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  • National Milk Day

    Why in the News?

    National Milk Day on November 26 commemorates the birth anniversary of ‘The Milkman of India’, Dr Verghese Kurien, who was credited with making India self-reliant in milk production.

    About National Milk Day:

    Details • Observed on November 26 to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien’s contributions to India’s dairy industry and the White Revolution.
    • Celebrates India’s transformation into the world’s largest milk producer.
    Contributions made by Varghese Kurien • Born on November 26, 1921, in Kozhikode, Kerala.
    • Played a key role in establishing Amul (1949) and transforming it into a global dairy brand.
    Inaugural chairman of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
    • Led Operation Flood, which revolutionized India’s dairy industry and made it self-sufficient in milk production.
    • Received numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership (1963).
    About the White Revolution and Milk Production in India Initiated in 1970 through Operation Flood to increase milk production and reduce dependence on milk powder imports.
    Empowered dairy farmers by promoting a cooperative-based model for milk production.
    • By the late 1990s, India became the world’s largest milk producer, surpassing the US.
    Milk production grew threefold, from 21.2 million tonnes in 1968-69 to over 55 million tonnes by 1991-92.
    • Helped build the infrastructure for milk supply chains, processing plants, and storage facilities, making milk more accessible.
    • Significantly improved the income and livelihood of rural farmers, boosting employment and economic development.

    India is ranked 1st in milk production, contributing 24% of global milk production, reaching 230.58 million tonnes in 2022-23. 
  • In news: Pennaiyar River

    In news: Pennaiyar River

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit the report on the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka Pennaiyar River Water Dispute.

    About Pennaiyar River

    Origin and Geological Composition • Also known as Thenpennai, originates on the eastern slope of Nandi Hills in Karnataka and flows through Tamil Nadu into the Bay of Bengal.
    Length: 497 km (2nd longest in TN); Catchment area: 3,690 km².
    77% of the drainage basin lies in Tamil Nadu.
    Bounded by the Velikonda, Nagari, Javadu, Shevaroy, Chitteri, and Kalrayan hills of the Eastern Ghats.
    • Lies in the tropical monsoon zone with monsoon (June–December) and non-monsoon (January–May) periods.
    Tributaries Tributaries include Markandanadhi, Kambainallur, Pambar, Vaniyar, Kallar, Valayar Odai, Pambanar, Aliyar, Musukundanadhi, and Thurinjalar.
    • Supported by monsoonal rains and reservoirs like Kelavarapalli, Krishnagiri, and Sathanur Dams.
    Important Sites along its Basin • Mentioned in Sangam literature for its lush vegetation.
    • Important temples include Penneswaraar Temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Veerateshwarar Temple, and Kabilar Kundru.
    Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is a key protected area near the river.
    Used for irrigation in districts such as Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Viluppuram, and Cuddalore.

     

    PYQ:

    [2004] Assertion (A): West- flowing rivers of Peninsular India have no deltas:

    Reason (R): These Rivers do not carry any alluvial sediments.

    1. Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
    2. Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
    3. A is true but R is false
    4. A is false but R is true
  • Feminist ideology in India’s constitutional discourse

    Why in the News?

    Referring to the framers of India’s Constitution solely as “founding fathers” reflects patriarchal bias, overlooking the pivotal contributions of the “founding mothers” who co-authored its progressive vision like UCC (Uniform Civil Code).

    What are the implications of the UCC for women’s rights in a diverse society?

    • Equality Across Personal Laws: The UCC aims to replace personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in India with a common set governing every citizen.
    • Legal Protection Against Patriarchal Religious Law: By establishing a uniform framework, the UCC could provide women with equal rights in matters traditionally dominated by patriarchal interpretations of religious laws.
    • Cultural Resistance: The implementation of the UCC faces resistance due to India’s diverse cultural landscape. Many communities view it as an infringement on their religious freedoms.

    How does feminist constitutionalism challenge traditional interpretations of the Indian Constitution?

    • Challenging Patriarchal Narratives: Feminist constitutionalism critiques traditional interpretations that often marginalise women’s contributions and rights.
      • For example, while the Indian Constitution guarantees equality, its application has frequently been undermined by personal laws that perpetuate women’s subordination.
    • Reinterpreting Constitutional Provisions: Feminist legal theorists argue for a reinterpretation of constitutional provisions to ensure they align with contemporary understandings of gender equality.
    • Historical background of the Constitution: The historical context of the Constitution’s framing reveals that while women like Amrit Kaur and Hansa Mehta fought for equal rights, their efforts were often compromised by the need to secure broader political consensus.
      • For example, Hansa Mehta and Amrit Kaur strongly advocated for the inclusion of the UCC under the Fundamental Rights to ensure gender equality in personal laws.

    5 women who helped draft the Constitution

    What role does historical context play in shaping contemporary gender jurisprudence in India?

    • Legacy of Founding Mothers: The contributions of women in the Constituent Assembly have been historically overlooked, yet their advocacy for fundamental rights laid a foundation for future gender jurisprudence.
    • Impact on Contemporary Legislation: Historical struggles against patriarchal norms inform today’s feminist movements and legal battles. The ongoing discourse around the UCC is rooted in these historical contexts, highlighting both progress made and obstacles remaining in achieving true gender equality.
    • Intersectionality: The intersectional experiences of women from diverse backgrounds during the Constitution’s framing underscore the need for inclusive legal frameworks that address not only gender but also caste, class, and community-specific issues.

    In what ways can feminist legal theory contribute to redefining concepts of justice and equality in India? (Way forward)

    • Redefining Justice and Equality: Feminist legal theory advocates for a broader understanding of justice that encompasses social, economic, and cultural dimensions rather than merely legalistic definitions. This perspective encourages policies that address systemic inequalities faced by women.
    • Promoting Inclusive Dialogue: By emphasizing women’s voices and experiences in legal discourses, feminist theory fosters inclusive dialogue about rights and justice, challenging dominant narratives that often exclude marginalized groups.
    • Encouraging Legislative Reforms: Feminist legal scholars push for legislative reforms that reflect an understanding of gender as a social construct influenced by cultural norms, thereby advocating for laws that protect women’s rights comprehensively across all spheres.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizen a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • [26th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The Constitution still thrives, let it show India the way

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) ‘Constitutional Morality’ is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of ‘Constitutional Morality’ with the help of relevant judicial decisions. (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Mentor’s Comment:  UPSC Mains have focused on Constitutional Principles (2014 and 2019) with respect to ‘basic features’ and ‘checks and balances’.  

    Before commending the Constitution’s work to the Assembly, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar said that – “however good a Constitution may be, it is sure to turn out bad because those who are called to work it, happen to be a bad lot. However bad a Constitution may be, it may turn out to be good if those who are called to work it, happen to be a good lot.”

    Today’s editorial focuses on the enduring relevance and adaptability of the Indian Constitution. This content can be used whicle inferring ‘Constitutional Background’,Core Principles of the Constitution’ and ‘Balance of Power’ in your Mains Answers.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Today 26th November, marks the 75th anniversary of the adoption by the Constituent Assembly of the draft Constitution of India. The Union government has announced that it intends to commemorate this momentous occasion with a special joint sitting of Parliament.

    Historical Background:

    The Indian Constitution is celebrated for its comprehensive framework that establishes India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The Constitution not only outlines the structure of government but also enshrines fundamental rights that protect individual freedoms and uphold justice.

    Core Principles:
    • Justice: Ensuring fairness in all judicial processes.
    • Liberty: Protecting individual freedoms against state interference.
    • Equality: Guaranteeing equal treatment under the law.
    • Fraternity: Promoting a sense of brotherhood among citizens.

    How does the Constitution adapt to the changing socio-political landscape of India?

    • Amendability: This structure enables the Constitution to evolve without compromising its core principles, through Article 368, ensuring it remains relevant to current societal needs:
      • Simple Majority: Some provisions can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament.
      • Special Majority: Others require a special majority, which includes a two-thirds majority in both Houses.
      • Ratification by States: Certain amendments necessitate ratification by at least half of the state legislatures.
    • Judicial Interpretation: The Supreme Court of India has established several landmark judgments that illustrate this adaptability with changing conditions:
      • Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): This case introduced the “basic structure doctrine,” asserting that while Parliament can amend the Constitution, it cannot alter its fundamental framework.
      • Right to Privacy: The Supreme Court’s recognition of the right to privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21 demonstrates how judicial interpretation can expand constitutional protections in response to modern concerns.
    • Balancing Rigidity and Flexibility: The hybrid nature of the Indian Constitution—combining elements of rigidity with flexibility—ensures that balance is crucial for maintaining democratic governance and protecting fundamental rights against arbitrary alterations.
    • Dynamic Nature of Constitutional Principles: CJI D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized that no single generation holds a monopoly over constitutional interpretation, reflecting a continuous dialogue between generations. This dialogue allows for evolving challenges such as technological advancements and changing social norms.
    • Inclusion of New Realities: The Constitution’s flexibility facilitates the inclusion of new realities and societal demands:
      • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): These principles guide the state in policy-making and reflect socio-economic changes, allowing for progressive reforms in areas like social justice and economic equity.
      • Gender Equality and Rights: Recent rulings have addressed gender discrimination in religious practices, showcasing how the Constitution adapts to uphold rights against traditional norms.

    What is the significance of constitutional values in promoting justice and equality in India?

    • Justice: The Constitution guarantees justice through its Preamble and Fundamental Rights, ensuring that every citizen can receive fair treatment under the law.
      • For instance, the Joseph Shine v. Union of India (2018) case decriminalized adultery, reinforcing gender equality and emphasizing that both partners in a marriage should be treated equally under the law.
    • Equality Before Law: Article 14 ensures that all individuals are treated equally, prohibiting discrimination.
      • The Navtej Singh Jauhar v. Union of India (2018) case is a landmark ruling that decriminalized consensual same-sex relationships by striking down Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, thus affirming the rights of the LGBTQ+ community and promoting social equality.
    • Fraternity and Social Cohesion: The value of fraternity promotes unity and respect among diverse communities. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasized the importance of mutual fraternity for maintaining equality in order to raise awareness about constitutional values, highlighting that dignity and respect for all citizens are foundational to national unity.
    • Economic Equality: The Constitution also addresses economic disparities through Directive Principles, aiming for equal rights to livelihood and equal pay for equal work (Article 39). This framework guides government policies towards creating a more equitable society.

    In what ways can citizens actively engage with and uphold constitutional ideals?

    • Participating in Local Governance: The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act empowers citizens to participate in local governance through structures like ward committees. These committees allow residents to voice concerns and influence local decisions.
      • For example, Under JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission), various states established Area Sabhas (neighborhood committees) to facilitate citizen participation in urban planning.
      • In cities like Pune, these committees have successfully engaged citizens in developing city plans, leading to improved infrastructure and services based on community needs.
    • Advocating for Rights and Social Justice: Citizens can advocate for their rights by participating in legal awareness programs that educate them about their constitutional rights.
      • For example initiative like the ‘Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyaan’ focuses on educating rural populations (especially women) about their legal rights, enabling them to seek justice against violations.
    • Engaging in Digital Activism: With the rise of digital media, citizens can use online platforms to raise awareness about constitutional issues and mobilize support for various causes.
      • The #MeToo movement gained significant traction on social media, where women shared their experiences of harassment and sought justice.
    • Participating in Elections and Civic Duties: Active participation in elections is fundamental to democracy. Citizens should not only vote but also engage with candidates and political parties on issues that matter to them.
      • Initiatives like the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program have successfully increased voter turnout, particularly among young voters. 

    Conclusion: “Independence is no doubt a matter of joy. But let us not forget that this independence has thrown on us great responsibilities. By independence, we have lost the excuse of blaming the British for anything going wrong. If hereafter things go wrong, we will have nobody to blame except ourselves.” – Dr. Ambedkar 

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-constitution-still-thrives-let-it-show-india-the-way/article68909557.ece

  • [pib] Cabinet approves One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the “One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) scheme” aims to provide nationwide access to scholarly research articles and journals.

    One Nation One Subscription (ONOS): Everything you need to know

    About Fully digital and user-friendly Central Sector Scheme approved by the Union Cabinet.
    Aims and Objectives Provide unified access to scholarly journals and research articles for government HEIs and R&D labs.
    • Support research through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and other government initiatives, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
    Centralize subscriptions to reduce the financial burden on individual institutions.
    • Align with Viksit Bharat@2047, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and National Research Foundation (NRF).
    Structural Mandate Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), an autonomous inter-university center under UGC, will coordinate ONOS and ensure seamless access to research materials.
    6,300 institutions under central and state government management, including universities, colleges, and R&D labs.
    • A dedicated digital portal for easy access, designed for wide accessibility.
    Provisions and Eligibility Criteria All government-run HEIs and R&D institutions are eligible.
    13,000 journals from 30 international publishers are available free of cost.
    ₹6,000 crore allocated for 2025-2027; payments to publishers made centrally by INFLIBNET.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] To obtain full benefits of demographic dividend, what should India do?

    (a) Promoting skill development

    (b) Introducing more social security schemes

    (c) Reducing infant mortality rate

    (d) Privatization of higher education

  • [pib] Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)

    Why in the News?

    The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.

    About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):

    About • Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
    Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87.
    Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur.
    Aims and Objectives • Preserving and promoting regional folk, tribal, and traditional arts.
    • Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
    • Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education.
    • Involving youth in creative cultural programs.
    • Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture.
    Implementation and Structural Mandate • Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans.
    Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters.
    • Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement.
    42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015.
    Significance Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures.
    Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities.
    Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions.
    Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

    1. National Development Council

    2. Planning Commission

    3. Zonal Councils

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

    Why in the News?

    The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.

    About MACE Telescope:

    Details
    Details and Working World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
    • It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
    Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
    • Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base.
    Aims and Objectives of MACE Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
    Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
    Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes.
    How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
    Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
    DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

    Why in the News?

    • On November 25, the Portuguese conquered Goa, establishing first territorial possession in India by any colonists.
      • This marked the beginning of Portugal’s 400-year colonial rule in the region, which ended only in 1961, making them the last colonial power to leave India.

    On this day over 500 years ago, the Portuguese conquered Goa

    Why the Portuguese came to Goa?

    • Vasco da Gama’s voyage in 1498 revealed the thriving trade networks in the Indian Ocean.
    • The Portuguese aimed to capitalize on the wealth from the Indian Ocean trade routes.
    • Rivalry with Muslim-controlled trade routes prompted the Portuguese to establish a military presence in the region.
      • In 1505, the Portuguese State of India was formally established, six years after Vasco da Gama’s arrival.
    • Francisco de Almeida, the first Viceroy, set up the first base in Fort Manuel (now part of Kochi).
      • The Portuguese controlled the Island of Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was ceded to England in 1661.

    How Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa?

    • Albuquerque (Viceroy, 1509-1515) understood that Goa was essential for controlling the maritime trade routes in the East.
    • The decision to attack Goa was influenced by Timmayya, a debated figure, either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat with links to the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • Albuquerque’s first attack on Goa (February-March 1510) was largely successful due to the unpopularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah’s rule among Goa’s Hindu population.
      • Many locals supported the Portuguese against the Sultan’s rule.
    • After being stranded on the Mandovi River during the monsoon season, Albuquerque received reinforcements from Portugal.
    • In November 1510, with reinforcements, Albuquerque launched a successful attack and retook Goa.

    Who Was Timmayya?

    • Timmayya, a key figure in the conquest of Goa, is described in various sources as a pirate from Malabar.
      • However, other historians argue that he was of noble birth and held a prestigious position in the Vijayanagara Empire.
      • According to historians, Timmayya was actually a high-ranking admiral in the Vijayanagara navy.
    • Though the Portuguese regarded him as a corsair or pirate, he was in fact executing orders from the Vijayanagara Empire, attacking Portuguese and rival merchant ships on his empire’s behalf.
    • While some historians argue that Timmayya’s counsel was pivotal in the timing of the attack on Goa, others suggest that Albuquerque may have already planned the assault, with Timmayya’s advice simply solidifying the decision.

    Why did Timmayya want Goa conquered?

    • The rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire had long eyed Goa after it was lost to the Sultan of Bijapur.
    • Timmayya’s personal motivations were likely shaped by the empire’s strategic interest in regaining control of the region, as Goa was seen as a valuable territory in both military and economic terms.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements:​

    1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.

    2. It was during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.​

    3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.​

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?​

    (a) 1 only ​

    (b) 1 and 2 only ​

    (c) 3 only​

    (d) 2 and 3 only

  • [pib] #AbKoiBahanaNahi Campaign

    Why in the News?

    The #AbKoiBahanaNahi national campaign was launched in New Delhi to empower women and end gender-based violence.

    About the #AbKoiBahanaNahi Campaign:

    About Launched By:
    – Ministries of Women and Child Development
    – Ministries of Rural Development
    – Support from UN Women
    Aims and Objectives End Gender-Based Violence: Create awareness and urgency to end violence against women and girls across India.
    Dignity and Equality: Promote women’s dignity by empowering them to report violence and fight for their rights.
    Gender Equality in Economy: Ensure full, equal participation of women in all sectors for building a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
    Implementation and Structural Mandate National Call to Action: urging all stakeholders—citizens, NGOs, and government agencies—to actively work towards ending gender-based violence.
    Alignment with Global Campaigns: The campaign aligns with the UN’s #NoExcuse global initiative, which calls for accountability and action against rising violence.
    Supportive Interventions: Government measures to reduce women’s drudgery, ensure financial inclusion, bridge the gender digital divide, and provide safe spaces for women.
    Significance Empowerment for Dignity: The campaign empowers women to fight for their dignity, free from societal constraints.
    Women’s Role in National Development: Reinforces that achieving gender equality is crucial for India’s development by 2047.
    Support to Women’s Rights: Promotes a holistic approach to women’s rights, ensuring gender-sensitive laws, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

    PYQ:

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc., whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.

    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self-Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    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

  • Why the world needs a Global Plastic Treaty?

    Why in the News?

    Over 170 countries will meet in Busan, South Korea, starting for the fifth and final round of negotiations on a legally binding global treaty to combat plastic and marine pollution by 2024.

    Why is a Global Plastic Treaty required?

    • Massive Increase in Plastic Production: Global plastic production has rapidly increased from 234 million tonnes in 2000 to 460 million tonnes in 2019, with expectations to reach 700 million tonnes by 2040. Asia is the largest producer, contributing nearly half of global plastic production.
    • Environmental and Health Impact: Plastic takes 20 to 500 years to decompose, and less than 10% is recycled. Around 400 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated annually, which is expected to rise by 62% by 2050. Much of this waste enters rivers and oceans, breaking down into microplastics that harm marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Human Health Risks: Chemicals in plastics can disrupt hormones and cause diseases like cancer, diabetes, reproductive disorders, and neurodevelopmental impairments.
    • Contribution to Climate Change: Plastic production generates 3.6% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with most emissions coming from the production process, which relies on fossil fuels.
    • Global Plastic Pollution: India contributes significantly to global plastic pollution, accounting for 20% of the world’s total plastic waste, with emissions of 9.3 million tonnes.

    What is on the Negotiating table?

    • Comprehensive Global Rules: The primary goal is to develop a legally binding global treaty to address plastic pollution throughout its life cycle, including its production from fossil fuels, waste management, and disposal.
    • Production and Waste Management Caps: Countries are debating the introduction of production caps, which have been opposed by oil-rich and plastic-producing nations, including India.
    • Types of Plastic and Chemical Additives: Discussions are ongoing regarding banning specific types of plastic, plastic products, and harmful chemical additives used in their production.
    • Recycling and Content Targets: The treaty might include legally binding targets for recycling and recycled content in consumer goods.
    • Just Transition for Affected Communities: There will be talks on supporting workers and communities whose livelihoods depend on plastic production and industries, ensuring a fair transition.
    • Financial and Technical Assistance: A key agenda item is how to mobilize private and public funding to meet the treaty’s goals, especially for developing countries.

    What is India’s position?

    • India does not support caps on plastic production, arguing that such measures go beyond the scope of the UNEA resolution adopted in 2022. India insists that the treaty must include provisions for financial and technical support, including technology transfer for developing countries.
    • India maintains that decisions regarding harmful chemicals in plastic production should be based on scientific studies and that regulation should be handled at the National level.
    • India has banned 19 categories of single-use plastics domestically but insists that decisions on banning other plastic products should be “pragmatic” and consider national circumstances.
    • India advocates for the establishment of a mechanism to assess the infrastructure needs and financial resources required for safe and scientific waste management.
    • It also emphasizes the need for adequate, timely, and predictable financial resources to support waste management and other treaty objectives.

    Way forward: 

    • Global Collaboration with National Flexibility: The treaty should foster global collaboration on plastic pollution while allowing flexibility for countries to implement solutions based on their unique socio-economic contexts and developmental priorities.
    • Enhanced Financial and Technological Support: Developed countries must provide financial and technological assistance to developing nations to ensure equitable implementation of the treaty’s provisions, especially for waste management infrastructure and transitioning away from plastic reliance.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the impediments in disposing the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment? (UPSC IAS/2018)