and the withdrawal of other (UNCTAD) is a permanent intergovernmental organization
candidates. The Congress alleged coercion of their proposers that promotes the interests of developing countries in
and appealed to the Election Commission (EC). world trade.
Nominations in elections follow specific criteria outlined in It was established by the United Nations General Assembly
the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RoPA). Section on December 30, 1964 and has its headquarters in Geneva.
33 of the RoPA specifies the requirements for valid nomina-
tions, including the need for proposers from the respective UNCTAD’s work focuses on trade, development, finance,
constituency. The Returning Officer (RO) can reject nomina- technology, investment, and sustainable development.
tions if signatures are found to be not genuine, as per Sec-
tion 36 of the RoPA. It collects data, conducts research, and analyses policies to
help countries frame policies in these areas.
Section 33 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951
also outlines eligibility criteria for contesting Lok Sabha UNCTAD also outlines recommendations for realigning the
elections: global debt architecture with developing countries’ needs.
• Individuals aged 25 or above can run from any con-
stituency
• Proposers, those supporting the candidacy, must be 34. STAR CAMPAIGNERS
from the same area.
• Candidates from recognized parties require one Context:
proposer, while independents or smaller parties Several political parties have released the list of their star
need ten. campaigners for the upcoming Lok Sabha General Elections.
• Up to four sets of nomination papers with different • The Representation of the People Act, 1951, defines
proposer groups can be submitted to ensure accep- rules around star campaigners, who are leaders of
tance despite issues with one set. political parties appointed for campaigning.
• A recognised political party can appoint a maxi-
mum of 40-star campaigners while a registered un-
To date, Over 35 candidates have been elected unopposed
recognized political party can appoint up to 20.
to the Lok Sabha, mostly in the first two decades after inde- • These campaigners can incur travel expenses for
pendence, with the last instance in 2012. campaigning without affecting candidates’ expendi-
ture limits.
Legal Recourse: The Election Commission (EC) is unlikely to
address the request directly due to constitutional and legal
provisions (Article 329(b) of the Constitution and the Repre-
GS-3
sentation of the People Act). Election petitions challenging
the decision must be filed before the respective High Court.
While the RP Act recommends concluding trials within six 1. 1MYAC – ONE MILLION YOUTH ACTIONS
months, this timeline is often not met CHALLENGE
Context:
33. UNCTAD REBRANDED AS ‘UN TRADE The 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge (1MYAC) by the UN
Climate Change Learning Partnership (UN CC:Learn) aims to
AND DEVELOPMENT’
mobilize youth aged 10 to 30 to take concrete actions for a
sustainable future, with a goal of reaching 1,000,000 youth
Context:
actions.
UNCTAD, the United Nations Conference on Trade and De-
• It focuses on promoting four Sustainable Devel-
velopment, has undergone a significant rebranding as “UN
Current Affairs 30
opment Goals (SDGs): clean water and sanitation, 3. India Cooling Action Plan foresees an eight-fold
responsible consumption and production, climate surge in cooling demand from 2017 to 2037.
action, and life on land.
• 1MYAC was founded by the Swiss Agency for De- What is RETV?
velopment and Cooperation (SDC) and the RéSEAU. The Residential Envelope Transmittance Value (RETV) is a
The One UN Climate Change Learning Partnership (UN metric used to measure heat transfer through a building’s
CC:Learn) is a collaborative initiative of more than 30 mul- envelope. It indicates the thermal efficiency of a building,
tilateral organizations that support countries in designing with lower RETV values corresponding to cooler indoor en-
and implementing climate change. UN CC:Learn offers in- vironments and decreased energy usage.
formation on climate change and free online courses.
Optimal construction materials for energy efficiency in-
clude:
2. IMPACT OF AI BOOM ON INTEREST Construction Characteristics
RATES Material
Autoclaved Aerat-
AAC blocks consistently exhibit the
What are Interest Rates? ed Concrete (AAC)
lowest RETV, indicating their poten-
Interest rates represent the cost of borrowing money or the blocks tial for thermal efficiency
return earned on savings or investments.
Red bricks Red bricks require the longest con-
AI boom increases demand for investment in technology. struction time but contribute to re-
Companies will be willing to pay higher interest rates to source depletion and emissions
banks, for increased capital investment. This raises interest Fly ash The use of fly ash in residential hous-
rates for everyone. ing construction can enhance thermal
efficiency by improving insulation,
The boom in AI could increase the Real (inflation-adjusted) reducing heat transfer, and increas-
interest rates due to several factors: ing thermal mass
1. Increased demand for capital expenditure (capex) Monolithic con- Monolithic concrete, while quick to
to develop high-quality semiconductor chips for AI. crete (Mivan) construct, has significantly higher
2. Higher productivity of capital resulting from AI leads embodied energy compared to AAC,
to higher real interest rates. posing sustainability challenges
3. Expansion of energy infrastructure to meet the
growing demand for computation, driven by AI. Related News:
4. Adoption of cost-effective technologies like water UNEP Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction
desalination, leads to increased investment in infra- (Buildings-GSR) 2024
structure and energy consumption.
5. Investment in AI-driven warfare and drone combat Aspect Details
technologies.
6. Job losses from AI lead to investments in worker Publisher United Nations Environment Pro-
assistance programs, putting pressure on real inter- gramme (UNEP) and Global Alliance
est rates. for Buildings and Construction (Glo-
balABC)
Key Findings The building and Construction Sector
3. ENERGY INEFFICIENCY IN RESIDENTIAL (BCS) contributes to 21% of global
BUILDINGS Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions
In 2022, buildings accounted for 34%
Context: of global energy demand and 37% of
Addressing energy inefficiency in residential buildings is cru- energy and process-related carbon di-
cial, with initiatives like Eco-Niwas Samhita (ENS) introduc- oxide (CO2) emissions
ing the Residential Envelope Transmittance Value (RETV) to India attributes 40% of its CO2 emis-
measure heat transfer. sions to the building sector
Decarbonization Limit global warming to 1.5°C (Paris
Need for Energy Efficiency?
Goals Agreement) and achieve net zero by
1. India’s housing construction sector is booming,
2050 by reducing embodied carbon in
erecting over 3,00,000 housing units annually.
building materials
2. The housing sector is a significant energy consumer,
responsible for over 33% of India’s electricity usage
Current Affairs 30
Global InitiativesDeclaration de Chaillot: Aims to foster 5. THE ARMED FORCES (SPECIAL POWERS)
international cooperation to address ACT (AFSPA)
climate challenges within the building
sector Context:
Energy Performance of Buildings Di- The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has extended
rective (EU): Zero emission standards the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in parts of
for new buildings by 2030 Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for another six months
Buildings Breakthrough Initiative
(France and Morocco at COP 28): The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is an act of
Near-zero emission and resilient build- the Indian Parliament that gives the military special powers
ings by 2030 to maintain public order in “disturbed areas”.
The act came into effect in 1958 and applies to the states of
Clean Heat Forum (UK initiative) Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram,
India Initiatives The first city-specific Zero Car- Nagaland, and Tripura.
bon Buildings Action Plan (ZCBAP)
launched in Nagpur The AFSPA gives the military, para-military, and other secu-
Energy Conservation (Amendment) rity forces the power to:
Act, 2022: Provides for Energy Con- • Use force, including lethal force, against people who vio-
servation and Sustainability Building late the law or are suspected of doing so
Code • Arrest people without a warrant
• Enter or search premises without a warrant
GlobalABC Over- Founded at COP21, GlobalABC is a • Shoot to kill
view leading global platform for all built en- • Search houses
vironment stakeholders committed to • Destroy any property that is “likely” to be used by insur-
a zero-emission, efficient, and resilient gents
buildings and construction sector
6. GENETIC PROFILING OF CAPTIVE ELE-
4. BUTTERFLY CICADA
PHANTS
Context:
A new species of cicada, informally named the “Butterfly Context:
Cicada,” has been discovered in Meghalaya, marking the Genetic profiling of captive elephants in Kerala is set to be-
first-ever record of the genus Becquartina in India. gin soon.
• The genus Becquartina is represented by six species
found distributed in China, Thailand, and Vietnam, Details of the Initiative:
often referred to as “Butterfly cicadas” due to their
colourful wings. About Description
Cicadas are insects that are part of the superfamily Cica- What is Genetic Pro- Genetic profiling is the analysis of
doidea and the order Hemiptera. filing? an organism’s DNA to determine
They are stout, green or brown in colour with black mark- specific genetic characteristics or
ings, and have four clear wings that resemble a fly. variations. It involves examining
Cicadas can be found in urban and rural areas with hardwood the unique genetic makeup of an
trees. They are harmless to people, plants, and property. individual or group, providing in-
sights into traits, ancestry, and po-
tential health risks.
The objective of the Create a comprehensive data-
initiative base incorporating photographs,
physical details, and genetic fea-
tures of over 400 captive ele-
phants in Kerala.
Implementation By Wildlife Institute of In-
dia (WII); Assistant conservators
(social forestry) will collect blood
and dung samples, supported by
forensic kits from WII.
Current Affairs 30
Current Status Captive elephants are elephants

that are held in captivity by hu-
mans, typically for purposes such
as work, tourism, or religious
ceremonies. Kerala has 407 cap-
tive elephants, with about 25 ele-
phant deaths annually.
National Perspective Genetic profiling was completed
in several states; data was acces-
sible via the “Gaja Suchana” app
for monitoring elephant transfers
and welfare.
Regulatory Frame- Aligns with the Ministry’s efforts
work to regulate elephant transfers, What is USSD Call forwarding?
following the Captive Elephant USSD call forwarding is a feature that allows mobile sub-
(Transfer or Transport) Rules, scribers to redirect incoming calls to another phone num-
2024. ber. It is typically initiated by dialling a specific USSD code
Previous Efforts Kerala Forest Department con- on the phone, followed by the destination number. This
ducted DNA profiling of elephants service is commonly used for various purposes such as call
in 2019, with support from the diversion during busy periods or when unreachable.
Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotech-
nology. Issues with USSD call forwarding include misuse for unwar-
Implications ranted activities, such as fraud and online crimes, leading to
regulatory intervention
For Conservation: Enhances wel-
fare and combats illegal transfers
About GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications)
of captive elephants, offering sys-
network is a standard for mobile communication used by
tematic monitoring and manage-
cellular devices worldwide. It allows users to make calls,
ment.
send text messages, and access data services. GSM networks
For Research and Policy: Provides operate on specific frequency bands and use SIM cards to
insights into genetic diversity and identify and authenticate users.
health, informing future conser-
vation strategies and policies.
8. H5N1 BIRD FLU
7. USSD-BASED CALL FORWARDING
Context:
Context: H5N1 bird flu, highly pathogenic since 2020, threatens birds
The Department of Telecom (DoT) has directed telecom op- and mammals globally. It’s infected birds in 80+ countries,
erators to halt USSD-based call forwarding from April 15 leading to mass culling in poultry farms.
due to misuse, requiring subscribers to activate it through
alternative methods. About H5N1 Bird Flu:
About Description
What is Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD)? Description H5N1 is a highly infectious subtype of
USSD is a protocol used in GSM networks for sending short the influenza A virus, causing severe
text messages. It facilitates instant messaging without stor- respiratory disease in birds (avian influ-
ing messages on the operator or subscriber’s device. USSD enza or “bird flu”).
comes in two types: Pull (user-initiated) and Push (opera-
Classification H5N1 is classified based on its surface
tor-initiated), using * and # characters and numeric codes.
proteins, hemagglutinin (H) and neur-
Messages typically start with * or # and end with #, with a
aminidase (N). There are 18 H subtypes
maximum length of 182 characters. It’s commonly used for
and 11 N subtypes, e.g., A(H1N1) and
balance deduction notifications and checking IMEI num-
A(H3N2).
bers on mobile phones.
• E.g., Checking prepaid mobile balance: *141#;
Checking IMEI number: *#06#
Current Affairs 30
Human Cases Human cases of H5N1 occur sporad- The Konda Reddi tribe, also known as the Konda Reddiyar or
ically, with difficulty in human-to-hu- Konda Kapus, is an indigenous community primarily found in
man transmission. The mortality rate is the hilly regions of southern India, particularly in the states
about 60% in infected individuals. of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Origin and Circu- Descended from a 1996 outbreak in
lation China, the current strain emerged in 10. CARDAMOM
Europe in 2020, spreading globally by
late 2021 and reaching Antarctica in Context:
2024. Large-scale damage to cardamom plantations has been re-
Spread Factors Scientists suggest climate change plays ported in various regions of Kerala due to the drought.
a role, in altering bird behaviour and • Farmers are facing significant losses, with many
fearing the destruction of their crops if the drought
facilitating virus spread.
persists.
Spread to Peo- Human infection typically results from • The Indian Council of Agricultural Research and Kri-
ple close contact with infected birds or shi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Idukki recommend mea-
contaminated environments. Hu- sures such as foliar application of Pigmented Facul-
man-to-human transmission is rare. tative Methylotrophic Bacteria (PPFM) and treating
plants to decrease disease incidence to mitigate the
Cause for Con- While H5N1 poses a high mortality risk impact of the drought on cardamom production.
cern in humans, its limited human-to-hu- PPFMs are aerobic, Gram-negative bacteria that use
man transmission reduces its pandem- one-carbon compounds like formate, formaldehyde, and
ic potential. However, if the virus were methanol as their sole carbon and energy source. They are
to mutate for easy human transmission phylogenetically diverse and belong to the genus Methylo-
while remaining virulent, it could pose bacterium.
a serious public health threat. PPFMs have been well studied in agricultural systems. They
Impact Millions of poultry and wild birds have can be applied to seeds and crops as a foliar spray.
died, with the virus also infecting var- Cardamom is a spice made from the seeds of the Elettaria
ious mammalian species. Endangered cardamomum plant, also known as green cardamom or true
bird species like California condors cardamom.
have been hit hard, and reports of in- The plant is native to southern India and is part of the gin-
fections in mammals raise concerns ger family.
about viral spread and increased viru- Cardamom has a strong, warm flavour that is both spicy
lence. Marine mammals, including sea and sweet.
lions and dolphins, have suffered sub- Soil and climate
stantial mortality. • Soil: It is grown in forest loamy soils, which are usually
acidic in nature with a pH range of 5.0–6.5
• This crop can be grown at an elevation from 600 to 1500
9. INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE - KONDA m.
• Temperature: 10 to 35 degree C
REDDI TRIBE • Rainfall: 1500 to 4000 mm
• The growth of cardamom is enhanced when planted in
Context: humus rich soils with low to medium available phos-
The indigenous knowledge of the Konda Reddi tribe regard- phorous and medium to high available potassium.
ing the Indian laurel tree’s water-storing ability has been
confirmed by forest officials in the Papikonda National Park.
• Forest authorities conducted an experiment by cut- 11. TISSUE CULTURE
ting the bark of the Indian laurel tree, revealing
water splashing out, particularly in the summer, as Context:
claimed by the tribe. The forest and wildlife department of Delhi is establishing a
• Indian Laurel Tree known as Indian Silver Oak and tissue culture laboratory at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanc-
valued for its timber commercially.
tuary to generate saplings of threatened or rare native
trees in the city.
It highlights several ethical values: • The aim is to grow endangered native trees in a
• Respect for Indigenous Knowledge. controlled environment and regenerate saplings for
• Collaboration and Partnership between forest officials species facing regeneration challenges.
and tribes.
• Environmental Conservation Tissue culture is a research tool that involves growing cells
• Sustainability or tissues in an artificial environment. It’s also called micro-
propagation.
Current Affairs 30
Animal tissue culture
This technique involves maintaining and growing isolated cells, tissues, or organs in an artificial environment. It›s used in
biomedical research to study the causes of disease.
Plant tissue culture
This technique involves growing plant cells, tissues, or organs in a sterile environment. It’s used to produce clones of a
plant. Under the right conditions, a single cell can be used to regenerate an entire plant.
12. OZONE ON CALLISTO

Context:
An international team, including researchers from India’s PRL Ahmedabad, has discovered evidence of ozone on Jupiter’s
moon Callisto, indicating complex chemical processes on icy celestial bodies.
• The study, reveals the chemical evolution of sulphur dioxide ice under ultraviolet irradiation, leading to ozone
formation.
• The presence of ozone suggests stable atmospheric conditions on Callisto, potentially conducive to hosting life.
This discovery raises questions about Callisto’s habitability and provides insights into the chemical processes of icy moons
in the Solar System.
Reports in News
Topic Details
Report on GIFT IFSC Expert Committee on developing GIFT IFSC as ‘Global Finance and Accounting Hub’ submits report
(Indian Financial to IFSCA
System Code)
Background: The committee was formed following the Ministry of Finance notification; The noti-
fication classified book-keeping, accounting, taxation, and financial crime compliance as ‘financial
services’ under the IFSC Act, 2019
GIFT IFSC: Established as SEZ in 2015 in Gujarat; caters to customers outside the domestic economy;
deals with flows of finance, financial products, and services across borders
Opportunities: Strong technology-driven outsourcing capabilities; large talent pool of skilled man-
power in accounting, etc.; “Accounting and finance services” recognized as one of 12 Champion
sectors in services for exports
Recommendations: Proposes new regulation for comprehensive definition of Bookkeeping, Ac-
counting, Taxation, and Financial Crime Compliance Services; allows only registered companies or
Limited Liability Partnerships to offer services
About IFSC Authority: Statutory body under IFSC Act, 2019; unified regulator for development and
regulation of financial products, services, and institutions in IFSCs in India
Current Affairs 30
IOM Report: A De- International Organization for Migration (IOM) releases report “A Decade of Documenting Migrant
cade of Document- Deaths” to mark ten years of IOM’s Missing Migrants Project (MMP)
ing Migrant Deaths MMP was launched in 2014 to document deaths and disappearances of people in the migration
process towards an international destination
Key Findings: More than one in three migrants from conflict-affected countries; over two-thirds
of documented deaths are unidentified; major causes of migrant deaths include drowning, vehicle
accidents, suffocation, inadequate shelter, healthcare, etc
What is Migration? Migration refers to the movement of persons away from their place of usual
residence, either across an international border or within the State
Consequences of Migration: Intermixing of cultures, urban overcrowding and slum development,
changes in resource-population ratio, brain drain from poorer to developed countries for better
economic opportunities
Initiatives: Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) under UN; India’s mea-
sures like Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana, pre-departure orientation training for migrants
About IOM: Intergovernmental organization under the UN; provides services and advice on mi-
gration to governments and migrants; established in 1951 as Intergovernmental Committee for
European Migration (ICEM) to resettle people displaced by World War II; It has 175 member states
including India. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland
Study Details
Lancet Study on Global A recent Lancet study spanning from 1990 to 2021 revealed a global increase in life expectancy
Life Expectancy by 6.2 years, attributed to reduced deaths from enteric infections (food and waterborne ill-
nesses caused by bacteria, parasites, and viruses), lower respiratory infections, ischemic heart
disease, and strokes. Enteric diseases, notably typhoid and diarrhoea, led to the highest reduc-
tion in deaths. Lower respiratory infections and measles also played significant roles.
However, COVID-19 emerged as the second leading cause of age-standardized deaths in 2021,
with varying impacts across regions, emphasizing the need for effective disease mitigation pro-
grams.
About The Lancet: It was established in England in 1823, and is a prestigious weekly peer-re-
viewed medical journal known for its high impact. Owned by Elsevier since 1991, it publishes
original research articles, reviews, editorials, and more.
Measuring the Emis- Jointly released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Bank
sions and Energy Foot- Key Highlights: Rapid digitalization expansion increases energy consumption and greenhouse
print of the ICT Sector gas emissions. The ICT sector accounts for 1.7% of global emissions. 60% of renewable power
Report purchases in 2021 were from the ICT sector. France is the only country compiling telecommu-
nications sector emissions.
Key Recommendations: Data-driven approach is needed for informed policy decisions and
emission reduction targets. Technology transitions in the ICT sector can reduce emissions with
careful planning for inclusivity. Regulatory modifications, incentives, and collaboration between
ICT and energy sectors can promote sustainable energy access.
About ITU: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) (HQ: Geneva, Switzerland) is the
oldest UN agency, founded in 1865 as the International Telegraph Union. It promotes the glob-
al use of radio spectrum, assigns satellite orbits, sets technical standards, and improves telecom
infrastructure. ITU has 193 member countries (including India) and numerous businesses, aca-
demic institutions, and organizations.
Current Affairs 30
“Economic and Social Key findings from the 2024 survey highlight the challenges facing developing countries in bal-
Survey of Asia and the ancing debt servicing with investments in critical sectors like education and health. Despite
Pacific 2024” was steady economic performance in Asia-Pacific, issues like weaker purchasing power, limited job
released by UNESCAP opportunities, and income inequality persist
Key recommendations Include:
1. Prioritize macroeconomic stability and fiscal discipline to keep government borrowing
costs low.
2. Implement policy measures to improve revenue collection and boost domestic sav-
ings.
3. Shift international development cooperation towards affordable, long-term financing.
4. Enhance the roles of multilateral development banks and credit rating agencies.
5. Address fiscal implications of global megatrends like demographic shifts and climate
change.
About UNESCAP: The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacif-
ic (UNESCAP) (est. 1947; HQ: Bangkok) serves as a pivotal forum for governments across the
region to convene and deliberate on matters pertaining to economic and social development.
Currently, it comprises 53 member countries and 9 associate members, with India being one
of its prominent members.
Report Title Description

Towards Specific Commit- Report Released by Global Leaders Group (GLG) on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
ments and Action in Re- The report aims to inform the 2024 United Nations General Assembly High-level Meeting on
sponse to AMR AMR
Recommendations: It includes convening an independent panel on AMR action by 2025, ex-
panding financing instruments, updating the 2015 Global Action Plan by Quadripartite orga-
nizations (FAO, UNEP, WHO, WOAH), and ensuring quality-assured surveillance data through
global surveillance systems (GLASS, ANIMUSE and InFARM).
Target: Targets for 2030 include reducing bacterial AMR deaths by 10% and decreasing anti-
microbial use in agri-food systems
Space: The $1.8 Trillion The report has been released by the World Economic Forum (WEF)
Opportunity for Global Key findings reveal the space economy’s projected growth to $1.8 trillion by 2035 from $630
Economic Growth billion in 2023. Five industries will drive over 60% of this growth, including supply chain, food
and beverage, defence, retail, and digital communications. Decreasing launch costs (fell by
over 10-fold over the last 20 years), commercial innovation and diversified investments are
driving space prevalence.
Recommendations include partnering with tech innovators, exploring a “space for non-space”
approach, and enacting policies to foster collaboration across state-sponsored agencies.
India’s space economy is currently valued at approximately $8.4 billion, comprising 2-3% of
the global space economy. The target is to reach $44 billion by 2033, with 100% FDI allowed.
Recent initiatives include Indian Space Policy 2023, Indian National Space Promotion and
Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe); creation of New Space India Limited to facilitate private
sector participation.
Global Unicorn Index Report released by Hurun Research Institute
2024 Findings: In 2023, India had 67 unicorn startups (68 in 2022), ranking third globally behind
the USA and China. Indian founders have produced more offshore unicorns than any other
country. India lacks unicorns in the Aerospace or SpaceTech sector. Factors behind the decline
include a slowdown in India’s startup ecosystem due to insufficient investment.
Unicorns are privately held, venture-capital-backed startups valued at $1 billion or more. The
term was coined by venture capitalist Aileen Lee in 2013
Current Affairs 30
EIA’s report titled ‘More The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) found that illegal trade in HFCs in Europe is
Chilling Than Ever’ driven by high profits and ongoing demand.
HFCs, or Hydrofluorocarbons, are colourless and odourless gases composed of carbon,
fluorine, and hydrogen. They are entirely human-made and primarily used in refrigeration,
air-conditioning, insulating foams, and aerosol propellants. HFCs were developed as alter-
natives to ozone-depleting substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluo-
rocarbons (HCFCs). While they do not deplete the ozone layer, HFCs contribute to global
greenhouse gas emissions and exacerbate climate change.
Reports Description
Land Conflict A recent analysis by Land Conflict Watch (LCW) highlights a strong connection between land con-
Watch database flicts and the enforcement of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) in India
on FRA Key findings:
Conflict Causes: About 44% of conflicts in FRA constituencies stem from conservation and forestry
projects, while over 88% result from non-implementation or violation of FRA provisions, including
evictions and lack of prior consent for land use.
States Most Affected: Maharashtra, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh have the highest number of core
FRA constituencies. Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu and Kashmir face significant forest rights is-
sues.
Conflict Nature: Reserved constituencies witness disputes over common land, while unreserved
ones experience conflicts over private land. Infrastructure projects, particularly in the mining and
power sectors, often trigger conflicts.
Economic Activities Involved: Infrastructure development, including mining and power projects, is
a major cause of conflict. Additionally, disputes arise from issues related to the collection of minor
forest produce.
About FRA:
The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition Of Forest Rights) Act, com-
monly known as FRA, was enacted in 2006, placing the responsibility of implementation on state
governments and UT administrations. As per the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, around 23.43 lakh land
titles have been distributed across states, encompassing individual and community rights.
Trade and Devel- Published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
opment Report Key Findings:
Update (April Global merchandise trade decline: In 2023, global merchandise trade decreased by approximately
2024) 1% in real terms due to trade tensions among major economies, subdued global demand, and dis-
ruptions in key shipping routes.
Impact of developed economies’ monetary policy on developing countries: Rapid and simultane-
ous tightening of monetary policy by major developed economies has led to higher debt servicing
costs and challenges in securing new financing options for developing countries. Additionally, in-
creased interest rates in developed countries have depreciated currencies in developing nations,
and double-digit interest rates set by central banks in many developing countries have negatively
affected domestic demand, employment, and household incomes.
Global debt crisis: Developing countries’ governments are struggling with increasing debt payment
obligations. This year marked the first instance of a net negative resource transfer from developing
to developed countries since 2008. By 2023, nine low-income countries had fallen into debt distress,
with an additional 25 on the brink.
UNCTAD (founded 1964; HQ: Geneva) is an intergovernmental organization within the United Na-
tions Secretariat that promotes the interests of developing countries in world trade.
Current Affairs 30
B i a s W a t c h I n - Key findings:
dia study on Gender Gap in Indian STEM Faculties: A study by BiasWatchIndia revealed that only 13.5% of faculty
Women in STEM members across 98 universities and institutes in India are women. This underrepresentation extends
to prestigious institutions like IITs, IISc, and TIFR, and is more pronounced compared to countries like
the US and UK.
The factors responsible are:
Social biases within certain STEM fields discourage women from pursuing higher education and re-
search, while the challenges of balancing family planning with career aspirations during the postdoc
to faculty transition limit their progression. Additionally, toxic work environments, characterized by
disrespect and limited advancement opportunities, often prompt senior women to leave STEM aca-
demia. Moreover, the absence of a centralized database tracking women faculty in STEM hampers
efforts to address the gender gap, alongside the lack of dedicated resources and leadership commit-
ment needed to achieve gender equity.
India has the highest percentage of women STEM graduates globally, at about 40%. However, their
representation in STEM jobs within the country is low, standing at only 14%. The gradual dropout of
women from the STEM workforce is termed the ‘Leaky Pipeline Syndrome’.
Strengthening the By Bretton Woods Committee (BWC) (it was created in 1983, and is a non-profit organization). This
Bretton Woods In- is the first report from BWC’s Multilateral Reform Working Group (MRWG)
stitutions (BWIs) Multilateralism spearheaded by International Financial Institutions has propelled significant growth
to Meet 21st-Cen- and globalization, benefiting the global populace. However, the report underscores two challenges
tury Global Chal- to this progress: crises in the global commons and slow progress in addressing them.
lenges Report
The Bretton Woods Institutions (BWIs) were established in 1944 by 43 countries to aid in post-war
economic reconstruction and foster international economic cooperation. They comprise the World
Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Report Description
Survival Interna- Survival International accuses UNESCO of complicity in illegal eviction and abuse of Indigenous peo-
tional Report ple in a report on World Heritage Day 2024 (18th April). The six sites are:
Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania): A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning
landscape and wildlife, including the Ngorongoro Crater, where diverse species thrive within an an-
cient volcanic caldera.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park (Democratic Republic of the Congo): Home to the endangered eastern
lowland gorillas, this park faces conservation challenges amid conflict and human encroachment.
Odzala-Kokoua National Park (Republic of Congo): A biodiverse wilderness area with dense forests,
savannas, and rivers, providing habitat for numerous species, including forest elephants and gorillas.
Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex (Thailand): One of the largest protected areas in Thailand, known for
its rich biodiversity, including rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
Kaziranga National Park (India): Famous for its population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses, this
park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant conservation area for various wildlife species.
Chitwan National Park (Nepal): A renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal, recognized for
its diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts, including the protection of Bengal tigers and one-
horned rhinoceroses
Survival International is a human rights organisation formed in 1969, a London-based charity that
campaigns for the rights of Indigenous and/or tribal peoples and uncontacted peoples.
Current Affairs 30
State of World Released by the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA)

Population 2024 The report, titled “Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending Inequalities in Sexual and Reproduc-
report tive Health (SRH) and Rights,” highlights women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR),
encompassing freedom from torture, right to health, privacy, education, life, and discrimination pro-
hibition.
Key findings include:
India’s leading global population of 1.44 billion, is projected to double in 77 years, with 68% aged
15-64 and 26% aged 10-24.
India’s Total Fertility Rate is 2.0, with life expectancy at birth estimated at 71 and 74 years for men
and women, respectively.
Child marriage rates averaged 23% from 2006-2023.
Women with disabilities face up to 10 times more gender-based violence.
UNFPA, headquartered in New York, USA, was established in 1969 as the United Nations sexual and
reproductive health agency. Its mandate, established by the United Nations Economic and Social
Council (ECOSOC), includes supporting access to various sexual and reproductive health services,
such as voluntary family planning, maternal health care, and comprehensive sexuality education.
Arctic’s Plastic Cri- Released by Alaska Community Action on Toxics (ACAT) and the International Pollutants Elimination
sis Report Network (IPEN) (a global network aiming to build a global movement for a toxics-free future)
Key findings: Petrochemical industries are polluting the Arctic with environmental violations like oil
spills and hazardous substance releases. Plastic and toxic chemicals from around the world are also
accumulating in the Arctic. These substances, transported by atmospheric and oceanic currents, en-
danger indigenous communities like Aleut, Yupik, and Inuit, affecting their food security due to rapid
Arctic warming.
Global Forest Key Findings:
Watch (GFW) Re- India has lost 2.33 million hectares (Mha) of tree cover since 2000, marking a 6% decrease during
port 2001-2023.
Notably, five states—Assam, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur—contributed to
60% of all tree cover loss between 2001-2023.
Deforestation and climate change, leading to extreme heat and wildfires, are major drivers of tree
cover loss, with Odisha and Arunachal Pradesh experiencing the highest tree cover loss due to fires
according to GFW.
The World Resources Institute (WRI) established Global Forest Watch (GFW) in 1997 as an online
platform offering data and tools to monitor forests. GFW provides access to near real-time informa-
tion on global forest changes, enabling users to track and analyze forest dynamics worldwide.
Name Description
Trends in World Military It was released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)
Expenditure, 2023 Report Key findings reveal that in 2023, India ranked as the fourth-largest military spender globally,
following the United States, China, and Russia.
NATO member states collectively spent $1341 billion (55% of global military expenditure)
Overall, world military spending surged to a record high of $2443 billion, propelled by events
like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and escalating geopolitical tensions.
Stockholm International Peace Research Institute is an international institute based in Stock-
holm. It was founded in 1966 and provides data, analysis and recommendations for armed
conflict, military expenditure and arms trade as well as disarmament and arms control
Current Affairs 30
‘Ensuring safety and Released by the International Labour Organization (ILO)

health at work in a chang- The report highlights climate change’s impact on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH):
ing climate’ Report Excessive heat annually contributes to over 2 million disability-adjusted life years, posing
risks to outdoor workers, especially in hot climates.
Existing international labor standards address climate-related OSH hazards.
Vulnerable sections, like women workers in agriculture and those with disabilities, face in-
creased risks.
India-related findings show factors like water shortages contributing to farmer suicides
Recommendations include coordinating OSH policies, implementing targeted national poli-
cies, and adopting effective workplace preventive measures.
Reports Description
Global Report on Food Cri- The latest Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) reveals that in 2023, nearly 282 million peo-
ses (GRFC) ple across 59 countries and territories faced high levels of acute hunger
Key findings include acute malnutrition among children and women, and worsening situ-
ations for those displaced by conflict and disasters. E.g., Sudan faced the largest deteriora-
tion due to conflict, with 8.6 million more people facing high levels of acute food insecurity
as compared with 2022
Drivers: Conflict, extreme weather events, and economic shocks were identified as key driv-
ers of the crisis.
The GRFC is produced annually by the Food Security Information Network (FSIN) and
launched by the Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC)
GNAFC was established in 2016 by the European Union, the UN’s Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO), and the World Food Programme (WFP). GNAFC aims to enhance coor-
dination among existing initiatives and organizations to tackle the underlying causes of food
crises.
UNESCO releases 2024 gen- The report examines the impact of technology on girls’ education and the role of educa-
der report of the Global Ed- tion in shaping future technological development. It highlights how ICT can help overcome
ucation Monitoring Report, barriers to education access, but also emphasizes the digital gender gap, negative effects of
titled “Technology on her social media, and underrepresentation of women in STEM fields
Terms” UNESCO (est. 1945; HQ: Paris, France) the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cul-
tural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations. Parent organization: Unit-
ed Nations Economic and Social Council. Objective: To build peace through international
cooperation in Education, the Sciences, and Culture. India has been a member of the UNE-
SCO since its inception
WHO-led study on Global Global immunizations have saved at least 154 million lives over the past 50 years
Immunization The study analyzed the WHO’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), launched in
1974 to provide life-saving vaccines to all children globally.
Measles vaccination had the most significant impact on reducing infant mortality
The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), launched in 2000, aims to ex-
pand vaccine coverage, with India becoming the first implementing country to donate to
GAVI in 2014.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a UN agency established in 1948 to promote
global public health. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with six regional offices and
150 field offices worldwide, it sets health standards, provides technical assistance, and col-
lects global health data.
Current Affairs 30
PwC India released a report The report analyzes how companies are adjusting to SEBI’s Business Responsibility and
titled ‘Navigating India’s Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) requirements, which mandate disclosures on environmen-
Transition to Sustainability’ tal, social, and governance (ESG) aspects for the top 1000 listed companies.
BRSR aims to enhance compliance, consistency, and communication regarding non-financial
disclosures, with SEBI introducing BRSR Core in 2023 to bolster the reliability of ESG disclo-
sures.
IUCN released a report ti- The report outlines the concept of a Regenerative Blue Economy (RBE), which prioritizes the
tled “Towards a Regenera- effective regeneration and protection of ocean ecosystems while supporting sustainable
tive Blue Economy – Map- economic activities and fair prosperity
ping the Blue Economy” Global initiatives like IUCN’s Nature 2030, Great Blue Wall Initiative, Clean Seas Campaign,
Moroni Declaration and Cape Town Manifesto are examples of efforts promoting RBE
India’s Initiatives include Maritime India Vision 2030, Deep Ocean Mission, Pradhan Mantri
Matsya Sampada Yojana, etc.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), headquartered in Gland, Swit-
zerland, is a global organization founded in 1948. It focuses on nature conservation and
sustainable use of natural resources, serving as a leading authority on global environmental
issues.
‘Re-aligning Agri-food Pol- Released by ICRIER
icies for Protecting Soil, The report sheds light on the influence of agri-food policies on India’s agricultural produc-
Water, Air & Biodiversity tion and emphasizes on synergy of SWAB for sustainable food systems.
(SWAB)
Recommendations include offering premium MSP for low-carbon crops and exploring car-
bon markets for carbon farming credits.
ICRIER, established in 1981, is a non-profit economic think tank providing research and
policy advice on economic matters to the Indian government and other entities. It aims to
enhance policy-making by offering analytical research and objective policy recommenda-
tions.
13. MRI SCAN: IMAGE OF HUMAN BRAIN

Context:
The world’s most powerful MRI scanner, located in France, has produced its first images of the human brain, offering un-
precedented precision.
Key feature of MRI Scanner:

1. Unprecedented Resolution: In just four minutes, the machine captures highly detailed anatomical images with a
resolution of 0.2 mm in plane and 1 mm slice thickness, equivalent to a few thousand neurons.
2. Medical Impact: The detailed imaging capabilities can aid in research on neurodegenerative diseases like Alzhei-
mer’s and Parkinson’s.
3. Advanced Detection: The machine facilitates the detection of chemical species like lithium and molecules involved
in brain metabolism, enhancing diagnostics and treatment efficacy.
What is an MRI Scanner?

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scanner is a medical device that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to
generate detailed images of the inside of the body, particularly the soft tissues like the brain, muscles, and organs.
How does it work?

When a patient enters the MRI machine, their body’s hydrogen atoms align with the magnetic field. Radio waves are
then used to temporarily disrupt this alignment. When the radio waves are turned off, the hydrogen atoms return to their
aligned state, emitting energy that is detected by the scanner.
Different tissues emit different signals based on their hydrogen atom density and molecular environment, allowing the
scanner to create detailed images that physicians can use to diagnose various medical conditions.
Current Affairs 30
About Human Brain:

The human brain is the control centre of the body,
responsible for processing information, controlling
movement, regulating emotions, and enabling con-
sciousness. It consists of billions of neurons, which
transmit signals through electrical and chemical pro-
cesses. The brain is divided into regions that special-
ize in different functions
1. Frontal lobe: It is involved in higher-level
cognitive functions such as decision-mak-
ing, problem-solving, planning, and social
behaviour.
2. The parietal lobe plays a key role in process-
ing sensory information from the body, in-
cluding touch, temperature, and pain.
3. The occipital lobe is primarily responsible
for processing visual information received
from the eyes.
4. The temporal lobe is involved in various functions, including auditory processing (hearing), memory formation, lan-
guage comprehension, and emotion regulation.
5. The cerebellum is essential for coordinating movement, balance, and posture
6. Cerebral cortex for higher cognitive functions
7. The brainstem for basic life functions like breathing and heartbeat
Current Affairs 30
14. ZIRCON HYPERSONIC MISSILE • India aims to eliminate coal imports by 2025-26,
with coal imports for blending purposes notably de-
Context: creasing in FY24 compared to the previous fiscal.
Russian President confirmed that the 3M22 Zircon hyper- The current status of the coal sector in India is as follows:
sonic missile had been used in combat, presenting a new Geological reserves: India possesses the 5th largest geolog-
challenge to Ukrainian air defense systems in the ongoing ical reserves of coal globally and ranks as the 2nd largest
conflict between Russia and Ukraine. consumer of coal in the world.
• The Zircon missile, capable of reaching eight times
the speed of sound with a range of about 400 ki- Production: Coal India Limited (CIL) stands as the largest
lometers, could potentially evade advanced air de- producer, contributing to over 70% of coal production in
fense systems like the US Patriot. India.
• Powered by a scramjet engine, the Zircon is de-
signed for low-altitude flying and manoeuvrability, Import: In the fiscal year 2023-24 (until January 2024), In-
making it difficult for detection and interception. dia imported 217.75 million tonnes of coal. Non-coking coal
dominates the imports, accounting for approximately 77%
15. RBI@90 of the total imported coal.
Context: 17. ANTI-DUMPING INVESTIGATION

The Prime Minister addressed the opening ceremony of
RBI@90 in Mumbai, marking 90 years of the Reserve Bank Context:
of India (RBI). India has launched an anti-dumping investigation (initiated
by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR)), into
Brief History of RBI: the import of a chemical used in the rubber industry from
• Royal Commission on Indian Currency, 1926 (Hilton
Young Commission) recommended the establish- China and Japan.
ment of the RBI, a suggestion reiterated by the In-
dian Central Banking Enquiry Committee in 1931. What is dumping?
• The RBI was founded in 1935 under the Reserve When the goods are exported by a country to a foreign
Bank of India Act, 1934, with Sir Osborne Smith country at a price lower than the price it charges in its own
serving as its inaugural Governor. home market is called dumping.
• In 1949, the RBI was nationalized, marking a pivotal
moment in its institutional history. What is Anti-Dumping?
Anti-dumping duties are taxes imposed on imported goods
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has evolved significantly in in order to compensate for the difference between their ex-
recent years: port price and their normal value, if dumping causes injury
• Inflation-targeting central bank to producers of competing products in the importing coun-
• Foreign exchange reserves
• Macroeconomic stability try. This practice can harm domestic industries by undercut-
• Reduction in NPAs ting their prices and creating unfair competition. Anti-dump-
• Technology in payments ing measures are part of WTO regulations aimed at creating
• Central bank digital currency a level playing field for domestic producers against foreign
competitors
However, the RBI faces several challenges:
• Banking Regulation and Supervision Why anti-dumping investigation?
• Transparency with Regulated Entities An anti-dumping probe is underway for imports of ‘insol-
• Regulating New-Age Fintech Firms uble sulphur’ from China and Japan. Insoluble sulphur, an
• Limited Powers over Public-Sector Banks amorphous form of sulphur, doesn’t dissolve in carbon di-
• Potential Fiscal Dominance of Monetary Policy
sulphide and is crucial in the rubber industry. It serves as a
vital additive agent in rubber products like tyres and shoes,
16. INDIA’S COAL AND LIGNITE PRODUC- enhancing their quality and wearability. Additionally, it acts
as a vulcanization accelerator in the rubber manufactur-
TION ing process, facilitating the hardening of rubber through
cross-linking of molecules with other substances.
Context:
India’s coal and lignite production reached an unprecedent- What is anti-dumping?
ed milestone, surpassing 1 billion tonnes in the fiscal year Anti-dumping is a protective tariff imposed by a govern-
2023-24, compared to 937 million tonnes in the previous fis- ment on foreign imports sold at a price lower than the home
cal.
Current Affairs 30
market price. It aims to counter distortions in trade caused 20. CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITIONS PRO-
by dumping. Anti-dumping is permitted by the WTO.
GRAMME 2023
Context:
The Clean Energy Transitions Programme (CETP) is the In-
ternational Energy Agency’s (IEA) primary initiative aimed
at accelerating global progress towards a net-zero energy
system.
• The CETP Annual Report 2023 outlines the program’s
achievements in the past year, emphasizing its focus
on emerging markets and developing economies.
Highlights include:
• The introduction of new fuel standards for trucks
in Indonesia, the Energy Transition Plan in Uganda,
and regulations for the spot electricity market in
China, all aligned with IEA recommendations.
• The report also mentions significant publications
such as the Latin America Energy Outlook and a
18. SHALLOW FAKES World Energy Outlook Special Report on universal
access to clean cooking in Africa.
Context: • Additionally, the CETP supported the IEA’s work on
The prevalence and impact of shallow fakes during elec- energy efficiency, critical minerals, energy employ-
tions have been a concern. ment, clean energy investment, and capacity build-
• Shallow Fakes are manipulated images, videos, and ing for policymakers.
voice clips created without AI technology. • The program played a crucial role in global energy
• Unlike deepfakes, shallow fakes rely on traditional dialogues and engagements, including G20, G7,
editing tools to deceive viewers. and ASEAN Ministerial meetings, as well as COP28
• They are increasingly used in political contexts, par- in Dubai, supporting the IEA’s ambitious action plan
ticularly during elections, to spread misinforma- towards 1.5°C-aligned energy transitions.
tion.
• The blurring line between shallow fakes and deep-
fakes, coupled with the accessibility of editing 21. PAIRA CROPPING SYSTEM
tools, has amplified their prevalence.
Context:
Odisha is promoting climate-resilient agriculture through its
19. ARTIFICIAL SUN
rice fallow initiative, capitalizing on residual moisture after
rice harvest to cultivate short-duration pulses and oilseed
Context:
crops.
Scientists in South Korea have achieved a new world record
• This initiative aims to boost land productivity, in-
in nuclear fusion, sustaining temperatures of 100 million decrease farmers’ income, and ensure food security.
grees Celsius, seven times hotter than the sun’s core. • The scheme, focuses on optimal resource utiliza-
• This feat, conducted using the Korea Superconduct- tion, increasing cropping intensity, and restoring
ing Tokamak Advanced Research device (KSTAR), soil health.
aims to replicate the fusion reaction powering stars • Eight crops are being cultivated under the scheme,
to unlock clean, limitless energy. including green gram, black gram, Bengal gram,
• The experiment involved fusing atoms to release and mustard.
massive energy without carbon emissions, crucial Eco-friendly inputs such as bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides,
for addressing climate change.
and integrated pest management techniques are being in-
• KSTAR sustained these high temperatures for 48 sec-
onds, breaking the previous record of 30 seconds. corporated to promote natural pest control and reduce reli-
To achieve this, scientists used tungsten instead of ance on chemical pesticides.
carbon in the reactor’s “diverters” to extract impu-
rities and heat. 22. PUNNETT SQUARE
• Their goal is to sustain these temperatures for at
least 300 seconds by 2026, critical for scaling up fu-
Context:
sion operations.
The Punnett square, named after British geneticist Reginald
Punnett, is a grid used to predict the possible genetic out-
This research will contribute to the International Thermo-
comes of offspring when two individuals with known geno-
nuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France, aiding in ad-
types are crossed.
vancing fusion energy commercialization.
Current Affairs 30
• It consists of a simple grid with squares represent-
ing possible combinations of traits inherited from
each parent.
• This tool helps visualize the probabilities of differ-
ent traits appearing in offspring and is commonly
used in biology to understand inheritance patterns,
such as dominant and recessive genes.
• Researchers utilize Punnett squares alongside Men-
delian inheritance principles to study genetic traits
in offspring, including those of animals and humans.
24. “MOTHER OF DRAGONS” COMET
Context:
The “Mother of Dragons” comet, officially named Comet
12P/Pons-Brooks, is making a rare appearance in the North-
ern Hemisphere skies.
• This unique “Halley-type” comet, which completes
its orbit around the sun every 71 years, is visible af-
ter dusk, marking its first appearance since 1954.
• Named by the European Space Agency due to its
association with the “kappa-Draconids” meteor
shower, the comet exhibits a bright green colour
23. ‘GRAVITY HOLE’ IN THE INDIAN due to the emission of emerald-coloured light from
OCEAN diatomic carbon molecules.
• Notable for its cryovolcanic nature, the comet reg-
ularly erupts, creating stunning displays of bright-
Context: ness.
Scientists from the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru,
India, have proposed a credible explanation for the “gravity
hole” in the Indian Ocean. 25. S.A.R.A.H. - SMART AI RESOURCE AS-
• Gravity Hole is where Earth’s gravitational pull is
weaker, leading to a sea level dip of over 328 feet SISTANT FOR HEALTH
(100 meters).
• Using computer simulations dating back 140 million Context:
years, the researchers suggest that plumes of mag- The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced
ma from deep within the planet, similar to those S.A.R.A.H. (Smart AI Resource Assistant for Health), a digi-
that create volcanoes, are responsible for the tal health promoter prototype powered by generative artifi-
anomaly. cial intelligence (AI), ahead of World Health Day.
• These plumes, originating from the disappearance • S.A.R.A.H. engages users in 8 languages on various
of an ancient ocean between the Indian plate and health topics, providing information on healthy hab-
Asia, are believed to have brought low-density ma- its, mental health, and major health issues like can-
terial closer to Earth’s surface, shaping the “gravity cer and heart disease.
hole.” • S.A.R.A.H. utilizes generative AI for accurate re-
al-time responses and empathetic interactions,
The “gravity hole” is a circular depression in the Indian supported by Soul Machines Biological AI.
Ocean that has a weaker gravitational pull than the rest of Previous versions of S.A.R.A.H., known as Florence, were
the planet. used during the COVID-19 pandemic to disseminate critical
health messages.
It’s officially called the Indian Ocean geoid low and is the
world’s largest gravity anomaly.
26. PRATUSH
Context: Astronomers are keen on deploying telescopes on

and around the moon to overcome challenges faced by in-
Current Affairs 30
struments on Earth, such as atmospheric interference and radio noise.
• India’s contribution, PRATUSH (Probing ReionizATion of the Universe using Signal from Hydrogen), is being devel-
oped by the Raman Research Institute (RRI) in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
PRATUSH, or Probing ReionizATion of the Universe using Signal from Hydrogen, is a future radiometer planned for lunar
orbit.
It aims to uncover the Cosmic Dawn of the Universe, answering questions about the formation of the first stars, their na-
ture, and the light they emitted.
The project focuses on studying the Cosmic Dawn and Epoch of Reionization (EoR) using radiation from neutral hydrogen
gas, which emits a signal at a 21-cm wavelength.
This signal can provide insights into the early Universe’s transition from neutral to ionized states.
PRATUSH will carry instruments designed to detect this weak signal, operating over a frequency band of 30-250 MHz.
Its observations will be free from ground-based interference, enabling more accurate measurements.
27. COORDINATED LUNAR TIME

Context:
The White House has directed NASA to establish a unified time standard for the moon and other celestial bodies, aiming
to set international norms in space amidst a competitive lunar race.
• The directive, outlined by the head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), calls for the
development of a Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC) by the end of 2026.
• LTC will provide a time-keeping benchmark for lunar missions, accounting for the differing gravitational forces and
other factors affecting time perception on the moon.
• The initiative seeks to ensure precision in lunar missions, facilitate data transfers between spacecraft, and coordi-
nate operations as commercial activities expand to the moon.
The establishment of LTC will require international agreements and coordination among spacefaring nations.
28. TRADEMARK
Context:
The Delhi High Court declared the “Haldiram” mark as a well-known trademark for food items, restaurants, and eateries
globally. This ruling followed a suit filed by Haldiram India seeking protection of its mark.
The court acknowledged the brand’s extensive presence and influence, dating back to the 1960s, and granted a decree de-
claring “Haldiram” as a well-known mark. Additionally, the court imposed fines on an imitator for trademark infringement,
highlighting the importance of protecting established brands.
What is a Trademark?
A trademark is a distinctive sign or indicator used by a business to distinguish its products or services from those of others.
It serves as a badge of origin, identifying a particular business as the source of goods or services.
Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) covered in India:

Types Legal Provision Description
Patent Patent Act, Exclusive rights granted for a new and inventive product or process for a certain period,
1970 typically 20 years
Trademark Trademark Act A symbol, word, or phrase (e.g. Brand name, logo) used to identify and distinguish
1999 goods or services of one seller from those of others. Term of Protection: 10 years; Re-
newable 10
Designs Designs Act Protection is granted to the unique appearance of a product (New or original designs)
2000 resulting from its features such as lines, contours, colours, shape, texture, materials, or
ornamentation. Term of Protection: 10 + 5 years
Current Affairs 30
Copyrights Copyrights Act It is a legal protection granted to creators of original works, such as literature, music,
1957 art, or software, giving them exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display their
work for a limited period. Term of Protection: Authors: Lifetime + 60 years; Producers:
60 years; Performers: 50 years
Geographical GI Act, 1999 Sign used on goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, rep-
Indications utation, or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that origin. Term of Pro-
(GI) tection: 10 years; Renewable 10
Trade Secrets Protected un- Confidential information that provides a competitive advantage to a business and is
der Common protected under common law. Term of Protection: Till confidentiality is safeguarded
Law
29. EXCHANGE TRADED CURRENCY DERIVATIVES

Context:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has postponed the implementation of its new norms for the exchange-traded currency
derivatives (ETCD) market.
• This decision follows concerns raised by market participants regarding participation in the ETCD market, which led
to increased volatility in the forex market.
• The new norms, aimed to allow users to take positions in the foreign exchange derivatives market without need-
ing to establish the existence of underlying exposure, up to a single limit of $100 million equivalent across all cur-
rency pairs involving the rupee.
• However, the RBI emphasized that the regulatory framework for ETCDs remains consistent, guided by the Foreign
Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999.
• Users are required to ensure compliance with the requirement of having underlying exposure, and the limit for
taking positions was subsequently amended to a single limit of $100 million combined across all exchanges.
While the postponement may not have immediate implications, it could lead to increased trading volumes on such plat-
forms, stabilizing pressure on options premiums.
30. AGRICULTURE IN NEWS
Technique Description Benefits Challenges

Mulching Farmers in the Ladakhi village of Phey are Prevents soil erosion; In- Lack of technical knowledge;
defying the odds by successfully grow- creases organic matter in Higher initial setup cost; Need
ing organic watermelons (a crop typically the soil for constant human intervention
unsuited for the cold desert region) using
Mulching
Mulching involves covering topsoil with
plant materials like leaves or straw. It
helps create a soil structure that allows
rainwater to infiltrate easily, reducing run-
off.
Hydroponics Hydroponics is a soil-less farming method Resource efficiency; Lack of technical knowledge;
where plants grow in a water-based nutri- Higher yields; Reduced High initial setup costs; Need for
ent solution, often with an aggregate sub- labour costs; and in- constant human intervention;
strate like vermiculite or coconut coir. creased plant yields. Infrastructure limitations hinder-
ing widespread adoption
31. PLANKTON CRASH

Context: A panel formed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) investigated the red colouration of the sea in Puducherry
and attributed it to a plankton crash.
• A specific species of phytoplankton, Noctiluca scintillans, was found to be ruptured, releasing red pigment into
the sea.
Current Affairs 30
• The panel ruled out algal bloom and contamination
from a nearby paper manufacturing unit, stating
that the unit’s operations did not coincide with the
discolouration incidents.
• Instead, the panel identified high iron concentration
as a potential factor favouring plankton bloom.
• Environmental parameters such as sea surface tem-
perature, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen were
found conducive to the proliferation of this species.
A plankton crash is when a dramatic bloom of plankton in

a pond is replaced by very few viable plankton. This can be
caused by a lack of nutrients or CO2
Dead plankton can create large amounts of stable foam on

the surface of the pond.
32. VOICE ENGINE

Context:
OpenAI has unveiled its Voice Engine, a groundbreaking
text-to-audio tool capable of replicating any voice in any
language.
• Users can upload a 15-second audio sample, and 34. AGNI-PRIME BALLISTIC MISSILE
the engine generates audio in the same voice based
on a written prompt. Context:
• OpenAI highlights the positive applications of Voice India successfully conducted a night trial of the new-gen-
Engine, such as aiding non-readers, translating con- eration Agni-Prime ballistic missile, from the Abdul Kalam
tent, and assisting non-verbal individuals, concerns Island off the coast of Odisha.
over its potential misuse have arisen. • The test, conducted by the Strategic Forces Com-
• Deepfake technologies, including voice cloning, mand (SFC) and DRDO, met all objectives, confirm-
have been exploited to deceive people, especially ing its reliable performance.
during elections. • The Agni-Prime incorporates new propulsion sys-
tems, advanced navigation, and a canister-launch
33. NEXCAR19 system, enhancing strategic deterrence capabilities
Agni-Prime is a two-stage canisterised solid propellant bal-
Context: listic missile with a dual redundant navigation and guidance
The President of India, launched India’s first indigenous system, according to DRDO.
CAR-T cell therapy for cancer at the Indian Institute of Tech-
nology, Bombay. It has a range of 1,000-2,000km and was tested for the first
time in June 2021.
Named NexCAR19, it is the world’s most affordable CAR-T
therapy, marking a significant milestone in India’s advance- It is lighter than all the earlier Agni series of missiles.
ment in cell and gene therapy.
35. INDIA HAS ELIMINATED KALA-AZAR
Context:
India has successfully achieved its target to eliminate viscer-
al leishmaniasis, commonly known as kala-azar, according
to data from the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases
Control (NCVBDC)
About Kala-azar:
It is a disease caused by the protozoan parasite Leishma-
nia (transmitted by sandfly bites). It progresses slowly and
primarily affects organs like the spleen, liver, and bone mar-
row. In India, it’s caused by Leishmania donovani, with the
Current Affairs 30
term “kala-azar” meaning “black disease” due to skin discol-
oration. Post-Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) occurs
when the parasite affects skin cells, resulting in dermal le-
sions.
Despite persistent challenges, India met its elimination goal,

initially set for 2010 but extended until 2023. Kala-azar has
long been a health concern in states like Bihar, Jharkhand,
West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. In 2023, India reported only
520 cases of kala-azar, meeting the elimination criteria de-
fined by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme

(NVBDCP) started in 2003-04 to prevent and control diseases 38. ARTIFICIAL REEFS
like Japanese Encephalitis (JE), Dengue, Kala-azar, Lymphat-
ic Filariasis, Malaria, and Chikungunya Context:
In a pioneering initiative in Maharashtra, Mumbai is pre-
paring for the installation of 210 artificial reefs near Worli
36. CRIOLLO Koliwada.
• The artificial reefs, composed of recycled cement
Context: and steel, will increase the sea surface area by 50-
A recent research on Criollo cattle, a breed developed in the 60 square feet per module.
• They are expected to attract small and large native
New World from Iberian ancestors suggested that Criollo
species, acting as a habitat and breeding ground.
cattle possess various climate-adaptive traits, making them
An artificial reef is a human-made structure designed to
well-suited to survive and thrive in a warming world.
replicate some characteristics of natural reefs. These struc-
• These traits include a short, slick-hair coat for im-
proved thermotolerance, as well as genes associat- tures include submerged shipwrecks, oil and gas platforms,
ed with reproduction, fertility, and disease immu- bridges, and other offshore installations.
nity.
• Criollo cattle’s ability to withstand hot weather Materials used in their construction range from rocks and
leads to improved body weight, more efficient food cinder blocks to limestone, steel, and concrete.
production, and better animal welfare.
Artificial reefs enhance habitat for reef organisms like cor-
als, fishes, and invertebrates.
37. VENOMOUS JELLYFISH BLOOMS They attract marine life, making them popular destinations
for fishing, diving, and snorkelling, thus offering economic
Context: benefits to local communities.
An unusual occurrence of venomous jellyfish blooms, partic-
ularly Pelagia noctiluca, was reported along the Visakhapat-
nam coast in Andhra Pradesh recently.
• Pelagia noctiluca, rarely seen on the East coast of
India, is known for causing various illnesses includ-
ing diarrhoea, vomiting, extreme pain, and anaphy-
lactic shock.
• The blooms are attributed to rising ocean tempera-
tures, posing risks to both fishing industries and
tourism.
Pelagia noctiluca, also known as the mauve stinger, is a jelly-

fish that can glow in the dark.
Its name in German means “night light”, referring to its
reddish colouring and bioluminescence. The jellyfish is also
known as the “mauve jelly” and the “oceanic jelly”
Current Affairs 30
cies of deer native to the Indian subcontinent.
39. ‘AKASHTEER COMMAND AND CON-
They are characterized by their reddish-brown coat with
TROL SYSTEMS’ white spots, which gives them their name.
Spotted deer are medium-sized herbivores, typically weigh-
Context:
ing between 50 to 100 kilograms.
The ‘Akashteer Command and Control Systems’ is a new ini-
tiative by the Indian Army, developed by Bharat Electronics
They inhabit a variety of forested habitats, including decid-
Limited (BEL) as part of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
uous forests, grasslands, and scrublands.
About the project:
Project Akashteer, developed by Bharat Electronics Limited
(BEL), is a state-of-the-art initiative enabling the monitoring 42. ESZ AROUND SUKHNA WILDLIFE
of low-level airspace in Indian Army battle areas, and auto- SANCTUARY
mation of India’s air defence system. It effectively controls
Ground-Based Air Defence Weapon Systems, empowering Context:
integrated operations for Air Defence units. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change (MoEFCC) has issued a draft notification demarcat-
Significance: It will significantly bolster India’s air defence ing an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) around the Sukhna Wildlife
capabilities by improving efficiency, situational awareness, Sanctuary on the Haryana side.
and automation, thus ensuring a safer and more secure fu-
ture for the country. Rejecting Haryana’s proposal for only a 1,000-meter ESZ,
the draft delineates an area of 1 km up to 2.035 km around
To keep pace with the new era of modernization, the Army Haryana’s side of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is ecologically
has declared the year 2024 as the ‘Year of Technological Ab- sensitive and home to several endangered species. The draft
sorption’. The Indian Army is accelerating the induction of seeks objections from stakeholders within 60 days.
specific technologies and systems.
About ESZ:
Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ) are vital areas surround-
40. FOREVER CHEMICALS ing protected regions, designated by the central government
under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. These zones
Context: categorize activities into prohibited (e.g., commercial min-
A recent study by IIT Madras has uncovered the presence of ing), regulated (e.g., felling of trees), and permitted (e.g., lo-
‘forever chemicals’ known as pre- and polyfluoroalkyl sub- cal agriculture) to safeguard the fragile ecosystem.
stances (PFAS) in Chennai’s Buckingham Canal, Adyar River,
and Chembarambakkam Lake. About the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary:
• PFAS are synthetic chemicals found in everyday It is situated in the Chandigarh Union Territory and encom-
products and are known to persist in the environ- passes the Shivalik Hills’ Sukhna Lake catchment area. It
ment, posing health risks including liver damage, hosts diverse fauna including Sambar deer, Barking deer, and
hormonal imbalance, fertility issues, and cancer. wild boar, alongside various bird, reptile, and amphibian spe-
• PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they do cies. The sanctuary features a blend of forests, grasslands,
not easily break down in the environment and can and wetlands, with Sukhna Lake playing a vital role in its
persist for long periods of time.
ecosystem.
43. CREDIT-DEPOSIT RATIO

41. SPOTTED DEER
Context:
Context:
Banks in India are facing challenges in attracting deposits
The introduction of chital, or spotted deer, to the Andaman
during the financial year 2023-24.
and Nicobar Islands in the early 1900s for game hunting by • According to data from the RBI, the credit-deposit
the British has resulted in a population explosion that now ratio, indicating the proportion of a bank’s deposit
poses a significant problem for authorities. base used for loans, has reached its highest level
• But now the chital population exceeding the carry- in at least 20 years due to increased loan uptake,
ing capacity of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island. particularly in categories like home loans and oth-
er consumption loans.
• Currently standing at 80%, the credit-deposit ratio
Spotted deer, also known as chital or axis deer, are a spe- is at its highest since 2015.
Current Affairs 30
• Customers are opting for high-return, equity-linked
products, reducing the funds available for deposits 45. PETER HIGGS (HIGGS THEORY)
in banks.
In FY24, while deposits grew by 13.5% to ₹204.8 trillion,
Context:
non-food credit grew by 20.2% to ₹164.1 trillion, outpacing
Peter Higgs, the physicist credited with theorizing the Higgs
deposit growth.
boson particle, has passed away at 94.
This contrasts with FY23, where deposits grew by 9.6% and
His contributions:
credit by 15.4%.
Contribution Description
About Credit- deposit ratio: Higgs Mechanism In the 1960s, Higgs proposed the
The credit-deposit ratio is a financial metric used to assess Higgs mechanism, along with other
the relationship between a bank’s lending activities (credit) physicists, to explain why elementary
and its deposit base. particles have mass. This theory pre-
dicts the existence of a new particle,
It is calculated by dividing the total loans extended by the the Higgs boson, which was later dis-
bank by its total deposits. The ratio indicates how much of covered at CERN’s Large Hadron Col-
a bank’s deposits are being used to provide loans. lider in 2012. The Higgs mechanism is
a crucial component of the Standard
A higher credit-deposit ratio suggests that a larger portion of Model of particle physics, providing
the deposits is being lent out as credit, while a lower ratio an explanation for the origin of mass
indicates that more deposits are being held in reserve or for particles like the W and Z bosons.
invested in other assets. Development of Developed the concept of the Higgs
It is an important measure of a bank’s liquidity and lending Higgs Field Theory field, which permeates space and
capacity. gives mass to elementary subatom-
ic particles that interact with it. This
44. AIR-BREATHING MAGNESIUM-COP- field theory proposed by Higgs helps
PER / CUPRIC OXIDE FUEL CELL explain how particles acquire mass
shortly after the universe began.
Context: Higgs Boson Authored papers on the Higgs boson.
Researchers at the University of Kerala have developed an His papers contributed to the even-
eco-friendly fuel cell that primarily utilizes air and seawater tual discovery and understanding of
to generate power. the Higgs boson.
• The ‘Air-breathing Magnesium - Copper / Cupric The Higgs boson is a subatomic par-
Oxide Fuel Cell’ is highlighted in the ‘Journal of En- ticle that gives other particles mass.
gineering and Applied Science.’
The strength of a particle’s interaction
• The technology is anticipated to outperform lithi-
um-ion batteries in power output. with the Higgs boson determines its
• Unlike traditional fuel cells that use hydrogen, this mass.
cell relies on magnesium and sodium chloride from Nobel Prize in Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics
seawater. Physics in 2013, shared with François En-
• By employing cupric oxide over copper substrate, glert, for their theoretical discovery
the cell becomes cost-effective compared to plati- of a mechanism that contributes to
num-based alternatives
our understanding of the origin of
mass of subatomic particles, which
The Magnesium-Copper / Cupric Oxide Fuel Cell is an was confirmed by the discovery of the
eco-friendly technology developed to generate power pri- Higgs boson.
marily using air and seawater.
S i g n i f i c a n t Received numerous awards for his
This innovative fuel cell produces electricity and heat during
Awards and Hon- groundbreaking work, including the
operation while emitting water, making it environmentally
ors Hughes Medal, Rutherford Medal,
clean.
Dirac Medal and Prize, Wolf Prize in
It employs cupric oxide grown over a copper substrate in a
Physics, J. J. Sakurai Prize for Theoret-
magnesium-sodium chloride-based system.
ical Particle Physics, and the Copley
Compared to traditional fuel cells, it offers cost-effectiveness
Medal. Honoured with a unique Higgs
by utilizing semiconductor material instead of platinum for
Medal from the Royal Society of Ed-
air cathode systems.
inburgh.
Current Affairs 30
Values: uct of an international collaboration that brings together re-
Higgs demonstrated humility, integrity, and dedication searchers from more than 70 institutions (including from
throughout his life, embodying ethical values such as hones- India). It is a ground-based dark energy experiment, located
ty, modesty, and a commitment to scientific advancement. on the Mayall 4-meter telescope at Kitt Peak National Ob-
Despite his fame, he remained modest, focusing on science servatory (USA)
rather than personal recognition. His legacy profoundly im-
pacted our understanding of the universe.
46. C-DOME DEFENCE SYSTEM

Context:
The C-Dome is the naval version of Israel’s Iron Dome mis-
sile defence system.
• It was deployed for the first time as a response to a
“hostile aircraft” entering Israeli airspace near Ei-
lat.
• Similar to the Iron Dome, which intercepts rockets
fired from Gaza, the C-Dome uses radar to detect
incoming threats and destroys them with its own
missiles.
• Unlike the Iron Dome, the C-Dome is mounted on
ships and integrated into the ship’s radar system.
It provides full-circular protection against maritime 48. TSAT-1A
and coastal threats.
• The system was tested on Sa’ar 6-class corvettes,
German-made warships used by the Israeli Navy, Context:
and was declared operational in November 2022. Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) announced the suc-
• The C-Dome employs TAMIR interceptors, a modu- cessful deployment of its sub-metre optical satellite, TSAT-
lar Vertical-Launch Unit (VLU), and a Command & 1A, into space.
Control (C2) component to detect and track threats • The satellite, assembled and tested in India, was
at sea. launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from the
Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
• TSAT-1A will provide high-resolution optical satel-
lite images with enhanced collection capacity and
47. DARK ENERGY SPECTROSCOPIC IN- dynamic range through its multispectral and hyper-
STRUMENT (DESI) spectral capabilities.
Context:
DESI’s groundbreaking project harnesses 5,000 robots to 49. GUJCOST
peer 11 billion years into the past, revealing unprecedented
insights into our expanding universe. Context:
The Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST)
It found the most precise measurement of the universe ex- has been appointed as the Nodal Centre for the Indian
pansion rate at a rate of 68.5 (±0.6) kilometres per second Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) ‘Space Science and
per megaparsec (a million parsec; 1 parsec equals 3.2616 Technology Awareness Training (START)’ programme.
light years). • This initiative, conceived by ISRO, aims to provide
introductory-level online training in various areas of
DESI made a huge 3D map to study dark energy’s impact space science research, such as planetary explora-
over 11 billion years. In the Lambda CDM model, matter and tion, astronomy, and atmospheric science.
dark energy affect the universe’s expansion differently: mat-
ter slows it, while dark energy speeds it up. Both dark energy The Space Science and Technology Awareness Training
and dark matter dominate the universe, comprising about (START) is a free, introductory online training program for
95% of it. undergraduate and postgraduate students in India interest-
ed in space science and technology.
What is DESI?
DESI is a project aimed at mapping the universe to study
dark energy’s effects over billions of years. It is the prod-
Current Affairs 30
50. CDP-SURAKSHA • Methanol exposure can lead to various severe

health issues such as nausea, vomiting, headache,
Context: blurred vision, coma, seizures, permanent blind-
ness, permanent damage to the central nervous
The CDP-SURAKSHA is a digital platform was launched re-
system, or even death.
cently to disburse subsidies to horticulture farmers under
the Cluster Development Programme (CDP). Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol and wood alcohol,
• It aims to promote the growth of India’s horticul-
is a colorless, flammable, and poisonous liquid with a strong
ture sector by facilitating instant subsidy disbursal
to farmers’ bank accounts using e-RUPI vouchers. odor. It has a chemical formula of CH₃OH.
• The platform integrates various features such as da-
tabase integration, cloud-based server space, UID-
AI validation, and e-RUPI integration.
• Farmers can access the platform to order planting
material, contribute their share of the cost, and re-
ceive government subsidies upfront.
• The system ensures transparency and accountabil-
ity by requiring farmers to verify the delivery of
planting material through geo-tagged photos and
videos.
• Unlike the old system, where farmers had to pur-
chase materials themselves and then seek subsidy
release, CDP-SURAKSHA provides subsidies upfront
at the time of purchase.
The Cluster Development Program (CDP) aims to develop 53. PIEZOELECTRIC BONE CONDUCTION
horticulture clusters and attract private investment, cov-
ering 55 clusters and an estimated 10 lakh farmers across
HEARING IMPLANTS
India.
Context:
The ENT department at Command Hospital in Pune success-
51. MICROBIAL FORMULATIONS TO IM- fully conducted two piezoelectric Bone Conduction Hearing
PROVE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY Implants (BCI), making it the first government hospital in
India to achieve this milestone.
• The piezoelectric BCI system is an implantable de-
Context: vice for hearing-impaired patients with conductive
The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) in Kozhikode loss, mixed hearing loss, and single-sided deafness.
has developed three new • This achievement is significant as it addresses the
needs of patients who are not candidates for co-
microbial formulations aimed at enhancing agricultural chlear implants or do not benefit from hearing aids
productivity for farmers. or middle-ear surgery.
• These formulations, named Bactolime, Bactogyp-
sum, and Trichogypsum, utilize granular lime and Piezoelectricity is the electric charge that builds up in cer-
gypsum and have been developed using IISR’s pat-
ented technology. tain materials when mechanical stress is applied to them.
How it works? Piezoelectric materials can be found in nature and in syn-

• Bactolime combines beneficial bacteria with liming thetic materials.
material to address soil pH issues and deliver mi-
croorganisms essential for plant growth. Quartz is a well-known natural piezoelectric material, while
• Bactogypsum and Trichogypsum, the other two for- ferroelectric ceramics are the most widely used synthetic
mulations, work to buffer soil pH to a neutral lev- piezoelectric materials.
el, facilitating the establishment of beneficial mi-
crobes, thereby improving soil quality and nutrient
availability.
52. METHANOL IN HAND SANITIZERS

Context:
Health officials in the United States have recalled several
lots of hand sanitizers and aloe gels due to the risk of meth-
anol exposure.
Current Affairs 30
54. PARIVARTAN CHINTAN

Context:
The Tri-service Conference, named ‘Parivartan Chintan,’
took place recently, aimed at fostering Jointness and Inte-
gration in the Armed Forces.
• It emphasises the importance of developing a
Joint Culture for the Armed Forces, blending the
strengths of each service while maintaining their
uniqueness.
• It helps in enhancing efficiency, warfighting ability,
and interoperability.
Jointness implies that the three services are integrated at
different levels and placed under one commander for the
execution of operational plans.
The capability of the joint force is understood to be syner-

gistic, with the sum greater than its parts (the capability of
individual components).
55. INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CON-

TROL BOARD 57. BRIGHTEST-EVER COSMIC EXPLO-
SION
Context:
India’s nominee, Jagjit Pavadia, has been re-elected for Context:
a third term to the International Narcotics Control Board A significant astronomical discovery regarding the brightest
(INCB) after securing the highest number of votes. burst of light ever recorded, occurred in 2022.
• Additionally, India was elected to several key bodies
at the United Nations, including the Commission on Researchers found that the burst originated from an explod-
the Status of Women, the Executive Board of the ing star, known as a supernova, located in a distant galaxy.
United Nations Children’s Fund, and the Executive However, the intensity of the burst surpassed expectations,
Board of the United Nations Development Pro-
leading to questions about its cause and implications. The
gramme.
burst’s extraordinary brightness, labelled as the “Brightest
The INCB, established in 1968, monitors the implementa-
Of All Time” (B.O.A.T.), puzzled astronomers.
tion of international drug control conventions and aims to
ensure adequate drug supplies for medical and scientific
What are Supernovas?
uses while preventing diversion to illicit channels.
They are massive stellar explosions that occur at the end
of a star’s life cycle. They produce and eject vast amounts
of energy and material into space. These explosions are re-
56. WEB3 sponsible for creating and dispersing heavy elements such as
gold, platinum, lead, and uranium into the universe.
Context:
India’s share of Web3 developers globally has surged from
3% in 2018 to 12% in 2023, leading among emerging mar-
kets, states a report by Hashed Emergent.
The ecosystem is young, with over 50% of developers join-

ing in the past two years, and female participation has ris-
en from 3% to 14% in five years. The country has a thriving
Web3 sector with 1,000 startups and received $250 million
in investment in 2023, mainly in finance, entertainment, and
infrastructure subsectors.
Current Affairs 30
While supernovas are known to produce heavy elements Previous News about Eurasian Otters (17th March 2023):
like gold, the researchers found no evidence of such ele-
ments in this particular explosion. This discovery challenges
existing theories about the origin of heavy elements in the
universe and raises doubts about the role of supernovas in
their production.
58. MERCENARY SPYWARE

Context:
Apple issued threat notifications to iPhone users in India
and 91 other countries, warning of potential attacks by
mercenary spyware, including Israel’s Pegasus spyware.
• The notifications, sent via email, highlighted the
possibility of specific targeting due to the user’s
identity or activities.
• While Apple didn’t attribute the attack to any entity,
it emphasized the seriousness of the warning and
the rarity and sophistication of mercenary spyware
attacks.
About Mercenary Spyware:
Mercenary spyware refers to sophisticated surveillance
software developed and sold by private companies to gov-
ernments and other entities. 60. BAOBAB TREES
Unlike traditional cybercriminal activities, mercenary spy- Context:
ware is often used for targeted surveillance, intelligence The Global Society for the Preservation of Baobabs and
gathering, and espionage purposes. Mangroves (GSPBM) has launched a pioneering initiative to
revive Madagascar’s iconic baobab trees.
This type of spyware can infiltrate devices such as smart-
phones and computers, allowing the attacker to monitor Previous News about Baobab Trees:
communications, track location, access files, and gather
sensitive information remotely.
Mercenary spyware attacks are typically highly advanced

and difficult to detect, posing significant threats to individu-
al privacy, security, and human rights.
Examples of mercenary spyware include Pegasus, devel-

oped by the NSO Group in Israel, which has been implicated
in various surveillance scandals targeting journalists, activ-
ists, politicians, and other high-profile individuals world-
wide.
59. EURASIAN OTTER

Context:
The first Eurasian otter in India was radio-tagged in the Sat-
pura Tiger Reserve (STR) in Madhya Pradesh.
• The Eurasian otter was first photographed in the
STR in 2016, expanding its known range to central
India.
Current Affairs 30
61. HYDROGEL
Context:
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have
developed a sustainable hydrogel to address the issue of
microplastic pollution in water.
• Microplastics, posing significant threats to human
health and the environment, can enter our bodies
through water consumption.
• The three-layer polymer hydrogel, consisting of chi-
tosan, polyvinyl alcohol, and polyaniline, forms an
interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) architec-
ture.
• Infused with nanoclusters of copper substitute poly-
oxometalate (Cu-POM), the hydrogel can bind and
degrade microplastics under UV light irradiation.
• The team ensured efficient microplastic removal
63. PLANKTON, AEROSOL, CLOUD,
and degradation by tracking their adsorption and OCEAN ECOSYSTEM (PACE) SATELLITE
degradation using fluorescent dye.
• The hydrogel exhibited high efficiency, removing
about 95% and 93% of two different microplastic
types at near-neutral pH levels. Context:
Hydrogels are three-dimensional networks composed of hy- NASA’s PACE satellite is now providing publicly available
drophobic polymers synthesized by crosslinking water-solu- data, offering unprecedented insights into ocean health, air
ble polymers. quality, and climate change effects.
• Equipped with advanced instruments, including the
Ocean Color Instrument (OCI) and two multi-angle
Hydrogels can retain a large quantity of water within their polarimeters, PACE can detect various wavelengths
network without disturbing their original structure. of light to study microscopic life in the ocean and
atmospheric particles.
This imparts flexibility and swelling properties to the hydro-
gel structures.
64. DOXXING
62. GRAVITATIONAL WAVES Context:

Doxxing, the act of publicly revealing a person’s private in-
Context: formation online, poses significant risks to victims, includ-
An international team of astrophysicists, has made a ing physical, digital, and emotional harm.
ground-breaking discovery using gravitational waves. • Perpetrators often share personal data such as ad-
• They detected a merger between a neutron star dresses, phone numbers, and financial information
and a mysterious object located in the “mass gap,” obtained through illegal means like hacking.
which is the range between the heaviest neutron • Victims may face harassment, threats, and even job
stars and the lightest black holes. loss as a result.
• Named GW230529, this merger occurred about 650 Platforms like Meta and Google offer tools for reporting and
million light-years away from Earth. removing doxxing content, and victims can also seek legal
• While the lighter object is likely a neutron star, the recourse through cybercrime reporting portals.
more massive one could be a black hole within the
mass gap, possibly the lightest ever discovered.
Gravitational waves are ripples in space-time caused by the
acceleration of massive objects, such as black holes or neu-
65. HEALTH DRINKS
tron stars.
Context:
The Indian government, has instructed e-commerce plat-
They are so faint that Albert Einstein, who first predicted
forms to stop categorizing certain beverages, including
their existence in 1916, believed they would never be de-
Bournvita, as “health drinks” on their sites.
tected.
• This directive follows clarification from the Food
Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) that
there are no defined standards for the term “health
drink.”
• The government aims to prevent misleading infor-
mation and ensure transparency for consumers,
Current Affairs 30
prompting e-commerce platforms to remove such It has three important components:
beverages from the health drinks category. 1. All exports and imports must be denominated and
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) invoiced in domestic currency (e.g. Rupee)
is a statutory body that regulates the manufacture, storage, 2. The exchange rate between the currencies of the
distribution, sale, and import of food, and establishes stan- trading partner countries would be market-deter-
dards to ensure food safety. mined
3. The final settlement also takes place in domestic
It is administered by the Ministry of Health and Family Wel- currency (e.g. Rupee)
fare.
This mechanism aims to streamline trade transactions and
reduce costs associated with currency conversions.
66. SHRINKFLATION
Context:
Shrinkflation, the reduction in product sizes while main-
taining prices, is resurfacing in the fast-moving consumer
goods (FMCG) industry due to rising input costs.
• Brands like Clear, Frooti, and Smoodh are introduc-
ing smaller packaging at the same or slightly re-
duced prices to cope with inflation.
• The trend is attributed to various factors, including
rising prices of commodities like crude oil, palm oil,
coffee, cocoa, and sugar, alongside global supply
chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
Shrinkflation refers to the practice employed by manufac-

turers wherein the size or quantity of a product is reduced
while keeping its price the same or slightly adjusted.
This strategy allows companies to maintain profit margins

amid rising production costs.
Shrinkflation often goes unnoticed by consumers initially
but can lead to dissatisfaction as they realize they are re-
ceiving less for the same amount of money.
68. GOPI THOTAKURA (1ST INDIAN SPACE

67. SPECIAL RUPEE VOSTRO ACCOUNT TOURIST)
(SRVA) Context:
Gopi Thotakura, an entrepreneur and pilot, is set to be the
Context:
first Indian space tourist on the NS-25 mission by Blue Or-
The Indian government has simplified the payment mech-
igin (an American Space startup, founded in 2000 by Jeff
anism for traders importing pulses from Myanmar by im-
Bezos, the founder of Amazon).
plementing the Rupee/Kyat direct payment system through
the Special Rupee Vostro Account (SRVA) via Punjab Nation-
Space tourism is a burgeoning sector allowing individuals
al Bank.
to experience space travel for recreational or business pur-
poses. It encompasses:
What is SRVA?
1. Suborbital space flights (altitude of 100 km referred
SRVA is an account that domestic banks hold for foreign
to as Karman Line)
banks in the former’s domestic currency, the rupee, which
2. Orbital Space Flights (altitudes over 400 kilometres)
allows domestic banks to provide international banking
3. Lunar space tourism (trips to the moon).
services to their clients who have global banking needs with-
out having to be physically present abroad.
Challenges facing space tourism include its high cost, envi-
ronmental concerns regarding rocket emissions, and safety
The SRVA is an additional arrangement to the existing sys-
issues. Despite these challenges, the space tourism market
tem that uses freely convertible currencies and works as a
is growing rapidly, with increasing interest from both tourists
complimentary system.
and industry players.
Current Affairs 30
About Kármán Line tion resilience.
It is the boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and out- • The Tiantong-1 series, involving three satellites,
er space, located approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles) orbits synchronously at 36,000 kilometres altitude,
above sea level. It is named after Hungarian-American engi- potentially revolutionizing communication across
neer and physicist Theodore von Kármán, who first calculat- the Asia-Pacific region.
• Huawei introduced the first satellite-compatible
ed the altitude where the atmosphere becomes too thin to smartphone, followed by other Chinese manufac-
support conventional aircraft flight. turers.
71. RINGWOODITE
Context:
Scientists have made a ground-breaking discovery of a gi-
gantic ocean lying 700 kilometres beneath the Earth’s sur-
face, hidden within a rock called ringwoodite.
• This subterranean reservoir, three times the volume
of all the planet’s surface oceans combined, was re-
vealed through studies of seismic activity.
• Ringwoodite’s unique properties allow it to trap
water like a sponge.
• This discovery suggests a whole-Earth water cycle
and sheds light on the abundance of liquid water
on the planet’s surface.
Ringwoodite is a mineral that forms in the Earth’s mantle at
69. RADIATION THERAPY high temperatures and pressures. It’s a water-rich mineral
that can contain iron and hydrogen.
Context:
Lady Hardinge Medical College in Delhi has inaugurated its
Radiation Therapy facility, providing treatment to cancer
patients using Brachytherapy equipment.
About Radiation therapy (Radiotherapy):

It is a cancer treatment that kills cancer cells by exposing
them to ionizing radiations like X-rays, gamma rays, high-en-
ergy electrons, or heavy particles. There are two main types:
External (Teletherapy), which uses a linear accelerator to
send radiation from a distance to target cells, and Internal
(Brachytherapy), where the radiation source is placed inside
the body.
This treatment is highly effective for various cancers, includ-

ing brain, breast, head, neck, and cervical cancers, while
minimizing damage to healthy tissues. However, it can lead 72. ASHWAGANDHA
to side effects like fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and loss of ap-
petite.
Context:
Ashwagandha, a 3000-year-old Indian herb, is gaining glob-
70. SATELLITE CALLS al attention and popularity for its numerous health benefits.
• Scientific research highlights its potential in stress
Context: management, cognitive function, physical perfor-
Chinese scientists have developed the world’s first satellite mance, and more.
that enables smartphones to make direct calls through it, About Ashwagandha:
bypassing mobile towers. It is an evergreen shrub found in parts of India, Africa, and
• This innovation aims to address communication the Middle East.
challenges during emergencies, such as natural di- Used as a medicinal plant, especially in traditional Ayurvedic
sasters. medicine.
• The satellite, part of the Tiantong Project, symbol- Its supplements are often promoted for stress and anxiety,
izes China’s commitment to enhancing communica-
sleep, male infertility, athletic performance, etc.
Current Affairs 30
73. SOIL ACIDIFICATION 2. Consent from the family is required for deceased
organ donation.
3. According to the latest guidelines, individuals above
Context: 65 years can receive organs for transplantation from
The study highlights the potential loss of soil inorganic car- deceased donors, and the requirement of state do-
bon (SIC) in Indian soils due to acidification, impacting soil micile for patient registration was removed.
health, crop growth, and carbon sequestration.
• Soil acidification, driven by industrial activities and
Measures to be taken:
intense farming, could lead to the depletion of 3.3
billion tonnes of SIC from the top 0.3 meters of soil 1. Compliance with THOTA: Authorities should ensure
over the next 30 years. compliance with the Transplantation of Human Or-
• Acidic soils affect approximately 30% of cultivable gans & Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994, investigating any
land in India, with the northeastern region being breaches and taking appropriate action.
particularly affected. 2. Unique ID: Health authorities must ensure the gen-
Soil acidification is a natural process that occurs when the eration of a unique NOTTO-ID for both organ donors
concentration of hydrogen ions in the soil increases. and recipients in all transplant cases to enhance
This reduces the soil’s pH. transparency and traceability.
Soil acidification can be accelerated by some agricultural 3. Data Sharing: Ensure regular collection and sharing
practices, such as: of transplant data, including cases involving foreign-
Removing plant and animal products, Leaching excess ni- ers, with NOTTO to enhance transparency and ac-
trate, Adding some nitrogen-based fertilizers, Building up countability.
mostly plant-based organic matter, and Using ammoni- NOTTO (National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organization)
um-based fertilizers. is a national-level organization under the Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare. It coordinates and networks for organ
and tissue procurement and distribution nationwide. Addi-
74. ORGAN DONATION TO FOREIGNERS tionally, it maintains a registry of organ and tissue donation
IN INDIA and transplantation activities.
Context:
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has initiated an
75. PINK BOLLWORM
investigation into organ transplants involving foreign na-
tionals following concerns about potential commercial deal- Context:
ings. Cotton farmers in North India are considering shifting to
crops like paddy, maize, and guar for the upcoming 2024-25
National Organ & Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) kharif season due to various challenges.
data shows a significant rise in foreign nationals receiving • These challenges include weak prices for cotton, se-
organ transplants from private hospitals, with reports sug- vere infestation of pink bollworm (PBW) during the
gesting unauthorized “commercial dealings.” previous season, and increasing labour costs.
• In Punjab, the cotton area for the 2023-24 kharif
season decreased by 32% compared to the previ-
What is Organ transplantation? ous year.
Organ transplantation is the surgical procedure of removing
an organ from one person and implanting it into another
person’s body.
Laws regarding Organ Transplantation in India:

The primary law governing organ transplants in India is the
Transplantation of Human Organs Act (THOA), 1994. India
ranks third globally in the number of transplants conduct-
ed. Overall, organ transplants, including both deceased and
living donors, increased from 4,990 in 2013 to 15,561 in
2022.
Eligibility:
1. Organ donation eligibility is primarily based on the
donor’s physical condition (and not age), with both
living (above 18 years) and deceased individuals
being eligible.
Current Affairs 30
About Pink Bollworm: Space weather refers to the environmental conditions in
The pink bollworm (PBW), or Pectinophora gossypiella, is a space, primarily influenced by the Sun’s activity, that can
moth that is a major pest to cotton in many regions of the have various effects on technological systems and infra-
world. structures both in space and on Earth.
It is known as “Pinky” because the larvae develop pink These conditions include solar flares, coronal mass ejec-
bands as they mature. tions (CMEs), geomagnetic storms, and solar wind.
The larvae are small white caterpillars with eight pairs of Space weather phenomena can interfere with satellite oper-
legs and pink bands along their backs. ations, disrupt radio communications, impact power grids,
The PBW lays eggs on cotton bolls, which hatch into lar- and even pose risks to astronauts.
vae that burrow into the bolls and squares, destroying the
seeds and staining the lint. The larvae take on pinkish bands
as they mature. 78. NITROPLAST
Context:
76. INTER-AGENCY SPACE DEBRIS COOR- Scientists have discovered a new organelle, termed a nitro-
DINATION COMMITTEE (IADC) plast, within algae that can convert nitrogen gas into a form
usable for cell growth.
Context: • This ground-breaking finding challenges the con-
ventional belief that only bacteria and archaea can
India, through ISRO, aims to achieve debris-free space mis-
perform nitrogen fixation.
sions by 2030, as declared at the 42nd Inter-Agency Space • The nitroplast, found in the algae Braarudosphaera
Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) annual meet. bigelowii, is considered the first nitrogen-fixing or-
• This initiative seeks the participation of all Indian ganelle in eukaryotes.
space actors, governmental and non-governmen- • It evolved from a symbiotic relationship between
tal, to ensure long-term sustainability in outer the algae and a bacterium called UCYN-A around
space. 100 million years ago.
• ISRO has a comprehensive plan for space explora- The study, published in Science, demonstrates that the ni-
tion and utilization, with a focus on disposing of
troplast meets the criteria for an organelle, as it is inherited
non-functional spacecraft and preventing the cre-
ation of debris. through generations and relies on host-provided proteins
The Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee for its function.
(IADC) is an international intergovernmental forum that co-
ordinates activities related to man-made and natural de- 79. GRAY SLENDER LORIS
bris in space.
Context:
The IADC was founded on October 25, 1993, to coordinate A Gray Slender Loris was rescued by forest officials in North
efforts to deal with debris in orbit around the Earth. Goa.
The IADC is recognized as the internationally recognized About Gray Slender Loris:
technical authority on space debris. The gray slender loris (Loris lydekkerianus) is a small pri-
mate native to India and Sri Lanka that lives in subtropical
and tropical forests.
77. SPACE WEATHER
Gray slender lorises are nocturnal hunters and foragers that
Context: use their large, forward-facing eyes to detect prey.
A study has found that the loss of 38 out of 49 Starlink satel-
lites launched by SpaceX was influenced by multiple factors, They are insectivores that eat mostly ants and termites, but
including poor space weather conditions. also eat beetles, spiders, mollusks, and other small verte-
• The study reveals that moderate geomagnetic brates.
storms, which persisted for several days before and
during the launch, caused persistent currents in the
The Gray Slender Loris is listed on the Red List of the Interna-
near-Earth atmosphere.
• These currents heated the upper atmosphere, lead- tional Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is pro-
ing to higher atmospheric density at Low Earth Or- tected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
bit (LEO), resulting in increased atmospheric drag
and subsequent de-orbiting of the newly launched
satellites.
Current Affairs 30
for food.
This discovery challenges the perception that fish are less

intelligent and highlights the need for further exploration of
tool-use behaviours in marine species.
The Laccadive Sea, also known as the Lakshadweep Sea, is a

body of water that borders India, the Maldives, and Sri Lan-
ka.
80. BUMBLEBEES
Context:
According to a new study, bumblebees demonstrate resil-
ience to common pesticides.
• Researchers exposed bumblebee colonies to indi-
vidual and combined insecticides and fungicides,
finding no negative effects on learning ability or
flight activity.
About Bumblebees:
Bumblebees are social insects known for their important
role as pollinators in ecosystems. 82. FDI IN THE SPACE SECTOR
They belong to the genus Bombus and are characterized by
their robust bodies, dense fur, and distinctive black and yel- Context:
low colouration. The Ministry of Finance has notified Foreign Direct Invest-
ment (FDI) regulations in the space sector under the Foreign
Bumblebees are vital for the pollination of a wide variety of Exchange Management Rules, allowing Indian space start-
flowering plants, including many crops such as tomatoes, ups to access global capital.
peppers, and berries. • 74% FDI for satellite manufacturing, up to 49% for
launch vehicles, and up to 100% for component and
Unlike honeybees, which have perennial colonies, bumble- system manufacturing.
bee colonies are annual, with a single queen establishing a • Investment beyond 49% for spaceports requires
nest each year. government approval.
A foreign direct investment is a substantial, lasting invest-
ment made by a company or government into a foreign
concern.
FDI investors typically take controlling positions in domes-

tic firms or joint ventures and are actively involved in their
management.
83. SUGAR IN BABY FOOD
81. THREE NEW FISH SPECIES WERE Context:

Nestlé’s baby food products in Asia, Africa, and Latin Amer-
SPOTTED USING TOOLS ica were found to contain added sugars, while those sold in
Europe did not.
Context: • Added sugars in baby food pose health risks, includ-
Three fish species in the Laccadive Sea have been observed ing obesity and non-communicable diseases like
using tools, a rare occurrence in aquatic animals. diabetes.
• The Jansen’s wrasse, checkerboard wrasse, and • Excessive sugar intake can lead to unhealthy diets
moon wrasse were seen using live or dead coral and increase the risk of diseases later in life.
structures as anvils to crack open sea urchin shells
WHO advises against introducing added sugars before the
Current Affairs 30
age of 2, emphasizing the importance of a diverse diet for to alleviate the disease burden in Africa’s meningitis belt.
babies.
The Men5CV vaccine, approved by the WHO, safeguards
against five strains of meningococcus bacteria in one shot,
84. GPS SPOOFING surpassing earlier vaccines. Its introduction coincides with
WHO’s aim to eradicate meningitis by 2030, vital amid rising
Context: cases in the region.
Israel reportedly used GPS jamming to confuse Iran’s missile
targeting teams ahead of Iran’s direct attack on Israel. What is Meningitis?
• This technique, similar to what the US allegedly did It is a severe infection affecting the brain and spinal cord’s
during India’s Kargil war in 1999, can hinder mili- protective membranes. While various pathogens like bacte-
tary operations by degrading GPS signals. ria, fungi, or viruses can cause it, bacterial meningitis poses
• The US initially employed “selective availability” the greatest global threat. Common bacteria responsible in-
to degrade GPS accuracy for India during the Kargil
clude Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae,
war, prompting India to develop its own navigation
system called NavIC. and Neisseria meningitidis.
• In the recent incident, Israeli locals found their GPS
showing them in Cairo or Beirut, causing confusion
about throwing off Iran’s missiles. 87. SUBMERSIBLE PLATFORM FOR
ACOUSTIC CHARACTERISATION AND EVAL-
About GPS Spoofing: UATION (SPACE)
GPS spoofing, also known as GPS simulation, involves ma-
nipulating or tricking a GPS receiver by broadcasting false Context:
GPS signals. DRDO inaugurated a Submersible Platform for Acoustic
This leads the receiver to believe it is located somewhere it Characterisation and Evaluation (SPACE) at the Underwater
is not, resulting in inaccurate location data. Acoustic Research Facility in Kerala.
This cyberattack undermines the reliability of GPS data, • Designed by the Naval Physical & Oceanographic
critical for navigation, time synchronization, and more. Laboratory, SPACE is a premier testing and evalua-
While initially a theoretical threat, GPS spoofing has become tion hub for sonar systems for the Indian Navy.
a practical concern due to affordable software and hard- • It consists of two platforms - one floating on the
ware capable of transmitting fake signals. water surface and the other submersible up to 100
This evolution poses risks and security challenges for induz- meters using winch systems.
tries, governments, and individuals. • SPACE facilitates the evaluation of complete sonar
systems and scientific packages, supporting survey,
sampling, and data collection of various parameters.
85. ‘SLEEPING GIANT’ BLACK HOLE Equipped with modern instrumentation, it enhances An-
ti-Submarine Warfare research capabilities for the Indian
Navy.
Context:
Astronomers have discovered the most massive known stel-
lar black hole nicknamed “ Sleeping Giant” in the Milky Way 88. VASUKI INDICUS
galaxy, named Gaia BH3, located 1,926 light-years away in
the Aquila constellation. Context:
• Its mass is nearly 33 times that of the sun, making it A fossil vertebrae discovered in Gujarat has been confirmed
the second-closest black hole on Earth. as belonging to the largest snake to have ever lived, named
• This discovery was made through observations from ‘Vasuki Indicus.’
the Gaia space telescope, detecting a wobble in • Unearthed in 2005 by scientists from IIT-Roorkee,
space caused by the gravitational influence of Gaia the snake is estimated to have been 11-15 meters
BH3 on its companion star. (about 50 feet) in length and weighed around 1
• The study offers insights into the formation of such tonne.
massive black holes and their connection to met- • Vasuki likely lived as an ambush predator in marshy
al-poor stars. swamps during a time of higher global tempera-
tures.
86. NIGERIA INTRODUCED MEN5CV VAC-
CINE The fossil’s size rivals that of Titanoboa, a snake from Co-
lombia measuring about 43 feet long and weighing over
one tonne.
Context: Nigeria has introduced the world’s first vaccine
against all strains of meningitis (Men5CV vaccine), aiming
Current Affairs 30
89. GROSS FIXED CAPITAL FORMATION Tachyons violate known principles like causality and are pro-
posed as a potential explanation for dark matter.
(GFCF)
According to special relativity, particles with mass can’t ex-
Context: ceed light speed in a vacuum due to infinite energy. Tachy-
Private investment in India, measured by Gross Fixed Capital ons, however, are believed to have imaginary mass, allow-
Formation (GFCF) as a percentage of GDP, has seen a de- ing faster-than-light travel without violating known physics
cline since 2011-12. Despite government efforts like corpo- laws. They would slow down with energy gain and acceler-
rate tax cuts, private investment hasn’t picked up. ate with energy loss.
What is GFCF? Experiments using cerenkov detectors have attempted to

Gross Fixed Capital Formation, measures the growth in fixed detect tachyons by measuring particles’ speeds in mediums,
capital in an economy, including assets like buildings and where they could exceed light speed, causing cerenkov radi-
machinery. It serves as an indicator of private sector invest- ation, akin to a sonic boom or ship bow shock wave.
ment willingness and includes government investment. GFCF
is important because fixed capital boosts economic growth
by increasing productivity and living standards. Developed 91. ARTEMIS ACCORDS
economies tend to have more fixed capital per capita com-
pared to developing ones. Context:
Sweden joined the Artemis Accords, becoming the 38th
country to do so. These non-binding arrangements aim to
establish norms for outer space activities.
About the Artemis Accords:

The Artemis Accords are non-binding principles based on
the Outer Space Treaty (OST) of 1967, aiming to guide civil
space exploration in the 21st century.
1. They are a US-led international partner-
ship (introduced in 2020 by NASA) – signed by 38
countries till now, including India (signed in 2023),
Japan, Australia, the UK, France, and Canada – on
planetary exploration and research.
2. They are a set of 13 principles, closely linked to the
2018 US Artemis Program, which aims to return as-
tronauts to the lunar surface, build a space camp
Historically, private investment surged after the 1990s eco- there, and carry out deep space exploration.
nomic reforms but dropped post-2008 financial crisis. It
peaked at 27% of the economy in 2007-08 but declined after Other Such treaties on Outer Space:
2011-12, reaching a low of 19.6% in 2020-21. 1. Outer Space Treaty (1967): Provides the basic
framework for international space law. India has
Reasons for Decline: signed and ratified it
Private investment decline is attributed to low consumer 2. Rescue Agreement (1968): Aimed at rescuing and
spending, poor government policies and uncertainty. assisting astronauts in distress. India has signed and
ratified it
90. TACHYONS 3. Liability Convention (1972): States that the launch-
ing State is absolutely liable to pay compensation for
damage caused by its space objects. India has signed
Context: A new paper suggests that the universe may be and ratified it
dominated by particles called tachyons, which move faster 4. Registration Convention (1976): Requires registra-
than light. tion of objects launched into outer space. India has
signed and ratified it
About Tachyons: 5. Moon Agreement (1979): Establishes the Moon and
They are hypothetical subatomic particles that move faster its resources as the common heritage of humankind.
than the speed of light. Coined by physicist Gerald Feinberg India has signed but NOT ratified it
in 1967, they’re distinct from bradyons, which travel slow-
er than light. While bradyons include familiar particles like
protons and electrons, tachyons have never been observed.
Current Affairs 30
92. INDIGENOUS TECHNOLOGY CRUISE 94. INITIATIVES OF WHO

MISSILE (ITCM)
Initiative Description
Context: WHO’s First The World Health Organization (WHO)
DRDO conducts a successful test of an indigenous long-range ever Patient launched the Patient Safety Rights Char-
subsonic cruise missile (Indigenous Technology Cruise Mis- Safety Rights ter at the Global Ministerial Summit
sile (ITCM)) from Chandipur, Odisha. The missile, similar to Charter on Patient Safety, developed under the
Nirbhay, showcased low-altitude sea-skimming flight with theme “Engaging patients for patient
all subsystems performing as expected. safety” on World Patient Safety Day 2023.
It aims to build patient-centered health-
About ITCM: care systems, improve patient safety, and
It has been developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Develop- reduce the risk of harm, supporting the
ment Establishment (ADE) and is a long-range subsonic implementation of the Global Patient
cruise missile featuring an indigenous propulsion system Safety (GPS) Action Plan 2021–2030. In-
from the Gas Turbine Research Establishment. Cruise mis- dia has signed the GPS Action Plan 2021-
siles are unmanned and fly within the atmosphere, capable 2030.
of flying just meters above ground. The Charter covers 10 Patient Safety
Rights, including the right to timely, ef-
fective, and appropriate care, safe health-
93. EXOSKELETON care processes and practices, qualified
health workers, safe medical products,
Context: dignity, respect, and more.
DRDO organized the first international workshop on ‘Emerg- WHO prequal- The WHO prequalified the Euvichol-S vac-
ing Technologies & Challenges for Exoskeleton’ in Bengaluru. ified the Euvi- cine for Cholera, a simplified and cost-ef-
chol-S vaccine fective formulation of the oral cholera
What is Exoskeleton? for Cholera vaccine Euvichol-Plus.
An exoskeleton is a mobile machine resembling an insect’s Meaning of Prequalification: “Prequali-
exoskeleton, worn by a person. It’s powered by motors, hy- fied” means that the vaccine has under-
draulics, or pneumatics to aid limb movement. Applications gone a rigorous assessment by the WHO
include aiding people with disabilities, assisting soldiers and has been deemed to meet interna-
in carrying heavy loads, and use in factories and assembly tional standards of quality, safety, and
lines. efficacy. The vaccine is suitable for pro-
curement by United Nations agencies and
other international organizations
Cholera, caused by Vibrio cholerae bacte-
ria, is transmitted through contaminated
food or water, with the highest number
of cases reported in the Middle East and
Africa. India reported 132 cases in 2023
(till July).
95. SUMMIT OF THE FUTURE 2024

Context:
UN Secretary-General Guterres highlights Multilateral Devel-
opment Banks (MDB) reform as a key theme at the upcom-
ing Summit of the Future during UNGA, praising the Indian
G20 presidency’s efforts.
About the Summit:

The Summit of the Future 2024 is a flagship event organized
during the annual high-level UN General Assembly meeting
in September. It focuses on key global issues, with a particu-
lar emphasis on reforming multilateral development banks
Current Affairs 30
(MDBs) to address contemporary challenges like poverty 2028.
and climate crisis. • Dragonfly, a “dual-quadcopter,” will explore Titan’s
organic compound-rich surface, covering tens of ki-
Originating from the Our Common Agenda report, it empha- lometres in under an hour due to Titan’s dense at-
sizes renewing trust and solidarity across nations and gener- mosphere and low gravity.
• Despite primarily operating on the surface, it will
ations. Member States aim to create a Pact for the Future, utilize flight for transportation and science mea-
reaffirming the UN Charter, reinvigorating multilateralism, surements.
and agreeing on solutions to current and future challenges. • Powered by a radioisotope power system, Dragon-
fly will conduct operations during the day and re-
What are MDBs? charge during the night. Top of Form
MDBs are international financial institutions (e.g., World
Bank Group and the Asian Development Bank) aiding de-
veloping countries with financial and technical assistance to 98. FORESTS AS A NATIONAL ASSET
foster economic development and reduce poverty.
Recommendations by the independent expert group on Context:
MDB’s Reform (during India’s G20 presidency) include tri- The Supreme Court of India emphasized in a recent judg-
pling annual lending levels by 2030, adopting a triple man- ment that forests are a crucial national asset and a signifi-
date for MDBs to eliminate extreme poverty, and moderniz- cant contributor to the country’s financial wealth.
ing funding models. • This ruling came amidst criticism of the Forest Con-
servation (Amendment) Act of 2023, which is ac-
cused of facilitating encroachments in protected
96. THE GLOBAL ALLIANCE FOR INCINER- forests and promoting commercial exploitation.
ATOR ALTERNATIVES (GAIA) ASIA PACIFIC • The court condemned the act of granting forest
land to private individuals and ordered an investi-
gation against forest officials for providing contra-
Context: dictory information about the land.
The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) Asia • It also imposed fines on both the state government
Pacific, along with other environmental groups, has urged and the private parties involved.
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to take
strong action against plastic pollution ahead of the Inter-
governmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) session. 99. GENOMIC ACCORDION
• Over 100 civil society organizations (CSOs) empha-
sized the urgent need for ASEAN to lead in negoti- Context:
ations for a global treaty on plastic pollution, given Mpox, a DNA virus, exhibits a unique evolutionary strategy
the region’s challenges with overflowing landfills, known as the genomic accordion, involving expansions and
polluted waterways, and marine ecosystem destruc-
contractions of its genome.
tion.
• Researchers identified 6.4-kilobase sections of the
• The CSOs called for legally binding measures to re-
genome, previously deemed unimportant, as criti-
duce plastic production and consumption, focusing
cal for human-to-human transmissibility and evo-
on the entire plastic lifecycle, including phasing out
lutionary adaptability.
single-use plastics.
• Variations in certain genes influence the virus’s evo-
lution, with different clades exhibiting varying lev-
The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) Asia els of virulence.
Pacific focuses on supporting innovative and zero waste • Genomic surveillance plays a crucial role in under-
solutions in the region. standing and combating viral outbreaks, allowing
for targeted interventions to mitigate health risks
GAIA is a global network of non-governmental organiza- and prevent global spread.
tions, grassroots organizations, and individuals who work
towards a world without incineration and waste.
100. ETHYLENE OXIDE IN INDIAN SPICES
They believe that the planet’s finite resources, health, and
fragile biosphere are endangered by inefficient and pollut- Context:
ing production practices. Following red flags raised by food regulators in Hong Kong
and Singapore regarding the presence of a cancer-caus-
ing ingredient in certain Indian spice products from some
97. DRAGONFLY MISSION brands, the Indian government has ordered food commis-
sioners to collect samples of spices from all manufacturing
Context: NASA has confirmed its Dragonfly rotorcraft mis- units in the country.
sion to Titan, Saturn’s largest moon will be scheduled for
Current Affairs 30
• The harmful substance, ethylene oxide, has been classified as a ‘Group 1 carcinogen’ by the International Agency
for Research on Cancer.
• Ethylene oxide is banned for use in food items in India.
Ethylene oxide, primarily used as a sterilizing agent and insecticide, poses health risks including irritation of the eyes, skin,
nose, throat, and lungs, as well as potential long-term effects on the central nervous system and carcinogenic properties.
101. ‘PINK’ HYDROGEN

Context:
India is considering amending the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, to allow private investments in the nuclear sector, aiming to
boost nuclear capacity and promote clean energy initiatives, particularly hydrogen.
• Currently, the Act restricts private ownership of nuclear plants, but proposed amendments would enable private
companies to participate in certain activities, such as financing, project development, and equipment supply.
• The production of ‘pink’ hydrogen, which is generated through electrolysis powered by nuclear energy.
Types of Hydrogen based on colour codes:
102. LLAMA 3
Context:
Meta has unveiled its most advanced Large Language Model (LLM) yet, the Meta Llama 3, which boasts significant im-
provements in performance and capabilities over its predecessors.
• Available in two sizes, 8B and 70B parameters, Llama 3 is integrated into Meta’s proprietary virtual assistant,
Meta AI.
• The model surpasses previous benchmarks, outperforming competitors like Google’s Gemma 7B and Mistral’s
Mistral 7B in various evaluations, including language understanding and question-answering tasks.
• Meta emphasizes the responsible development of Llama 3, providing trust and safety tools like Llama Guard 2 and
Code Shield.
• Llama 3 is integrated into Meta AI and accessible for developers through platforms like Hugging Face and cloud
providers such as Azure ML and Vertex AI.
Large language models (LLMs) are artificial intelligence (AI) programs that use deep learning to process large amounts of
text data. LLMs can perform a variety of tasks, including:
Translation, Summarization, Object recognition, Content generation, Classification, and Predicting.
Current Affairs 30
103. ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR TO ESTABLISH WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES

Context:
The Andaman and Nicobar administration’s plan to establish wildlife sanctuaries on islands traditionally managed and in-
habited by the indigenous southern Nicobarese people ignores their rights and disregards the ecological and social impacts.
Proposed Sanctuary Description

Coral Sanctuary on Meroë Island The government plans to establish a coral sanctuary
Megapode Sanctuary on Menchal Island The proposed sanctuary aims to protect endemic Megapode birds
Leatherback Turtle Sanctuary on Little Nico- The administration seeks to create a sanctuary for leatherback turtles
bar Island without consulting indigenous Nicobarese people, who traditionally use
the island.
The Andaman Islands consist of 572 islands, with key ones including North Andaman, South Andaman, Little Andaman, and
Middle Andaman. It boasts the highest number of wildlife sanctuaries in India, totalling 96, along with 9 national parks.
National Park/Sanctu- Location Features Major Fauna

ary
Campbell Bay & Gala- Great Nicobar Part of Great Nicobar Biosphere Giant robber crab, megapode,
thea National Parks Reserve - Separated by a 12-km Nicobar pigeon, turtle species
wide forest buffer zone. Galathea
National Park is India’s southern-
most
Mahatma Gandhi Ma- South Andaman Protects mangroves, corals, and Mangroves, corals, nesting sea
rine National Park nesting sea turtles. Mostly fringing turtles
reefs
Mount Harriett National South Andaman The third-highest peak in the A&N Andaman wild pigs, saltwater
Park (Mount Manipur archipelago. Renamed to honour crocodiles, turtles, robber crabs
National Park) Manipur’s freedom fighters
Rani Jhansi Marine Na- Ritchie’s Archipelago, Located near Button Islands. Veg-
Spotted deer, water lizards, mon-
tional Park South Andaman etation includes mangroves and
itor lizards, fruit-eating bats, du-
evergreen forests gongs, dolphins, sea turtles, blue
whales, corals
Saddle Peak National Andaman and Nicobar The highest point of the A&N Is- Andaman wild pig, Andaman im-
Park Islands lands. Features varied fauna and perial pigeon, dolphins, whales,
flora saltwater crocodile
Other National Park North Button Island
NP, Middle Button Is-
land NP, South Button
Island NP
104. SODIUM-ION BATTERY

Context:
South Korean researchers have developed a high-power hybrid sodium-ion battery capable of charging in seconds, marking
a potential breakthrough in energy storage technology.
• Sodium, being nearly 1000 times more abundant than lithium, offers a cheaper and more feasible energy
source.
• This development suggests the battery could be a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries, meeting
increasing demands for low-cost energy storage devices with high energy density.
Current Affairs 30
Feature Sodium-ion Batteries Lithium-ion Batteries

Cost Generally lower cost due to the abundance Higher cost due to the scarcity of lithium and its ex-
of sodium (Sodium is 500-1000 times more traction process.
abundant than lithium).
Energy Density Lower energy density compared to lithi- Higher energy density, providing more power in a
um-ion batteries. smaller size.
Cycle Life Generally lower cycle life compared to lithi- Longer cycle life, retaining capacity over more
um-ion batteries. charge-discharge cycles.
Safety Generally safer due to the less reactive na- Generally safe but can be prone to thermal runaway
ture of sodium. under certain conditions.
E nv i ro n m e nta l Sodium is more abundant and less harmful Lithium extraction and disposal can have environmen-
Impact to the environment. tal consequences.
Application Suitable for large-scale energy storage and Widely used in consumer electronics, electric vehicles,
grid applications. and portable devices.
105. NEPTIS PHILYRA

Context:
Butterfly enthusiasts made a remarkable discovery in Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Lower Subansiri district, India, spotting
the elusive Neptis philyra, also known as the long-streak sailor, for the first time in the country.
• The butterfly, initially described in Russia in 1859, is native to East Asia but had not been recorded in India
before.
Current Affairs 30
106. GOLDEN TREVALLY

Context:
The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute achieved a significant break-
through in mariculture by successfully developing seed production technology for
golden trevally, a high-value marine fish.
• This accomplishment is expected to create new opportunities for
sustainable seafood production and enhance India’s mariculture
potential.
Golden trevally is considered a promising species for marine aquaculture due to
its rapid growth, high-quality meat, and strong market demand for consumption
and ornamental purposes.
107. RAMPAGE MISSILES

Context:
Israel recently utilized the Rampage missile in an attack on an Iranian military base.
• The Rampage missile is an air-to-surface weapon developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Israeli
Military Industries Systems.
Features of Rampage:
• Designed for precision strikes, it targets high-quality, well-protected sites such as communication centres
and air force bases.
• The missile boasts supersonic speeds, making it challenging to intercept.
• With a range exceeding 190 miles, it can be deployed from aircraft or as a stand-alone system, utilizing
GPS/INS guidance navigation and anti-jamming capabilities.
• Additionally, it can adjust its trajectory mid-flight and operate effectively in various weather conditions,
ensuring precise target hits.
108. MILITARY EXERCISES IN NEWS
Name Description
Exercise Poorvi Lehar Exercise Poorvi Lehar (XPOL) is a maritime exercise conducted by the Indian Navy along the East
Coast. Its aim is to validate procedures for assessing the Navy’s preparedness to tackle Maritime
Security challenges in the region.
The exercise involved participation from Ships, Submarines, Aircraft, and Special Forces.
Multi-nation Com- The Indian Navy seized drugs in the Arabian Sea as part of the multinational Combined Task
bined Task Force-150 Force-150 under CMF. This operation, known as Operation Crimson Barracuda, marks the first
under Combined Mar- such initiative by the Indian Navy since joining CMF in 2022.
itime Forces (CMF) CMF is a multinational maritime partnership focused on upholding the Rules-Based Internation-
al Order by countering illicit nonstate actors on the high seas and promoting security, stability,
and prosperity in international waters. With 42 member countries (including India), CMF’s main
focus areas include defeating terrorism, preventing piracy, encouraging regional cooperation, and
promoting a safe maritime environment. Participation in CMF is voluntary, and it is commanded
by a U.S. Navy Vice Admiral
Exercise Dustlik The fifth edition of the annual Exercise DUSTLIK, a joint military exercise between India and Uz-
bekistan, is being held from April 15–28, 2024, in Termez, Uzbekistan.
The exercise aims to bolster bilateral military cooperation, improve combined capabilities, and
promote interoperability. It specifically concentrates on conducting joint operations in semi-ur-
ban and mountainous terrain.
Current Affairs 30
109. COMPULSORY CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES

Context:
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) subscription to
Compulsory Convertible Debentures (CCDs) of Napino Auto and Electronics Limited (Napino).
• IFC, established in 1956, aims to promote economic growth in developing countries by fostering private sector
development.
Compulsory convertible debentures (CCDs) are debt instruments that are automatically and mandatorily converted into
equity after a specific time period or when certain events occur.
CCDs are hybrid instruments that are debt when issued but are guaranteed to be converted into equity at a later date.
CCDs help companies repay debt without spending cash and benefit investors by offering fixed interest and later owner-
ship of company shares.
110. ALTERNATE WETTING AND DRYING (AWD) METHODS

Context:
In Vietnam, where rice cultivation contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, some farmers are embracing in-
novative techniques to mitigate methane production.
Traditionally, rice paddies emit substantial amounts of methane due to the anaerobic conditions created by flooding. How-
ever, farmers are adopting alternate wetting and drying (AWD) methods, which reduce water usage and methane emissions.
What is AWD?
It stands for Alternate Wetting and Drying, a water-saving technique used in rice cultivation. Instead of continuously flood-
ing rice fields, AWD involves alternating periods of flooding and drying, allowing the soil to partially dry out between
irrigation cycles. This method helps to reduce water usage in rice paddies while also decreasing methane emissions, as the
intermittent drying reduces the anaerobic conditions that promote methane production.
Current Affairs 30
111. SATELLITE TECHNOLOGY DAY

About Pulicat Bird Sanctuary:
Context: Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is a wildlife refuge in the Tirupa-
The U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) celebrated Satellite ti district of Andhra Pradesh and the Thiruvallur District of
Technology Day (STD) - 2024, marking the 50th anniversary Tamil Nadu, India.
of the successful launch of India’s first satellite, Aryabhata,
on April 19, 1975. It’s a popular birding spot in South India and is known for its
greater flamingos, White Ibis, Grey Pelicans, Grey Herons,
About Aryabhata: Open Billed Storks, Egrets, Spot Billed Ducks, Reef Herons,
• Aryabhata was India’s first satellite, launched on Painted Storks, Spoon Bills, and Cormorants.
April 19, 1975 from Kapustin Yar, a Soviet rocket
launch and development site.
• The satellite was built by the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) and launched by the Soviet
Union as part of the Soviet Interkosmos program.
• It was named after the 5th-century Indian astrono-
mer and mathematician Aryabhata.
• The satellite was instrumented to explore condi-
tions in Earth’s ionosphere, measure neutrons and
gamma rays from the Sun, and perform investiga-
tions in X-ray astronomy.
• It carried out three experiments, one each in X-ray
astronomy, Solar Physics and Aeronomy.
112. WHO GLOBAL SODIUM BENCH-

MARKS
Context:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued the sec-
ond edition of its global sodium benchmarks, providing up-
dated reference values for sodium content to combat chron-
ic conditions linked to high blood pressure and obesity.
• The first edition of the WHO global sodium bench-
marks, published in May 2021, contained 10 pre-de-
termined benchmarks for different food categories.
• Developed collaboratively with governments, orga-
nizations, and private sector partners, these bench-
marks aim to inform policy-making and support ef-
forts to reduce sodium consumption globally.
• Part of a broader initiative, they emphasize improv-
ing nutrition systems, enhancing food accessibili-
ty, and raising public awareness about the risks of
chronic conditions and the importance of healthy
lifestyles.
113. PULICAT BIRD SANCTUARY

Context: 114. PAYMENTS AGGREGATOR
The Tamil Nadu government is considering denotifying a
significant portion of the Pulicat bird sanctuary, potentially Context:
excluding Patta land in 13 revenue villages from the sanc- PayU, a digital financial services provider, has received
tuary area. in-principle authorization from the Reserve Bank of India
• This move follows a process under the Wildlife (Pro- (RBI) to operate as a Payments Aggregator (PA) under the
tection) Act of 1972, where people were invited to Payment Settlements Act, 2007.
submit written claims for the land within a two- • With this approval, PayU can onboard new mer-
month period. chants on its platform.
• The denotification process involves settling claims
of affected individuals before issuing a final notifi-
cation under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. A payment aggregator is a third-party service that allows
Current Affairs 30
customers to make payments and businesses to accept has released recommendations on Telecommunication In-
payments online. frastructure Sharing, Spectrum Sharing, and Spectrum
Leasing.
Payment aggregators allow businesses to accept a variety of
payment methods, including: Key recommendations include:
Debit cards, Credit cards, Cardless EMIs, UPI, Bank trans- • allowing the sharing of passive and active infra-
fers, E-wallets, and E-mandates. structure elements among telecommunication ser-
vice licensees,
• mandating universal service providers to share pas-
sive infrastructure with other telecom service pro-
viders,
• and permitting inter-band access spectrum sharing.
• Additionally, TRAI suggests exploring the imple-
mentation of authorized shared access (ASA) tech-
nique-based spectrum sharing and conducting field
trials for the same.
• Leasing of access spectrum among access service
providers is also recommended.
Spectrum refers to the radio frequencies allocated to the
mobile industry and other sectors for communication over
the airwaves.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is a gov-
ernment agency that regulates India’s telecommunications
sector.
It was established on February 20, 1997, under the Telecom
Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.
115. ASSET RECONSTRUCTION COMPA-
NIES (ARCS) 117. SYMPATHETIC SOLAR FLARES
Context: Context:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a master direc- Recently, a rare celestial event occurred as four solar flares
tion for asset reconstruction companies (ARCs), effective erupted simultaneously, captured by NASA’s Solar Dynam-
from April 24, 2024. ics Observatory.
• These have been issued in the exercise of the powers • These “sympathetic solar flares” originated from
conferred by the Securitisation and Reconstruction different regions of the Sun’s surface due to com-
of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security In- plex magnetic interactions.
terest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002. • Such flares are caused by multiple eruptions linked
• The guidelines stipulate that ARCs must maintain a by massive magnetic field loops above the so-
minimum capital requirement of Rs 300 crore, with lar surface, leading to coronal mass ejections and
existing ARCs given until March 31, 2026, to meet bursts of plasma.
this threshold. This activity suggests that the Sun may be nearing or reach-
• Non-compliant ARCs will face supervisory action, ing the peak of its 11-year solar cycle, marked by increased
including the prohibition on incremental business solar events.
until compliance is achieved.
• ARCs with a minimum Net Owned Fund (NOF) of Rs
Sympathetic flares are caused by multiple eruptions across
1000 crore can act as resolution applicants and are
permitted to invest in specified instruments, subject the Sun’s magnetic field, linked by massive magnetic field
to certain conditions and caps on investment. loops that lie above the solar surface.
An Asset Reconstruction Company (ARC) is a financial insti-
tution that buys Non-Performing Assets (NPA) or bad assets When one spot detonates, others follow suit. This leads to
from banks and financial institutions so that the latter can coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and massive bursts of plasma.
clean up their balance sheets.
118. PERMISSIBLE LEVEL OF PESTICIDES
116. TELECOMMUNICATION INFRASTRUC-
Context: The Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FS-
TURE SHARING, SPECTRUM SHARING, AND SAI) has faced criticism for increasing the maximum residue
SPECTRUM LEASING limit (MRL) of pesticides in Indian herbs and spices by ten-
fold.
Context: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) • The FSSAI’s decision lacks transparency regarding
Current Affairs 30
the data used to make the change, raising concerns
about the safety of consuming these products.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is a
statutory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Wel-
fare, Government of India.
It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act,

2006, to ensure food safety and hygiene in India.
FSSAI is responsible for laying down science-based standards

for food products, and regulating their manufacturing, stor-
age, distribution, sale, and import to ensure the availability
of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
It also promotes public awareness and provides guidance

on food safety and nutrition.
119. VOYAGER 1
Context:
Voyager 1, Earth’s farthest spacecraft, is back online after
engineers remotely fixed its 46-year-old systems.
The Voyager mission, conducted by NASA, launched Voyag-

er 1 on September 5, 1977, followed by Voyager 2 on Au-
gust 20, 1977. Its objective was to explore the outer planets
of the solar system: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
Key features include flybys of Jupiter and Saturn, with Voyag-
er 2 continuing to Uranus and Neptune, becoming the only
craft to visit these planets. Both Voyagers entered interstel-
lar space after their primary missions. Their discoveries in-
clude detailed images of planets, moons, and atmospheric
data. Voyager 1 made groundbreaking discoveries such as
active volcanoes on Io and Saturn’s ring structure.
About the Tiger Conservation Coalition

The Tiger Conservation Coalition brings together leading bi-
ologists and experts in wildlife crime, human-wildlife coex-
istence, policy, finance, development and communications,
with unprecedented alignment on achieving tiger conserva-
tion at scale.
120. PARO STATEMENT
Its member organisations include the International Union
for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Environmental In-
Context:
vestigation Agency; Fauna & Flora; Natural State; Panthera;
The Sustainable Finance for Tiger Landscapes Conference,
TRAFFIC; the United Nations Development Programme
held in Paro, Bhutan, concluded with the Paro Statement,
(UNDP); the Wildlife Conservation Society; Worldwide
committing to mobilize an additional $1 billion over the
Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Zoological Society of Lon-
next decade to conserve tigers and their landscapes.
• Tiger Range Countries present included Bangladesh, don (ZSL).
Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Kazakhstan, Ma-
laysia, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Current Affairs 30
121. ROCKS OR CRYSTAL MAZE 2 About Marrakesh Agreement:

The Marrakesh Agreement, also known as the Agreement
Context: Establishing the World Trade Organization (WTO), was
The Indian Air Force (IAF) achieved a milestone with the suc- signed on April 15, 1994, in Marrakesh, Morocco by 123 na-
cessful test firing of an air-launched ballistic missile, known tions.
as ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2, capable of hitting targets over
250 kilometres away. The agreement defines the WTO’s structure, functions, and
scope, and incorporates agreements negotiated under the
About Crystal Maze 2 (also known as ROCKS) General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and agree-
It is a medium-range ballistic missile developed by Israel. ments concluded during the Uruguay Round.
It has a strike range of over 250 km and is classified as an
air-to-surface missile. Designed to operate in GPS-denied The WTO officially came into existence on January 1, 1995.
environments, it aims to strike high-value stationary and re-
locatable targets, including long-range radar and air defence
systems. 125. NETWORK AS A SERVICE (NAAS)
122. WEAPON-FREE OUTER SPACE Context:

In India’s rapidly advancing internet economy, embracing
Context: Network as a Service (NaaS) holds promise for enhancing
Russia blocks a US and Japan-sponsored draft resolu- user experiences.
tion urging against space-based nuclear weapons after its
amendment extending the ban to all weapons failed to What is Network as a Service (NaaS)?
pass. Network as a Service (NaaS) is a cloud-like networking
• The resolution called for all states, particularly those model where network resources are provided to customers
with significant space capabilities, to contribute to on demand. It offers networking functionality without the
the peaceful use of outer space and prevent an need for customers to invest in hardware or manage infra-
arms race there. structure directly.
However, the Security Council rejected the resolution with
13 members in favour, one against (Russia), and one absten- With over 850 million active internet users and a digital
tion (China). economy projected to contribute 20% to GDP by 2026, NaaS
offers a cloud-like networking model, providing on-demand
123. CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY DUE network resources without the need for direct infrastructure
DILIGENCE LAW management.
Context: Other such terminologies:

The European Parliament gave its approval for the Corporate Concept Explanation Example
Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), a significant SaaS Software as a Ser- Google Workspace
step toward its formal adoption by the European Union. vice (SaaS) delivers (formerly G Suite),
• The CSDDD introduces a legal liability for compa- software applications Microsoft Office 365,
nies regarding environmental and human rights over the internet. Salesforce, Dropbox
violations within their supply chains.
• It applies not only to a company’s direct actions but PaaS Platform as a Service Heroku, Microsoft
also to its subsidiaries and supply chain. (PaaS) provides a plat- Azure App Service,
• The CSDDD will be phased in over five years, affect- form allowing custom- Google App Engine
ing larger companies first. ers to develop, run,
and manage applica-
Despite being diluted from its original proposal, the directions without dealing
tive establishes a standard of corporate due diligence on with infrastructure.
sustainability issues, focusing on environmental concerns, IaaS Infrastructure as a Amazon Web Services
climate change, and human rights. Service (IaaS) delivers (AWS), Microsoft
virtualized computing Azure, Google Cloud
124. MARRAKESH AGREEMENT resources over the In- Platform (GCP), Digi-
ternet, allowing users talOcean
Context: The World Trade Organization (WTO) commemo- to rent servers, stor-
rates the 30th anniversary of the Marrakesh Agreement, a age, and networking
milestone in global trade cooperation resources.
Current Affairs 30
126. CLIMATE TECHNOLOGY CENTRE AND In India, the AEO Programme (a voluntary initiative) was in-
troduced by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Cus-
NETWORK (CTCN)
toms (CBIC) in India in 2011. It aims to simplify customs
procedures and expedite clearances for businesses demon-
Context:
strating high-security standards in the supply chain.
The Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) cele-
brates its 10-year anniversary as a key player in advancing
climate technology and innovation. 128. ANTIHISTAMINES
About Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN):
• Established as the implementation arm of the Unit- Context:
ed Nations Framework Convention on Climate Antihistamines are over-the-counter drugs used to treat
Change (UNFCCC) Technology Mechanism and host- short-lived allergic reactions like sneezing or itching.
ed by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the • They work by blocking histamine receptors in the
CTCN facilitates the development and transfer of en- body.
vironmentally sound technologies for low-carbon
and climate-resilient development.
What is Histamine?
• It operates through a global network of over 760 civ-
il society, finance, private sector, and research insti- It is a key mediator of allergy and inflammation, with roles
tutions, providing technical assistance and capacity in autoimmune conditions, gastric acid secretion, and hema-
building to developing countries upon request. topoiesis. It can be released in response to various factors,
• Over the past decade, the CTCN has funded over including allergens and physical injury. Most histamine is
300 technical assistance projects across 112 de- stored in mast cells and basophils.
veloping nations, supporting them in meeting their
sustainable development commitments under the Histamine binds to different receptors (H1, H2, H3, and H4)
Paris Agreement. in different locations, triggering allergic responses. Antihis-
• Through projects spanning various sectors such as
green building standards, drought risk modelling, tamines target these receptors to alleviate allergy symptoms.
industrial energy efficiency, and policy develop- Ongoing research focuses on specialized drugs targeting H3
ment for e-mobility, the CTCN aims to catalyse cli- and H4 receptors to treat neurological and immunological
mate resilience and innovation globally. disorders.
127. AUTHORISED ECONOMIC OPERATOR 129. NEPHROTIC SYNDROME

(AEO) STATUS
Context: The use of fairness creams has been linked to ne-
Context: phrotic syndrome, with high levels of mercury found in the
The Ministry of Finance has granted Authorised Economic blood and urine of affected individuals. The study, published
Operator (AEO) status to the gem and jewellery sector, as in Kidney International, reports 15 cases of nephropathy
part of efforts to promote ease of doing business. traced to the use of fairness creams.
• Asian Star, a leading diamond and diamond jewel-
lery manufacturer, became the first in the industry Nephrotic Syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by
to receive AEO status. excessive protein in the urine due to malfunctioning kidney
filters called glomeruli. Cosmetic use, specifically the use of
About the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) program: fairness creams containing high levels of mercury, has been
It operates under the World Customs Organization (WCO) linked to Nephrotic Syndrome. The mercury in these creams
SAFE Framework. Its goal is to boost international supply can be absorbed through the skin and lead to systemic tox-
chain security and smooth the movement of lawful goods. icity, ultimately causing damage to the kidneys and resulting
Aligned with World Trade Organization trade facilitation in Nephrotic Syndrome.
agreements, it allows Indian Customs to strengthen cargo
security through collaboration with key stakeholders in the
international supply chain. 130. PROJECT ISHAN
An entity with an AEO status is considered a ‘secure’ trad- Context:

er and a reliable trading partner. Benefits of AEO status India has kickstarted the process of unifying its four airspace
include expedited clearance times, fewer examinations, regions under Project Indian Single Sky Harmonized Air
and improved security and communication between supply Traffic Management at Nagpur (ISHAN).
chain partners. • This initiative is expected to enhance air traffic
management, benefiting airlines and passengers by
making operations more efficient and safer.
Current Affairs 30
• Challenges include technological implementation, ples for critical energy transition minerals, addressing eq-
process changes, and retraining of staff. uity, transparency, sustainability, and human rights through-
Currently, Indian airspace is divided into 4 FIRs i.e. Mumbai, out the value chain.
Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, and a sub-FIR in Guwahati, each
managed separately. Other initiatives for Critical Minerals:
1. Global Mineral Security Partnership (MSP) boosts
critical mineral supply chains, with India involved
131. INHERITANCE TAX 2. Critical Minerals Mapping Initiative is underway
3. UN Framework on Just Transitions for Critical Ener-
Context: gy Transition Minerals launching by 2024 end
In India, the debate over inheritance tax as a tool to address 4. India identifies 30 critical minerals for self-reliance.
economic inequality is ongoing. 5. India’s Partnerships with Australia and Argentina
for lithium and cobalt
What is Inheritance Tax? 6. Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) was formed for
It is a tax levied on the assets inherited by individuals from strategic mineral sourcing abroad.
a deceased person. The tax rate depends on the value of the
inherited property and the heir’s relationship to the dece-
dent.
133. SALMONELLA CONTAMINATION IN
SPICES
Unlike estate tax, which taxes the total value of a deceased
person’s estate, inheritance tax is specifically levied on inherit- Context:
ed property. While many countries impose inheritance taxes, Over the past six months, US customs authorities have re-
including the United States (where inheritance tax is im- jected 31% of all spice-related shipments from Mahashian
posed on money or property inherited from a deceased per- Di Hatti (MDH) due to salmonella contamination concerns.
son’s estate), India currently does not. Estate duty, imposed
from 1953 with tax rates reaching up to 85%, was abolished About Salmonella:
in 1985 due to unpopularity. • Salmonella is a genus of bacteria that can cause food
poisoning in humans.
• It is one of the most common causes of foodborne ill-
Similarly, gift tax and wealth tax, introduced earlier, were ness worldwide.
abolished in 1998 and 2015 respectively, although gift tax • Salmonella bacteria typically infect the intestinal tract
was briefly reinstated in 2004. and can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal
cramps, fever, and vomiting.
Pros of inheritance tax include potential revenue genera- • Contamination usually occurs through the consumption
tion for the government and reducing wealth inequality, of contaminated food or water, particularly raw or un-
promoting equality of opportunity. However, it also raises dercooked poultry, eggs, meat, and dairy products.
• Proper food handling, cooking, and hygiene practices are
concerns about tax evasion, discouraging hard work, and essential for preventing salmonella infections.
potential double taxation of already taxed assets.
134. BIOHACKING
132. UN PANEL ON “CRITICAL ENERGY
TRANSITION MINERALS” Context:
Biohacking is gaining traction in India, with enthusiasts ex-
perimenting with various techniques like cryotherapy and IV
Context: therapy.
The United Nations recently launched a new panel on “Criti-
cal Energy Transition Minerals” to address the challenges of What is Biohacking?
the “material-energy nexus” and promote responsible and Biohacking involves using scientific knowledge and experi-
fair value chains. mentation to optimize one’s body and mind. It encompass-
es various practices aimed at improving physical and mental
performance, longevity, and overall well-being.
With 23 countries (including India) and the African Union
on board, along with 14 non-governmental groups, the pan- Examples of biohacking include:
el aims to foster dialogue and prevent negative resource 1. Dietary Modifications: Following specific diets like
nationalism, with both China and the United States as key ketogenic diet or intermittent fasting to enhance en-
members. ergy levels and metabolic health.
2. Supplementation: Taking supplements such as vita-
The Panel further aims to establish global common princi- mins, minerals, or nootropics to improve cognitive
Current Affairs 30
function, mood, or physical performance. • These guidelines, part of the anti-money laundering
3. Physical Training: Engaging in tailored exercise rou- (AML) and counter-terrorism financing regime, in-
tines, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT) volve collaborations with regulatory bodies.
or strength training, to build strength, endurance,
and resilience. The New Indicators are:
4. Sleep Optimization: Employing techniques like sleep Sector New Alert Indicators
tracking, creating ideal sleep environments, or using Capital Markets Mis-utilization of client funds by
sleep aids to enhance sleep quality and duration. stockbrokers
5. Mindfulness Practices: Practicing meditation, deep
breathing exercises, or mindfulness techniques to Depositories Identification of suspicious
reduce stress, improve focus, and promote mental off-market transfers
well-being. Insurance Sector Alerts for fraud cases experi-
6. Biometric Monitoring: Using wearable devices or enced by insurance firms ana-
apps to track metrics such as heart rate variability, lyzed from the AML/CFT per-
sleep patterns, and activity levels to gain insights spective
into overall health and performance. Online Payment Gate- Speed of transactions leading to
7. Biofeedback Devices: Utilizing devices like neuro- ways AML/CFT risks
feedback or heart rate variability monitors to train VDA or Cryptocurrency Directions to register with FIU
the body’s physiological responses and improve Service Providers to carry out “enhanced due dili-
stress management and emotional regulation. gence to implementation of trav-
el rule.”
135. NILGIRI TAHR Travel Rule, extended to crypto
companies in 2019 by FATF, re-
Context: quires businesses to collect and
The Tamil Nadu government is conducting a three-day sur- share the personal data of par-
vey to estimate the population of the Nilgiri Tahr, a species ticipants in a transaction.
listed as endangered by the IUCN Credit Rating Agencies Timely reporting of STRs to FIU.
“STR” stands for “Suspicious
Transaction Report.”
Identification of serious corpo-
rate frauds with AML/CFT impli-
cations
Debenture Trustees Periodic reports from issuers of
debentures. Taking appropri-
ate action in the interest of de-
benture holders upon noticing
breaches of trust deed or law
Real Estate Agents Guidelines for STR reporting un-
(DNFBP) der PMLA
About Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) India:
FIU-IND, established in 2004, operates as an independent
body reporting directly to the Economic Intelligence Council
led by the Finance Minister. Its functions include receiving,
analyzing, and disseminating information on suspicious fi-
nancial transactions. It coordinates efforts with national and
international agencies to combat money laundering and ter-
ror financing. Additionally, India employs specialized agen-
cies like the Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of
136. NEW ALERT INDICATORS UNDER Investigation and participates in international cooperation
through memberships in organizations like FATF and the Eur-
PMLA asian Group.
Context: India’s financial intelligence unit (FIU) issues new

alert indicators under PMLA for various sectors to combat
money laundering and terrorism financing.
Current Affairs 30
SPORTS CORNER
1. 2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES
Context:
Singapore has decided against hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following Malaysia’s lead. The Commonwealth
Games Federation has been searching for a new host since Victoria, Australia withdrew due to escalating costs. Despite
a £100 million incentive, Malaysia declined the opportunity last month due to financial concerns.
About Commonwealth Games:

The Commonwealth Games is a quadrennial (occurring every 4 years) international multi-sport event involving athletes
from the Commonwealth of Nations. It originated in 1930 as the British Empire Games and evolved into its current for-
mat, embracing athletes with disabilities since 2002 and achieving gender equality in medal events in 2018. Hosted by
various cities, Australia has held the Games the most times. The most recent Games were in Birmingham in 2022. India
hosted the event in 2010 (in Delhi)
2. DOPING IN SPORTS
Context:
India maintains its unfortunate status as one of the top countries for doping cases, with 3.2% of samples testing positive
according to WADA’s 2022 statistics.
India has the highest percentage of positive results for both 2000-plus and 1000-plus samples. Certain sports like wres-
tling, where India has Olympic success, contribute to this trend, with over 6% positive results from 285 samples.
What is Doping?
Doping refers to the use of prohibited substances or methods to enhance athletic performance.
Reasons for doping include seeking publicity, recovering from injury, technological advancements, and a win-at-all-costs
mindset.
Doping undermines fair play, compromises the spirit of sport, and contradicts the pursuit of excellence. It goes against
values like perseverance and courage, hampers moral values in sports, and rewards wrongdoers.
To learn about the Anti-Doping Bill: Click Here

National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA):
It was set up as a registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 on 24th November 2005 with a man-
date for Dope-free sports in India. The primary objectives are to implement anti-doping rules as per the WADA (World
Anti-Doping Agency) code, regulate dope control programmes, promote education and research and create awareness
about doping and its ill effects.
World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA):

It was set up in November 1999 and was set up under the International Olympic Committee. WADA is recognised by
the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport (2005). WADA’s primary role is to develop, harmonize, and
coordinate anti-doping regulations across all sports and countries. It does so by ensuring proper implementation of the
World Anti-Doping Code (WADA Code) and its standards, conducting investigations into doping incidents, conducting
research on doping, and educating sportspersons and related personnel on anti-doping regulations.
Current Affairs 30
MAPPING 2. CAMBODIA (CYBER-SLAVERY)

INTERNATIONAL
Context:
Hundreds of Indians were rescued from cyber-scam facto-
1. AFRICA’S AFAR TRIANGLE ries in Cambodia after being promised jobs but forced into
illegal online work (ranging from money laundering to love
scams).
Context:
Geologists have discovered a fault in Africa’s Afar Triangle, About Cyber-Slavery:
indicating a potential formation of the world’s sixth ocean Cyber-slavery exploits people in the digital world, luring vic-
tims with false job promises and forcing them into online
Causes for the rift: scams. This modern form of human trafficking is emerging as
This geological phenomenon is driven by tectonic plate a severe and widespread organized crime.
movements, particularly in the East African Rift system. The
rift, caused by the separation of tectonic plates, could split About Cambodia:
the African continent in 5 to 10 million years, leading to the Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation whose landscape
creation of a new ocean basin. spans low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains and
the Gulf of Thailand coastline. In the country’s northwest
About Afar Triangle: are the ruins of Angkor Wat, a massive stone temple com-
It is part of the Great Rift Valley in East Africa and is a geo- plex built during the Khmer Empire.
logical depression known for its significance in human evo-
lution. It overlaps Eritrea, Djibouti, and the Afar Region of
Ethiopia and contains Lake Assal, Africa’s lowest point. The
region experiences extreme heat and drought, with some
of the hottest temperatures on Earth. It is bordered by the
Ethiopian Plateau, the Danakil block, the Somali Plateau, and
the Ali-Sabieh block. Fossil sites in the Afar region, such as
Hadar and Dikika, have yielded important discoveries relat-
ed to early hominins and human tool culture.
3. EARTHQUAKE IN TAIWAN
Five oceans on Earth (from largest to smallest):
1. Pacific Ocean Context:
2. Atlantic Ocean A powerful earthquake of 7.2 magnitude struck Taiwan.
3. Indian Ocean
4. Southern Ocean What makes Taiwan and Japan so prone to earthquakes?
5. Arctic Ocean Taiwan and Japan are highly prone to earthquakes due to
their location along major tectonic plate boundaries. Both
countries sit on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where several tec-
tonic plates converge. Taiwan is situated on the boundary
Current Affairs 30
between the Philippine Sea Plate (PSP) and the Eurasian 4. SITTWE PORT (MYANMAR)
Plate (EP), while Japan is located at the juncture of the Pa-
cific Plate (PP), Philippine Sea Plate (PSP), and Eurasian Context:
Plate(EP). The intense geological activity along these plate India has secured the rights to operate the Sittwe port in
boundaries results in frequent seismic events, including Myanmar, marking its second overseas port endeavour af-
earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Additionally, both Tai- ter Chabahar. The Ministry of External Affairs approved a
wan and Japan have rugged terrain and mountainous re- proposal for India Ports Global (IPGL), wholly owned by the
gions, further exacerbating the impact of earthquakes. Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, to manage the
port on the Kaladan River.
About Sittwe Port:

It is a deepwater port situated at the Kaladan River’s es-
tuary in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. It is a crucial compo-
nent of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project
(KMTTP), funded through grants-in-aid assistance from the
Government of India. The port holds significant importance
as it will create new trade and transit opportunities for In-
dia’s Northeast region, as well as enhance trade and com-
merce between India and Myanmar.
What is Ring of Fire?

The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped region in the Pacific
Ocean characterized by frequent seismic and volcanic activi-
ty. The Ring of Fire marks the convergence of several tecton-
ic plates, including the Pacific Plate, and is associated with
approximately 90% of the world’s earthquakes. The Ring of
Fire hosts numerous volcanoes formed through subduction,
where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another, leading
to volcanic eruptions.
5. ZAPORIZHZHIA NUCLEAR POWER PLANT

(UKRAINE)
Context: A drone attack damaged the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear
Power Plant in Ukraine, with three hits on the main reactor
containment.
Current Affairs 30
The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed the In India, trophy hunting is banned. The Wildlife Protection
damage but stated that nuclear safety remains intact. Act of 1972 prohibits the hunting of wild animals, including
for trophies.
Zaporizhzhia, the largest nuclear plant in Europe, is located
in southeast Ukraine, on the banks of the Dnipro or Dnieper About Botswana:
River (which drains into the Black Sea). It is currently under It is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, predominantly
the control of the Russian forces. inhabited by the Tswana ethnic group. It borders South Afri-
ca, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, and is connected to Zambia via
The Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine faces sev- the Kazungula Bridge. It is one of the world’s most sparsely
eral risks to its safety and operation. The plant has VVER- populated countries. Botswana is known for its diamond in-
1000 reactors and incorporates safety enhancements imple- dustry, high standard of living, and impressive Human Devel-
mented after the Chornobyl and Fukushima accidents. opment Index
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-larg- Its landscape is defined by the Kalahari Desert and the Oka-
est European country after Russia. It is also bordered by Be- vango Delta, which becomes a lush animal habitat during
larus to the north; Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the the seasonal floods. The massive Central Kalahari Game Re-
west; and by Romania and Moldova to the southwest; with serve, with its fossilized river valleys and undulating grass-
a coastline along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov to the lands, is home to numerous animals including giraffes, chee-
south and southeast tahs, hyenas and wild dogs.
6. BOTSWANA
Context:
Botswana’s President recently made headlines by threaten-
ing to export 20,000 elephants to Germany in response to
7. BHARATI STATION (ANTARCTICA)
Germany’s proposal for stricter limits on the import of hunt-
ing trophies. Context:
India Post recently inaugurated a post office at its Bharati
Botswana boasts the world’s largest elephant population station in Antarctica, coinciding with the 24th Foundation
due to its stable government, sparse human population, Day of the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research
and strict conservation policies. Conflict-driven poaching in (NCPOR), Goa. This adds to the existing post offices at Dak-
neighbouring countries redirected elephants to Botswana’s shin Gangotri Station established in 1984 and Maitri Station
safer territory. However, this abundance of elephants has led set up in 1990.
to rising human-animal conflicts.
Significance:
Botswana has responded by donating elephants to other 1. Now, with a new post office at the Bharati research
countries, lifting the ban on trophy hunting, and capitalizing station, letters will have a new PIN code, MH-1718.
on hunting revenue. These post offices, part of the Goa postal division,
serve a unique purpose, allowing letters to be sent
What is Trophy Hunting? and ‘cancelled’ from Antarctica.
Trophy hunting involves killing wild animals for their tro- 2. It serves to assert India’s presence on the continent.
phies, such as heads, hides, or other body parts, which are
then kept as souvenirs or displays.
Current Affairs 30
Bharati (opened in 2012) is India’s third Antarctic research 9. NAGORNO-KARABAKH REGION
station, alongside Maitri, commissioned by India. Located
near Larsemann Hills, it focuses on oceanographic studies
Context:
and the geological history of the Indian subcontinent.
Russian peacekeepers have commenced withdrawal from
Nagorno-Karabakh following Azerbaijan’s recapture of the
disputed territory last year.
The withdrawal comes after Azerbaijan’s lightning one-day

offensive last September, triggering a refugee crisis and al-
tering the area’s demographic landscape. The move also
reflects ruptured ties between traditional allies Russia and
Armenia, with Armenia suspending its participation in the
Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO)
and joining the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is an ethnic and territorial

dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan. It centres on
the Nagorno-Karabakh region, predominantly Arme-
nian-populated but within Azerbaijan’s borders. A ceasefire
mediated by Russia in 1994 left the region under Armenian
control, though it’s still recognized as part of Azerbaijan. The
area is now governed by separatist Armenians and called the
“Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast.”
8. ZIMBABWE’S LAKE KARIBA
Context:
The recent El Nino drought has drastically reduced water
levels in Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba, prompting Zimbabwe to
declare a national disaster.
Lake Kariba, situated between Zambia and Zimbabwe, has

seen its water levels plummet to just 13% of its capacity due
to an El Nino-induced drought. It was formed by damming
the Zambezi River in 1955 (Kariba Dam). Lake Kariba serves
as a crucial source of hydroelectric power for both Zambia
and Zimbabwe. It is the world’s largest artificial lake and
reservoir by volume. 10. ARAL SEA
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, bor- Context:
dered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique. The drying of the Aral Sea in Central Asia has led to the
emergence of the Aralkum Desert, making the region much
dustier.
Dust emissions from the desert have almost doubled over

the past 30 years, impacting air quality and climate. The
dust contains residues of fertilizers and pesticides from for-
mer agriculture, making it more hazardous.
About Aral Sea

It was once a large saltwater lake (an endorheic lake: a
closed basin lake that retains water and does not have an
outflow) in Central Asia, and now lies on the boundary be-
tween Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. It has drastically shrunk
due to human activities like excessive irrigation. It was once
the world’s fourth-largest lake. UNESCO has recognized the
Current Affairs 30
environmental tragedy of the Aral Sea by adding historical
documents to its Memory of the World Register.
Other important lakes that have also shrunk in the last few
decades include Lake Urmia in northwestern Iran, situated
in a large central depression, and Lake Hamoun, a freshwa-
ter lake on the Iran-Afghanistan border.
11. PHILIPPINES 12. SECOND THOMAS SHOAL REEF

Context:
India delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise Context:
missiles to the Philippines, marking a significant step in their Tensions have escalated at the Second Thomas Shoal, with
defense collaboration. China blocking manoeuvres and disrupting supply missions.
The Philippines has refuted China’s claim of reaching an
The delivery, part of a $375-million deal signed in January agreement over the South China Sea dispute, labelling it as
2022, enhances the Philippines’ maritime defense capabil- propaganda.
ities.
Second Thomas Shoal (located near the Spratly Islands) is a
India’s export of military hardware extends to around submerged reef in the South China Sea. The shoal is within
85 countries, with major items including missiles, artillery the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) but is also
guns, rockets, and armored vehicles. In FY 2023-24, exports claimed by China.
reached a record high of Rs. 21,083 crore. Recently, India de-
livered two Dornier 228 aircraft to Guyana, expanding ex- About the South China Sea:
port ties to Caribbean nations. It is a vast area of the western Pacific Ocean, stretching
from Singapore and the Strait of Malacca in the southwest
About BrahMos Missile (developed jointly with Russia): to the Strait of Taiwan in the northeast. It is a region of signif-
It’s a two-stage supersonic cruise missile known for its high icant geopolitical tension due to various territorial disputes.
speed (2-3 Mach), propelled by jet engines. Key features One major dispute involves the “nine-dash line” claimed by
include its “Fire and Forget” principle, long flight range of China, which encompasses most of the South China Sea and
290km, and low radar signature. overlaps with the exclusive economic zone claims of several
other countries, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the
The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country made up of Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Key disputed features in-
more than 7,000 islands and islets. The country is located in clude:
the western Pacific Ocean, about 500 miles (800 km) off the 1. Paracel Islands (controlled by China but also claimed
coast of Vietnam. by Taiwan and Vietnam)
2. Spratly Islands (claimed by multiple countries in-
cluding China, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, and
Malaysia)
3. Scarborough Shoal (claimed by China, Taiwan, and
the Philippines)
Current Affairs 30
14. MOUNT EREBUS
Context:
Mount Erebus, located in Antarctica, is raining gold on Earth,
spewing out approximately 80 grams of gold worth $6000
daily, according to NASA’s Earth Observatory. However, the
13. EASTER ISLAND
remote location makes it impossible for anyone to claim this
fortune, ruling out any possibility of a gold rush.
Context:
Scientists recently discovered 160 species, with at least 50 How is Gold Being formed in the Volcano?
potentially new to science, during an expedition across the Gold is being formed and ejected in Mount Erebus, an Ant-
Salas y Gómez Ridge to Easter Island. The findings include arctic volcano, through a geological process involving the
various marine life like squid, fish, corals, molluscs, and sea release of gases from deep within the Earth. These gases
stars. contain tiny particles of gold, which crystallize as they rise
to the surface. When the volcano erupts, these gas pockets
The ridge, home to over 110 seamounts, supports diverse burst open, dispersing the crystallized gold far and wide, in-
ecosystems and is crucial for marine animal migration. cluding in the surrounding area.
About Salas y Gómez: About Mount Erebus:

It is an underwater mountain chain in the southeastern Mount Erebus, located on Ross Island, Antarctica, is the
Pacific Ocean, oriented west-east from the East Pacific Rise southernmost active volcano on Earth. As a stratovolcano, it
to the Nazca Ridge. Isolated by geographic features like the features a conical shape with layers of hardened lava, teph-
Atacama Trench and the Humboldt Current System, its wa- ra, and volcanic ash. Notably, Mount Erebus is renowned for
ters are mostly in areas beyond national jurisdiction. its persistent lava lake, active since at least 1972, making it
one of the few long-lived lava lakes globally.
About Easter Island
It is a Chilean territory in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. It is the tallest active volcano in Antarctica. It stands out
Famous for its monumental statues called moai, it became as the most violent, with a tragic history, including the in-
a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Chile annexed the famous Mount Erebus disaster, where an Air New Zealand
island in 1888, granting citizenship to the Rapa Nui in 1966. plane crashed into it, killing 257 people due to an optical
It is one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands, with illusion known as ‘whiteout’.
the nearest land over 2,000 kilometres away.
Current Affairs 30
16. BLUE WHALES MAKES A COMEBACK

IN SEYCHELLES
Context: Blue whales, the largest mammal on Earth, have

made a remarkable return near the Seychelles after a 60-
year absence. Commercial whaling activities decimated
their populations, leading to an 89-97% decline. However,
recent expeditions conducted by researchers revealed sight-
ings of up to 10 blue whales in the region, a surprising and
encouraging discovery.
15. SCHENGEN AREAS
About the Blue Whales:
It is the largest and loudest animal on the planet and inhab-
Context: its all oceans except the Arctic. With an estimated lifespan
Indian nationals can now obtain long-term multi-entry of 80 to 90 years, they typically swim alone or in pairs, occa-
Schengen visas with a validity of two years, provided they sionally forming small groups. Their diet consists mainly of
have lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. krill and marine crustaceans. Threats to blue whales include
vessel strikes and historical commercial whaling, leading to
This decision, announced by the European Union, aims to fa- their endangered status according to the IUCN.
cilitate travel for individuals with an established travel his-
tory, subject to passport validity. The move comes as part About the Republic of Seychelles
of the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobil- It is Africa’s smallest country and is an archipelago of 155
ity, aiming to enhance cooperation on migration policy. The islands situated in the Indian Ocean, southeast of mainland
Schengen visas allow short stays of up to 90 days within a Africa. Seychelles boast beaches, coral reefs, nature re-
180-day period in the Schengen area, comprising 29 Europe- serves, and unique wildlife, including giant Aldabra tortois-
an countries, including 25 EU states and four non-EU states. es. It is located in the northeast of Madagascar, with Kenya
about 1,600 kilometres to the west.
About the Schengen area:
It is the world’s largest free travel area, encompassing 27
countries. This includes 23 of the 27 EU members and all
members of the European Free Trade Association (Iceland,
Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland). Originating in
1985 as an intergovernmental project among five EU coun-
tries - France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Lux-
embourg - it facilitates seamless travel across participating
nations.
Current Affairs 30
17. NETHERLANDS
Context:
Self-bred corals from the World Coral Conservatory project have been added to Europe’s largest reef at Burgers’ Zoo in the
Netherlands, offering hope amid declining coral populations worldwide.
• Also, recently the 26th World Energy Congress, co-hosted by the World Energy Council (WEC), concluded in Rot-
terdam, Netherlands.
About World Coral Conservatory Project:

It was initiated in Monaco in 2019 and aims to safeguard a diverse collection of coral species by cultivating samples taken
from the natural environment. Partnering with public and private aquariums, the project seeks to preserve living colonies of
corals and share them for conservation efforts.
World Energy Council (WEC):
The WEC, established in 1923, is a UN-accredited non-profit global energy organization. It aims to facilitate access to clean,
affordable, and reliable energy for improved lives and a sustainable planet. With over 3000 member organizations from
around 90 countries, it develops practical solutions and brings together a network of global energy transition leaders and
practitioners.
About the Netherlands (also known as Holland)

It is a country in northwestern Europe. It borders Germany to the east and Belgium to the south, with a North Sea coastline.
Dutch is the official language, with West Frisian in Friesland. The name “Netherlands” refers to its low elevation, with 26%
below sea level, reclaimed as polders since the 14th century.
INDIAN
18. KATCHATHEEVU ISLAND
Aspect Description
Location Katchatheevu island, located in the narrow Palk
Strait between India and Sri Lanka, lies approx-
imately 20 kilometres from the Rameswaram
coast of Tamil Nadu, India.
1974 Agreement The island’s transfer to Sri Lanka occurred fol-
lowing an agreement signed between then PM
Indira Gandhi of India and Sirima R.D. Bandara-
naike of Sri Lanka in June 1974.
The agreement also allowed Indian fishermen
to fish around the island, dry their nets on it and
permitted Indian pilgrims to visit the Catholic
shrine located on the island
Current Affairs 30
1976 Agreement The 1976 agreement defined maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones for India and Sri
Lanka. It also restricted fishing in each other’s waters without explicit permission from either country
Fishing Rights Despite the transfer, traditional fishing activities by both Indian and Sri Lankan fisherfolk continued
around Katchatheevu, regulated by a 1976 agreement requiring permission
Historical Signifi- Katchatheevu has been historically significant, hosting St. Anthony’s Church, which conducts an annu-
cance al festival attracting devotees from both India and Sri Lanka.
Legal Status Despite calls for retrieval, the Indian government, through various statements, affirmed Katchath-
eevu’s status as belonging to Sri Lanka based on the 1974 and 1976 agreements
19. PARADIP PORT

Context:
Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the top cargo-handling major port in India,
surpassing Deendayal Port, Kandla.
About Paradip Port

It is located in Odisha and is a vital deep-water port on the East Coast of India, situated at the convergence of the Mahana-
di River and the Bay of Bengal. Administered by the Paradip Port Trust (PPT), it holds the distinction of being the first major
port on the East Coast established after independence. In 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the development of its inner
harbour facilities and the construction of a Western Dock to accommodate cape-size vessels.
Along with Deendayal Port and V.O. Chidambaranar Port, Paradip Port has been designated as a Green Hydrogen hub by
the government. Unlike minor ports, major ports like Paradip are managed by central government authorities and handle
international trade, contributing significantly to India’s maritime commerce.
India has 205 minor and intermediate ports, along with 13 major seaports (12 government-owned and one private)
Current Affairs 30
20. KUMITTIPATHI VILLAGE (COIMBATORE, TN)
Context:
The rock paintings at Kumittipathi village near Coimbatore are significant testimonies to the prehistoric Kongu region.
Believed to be around 3,000 years old, these cave paintings depict an elephant, a chariot, and scenes from the lives of early
inhabitants. Despite their cultural and historical importance, the paintings are at risk due to damage caused by miscreants.
What are Rock Paintings?

Rock paintings are ancient artworks created by early humans on natural rock surfaces using natural pigments like ochre,
charcoal, and clay. These paintings provide insights into the lives, beliefs, and cultures of ancient societies.
Other such sites in India:

Rock Painting Site Location Description
Bhimbetka Rock Shel- Madhya Pradesh One of the oldest rock art sites globally, dating back to the Paleolithic era.
ters Features over 700 rock shelters with paintings depicting hunting scenes, rit-
uals, and daily life.
Edakkal Caves Kerala Situated in the Wayanad district, features Neolithic rock engravings and
paintings dating back over 6,000 years. Depicts human and animal figures,
symbols, and geometric patterns.
Rock Shelters of Padava- Kerala Located in the Wayanad district, contains prehistoric petroglyphs and
yal paintings from the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Artworks depict hunt-
ing scenes, human figures, and animals.
Rock Art Complex of Uttarakhand Near Almora, contains petroglyphs and rock paintings dating back to the
Lakhudiyar Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Features images of animals, humans, and
geometric patterns.
Rock Art Sites of Chatur- Chhattisgarh Found in the Kanker district, these rock shelters contain prehistoric paint-
bhujnath Nala ings dating back thousands of years, including images of animals, humans,
and abstract symbols.
About Kongu Region (or Kongu Nadu)

Kongu Nadu is a region in Tamil Nadu (and some parts of Karnataka, and Kerala).. It boasts diverse geography, including
the Western and Eastern Ghats and rivers like Kaveri. Coimbatore, Tiruppur, and Salem are key urban centres. Historically,
it was the seat of the Cheras and was later ruled by the medieval Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Madurai Nayaks.
Current Affairs 30
22. MUDUMALAI TIGER RESERVE

Context:
In Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Asiatic wild dogs are affected
by mange disease, likely spread by feral dogs.
21. KHAVDA SOLAR PARK (GUJARAT’S
About Mange Disease
KUTCH) It is a skin disease caused by mite infestations, leading to
inflammation, itching, and hair loss. It can be severe, caused
Context: by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, which also cause human scabies.
Khavda Solar Park in Gujarat’s Kutch, is the world’s largest re- It affects various domestic animals and spreads through di-
newable energy park (5 times the size of Paris City). It boasts rect contact or contaminated objects. Treatment is available
of 2 GW of commissioned capacity with plans to add 4 GW in most forms.
in the current fiscal year and 5 GW annually thereafter.
About Asiatic wild dogs:
The Khavda Solar Park is near Vighakot village in Gujarat’s It is also called Indian wild dogs, and are found in forests
Kutch district. Situated near the Pakistan border, it aims to across central, south, and southeast Asia. They’re known
generate 30 gigawatts of electricity from solar panels and by various names like red wolf or mountain wolf. They’re
wind turbines across 72,600 hectares of land when fully op- clustered in India’s Western and Eastern Ghats, central In-
erational. dian landscape, and North East India. They’re endangered
according to the IUCN Red List, protected under the Wildlife
Khavda was chosen for its ideal conditions for renewable Protection Act 1972, and listed under CITES Appendix II.
energy generation, including abundant sunlight and strong
wind speeds. Additionally, its remote location and barren
land minimize land use conflicts and maximize the potential About Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
for large-scale energy production Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is located in the Nilgiris Dis-
trict of Tamil Nadu state at the tri-junction of three states,
viz, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is a part of the Nil-
giri Biosphere Reserve (1st Biosphere Reserve in India). The
Reserve has tall grasses, commonly referred to as ‘Elephant
Grass’
Current Affairs 30
23. HARYANA’S KALESAR WILDLIFE

SANCTUARY
Context:
The Supreme Court has halted the construction of four dams
inside Haryana’s Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary, citing concerns
about the negative impact on wildlife and the ecosystem.
About Kalesar Wildlife Sanctuary (Yamunanagar, Haryana):

It lies within the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas. Its name
derives from the Kalesar forest and Kalesar Mahadev tem-
ple situated within its bounds. Established as a national park
on December 8, 2003, it holds historical significance, having
served as hunting grounds for Mughal and British rulers.
The sanctuary boasts the historic Kalesar Fort, possibly con-
structed during Aurangzeb’s reign. Once a prime tiger habi-
tat, the population dwindled in the late 19th century, leading
to a hunting ban. Bounded by the Yamuna River to the east,
it shares borders with Rajaji National Park to the northeast

Ca 30 Apr 2024 Monthly 2

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ca 30 Apr 2024 Monthly 2

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ca 30 Apr 2024 Monthly 2

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Southern Ocean

The Southern Ocean is known for having

1. IMPACT OF CLIMATE CRISIS ON WOMEN AND GIRLS

Impact of Climate Crisis on Women and Girls:

Role of Rural women in the fight against climate change

Constitutional Rights for safeguarding Vulnerable groups against Climate Change/Disasters:

Impact of Chipko Movement:

Other such movements include:

Need of ‘New Chipko Movement’ at the time of environmental crisis.

Other measures needed are:

Factors contributing to fertility decline include:

Negative Implications of Declining Fertility Rate in India:

Positive Implications of Declining Fertility Rate in India:

5. INDIA’S ARCTIC EXPEDITION: EXPLORING NEW FRONTIERS

India’s engagement in the Arctic:

Significance of the Arctic region significant to India:

Challenges posed by Arctic Region:

Q. What are the economic significances of the discovery of

Topics: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earth-

Other extreme events in India:

difference between Cyclone and Anticyclone:

1. SC: RIGHT AGAINST ADVERSE CLIMATE

Mains Link What is the background of the case?

Issues with the SC Judgment:

What is the Delhi liquor policy scam?

Issues with Alcohol Policies in India:

Actionable steps to address alcohol policy issues:

Ethical aspects of Alcohol use in India:

Need for Regulations:

Specific concerns related to the functioning of Big Tech Firms:

Existing governance frameworks in place to regulate technologies for responsible use:

Regulation of tech companies in other countries:

Key observations and recommendations include:

7. ISRAEL-IRAN CONFLICTS: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

Events that led to the Attack:

Period Key Events

Fig: Iran’s Proxy groups

What should India do?

What Should be done to de-escalate the situation?

What is Crop Diversification?

Types of crop diversification:

Significance/Benefits of Crop Diversification in India:

Government Initiatives for Crop Diversification

Further Public Offering Offer of shares by a listed

This policy marks a departure from past approaches, provid-

Topics: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.

5. OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF GREEN HYDROGEN IN INDIA

Definition of Green Hydrogen:

Initiatives for Green Hydrogen:

Applications of Green Hydrogen:

Challenges in Green Hydrogen Production:

To learn about Bio-hydrogen Click here

6. CHALLENGES POSED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS IN INDIA

Examples of large-scale solar Park in India:

Large-Scale Renewable Energy Parks: Positive Impacts

Challenges Posed by the Renewable Energy Projects:

Regional Divide in Renewable Energy Projects:

The concentration of RE assets in West and South

The main reasons behind this are;