The Asia Tea Alliance (ATA) resolved to reject Genetically Modified (GM) Tea in response to climate challenges affecting global tea production.
With India’s tea production down by 10% this year due to climate change, certain companies have advocated for GM tea.
About Asia Tea Alliance (ATA)
Founded: April 19, 2019, in Guizhou, China.
5 Members: India, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Japan.
Goals: Enhance tea trade, cultural exchange, and globally promote tea.
About Indian Tea Industry:
India is the second-largest tea producer and largest black tea producer after China, and also the fourth-largest tea exporter worldwide.
India is the largest consumer of black tea, accounting for 18% of global tea consumption.
The Indian tea industry directly employs 1.16 million workers, with an equal number indirectly associated.
It is governed by the Tea Board of India and under Union Government control by an Act of Parliament.
Geographical conditions:
Northeast India (including Assam), north Bengal (such as Darjeeling, Terai and the Dooars), and the Nilgiris in south India.
Tropical and subtropical climates, with regions concentrated in Asia, Africa, and South America favours tea cultivation.
It requires cool to warm temperatures (15–23°C) with at least 5 hours of sunlight daily; annual rainfall should be 150-200 cm.
Darjeeling Tea known as the “Champagne of teas,” for its aroma was the first to GI tag in 2004–05.
PYQ:
[2020] “The crop is subtropical in nature. A hard frost is injurious to it. It requires at least 210 frost-free days and 50 to 100 centimeters of rainfall for its growth. A light well-drained soil capable of retaining moisture is ideally suited for the cultivation of the crop.” Which one of the following is that crop?
Recent research by scientists at the University of Nottingham’s has found that a chemical produced by a fungus growing on caterpillars may slow cancer cell growth.
What is Caterpillar fungus?
Cordyceps militaris, also known as caterpillar fungus, is a parasitic fungus that primarily infects caterpillars and other insects.
Found in the Himalayan region and parts of Asia, it is valued in traditional Asian medicine for its health benefits, including immune support, anti-inflammatory properties, and energy enhancement.
It is considered a delicacy in some Asian cultures and has long been used for its purported wellness effects.
How it can slow down growth of cancer cells?
Researchers from the University of Nottingham’s School of Pharmacy have identified cordycepin, a compound produced by Cordyceps militaris, as potentially effective in slowing cancer cell growth.
Cordycepin works by interrupting overactive cell growth signals in cancer cells, which prevents rapid multiplication and allows for more targeted treatment.
This approach may be less harmful to healthy tissues compared to conventional cancer treatments, offering a promising direction for targeted cancer therapies.
Other observations and significance of the species
In addition to its traditional uses, Cordyceps militaris is significant for its role in ecological balance, helping control insect populations in forest ecosystems.
Advances in research have enabled large-scale studies on cordycepin’s effects, with future studies focusing on derivatives of cordycepin for potentially enhanced anti-cancer properties.
The fungus illustrates how natural compounds can contribute to sustainable medical practices, offering less toxic alternatives for disease treatment, especially in oncology.
PYQ:
[2019] Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of:
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is developing new Type 2 diabetes treatment guidelines in collaboration with a global expert panel.
These guidelines aim to integrate scientific evidence and clinical practice, adapted to the healthcare environment of specific countries.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough, leading to high blood sugar levels.
It is commonly linked to obesity, physical inactivity and poor diet.
Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.
Treatment involves lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
Medications such as Metformin help regulate blood sugar levels, and in some cases, insulin therapy may be required.
About International Diabetes Federation (IDF):
Details
About
Established in 1950; Brussels, Belgium;
Members: Over 230 national diabetes associations in 170 countries and territories.
Collaborations: Partners with global organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and others for global health initiatives.
Led by an elected President with the support of a Board of Directors from member countries.
Regional offices: Operates regional offices in Africa, Europe, North America, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Aims and Objectives
To improve the care and lives of people with diabetes and promote its prevention worldwide.
Advocacy, research, education, and raising awareness to reduce the global burden of diabetes.
Key Programs
World Diabetes Day (November 14)
Global Diabetes Atlas
Educational initiatives for healthcare professionals
Diabetes Types Covered
Type 1 Diabetes: Primarily affects children and young adults, where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, often linked to lifestyle factors and obesity. It involves insulin resistance and eventually pancreas dysfunction.
Gestational Diabetes: A type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Other Forms: Covers genetic forms, latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), and MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young).
Q) Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (UPSC CSE 2021)
Q) Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above bjective? Explain. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Q) Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at the World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment:At COP28, 63 countries pledged to reduce cooling emissions by 68% by 2050 through the Global Cooling Pledge. Hence, expanded commitments are necessary at COP29 to enhance participation in global cooling initiatives and strengthen partnerships across sectors.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the critical role of international cooperation in developing sustainable cooling technologies to combat climate change. It underscores the importance of collaboration among nations to develop clean technologies that not only address immediate cooling needs but also contribute to long-term sustainability goals.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent international agreements and initiatives, such as the Wilmington Declaration by the Quad nations and commitments made at COP28 focuses on the urgent need for sustainable cooling technologies in the context of global warming and climate change.
Key Initiatives and Collaborations taken by countries:
•Wilmington Declaration: Issued by the Quad nations (Australia, India, Japan, and the U.S.) on September 21, 2024. It focuses on sustainable energy solutions with an emphasis on high-efficiency cooling systems. •Montreal Protocol and Kigali Amendment: The Kigali Amendment, adopted in 2016, aims to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning. Initiatives like the Kigali •Cooling Efficiency Program (K-CEP) provide technical support and capacity building for countries, particularly those in the developing world. •U.S.-India Partnership: India has committed to significant investments in solar and cooling infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific region. Joint plans include expanding manufacturing capacities for energy-efficient air conditioners and ceiling fans.
What were the key Commitments from COP28? •On Energy Transition Goals: Countries committed to double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030. A goal was set to triple global renewable energy capacity to 11,000 GW by 2030. •On Global Stocktake (GST): The first GST assessed progress towards the Paris Agreement, emphasizing the need for significant reductions in fossil fuel consumption by 2050. • On Loss and Damage Fund: An agreement was reached to establish a Loss and Damage Fund with initial contributions of about $800 million to support vulnerable nations affected by climate change. •On Methane Emissions Reduction: Countries committed to reducing global methane emissions by 30% from 2020 levels by 2030, with new regulations introduced by several nations. While no complete fossil fuels phase-out was agreed upon, discussions included calls for the gradual elimination of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. •On Sustainable Agriculture Initiatives: Nearly 160 nations signed a declaration to integrate food systems into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2025. Around $12.8 billion was pledged to the Green Climate Fund to support developing nations in their climate efforts.
Significance of Global Collaborations for Clean Technologies
Accelerating Innovation: Countries can combine their scientific knowledge, leading to faster advancements in clean technologies.
Collaborative efforts can attract funding and resources, speeding up the development of critical solutions.
Addressing Global Challenges: Coordinated responses are essential for tackling climate change effectively, as seen with initiatives like the Global Cooling Pledge.
International partnerships help establish common standards, facilitating trade and effective implementation of technologies.
Economic Growth: Investing in clean technologies creates new industries and job opportunities, driving economic growth.
Supporting Developing Economies: Involving diverse stakeholders ensures that solutions are accessible and meet the needs of vulnerable populations and their capacity building.
What role do emerging markets play in the global cleantech landscape?
Growing Energy Demand: Emerging markets are expected to account for 90% of global energy demand growth by 2035, making them crucial for shaping future energy consumption.
Decarbonization Efforts: These markets contribute about 75% of global carbon emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable practices to achieve climate goals.
Innovation Hubs: Emerging economies are becoming centers for innovation in clean technologies, supported by initiatives that address barriers to investment.
Renewables now make up around 75% of new power generation in emerging markets, presenting significant investment potential for clean energy projects.
International Collaboration: Global cooperation is essential to help these markets transition to clean energy by aligning regulations and sharing best practices.
Transitioning to renewable energy can alleviate energy poverty, providing access to electricity and clean cooking solutions for underserved Nations.
What are the challenges and opportunities associated with financing clean technology initiatives?
1) Challenges:
High Cost of Capital: Clean energy projects in emerging markets often face financing costs that are significantly higher than in developed countries, sometimes up to seven times more expensive, which inflate risk premiums for investors.
Limited Access to Funds: Emerging economies account for two-thirds of the global population but receive only one-fifth of clean energy investments. This disparity creates a funding gap that hinders the transition to sustainable energy systems.
High Reliance on Public Financing: Many clean energy projects in developing countries rely heavily on public sources of finance. However, these sources are often insufficient to meet the growing investment needs, especially post-COVID-19, which has strained public finances further.
Regulatory and Policy Barriers: Uncertain regulatory environments and lengthy procedures for project approvals can deter investment. For example, subsidies favoring fossil fuels and restrictions on foreign investment further complicate financing efforts.
2) Opportunities:
Growing Demand for Clean Energy: The increasing global focus on sustainability and the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions create a favorable environment for investing in clean technologies. Emerging markets are positioned to lead this transition by leveraging their renewable resources.
Innovative Financing Models: Blended finance approaches, which combine public and private funding, can help mitigate risks and attract investment in clean technologies. Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) can play a crucial role by providing guarantees or risk capital.
Technological Advancements: Advances in clean technology are reducing costs and improving efficiency, making it easier to attract investment.
For example, technologies like solar PV and wind power are becoming more financially viable, encouraging investment from both domestic and international sources.
Carbon Markets: The establishment of domestic carbon markets provides new revenue streams for clean energy projects, enhancing their financial viability. This can attract both local and international investors looking for sustainable investment opportunities.
International Collaboration: Global partnerships can facilitate knowledge sharing and provide access to capital for clean technology initiatives.
For example, initiatives like the World Economic Forum‘s efforts to mobilize investment in emerging economies highlight the importance of collaborative approaches
Way Forward: While financing clean technology initiatives faces notable challenges, particularly in emerging markets. Addressing the barriers effectively could unlock substantial investments needed for a successful transition to clean energy systems globally. COP29 must build on the momentum of COP28 by expanding cooling commitments.
In a 4:3 majority decision, the Supreme Court overturned its 1967 Azeez Basha ruling, which had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) minority status, directing that AMU’s status be reassessed according to the principles outlined in the current judgment.
Constitutional Provisions and Historical Background of the case:
The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) was founded in 1875 and incorporated by imperial law in 1920.
Article 30 of the Constitution empowers religious and linguistic minorities to establish and administer educational institutions – AMU had enjoyed minority status.
A 1951 amendment to that imperial law, the AMU Act, did away with compulsory religious instructions for Muslim students.
In India, compulsory religious instruction is prohibited in state-funded educational institutions under Article 28.
In S. Azeez Basha vs. Union of India (1967), the SC ruled that AMU could not be considered a minority institution, as it was established by a central act, categorizing it as a central university.
This ruling denied AMU the rights of minority institutions under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution.
In 1981, an amendment to the AMU Act attempted to restore AMU’s minority character, aiming to secure rights for it as a minority-administered institution.
The Allahabad High Court (2006) struck down the 1981 amendment, reinforcing the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling and reasserting that AMU did not qualify as a minority institution.
What criteria will be used to assess AMU’s minority status?
The SC emphasized that an educational institution must be established by a minority community to qualify for minority status under Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution.
This involves examining who initiated the idea of the institution and whether it was primarily intended to benefit that community.
Holistic Two-Fold Test: The Court introduced a two-fold test:
First Limb: Identify the “brain behind” the establishment, which includes reviewing correspondence and documentation that reflect the intentions of the founders.
Second Limb: Assess whether the administrative structure of the institution affirms its minority character and serves to protect and promote the interests of the minority community.
Broad Interpretation of “Established”: The ruling clarified that “established” should be interpreted broadly, meaning that an institution can still be considered a minority institution even if it is governed by a statutory body or has undergone changes in its legal status over time.
How does this ruling affect the legal precedent set by the 1967 Azeez Basha case?
The overruling of Azeez Basha: The SC’s decision effectively overruled its previous 1967 ruling, which had declared AMU as not being a minority institution because it was established through a government statute rather than directly by a minority community.
New Framework for Minority Status: This ruling marks a shift towards a more inclusive interpretation of what constitutes a minority institution, allowing for a reassessment of AMU’s status based on historical context and community intent rather than solely on formal legal definitions.
Legal Autonomy Reaffirmed: The judgment underscores that legislative recognition does not negate an institution’s minority character, challenging previous interpretations that linked statutory establishment with loss of minority status.
What are the implications of this ruling for Educational rights and Reservations?
Potential for Reservations: If AMU is recognized as a minority institution, it could reserve seats specifically for Muslim students in various programs without needing to adhere to general reservation policies applicable to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) under Article 15(5) of the Constitution.
Autonomy in Administration: The ruling provides AMU greater autonomy in managing its affairs, including admissions and staff appointments, thereby allowing it to align its policies with the interests of the Muslim community it serves.
Broader Educational Rights: This decision reinforces the constitutional rights granted to minorities under Article 30(1), ensuring that they can establish and administer educational institutions without undue interference from state laws, thereby promoting educational diversity in India.
Way forward:
Define Minority Status Framework: Parliament could establish a clear legislative framework based on the Supreme Court’s criteria, ensuring consistent and streamlined recognition of minority institutions across India.
Balance Autonomy and Accountability: Policies should support minority institutions’ autonomy while maintaining accountability to uphold educational standards, ensuring both community-focused goals and inclusive, high-quality education.
Mains PYQ:
Q Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2016)
The Karnataka Waqf Board has identified 17 monuments within the historic Bidar Fort as its own property.
These include the 16-Khamba Mosque (Sixteen Pillar Mosque) and 14 tombs of Bahmani rulers and their family members, including Ahmed Shah-IV, Allauddin, Hassan Khan, and others.
AboutBidar Fort:
It is situated in Bidar City on the northern plateau of Karnataka, India.
The fort’s history dates back over 500 years, beginning with the Western Chalukya dynasty.
Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty made Bidar his capital in 1430 and renovated it into a strong citadel.
Architectural Features:
Constructed from trap rock with stone and mortar used for walls.
Notable for its Islamic and Persian architectural elements, including:
Seven main entrances
37 octagonal bastions equipped with metal-shielded cannons
Mosques, mahals, and over 30 Islamic monuments
The entrance gate features a lofty dome painted in bright colors.
About the Bahmani Kingdom
The Bahmani Kingdom was established in 1347 when Ala-ud-din Hassan Bahman Shan revolted against Muhammad Bin Tughlaq of the Delhi Sultanate.
This marked the creation of the first independent Islamic kingdom in South India.
The kingdom covered areas in present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.
Initially, the capital was set in Ahsanabad (Gulbarga) but was later moved to Bidar.
The Bahmani Kingdom had 14 sultans in total, with prominent rulers like Alauddin Bahman Shah, Muhammad Shah I, and Firoz Shah.
One of the kingdom’s notable statesmen, Mahmud Gawan, served as the Prime Minister for 23 years, from 1458 to 1481.
Under his guidance, the kingdom expanded its territories, including reclaiming Goa from the Vijayanagar Empire.
The Bahmani Kingdom began to decline around 1518 when Krishnadeva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire defeated its last ruler, leading to the dissolution of the Bahmani rule in the region.
PYQ:
[2021] With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged out of Hyderabad State.
2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged out of Vijayanangara Empire.
3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Philippine forces conducted combat exercises in the South China Sea to practice retaking the Loaita Island in the disputed waters.
About Loaita Island:
Loaita Island, also known as Kota Island, has an area of 6.45 hectares and is the 10th largest of the naturally-occurring Spratly Islands.
The island is administered by the Philippines as part of Kalayaan, Palawan, and is also claimed by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
Loaita Island fringes the Loaita Bank, which includes shoals and reefs, and its western side features calcarenite outcrops visible at low tide.
The island is covered with mangrove bushes, coconut palms, and other small trees.
On May 22, 1963, a sovereignty stele was rebuilt on Loaita Island by South Vietnam, marking its claim.
The Philippines has stationed soldiers on the island since 1968, and the island contains minimal structures serving as shelters for the soldiers.
China also reasserted its claim over Flashpoint Reef (the Scarborough Shoal) in the South China Sea following Philippines’ establishment of defined sea boundaries.
About the Flashpoint Reef
Flashpoint Reef generally refers to Scarborough Shoal (part of the
Spratly Islands), a contested reef in the South China Sea.
Known as Huangyan Dao in China, this reef has become a focal point of territorial disputes between China and the Philippines.
Flashpoint Reef lies close to the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ); which asserts control over the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line claim.
China took control of the shoal in 2012 after a standoff with the Philippines, despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 that invalidated China’s claims.
Do you know?
Fiery Cross Reef is a rock located in the Spratly Islands. China first took possession of the feature in 1988.
Mischief Reef is a Low-Tide Elevation (LTE) within the Philippines’ EEZ. It is part of the submerged continental shelf of the adjacent coastal state, which is the Philippines.
PYQ:
[2018] Consider the following pairs:
Regions sometimes Country mentioned in news
Catalonia — Spain
Crimea — Hungary
Mindanao — Philippines
Oromia — Nigeria
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
The Indian Navy conducted the 3rd edition of MAHASAGAR Initiative, a high-level virtual interaction led by the Chief of Naval Staff.
Theme: “Training Cooperation to Mitigate Common Maritime Security Challenges in IOR,” emphasizing the importance of training cooperation to address shared maritime challenges.
About MAHASAGAR Initiative:
Details
About
MAHASAGAR stands for “Maritime Heads for Active (MAHA) Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)”
SAGAR Doctrine was culminated out of PM’s vision in 2015.
Launched by Indian Navy in 2023 as part of India’s commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation.
Held bi-annually.
Aims
Training Cooperation: Collaborative training efforts among IOR nations.
Capacity Building: Developing skilled manpower to address maritime security challenges.
Members
Countries bordering the Indian Ocean, include Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Chief of Naval Staff of India leads the interactions.
Heads of Navies, Maritime Agencies, and Senior Leadership from each participating country.
PYQ:
[2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):
1. 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 statements given above is/are correct?
Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations. (UPSC CSE 2016)
Q) With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which join the Indus direct. Among the following, which one is such river that joins the Indus direct? (UPSC CSE 2021)
a) Chenab b) Jhelum c) Ravi d) Sutlej
Mentor’s Comment: The Indus Water Treaty was signed in 1960 after extensive negotiations facilitated by the World Bank. It has successfully governed water sharing between India and Pakistan for over six decades, surviving numerous conflicts between the two nations.
The IWT has survived multiple conflicts between India and Pakistan, including three wars and ongoing military tensions. Pakistan has consistently raised objections to hydropower projects initiated by India, particularly the Kishanganga and Ratle river developments, claiming they violate the treaty’s provisions.
However, recent tensions have prompted India to reconsider its obligations under this long-standing agreement. Today’s editorial discusses several critical aspects related to India’s recent formal notice to Pakistan regarding the treaty.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Indian Government has issued a formal notice to Pakistan requesting modifications to the Indus Water Treaty, citing “fundamental and unforeseen changes“.
Overview of the IWT and Recent Developments:
The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, governs the allocation and management of water resources from the Indus River system. This treaty allows India unrestricted use of the eastern rivers (Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi) while allocating the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab) primarily to Pakistan. However, recent tensions have prompted India to formally request modifications to the treaty, raising significant geopolitical implications.
What prompted India to seek modifications to the Indus Waters Treaty?
Demographic Changes: Increasing population pressures necessitate greater water resource management.
Environmental Issues: The need for sustainable practices and clean energy development to meet emission targets.
Security Concerns: The impact of persistent cross-border terrorism on water management and treaty implementation.
Disputes over Hydropower Projects: Tensions have arisen over India’s hydroelectric projects on rivers like Kishanganga and Ratle, which Pakistan claims violate the treaty. India believes these projects comply with the agreement.
Perceived Imbalance: India feels the treaty disproportionately favors Pakistan, which receives about 80% of the Indus river system’s water, while India manages only 20%. This perceived imbalance has led to calls for a fairer distribution of resources.
How does the proposed modification process work under the treaty?
India has issued a formal notice to Pakistan that requires a reassessment of the treaty’s obligations as follows:
According to Article XII (3), any modifications to the treaty must be made through a duly ratified treaty concluded between the two governments.
Once a formal notice is issued, Pakistan has a specified period (typically three months) to respond to the request for renegotiation. The outcome of this response will determine the next steps in the modification process.
If Pakistan agrees to negotiate, both countries will enter discussions aimed at revising the treaty. This process is expected to address various concerns raised by India, including demographic changes, environmental issues, and security threats.
If Pakistan does not accept India’s proposal for modification, India retains the option to call for the termination of the treaty, although this would likely escalate tensions further.
The IWT also includes a graded Dispute Resolution Mechanism, which operates at three levels:
Level 1: Initial discussions occur at the level of the Permanent Indus Commission (PIC), where both parties can clarify any questions regarding planned projects. Level 2: If differences remain unresolved, they escalate to involve a Neutral Expert, who provides technical advice. Level 3: Finally, if disputes persist, they can be taken to a Court of Arbitration for binding resolution.
What implications could this modification have for India-Pakistan relations?
Diplomatic Strain and Increased Tensions: Pakistan may view India’s request as a threat to its water rights, leading to escalated tensions and potential conflicts over water resources.
The process of negotiating modifications could be challenging due to historical mistrust, making it hard for both countries to reach a consensus.
Water Scarcity Concerns: Modifying the treaty could either improve or worsen water security for both nations. Pakistan, which relies heavily on the Indus system, may feel particularly vulnerable, increasing the risk of conflict.
Geopolitical Ramifications: Changes to the treaty might destabilize the region, potentially leading to increased militarization or conflict, especially given both countries’ nuclear capabilities.
International Involvement: The World Bank and other international bodies may need to intervene if negotiations fail, complicating the situation and potentially drawing in other regional powers.
Way Forward: India’s request for modifications to the Indus Waters Treaty signals a significant shift in its approach to water resource management with Pakistan. As both countries face mounting pressures from changing demographics, environmental challenges, and security concerns, the future of this treaty may hinge on their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiate terms that reflect current realities.
Ten years ago, India became the first country to legally mandate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The section 135 of the Companies Act 2013 establishes the rules governing CSR.
According to the National CSR Portal, ₹1.84 lakh crore in CSR funds was disbursed between 2014 and 2023.
About CSR:
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a business practice where companies contribute to social, economic, and environmental betterment, addressing societal needs alongside their profit-making objectives.
In India, the minimum percentage of a company’s net profit that must be spent on corporate social responsibility (CSR) is 2%.
Sectoral division of CSR:
Education: Receives the highest CSR share (33%-40%) for building schools, scholarships, infrastructure, and vocational training.
Health Care: Allocates 20%-30% of CSR funds to hospitals, health camps, sanitation, and disease prevention.
Environmental Sustainability: Accounts for 5%-10% of CSR funds, with projects in biodiversity conservation, waste management, and renewable energy.
CSR’s Role in Agriculture
Claims 10%-15% of CSR funds, targeting infrastructure, agricultural practices, and livelihood support.
Since the enactment of the Companies Act in 2013, which mandates CSR spending, a total of Rs 1.84 lakh crore has been disbursed in CSR funds from 2014 to 2023.
These funds have increasingly targeted sustainability initiatives within agriculture, with 23% of surveyed companies prioritizing “environment and sustainability” in their CSR activities.
Over 90.8% of farmers involved in CSR programs reported improvements in income or risk reduction due to these initiatives.
How much of an impact does Agriculture have on India’s GDP?
Agriculture contributes approximately 15% to 18.2% of India’s GDP, reflecting a decline from 35% in 1990-91 due to rapid growth in the industrial andservice sectors. The average annual growth rate of the agricultural sector has been around 4% over the last five years. (acc to pib data)
Agriculture remains crucial for employment, providing livelihoods for about 42% of the population, which is significantly higher than the global average of 25%.
What are the key requirements to improve agricultural sustainability?
Investment in Infrastructure: There is a pressing need for capital investment in infrastructure development, including irrigation systems, cold storage, and transportation networks to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access.
Technological Advancements: Adoption of modern agricultural practices and technologies is essential. This includes better seed varieties, efficient irrigation methods, and sustainable farming techniques to enhance productivity.
Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: Projects focusing on water conservation, energy-efficient irrigation, and agroforestry are critical for maintaining ecological balance while improving agricultural output.
What hinders CSR’s potential for agriculture?
Lack of Clear Reporting Mechanisms: One of the main obstacles is the absence of robust frameworks to track and categorize CSR funding specifically directed towards agricultural initiatives. Current reporting practices do not emphasize agriculture-related CSR activities adequately.
Diverse Allocation Categories: CSR activities can fall under multiple categories (e.g., gender equality, and environmental sustainability), making it difficult to isolate funds specifically aimed at agricultural sustainability. This lack of specificity hampers effective monitoring and impact assessment.
Need for Distinct Sector Identification: To maximize CSR contributions to agriculture, it is crucial to identify agriculture as a distinct sector within CSR activities. This would streamline funding processes and enhance transparency and accountability in how funds are utilized for agricultural development.
Way forward:
Establish Agriculture as a Separate CSR Category: Need to create a distinct sector for agriculture in CSR reporting to streamline funding, improve transparency, and enable targeted monitoring of agriculture-focused initiatives.
Implement Comprehensive Reporting Frameworks: The government should develop robust mechanisms for tracking CSR funds specifically allocated to agricultural projects, ensuring clear categorization and facilitating better impact assessments.
Mains PYQ:
Q With a consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Companies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the challenges expected in its implementation in right earnest. Also discuss other provisions in the Bill and their implications. (UPSC IAS/2013)
