TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: The recent data from the Climate Trace Project shows an increase in global greenhouse gas emissions since the Paris climate agreement in 2015.

EXPLANATION:

• The recent data from the Climate Trace project underscores some critical points in the global effort to combat climate change.
• It sheds light on the specific regions and sectors that have contributed significantly to the surge in greenhouse gas emissions since the signing of the Paris climate agreement in 2015.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

• China, India, and the US stand out as major contributors to the increase in emissions.
• Electricity generation in China and India, coupled with oil and gas production in the US, have been identified as the primary drivers behind this concerning trend.
• These revelations highlight the challenges in accurately reporting emissions, showcasing deficiencies in fulfilling obligations under the Paris Agreement by both countries and companies.

Rising Methane Emissions and Pledges:

• Despite global pledges to reduce methane emissions, the data indicates an alarming increase in methane levels, a potent greenhouse gas.
• China’s coal mines contributed to the surge in methane emissions.
• However, there’s a recent commitment from China to address methane emissions by including it in its national climate plans and collaborating with the US on this issue.

Importance of Accurate Emissions Information:

• The Climate Trace project plays a crucial role in pinpointing emission sources using satellite images and AI software.
• Al Gore emphasized the necessity of accurate emissions information to tackle the problem effectively, highlighting the significance of identifying precise emission sources to address the issue adequately.

Mitigating Methane and COP28 Summit:

• Scientists stress the urgency of sharp cuts in methane emissions to mitigate the severe impacts of global heating.
• The COP28 UN climate summit in Dubai aimed to assess progress towards emission cuts necessary to stay within the 1.5ºC temperature limit set by the Paris Agreement.
• Cooperation on methane reduction at this summit was seen as a positive step towards achieving the 1.5ºC target, with reductions potentially contributing up to 0.3ºC in lowering global temperature increases.

Efforts and Challenges in Decarbonization:

• More than 50 oil and gas companies at COP28 have pledged to join a “decarbonization accelerator” to reduce their climate impact.
• However, critics argue that the voluntary nature of these pledges presents challenges in ensuring accountability.
• They advocate for stronger legal agreements to phase out fossil fuels substantially.

Impact of Post-Covid Aviation and Positive Note on Deforestation:

• Emissions from aviation rebounded post-Covid lockdowns, with a significant surge in both international and domestic flight emissions, along with a rise in road transport emissions potentially linked to increased SUV sales.
• On a positive note, there’s a decline in emissions from deforestation in key regions like the Congo Basin, showcasing a reduction in forest degradation and destruction.
• Overall, the data underscores the pressing need for coordinated global efforts to address emissions from various sectors, emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting, urgency in mitigating methane, and the necessity for stronger commitments and actions to achieve meaningful climate goals.

CLIMATE TRACE:

• Climate TRACE is an independent initiative that aims to track greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions with unprecedented detail, speed, and trusted independence.
• It was founded by a global coalition of nonprofits, tech companies, and universities to make meaningful climate action faster and easier by providing real-time or near-real-time data on GHG emissions.
• The project uses a combination of satellite data, artificial intelligence, and other remote sensing technologies to monitor and publish GHG emissions within weeks, improving monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of both carbon dioxide and methane.

SOURCE: https://www.wionews.com/world/surge-in-greenhouse-gas-emissions-points-to-china-us-and-india-as-primary-culprits-data-665785

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: With coal use set to be a key topic during the COP28 summit, India said it would continue to rely on coal for electricity generation for the foreseeable future, even as it rapidly expanded its renewable energy sources.

EXPLANATION:

• India, despite its aspirations towards achieving net-zero emissions, remains reliant on coal for electricity generation due to several factors.
• The country’s energy demands have been escalating significantly, with a considerable surge in power requirements in recent years.

Rising Energy Demand:

• India’s power demand has shown an annual increase of about 8%, nearly twice the rate of the Asia Pacific region, reaching approximately 149.7 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2022.
• This surge in demand has been attributed to heightened economic activity, with industries, commercial sectors, residences, and agriculture being substantial consumers of energy.

Projections for Future Energy Needs:

• Projections from the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggest that India will experience the most substantial growth in energy demand globally over the next three decades.
• The escalating demand is anticipated to be primarily driven by the increased requirement for electricity, particularly for household air conditioning, expected to multiply nine-fold by 2050, surpassing the total power consumption of Africa.

Increased Coal Production and Challenges with Renewables:

• India’s response to the mounting energy demand has been a substantial increase in coal production, rising from 778 million tons in 2021-22 to 893 million tons in 2022-23, and setting targets to further escalate production to meet growing needs.
• The country’s heavy reliance on coal is primarily due to limitations and challenges associated with renewable energy sources.
• Renewable Energy Constraints:
  • Currently, renewable sources contribute only 22% of India’s total energy generation.
  • Despite ambitious targets to source 50% of electricity from renewables by 2030, the actual contribution remains far below this goal.
• Reliability Concerns:
  • Renewable sources like solar and wind are dependent on natural elements such as sunlight and wind, making them intermittent and less reliable for constant power generation.
  • Additionally, grid-scale battery storage, necessary for ensuring continuous supply, faces challenges due to supply chain disruptions and high costs.
• Complexities of Hydropower:
  • While hydropower is a significant renewable energy source for India, ongoing projects in the Himalayan region have faced criticism for ecological damage and water resource conflicts.
  • Developing hydropower also requires substantial infrastructure improvements for reliability.
• Underutilization of Nuclear Power:
  • Despite plans to generate energy from nuclear power plants, India’s nuclear capacity contributes only about 3.15% to the total electricity generation, suggesting underutilization and limitations in expansion.

Future Energy Strategy:

• India aspires to amplify its renewable energy capacity to 500 GW by 2030, three times the current capacity.
• However, given the challenges and constraints associated with renewable sources, the country will continue to rely significantly on coal-generated electricity.
• The Union Minister of Power and New and Renewable Energy emphasized that while India intends to decrease the share of fossil fuels in electricity generation to around 35% by 2030, the absolute capacity of coal may still rise to meet the escalating electricity demand.
• The country aims to implement a phase-down strategy for coal rather than an immediate phase-out, considering the imperative need to meet surging energy requirements.
• As India grapples with its increasing energy demand, the dilemma between pursuing cleaner energy sources and meeting immediate electricity needs through coal generation remains a significant challenge for the nation’s energy transition.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/india-coal-power-demand-9051441/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: At COP28, the global community convened to address the critical issue of global warming. The conference was held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 3, 2023, and brought together parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change to assess progress on the Paris Agreement and to chart a course of action for the future.

EXPLANATION:

• This climate summit involved representatives from nearly 200 nations, along with business leaders, climate scientists, Indigenous Peoples, journalists, and various experts.
• The Global Stocktake, a process assessing progress in curbing global warming since the inception of the Paris Agreement in 2015, is a pivotal component of this event.

Purpose and Importance of the Global Stocktake:

• The Global Stocktake serves as an evaluation mechanism to gauge the progress made by countries in combating global warming.
• This assessment holds significant importance as it determines the efficacy of measures taken under the Paris Agreement.
• It identifies areas requiring more robust action, whether through stricter national policies, ambitious goals, or facilitating transitions to clean energy in developing nations.

Objectives and Framework of the Paris Agreement:

• The Paris Agreement of COP21 in 2015 marked a turning point in global climate action, necessitating all countries to commit to emissions reduction targets and adapt to climate change impacts.
• This commitment, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), mandates periodic assessments of progress every five years.
• The Agreement aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels, striving to cap it at 1.5 degrees Celsius to mitigate severe climate change impacts.

First Global Stocktake Report:

• A significant milestone in this process was the publication of the UN’s technical report on the first Global Stocktake in September 2023.
• The report highlighted some progress but emphasized that the collective action taken was insufficient.
• It called for an accelerated pace of implementation across all sectors and urged an inclusive approach involving society to meet the Paris Agreement’s goals and address the climate crisis.

Challenges and Urgency for Action:

• The report indicated a rise in global temperatures by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times, underscoring the urgency for more robust efforts to curb climate change.
• While acknowledging progress, it also highlighted existing gaps and the need for innovative solutions and increased efforts to bridge these gaps.
• The urgency to accelerate implementation, foster greater action, and provide support to meet the Paris Agreement’s objectives was emphasized.

Conclusion:

• As COP28 unfolded in Dubai, the Global Stocktake becomes a focal point for assessing the global community’s efforts in combating climate change.
• It emphasized the critical need for heightened ambition, collective action, and innovative strategies to combat climate change effectively.
• The outcomes of this evaluation will guide nations toward charting a more sustainable and resilient future in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/cop28-what-global-stocktake-9051353/

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Twenty-three States have consented to participate in the BCG revaccination study in adults that will be undertaken in a “programme implementation study mode” to evaluate the effectiveness of the vaccine in reducing TB disease incidence.

EXPLANATION:

• The initiative to conduct a BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin) revaccination study in adults has stirred considerable discussion and debate due to the absence of comprehensive clinical trials in the country.
• The study aims to assess the effectiveness of the BCG vaccine in reducing Tuberculosis (TB) disease incidence, primarily targeting high-risk groups such as individuals older than 50 years, those with prior TB disease, underweight adults, diabetics, smokers, and alcohol consumers.

Lack of Prior Clinical Trials in India:

• India has not conducted clinical trials to ascertain the efficacy of BCG revaccination in adults for preventing TB disease.
• However, two clinical investigation studies by St. John’s Research Institute in Bengaluru have indicated the significant immunogenicity of BCG revaccination in adults.

Expert Committee Recommendations and Government Approach:

• An expert committee, including formerly of the WHO, recommended a comprehensive trial before implementation at the population level.
• Nevertheless, the Indian government has chosen a program implementation study over a clinical trial due to concerns regarding the lengthy trial process.
• This approach involves using some districts as intervention arms and others as control arms to capture TB incidence over a couple of years.

WHO’s Standpoint on BCG Revaccination:

• The WHO currently does not advocate for programmatic or pilot BCG revaccination, even in high TB burden countries like India.
• Their 2018 BCG vaccine position paper emphasizes that repeat BCG vaccination shows minimal or no additional benefit against TB or leprosy.

Challenges and Limitations of Previous Studies:

• The protective effect of a single dose of BCG vaccine given to infants in India wanes within a short time.
• The Chingleput BCG revaccination study in 1968, involving a small sub-group, indicated a 36% efficacy in reducing TB incidence after 15 years, but this study had limitations in sample size and knowledge gaps about confounding factors.

Proposed Methodology and Participating States:

• The study intends to follow a phase 4-like pragmatic evaluation by earmarking districts in participating states as intervention and control arms.
• States such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu have agreed to participate.
• Tamil Nadu planned to study lakhs of consenting participants and closely monitor a few thousand individuals for vaccine efficacy over two to three years.

Challenges Faced by Non-Participating States:

• Some states like Kerala, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, and Uttarakhand have chosen not to participate in the study due to field constraints and existing gaps in their immunization programs, which could overburden the staff involved.
• In essence, the BCG revaccination study in adults across various Indian states represents a shift from the usual clinical trial method to a program implementation study mode.
• This approach aims to evaluate the effectiveness of BCG revaccination in high-risk groups despite the reservations and recommendations from global health authorities like the WHO.

BCG VACCINE:

• Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is the live attenuated vaccine form of Mycobacterium bovis used to prevent tuberculosis and other mycobacterial infections.
• The vaccine was developed by Calmette and Guerin and was first administered to human beings in 1921.
• BCG is the only vaccine against tuberculosis.
• It is the most widely administered vaccine and usually a part of the routine newborn immunization schedule.
• BCG vaccine also offers protection against non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections like leprosy and Buruli ulcer.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/bcg-revaccination-study-in-high-risk-adults-to-begin-in-23-states/article67594580.ece/amp/

TAG: GS 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

THE CONTEXT: India, a significant importer of lithium, would be strategically aligning with Argentina’s CAMYEN mining company to secure lithium supplies and diminish its annual import bill from China, which stands at ₹24,000 crores.

EXPLANATION:

• This initiative is a pivotal step toward bolstering self-reliance in critical mineral supply chains, crucial for the nation’s burgeoning green energy transition.
• The collaboration seeks to tap into Argentina’s lithium resources to meet the escalating demand driven by sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage solutions.

India’s Lithium Dependency and Green Energy Transition:

• India’s reliance on lithium imports, primarily from China, amounts to ₹24,000 crores annually, making it imperative for the country to diversify its sources.
• Lithium holds paramount significance in India’s shift towards green energy initiatives, especially in facilitating the adoption of electric vehicles.
• It serves as a vital component in energy storage solutions for various industries.

Strategic Collaboration with Argentina’s CAMYEN:

• India’s strategic move involves partnering with CAMYEN, a state mining company based in Catamarca, Argentina, to secure lithium
• While the collaboration is in its final stages, certain procedural requirements and the necessity of Cabinet approval still need to be addressed, causing a potential delay of at least six months before finalization.

Lithium Demand and Trade Statistics:

• India’s lithium imports, tracked through various categories like lithium ion and lithium products, have been substantial, with import data indicating significant shipments until October 2023.
• The forecasted surge in EV demand is projected to escalate the requirement for lithium-ion batteries, potentially leading to a 250 GWh demand increase by FY33.

India’s Lithium Reserves and Prospecting Efforts:

• India has identified reserves in regions like Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir and Katghora in Chhattisgarh, initiating auctions for commercial availability.
• To secure supplies, India’s KABIL, a joint venture comprising NALCO, Hindustan Copper, and Mineral Exploration Corporation, has engaged in collaboration with Argentina-based companies and is exploring prospects for setting up extraction projects.

Future Lithium Demand and Global Scenario:

• Forecasts indicate a steep rise in global lithium demand by 2030, reaching 2.4 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent, driven largely by the escalating battery demand for EVs.
• Argentina, being a key player in lithium reserves along with Chile and Bolivia, holds a prominent position in the global supply chain for lithium, contributing to the burgeoning market.

Way Forward and Global Lithium Demand Forecast:

• With increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries in various sectors, including automotive and energy storage, India’s strategic collaborations and efforts to diversify its lithium supply chain are crucial for long-term sustainable growth.
• In essence, India’s initiatives to secure lithium supplies from Argentina represent a significant step towards reducing dependency on Chinese imports, fostering self-reliance, and catering to the burgeoning demand for lithium in its green energy transition.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/markets/commodities/lithium-supply-strategy-indias-initiative-with-argentinas-camyen-gains-traction/article67597909.ece

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: In a recent Swiss study, researchers mixed Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) into soil, prior to sowing, at 800 trial plots on 54 maize farms.

EXPLANATION:

• The findings from the large-scale field study on mycorrhizal fungi and their impact on maize crop yields bring forth a revolutionary stride in sustainable agriculture and food production methods.
• The study focused on the integration of Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) into soil prior to maize sowing.
• These fungi naturally inhabit healthy soil and establish a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, forming arbuscules that enhance the root system’s surface area.
• This process significantly amplifies nutrient uptake, thereby promoting improved crop health and yield.

Yield Enhancement and Soil Health:

• A remarkable outcome of the study was the substantial yield improvement, up to 40%, witnessed in a quarter of the trial plots.
• However, intriguingly, about one-third of the plots did not exhibit substantial yield increases.
• This observation prompted researchers to investigate further, revealing that the fungi’s efficacy was optimal in soils already harbouring high concentrations of fungal pathogens.
• This discovery implies that AMF serve as a defense mechanism, protecting crops from pathogenic attacks and subsequently maintaining yields in fields prone to such threats.

Role of Fungi in Nutrient Uptake and Pathogen Defense:

• The AMF not only enhance nutrient absorption but also act as a frontline defense against soil-borne pathogens that can significantly diminish crop yields.
• Their presence in fields with pathogen contamination helped sustain yields that would have otherwise suffered, while their impact was less pronounced in fields without such threats.
• This dual role—facilitating nutrient uptake and defending against pathogens—positions these fungi as essential contributors to crop health and productivity.

Predictive Analysis and Soil Microbiome Indicators:

• A significant aspect of this study was the utilization of soil microbiome indicators to predict plant growth variations with an impressive 86% accuracy before sowing.
• This predictive ability enables the targeted application of AMF in fields where they are most likely to be effective, laying the foundation for the development of reliable agricultural methodologies.

Implications for Sustainable Agriculture:

• This breakthrough in utilizing AMF to enhance crop yields without relying on intensive pesticide and fertilizer use holds tremendous promise for sustainable agriculture.
• Considering the alarming degradation of global soil reported by the United Nations, this discovery signifies a potential solution to address food production challenges without exacerbating soil degradation.

Challenges and Future Prospects:

• Despite the promising outcomes, challenges persist in efficiently implementing this technique on a larger commercial scale.
• Addressing how to effectively disseminate and apply these fungi remains a significant consideration for future agricultural practices.
• In conclusion, the study’s findings underscore the transformative potential of mycorrhizal fungi in revolutionizing agricultural practices, offering a glimpse into a more sustainable future for global food production.

SOURCE: https://newatlas.com/science/fungi-boost-crop-yield/

TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: Astronomers have identified the object AzTECC71 as a dusty star-forming galaxy, which has reappeared as a faint yet distinct galaxy in an image from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

EXPLANATION:

• This ghostly object was first detected as a glowing blob from ground-based telescopes, then vanished in images from the Hubble Space Telescope, and has now reappeared in the JWST image.
• The galaxy is shrouded in a dusty veil, making it hard to see through, and is located nearly 1 billion years after the Big Bang.

Significance of the Discovery:

• The reemergence of this ghostlike galaxy is significant as it sheds light on the presence of heavily dust-obscured, hidden populations of galaxies in the early universe.
• The discovery challenges the previous notion that such galaxies were extremely rare in the early universe.
• The findings suggest that these galaxies might be three to 10 times as common as expected, indicating that the early universe was much dustier than previously thought.

The COSMOS-Web Project:

• The COSMOS-Web collaboration, co-led by an associate professor at UT Austin, aims to map up to 1 million galaxies from a part of the sky the size of three full moons.
• The project received 250 hours of observing time in JWST’s first year and has been studying the earliest structures of the universe.
• The team has identified more than a dozen additional candidates in the first half of COSMOS-Web data that have yet to be described in the scientific literature.

Characteristics of Dusty Star-Forming Galaxies

• Dusty star-forming galaxies are hard to see in optical light because much of the light from their stars is absorbed by a veil of dust and then re-emitted at redder wavelengths.
• Before JWST, astronomers sometimes referred to them as “Hubble-dark galaxies,” in reference to the previously most-sensitive space telescope.
• The JWST’s sensitivity allows it to study the optical and infrared properties of these heavily dust-obscured galaxies, providing new insights into their nature and evolution.

Observations and Findings

• The galaxy AzTECC71 was first detected as an indistinct blob of dust emission by a camera on the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope in Hawaii.
• The COSMOS-Web team later spotted the object in data collected by another team using the ALMA telescope in Chile, which has higher spatial resolution and can see in the infrared.
• When they looked in the JWST data in the infrared at a wavelength of 4.44 microns, they found a faint galaxy in exactly the same place.
• In shorter wavelengths of light, below 2.7 microns, it was invisible.
• The team estimates that the galaxy is being viewed at a redshift of about 6, which translates to about 900 million years after the Big Bang.

Conclusion:

• The reemergence of the ghostlike dusty galaxy AzTECC71 in the JWST image provides valuable insights into the prevalence of heavily dust-obscured galaxies in the early universe.
• The discovery has the potential to reshape our understanding of the early universe and the history of galaxy evolution.

SOURCE: https://phys.org/news/2023-12-ghostlike-dusty-galaxy-reappears-james.amp#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17014931407534&csi=0&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: Nomads and Denotified tribes in India are an invisible and marginalized section of society, facing numerous challenges due to historical and contemporary factors.

EXPLANATION:

Background: Historical Context of Nomadic and Denotified Tribes

• During British colonial rule, nomadic tribes were unjustly labelled as ‘born criminals,’ marginalizing them within society.
• Traditional roles of these communities in providing services and contributing to India’s cultural heritage disrupted by societal perceptions and legislative acts.

Invisibility and Visibility: A Perspective

• Invisibility defined as a complex and relative phenomenon linked to terms like ‘neglected,’ ‘marginalized,’ and ‘hidden.’
• Perspectives shaping visibility – civil society, intellectual class, policymakers, and marginalized groups neglected on social, epistemic, and policy levels.

Nomadic and Denotified Communities: Historical Impact and Marginalization

• Pre-Colonial Contributions: Traditionally, these communities contributed services in transportation, entertainment, healthcare, and livelihood support.
• Colonial Legislation Impact: Criminal Tribes Act (1871) stigmatized nearly 200 communities as ‘born criminals.’
• Economic Reasons Behind Stigmatization: Ayyangar Committee (1950) highlighted economic motives behind branding certain groups as ‘born criminals.’
• Effects of Colonial Legislation: Acts such as Criminal Tribes Act (1871-1947), Forest Act (1865, 1878, 1927), and Salt Act (1835) marginalized nomadic communities.
• Disruption in Livelihoods: Legislation impacting access to natural resources like water, forest, and land led to livelihood challenges.

Socio-economic Invisibility

• Nomads and denotified tribes are on the periphery of all forms of modern development.
• They lack basic documents to receive state assistance, basic amenities such as drinking water, toilet and bathroom facilities, electricity, modern education, and healthcare services.
• They are commonly found living in makeshift and tent settlements on the outskirts of villages and towns.
• Following Independence, some nomadic and denotified communities were included in the constitutional categories of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Castes (OBCs).
• However, the socio-economic profile of these communities shows that they lag behind the general population in terms of education, employment, and other development indicators.
  • More than half is illiterate among nomadic and denotified groups in Haryana compared to the state average.
  • Higher illiteracy rates and lower work participation in urban settings among these communities.

Conclusion

• Need for Attention and Support:
  • Emphasis on addressing lack of basic amenities and assets for marginalized groups, especially in urban areas.
  • Urgent requirement for focused policies to uplift the historically and presently marginalized segments of society.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/governance/nomads-and-denotified-tribes-are-the-invisible-people-of-india-93113

TAG: GS 1: GEOGRAPHY

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a cyclonic storm, Cyclone Michaung, over the southwest Bay of Bengal.

EXPLANATION:

• It is likely to make landfall in the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh in coming days.
• As a result, the government agency has issued an ‘orange’ alert over Tamil Nadu, as well as coastal and interior Andhra Pradesh for two days.
• It is essential for the residents of these areas to take necessary precautions and stay updated with the latest information and alerts from the relevant authorities.
• Cyclone Michaung is the fourth tropical cyclone of the year over the Bay of Bengal.

What is a Cyclone?

• A cyclone is a large-scale system of air that rotates around the center of a low-pressure area.
• It is usually accompanied by violent storms and bad weather.
• According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), a cyclone is characterized by inward spiralling winds that rotate anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

Types of Cyclones

• The NDMA classifies cyclones broadly into two categories:
  • extratropical cyclones
  • tropical cyclones

Extratropical Cyclones

• Also known as mid-latitude cyclones, extratropical cyclones occur outside the tropics and have cold air at their core.
• They derive their energy from the release of potential energy when cold and warm air masses interact.
• These cyclones always have one or more fronts connected to them, which are the boundary between two kinds of air masses.

Tropical Cyclones

• Tropical cyclones are the most devastating storms on earth and develop in the regions between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer.
• They develop when thunderstorm activity starts building close to the center of circulation, and the strongest winds and rain are no longer in a band far from the center.
• Tropical cyclones have different names depending on their location and strength.
• For instance, they are known as hurricanes in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the eastern and central North Pacific Ocean. In the western North Pacific, they are called typhoons.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE REFER TO THE DNA ARTICLE OF 29^TH NOVEMBER 2023.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/cyclone-michaung-tropical-types-9050347/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, during a high-level event at the ongoing climate talks in COP28 in Dubai, India highlighted that the Green Credits Initiative surpasses the commercial nature of carbon credits.

EXPLANATION:

• India presented the concept at COP28 to create a global market for green credits.
• It aimed to establish an international marketplace analogous to the existing carbon credit market.

GREEN CREDIT PROGRAM (GCP): INCENTIVIZING ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIONS:

• Green Credit Program (GCP) has been notified on 13th October 2023.
• The Green Credits Programme (GCP) is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in India.
• It is an innovative market-based mechanism designed to incentivize voluntary environmental actions by generating and trading green credits across diverse sectors, by various stakeholders like individuals, communities, companies etc.
• Green credits are tradable units that represent a specified environmental activity and its positive impact on the environment.
• The GCP’s governance framework is supported by an inter-ministerial Steering Committee.
• The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) serves as the GCP Administrator, responsible for program implementation, management, monitoring, and operation.
• In its initial phase, the GCP focuses on two key activities:
• Water conservation and
• Afforestation
• Draft methodologies for awarding Green Credits have been developed and will be notified for stakeholder consultation.
• These methodologies set benchmarks for each activity/process, to ensure environmental impact and fungibility across sectors.
• The Green Credit Registry and trading platform, being developed by ICFRE along with experts, would facilitate the registration and thereafter, the buying and selling of Green Credits.
• The Administrator will grant a Green Credit certificate which will be tradable on the green credit platform.

Conclusion

• Green Credits Programme seeks to expand incentives beyond carbon emission reductions.
• It intends to create a diverse market for environmental actions, benefiting communities and individuals while complementing existing carbon credit systems.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/what-is-the-green-credits-scheme-which-pm-modi-mentioned-at-cop28-9050627/

TAG: GS 3: ECONOMY

THE CONTEXT: Amid higher capital expenditure and moderate revenue growth this fiscal year, state’s debt will remain higher at 31-32 per cent of their gross domestic product.

EXPLANATION:

• As per the Crisil rating report, the current situation is likely to take overall borrowings to ₹87 lakh crore, up 9 per cent this year.

DEBT PROJECTIONS AND STATE FISCAL HEALTH

• Debt- gross state domestic product (GSDP) Ratio:
  • Indebtedness of a state is measured as the ratio of its debt to gross state domestic product (GSDP).
  • States’ debt projected at 31-32% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in FY24.
  • Increase from pre-pandemic levels of 28-29%.
• Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act:
  • Gross fiscal deficit (GFD) expected at 2.5% of GSDP, below the mandated level of 3%.

FACTORS INFLUENCING HIGH DEBT LEVELS

• Revenue Growth Challenges:
  • States anticipate modest revenue growth, hindering fiscal stability.
• Capital Expenditure (Capex) and Borrowing:
  • Increased borrowing due to higher capital outlays.
  • Committed expenditure on salaries, pensions, and interest adds to borrowing pressure.
• Expenditure Structure:
  • Majority of revenue allocated to committed expenditure, limiting fiscal flexibility.

IMPACT OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE PROJECTIONS

• Expected Revenue Growth:
  • Predicted 6-8% growth, supported by GST collections and Center’s devolutions.
• Rising Expenditure:
  • Anticipated 8-10% rise in revenue expenditure.
  • Emphasis on social welfare and public health, comprising 65% of total spending.

ANALYSIS OF FISCAL DEFICIT AND BORROWING TRENDS

• Projected Fiscal Deficit Increase:
  • Anticipated rise in revenue deficit to 0.5% of GSDP from 0.3%.
• Borrowing Requirements:
  • Estimated 18-20% increase in capital outlays, necessitating higher borrowings.
• Interest-free Centre Loans:
  • ₹1.3 lakh crore interest-free loans from Center to aid capital outlays.

EXPECTED BORROWING AND DEBT SCENARIO

• Borrowing Increase Overview:
  • Predicted overall borrowings to surpass ₹87 lakh crore, up 9%.
• State Development Loans:
  • State development loans, 65% of total borrowings, rose by 28% between April and November.
• Off-Budget Debt Funding:
  • Off-budget debt funding set to rise by ₹7.5 lakh crore this fiscal.

RISK FACTORS AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

• Economic Activity Impact:
  • Potential risk of GSDP reduction due to economic slowdown.
• Potential Positive Influences:
  • Better tax buoyancy or increased support from the Centre could provide liquidity support to states.

CONCLUSION

• Persisting Debt Challenges:
  • States’ indebtedness likely to remain at 31-32%.
• Balancing Fiscal Health:
  • Challenges persist due to borrowing for capital outlays and limited revenue growth.
• Dependency on External Factors:
  • State fiscal health dependent on economic activity and external support mechanisms.

SOURCE: https://www.livemint.com/economy/states-debt-to-remain-high-at-31-32-per-cent-of-their-gdp-in-fy24-amid-higher-capex-moderate-revenue-growth-11701425176025.html

TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

THE CONTEXT: The Supreme Court quashed the reappointment notification of Gopinath Ravindran as the vice-chancellor of Kannur University.

EXPLANATION:

• The ruling delineates the distinct roles of the governor, functioning as the chancellor of state-run universities, emphasizing their pivotal authority in university matters.

Case Background and Significance:

• The appeal challenged the Kerala High Court’s decision that upheld the reappointment of Gopinath Ravindran as vice-chancellor of Kannur University.
• The verdict assumes significance amid disputes between state governments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and their respective governors.
• The dispute is regarding the amendments in state university laws, intending to lessen the governor’s involvement in appointing vice-chancellors.

Chancellor’s Role as Not Merely Titular:

• The Supreme Court highlighted the chancellor’s pivotal role, emphasizing that the governor’s position in state-run universities is not merely titular.
• It observed that the chancellor’s opinion holds paramount significance in university affairs and is the ultimate judge in all aspects, not merely a symbolic figurehead.

Critical Observations and Rationale:

• Violation of Statutory Powers:
  • The Supreme Court concluded that the reappointment, despite being legally permissible, was influenced by external considerations, specifically the state government’s unwarranted intervention.
• Governor’s Role and Distinct Authority:
  • The ruling emphasized the chancellor’s role as separate from the state government.
  • It indicated that the governor, in the capacity of the chancellor, acts independently and is not bound by the advice of the council of ministers.
• Legal Considerations and Interpretation:
  • The Court highlighted that the governor’s duties as the chancellor in university matters are distinct from their obligations as the state governor, warranting separate interpretations and actions.

Questions of Law and Court’s Stand:

• The Court deliberated on four legal questions pertaining to the reappointment, differing from the High Court’s stance on certain aspects.
• It agreed that reappointment, though legally acceptable, had been unduly influenced and that the governor’s statutory powers were relinquished, affecting the appointment process adversely.

Clarification on Chancellor’s Authority:

• The apex court clarified that the governor, acting as the ex-officio chancellor of the university, operates independently in university-related decisions, irrespective of political advice or external pressures.
• It highlighted that the legislative distinction between the chancellor and the state government demands a separate interpretation and execution of duties by the governor.

Conclusion:

• The Supreme Court’s verdict delineates the distinct role of the chancellor, asserting the governor’s authority in university matters as independent and non-advisory.
• The ruling underscores the chancellor’s significance in ensuring fair and unbiased decisions within state-run universities, independent of external political influence.

SOURCE: https://theprint.in/judiciary/as-chancellor-governor-not-merely-titular-head-sc-quashes-kannur-university-v-cs-reappointment/1866172/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: Recently, the COP28 climate conference in Dubai marked the official launch of a significant loss and damage fund aimed at assisting developing nations vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.

EXPLANATION:

• While an initial funding of $475 million has been allocated, the broader financial requirements, estimated to be in the trillions, remain a critical concern.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE LOSS AND DAMAGE FUND:

• Purpose:
  • The fund is intended to aid vulnerable countries coping with the consequences of climate change, addressing issues like rising sea levels, floods, droughts, and cyclones.
• Financial Need:
  • Economists highlight the urgent requirement for trillions of dollars to effectively address the challenges posed by climate change.
• Launch:
  • The fund was officially announced during COP27 but saw resolution and agreement on key aspects only shortly before COP28.
• Contributions:
  • The UAE pledged $100 million, the European Union committed $275 million, the US offered $17.5 million, and Japan contributed $10 million towards the initial funding.

UNDERSTANDING THE LOSS AND DAMAGE FUND:

• Global Financial Package:
  • Designed to support countries facing the impacts of climate change by providing compensation from wealthier nations responsible for higher emissions.
• Definition Complexity:
  • Different interpretations of “loss and damage” exist; there’s no universally agreed definition within the UNFCCC, categorized broadly as economic and non-economic impacts.

IMPACTS OF INDUSTRIALIZATION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:

• Historical Context:
  • The Industrial Era since 1850 disrupted natural greenhouse gas mechanisms, with the US, UK, EU, and a few others contributing significantly to global emissions.
• Responsibility for Emissions:
  • Developed countries account for a significant portion of historical emissions, with India responsible for a small percentage, while China is the world’s largest emitter in recent years.

EXTENT OF LOSS AND DAMAGE:

• Financial Impact:
  • Vulnerable countries have collectively faced $525 billion in climate crisis-related losses over 20 years, projected to rise to $580 billion annually by 2030.
• Impact on Vulnerable Communities:
  • Global warming has profoundly affected vulnerable communities, with projections indicating worsening conditions, especially in developing nations.

OPERATION AND SIZE OF THE FUND:

• Fund Management:
  • Initially overseen by the World Bank, funded by wealthier nations and some developing countries, though the scale and replenishment cycle remain uncertain.
• Concerns and Acceptance:
  • Developing nations initially hesitated to involve the World Bank, fearing greater control by richer nations, but have since acquiesced to this arrangement.

CONCLUSION:

• The establishment of the loss and damage fund at COP28 represents a crucial step towards assisting vulnerable nations affected by climate change.
• However, the disparity between the initial funding and the colossal financial requirement underscores the monumental challenge ahead in effectively mitigating and addressing the consequences of climate change globally.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-climate/loss-and-damage-fund-approved-cop-28-9049082/

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE, GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

THE CONTEXT: India is embarking on a strategic initiative to develop its own ‘sovereign AI’ by focusing on real-life applications in various sectors like healthcare, agriculture, governance, and language translation.

EXPLANATION:

• The government aims to maximize economic development by leveraging technology and data-driven solutions.

SOVEREIGN AI OBJECTIVES:

• Real-Life Use Cases:
  • The focus is on practical applications of AI in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, governance, and language translation to drive economic growth.
• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):
  • India’s approach involves establishing a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) similar to Aadhaar and Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
  • It will enable the government-sanctioned technology for private entities to develop diverse use cases.

PLANS FOR AI CONTROL:

• National Data Governance Framework Policy:
  • A draft released by the Ministry of Electronics and IT proposed creating an India Datasets platform comprising non-personal and anonymized data accessible to startups and researchers.
• Objectives:
  • Modernizing data collection for improved governance and fostering AI and data-led research and startup ecosystems.

UNIFIED NATIONAL DATA SHARING PLATFORM:

• Stakeholders:
  • The platform aims to facilitate data sharing among Central/State/UT Governments, public and private sector entities, MSMEs, academia, researchers, and civil society organizations.
• Monetization of Non-Personal Data:
  • The platform suggests the possibility of monetizing non-personal data to support data-driven innovation.

AI REGULATION IN INDIA:

• Hybrid Approach:
  • India’s regulatory approach towards AI will be a hybrid model, combining elements from Europe’s citizen rights-focused regulation and the US’s market-oriented regulation.
• Data Sharing Directive:
  • There are considerations to issue a directive to major tech companies (like Facebook, Google, Amazon) to share anonymized personal data with a government-backed database.
• Draft Digital India Bill:
  • This directive might be part of the draft Digital India Bill, anticipated to be introduced after the 2024 general election.
• Economic Benefits from Data:
  • Initiatives to harness economic benefits through aggregated non-personal datasets were proposed by committees to encourage innovation and ensure national security.

Conclusion:

• India’s pursuit of ‘sovereign AI’ involves a multifaceted strategy encompassing the establishment of a robust AI ecosystem, data governance frameworks, and a hybrid regulatory approach.
• The emphasis on leveraging technology and data for practical applications aims to drive economic growth and innovation across various sectors, reflecting the country’s vision for technological advancement and governance.

SOURCE: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/the-pannun-sized-problem-in-india-us-ties-9049329/

TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

THE CONTEXT: A recent study forecasts unprecedented global mean surface temperatures during the 2023-2024 winter, potentially breaking historical records due to the confluence of the El Nino event and an enduring global warming trend.

EXPLANATION:

• The paper, published in Advances in Atmospheric Sciences, highlights projections that could push temperatures beyond the critical 1.5-degree Celsius threshold above pre-industrial levels, with far-reaching implications for the environment.

TEMPERATURE TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS:

• Temperature Anomalies:
  • The global average temperature from June to October 2023 surpassed the 1991-2020 average by 0.57℃.
  • In August and September, temperatures surpassed historical averages by 0.62℃ and 0.69℃, respectively, beating the 2016 record.
• Global Projection:
  • It projects a potential 1.38°C rise in global mean surface temperatures in 2023, possibly surpassing the 2016 record of 1.29°C above pre-industrial levels.

DRIVERS OF TEMPERATURE INCREASE:

• El Nino Impact:
  • The emergent El Nino pattern, coupled with the persistent long-term warming trend, is identified as the primary drivers of the escalating temperatures.
• Consequences:
  • The forecasted temperature rise could exacerbate sea-level rise, sea-ice loss, and significantly impact the global ecosystem and food security, with potential ramifications extending into 2024.

TEMPERATURE EXCEEDANCE AND REGIONAL IMPACTS:

• Temperature Records:
  • In 2023, temperatures surpassed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels on 86 days, leading to heatwaves impacting North America, southern Europe, and Asia during summer.
• Regional Projections:
  • Multiple climate prediction systems indicate exceptionally warm winter conditions in mid-low latitude regions of Eurasia and the Americas, especially in China, expected to experience abnormal warming significantly surpassing the global average.

EL NINO’S ROLE AND PREDICTIONS:

• Mature El Nino:
  • Anticipated maturation of El Nino this winter, releasing heat into the atmosphere and potentially enhancing global mean surface temperatures.
• Impending Climate Variations:
  • El Nino’s dominance in the 2023-2024 northern hemisphere winter is expected, triggering anomalous anticyclone activity in the Northwest Pacific, leading to warm and dry weather patterns.

IMPACT ON PACIFIC-NORTH AMERICAN ATMOSPHERIC TELECONNECTION:

• Teleconnection Patterns:
  • El Nino may initiate a Pacific-North American atmospheric teleconnection, influencing winter climates in East Asia and North America.
• Typical Outcomes:
  • Positive phases of this pattern could result in above-average temperatures in western Canada and western U.S., contrasting with below-average temperatures in south-central and southeastern U.S., linked to reduced precipitation in specific regions.

CONCLUSION:

• The study underscores the potential for unprecedented winter temperatures in 2023-2024, propelled by El Nino’s intensification and the continued global warming trend.
• These projections have far-reaching implications for regional climates, ecosystems, and food security, necessitating preparedness and mitigation strategies to address the anticipated environmental impacts.

SOURCE: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/study-warns-of-new-warming-records-this-winter-driven-by-el-nino-long-term-global-warming-trend-93095

TAG: GS 2: GOVERNANCE, GS 3: AGRICULTURE

THE CONTEXT: The Union Government has announced a comprehensive scheme aimed at leveraging drone technology to empower 15,000 progressive women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for agricultural purposes.

EXPLANATION:

• This initiative was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister.
• The initiative seeks to revolutionize agricultural practices by providing access to drones, enhancing efficiency, crop yield, and reducing operational costs for farmers.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SCHEME:

• Objective:
  • Infusing advanced technology in agriculture for improved efficiency, enhanced crop yield, and reduced operational costs, ultimately benefitting farmers.
• Financial Outlay:
  • The scheme will have a financial outlay of ₹1,261 crore over two years, beginning in 2024-25.
• Target Beneficiaries:
  • 15,000 progressive women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be identified from the 89 lakh SHGs formed under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana.
• Central Financial Assistance:
  • The Union Government will provide 80% of the drone’s cost, amounting to up to ₹8 lakh out of the total expense of ₹10 lakh for each drone and its accessories.
• Drone Distribution:
  • Around 500 drones will be contributed by fertilizer companies, while the remaining 14,500 drones will be made available through Central assistance over the next two years.
• Training and Support:
  • Selected SHG members will undergo a 15-day training program, including a five-day mandatory drone pilot training.
  • An additional 10-day training for agricultural purposes related to nutrient and pesticide application will be executed.
  • An honorarium of ₹15,000 for the pilot and ₹10,000 for the co-pilot will be provided.
• Sustainable Livelihood:
  • The scheme is expected to provide sustainable business and livelihood support to the 15,000 SHGs, enabling them to earn an additional income of at least ₹1 lakh per annum.

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY:

• Identification of SHGs:
  • The scheme will identify appropriate clusters where drone usage is economically feasible, selecting SHGs based on this criterion.
• Training Process:
  • Well-qualified SHG members aged 18 and above will be elected for training as drone pilots, focusing on both technical operation and agricultural application aspects.
  • Additionally, another member of the group will be trained as a technician or assistant.
• Financial Assistance and Drone Allocation:
  • Central financial assistance will cover the majority of the drone cost, with fertilizer companies contributing some drones.
  • The allocation will take place over a span of two years.

EXPECTED IMPACT:

• Technological Advancement:
  • Integration of drone technology in agriculture will usher in advanced practices, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
• Income Generation:
  • Empowering SHGs with drones is anticipated to generate an additional income of ₹1 lakh per annum for the participating groups.
• Agricultural Transformation:
  • The utilization of drones for nutrient and pesticide application is expected to significantly improve crop yield while reducing operational costs for farmers.
• Livelihood Support:
  • The scheme aims to offer sustainable business support, contributing to the livelihood enhancement of 15,000 SHGs.

CONCLUSION:

• The initiative to empower women’s SHGs with drone technology marks a pivotal step towards modernizing agricultural practices in India.
• With financial support, comprehensive training, and strategic distribution of drones, this scheme is poised to revolutionize farming techniques, benefitting farmers and fostering economic empowerment among women in rural areas.

SOURCE: https://www.thehindu.com/business/agri-business/cabinet-nod-for-1261-crore-scheme-to-provide-drones-to-15000-women-shgs-for-two-years/article67586797.ece