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Distribution: yearly

  • Quad meet launches maritime and health initiatives

    Why in the News?

    The recent summit of the Quad leaders resulted in several significant initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation among the member countries—India, the United States, Australia, and Japan.

    What are the initiatives taken by QUAD?

    • Quad Cancer Moonshot: This initiative focuses on combating cervical cancer, with India committing $10 million for screening efforts. The Serum Institute of India and Gavi aim to provide up to 40 million vaccines for the region, pending regulatory approvals.
    • Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission: Scheduled for 2025, this mission aims to enhance interoperability and maritime safety among Quad nations.
    • Logistics Network Pilot Project: This project will facilitate the sharing of airlift capacity among Quad countries to support disaster response efforts across the region.
    • Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI): This initiative focuses on training Quad partners to monitor and secure their waters, enforce laws, and deter unlawful behavior. India is set to host the first MAITRI workshop in 2025.
    • Maritime Legal Dialogue: A new dialogue has been launched to uphold a rules-based order in maritime operations, condemning aggressive actions, particularly those related to China.

    What is MAITRI? 

    • MAITRI, or Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific, is a program designed to enhance the maritime capabilities of Quad partners.

    Its implications include:

    • Capacity Building: By training personnel from partner nations, MAITRI aims to improve their ability to monitor and secure their maritime territories effectively.
    • Enhanced Cooperation: The initiative fosters closer collaboration among Quad countries in maritime security, which is crucial given rising tensions in regions like the South China Sea.
    • Regional Stability: By equipping nations with better tools and knowledge to enforce maritime laws and deter unlawful activities, MAITRI contributes to greater stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    What is the effectiveness of QUAD in recent times?

    • Condemnation of Aggression: The Quad has taken a strong stance against aggression in the East and South China Seas, signaling unity among member states regarding regional security concerns.
    • Support for Ukraine: The leaders expressed deep concern over the war in Ukraine and reiterated their commitment to international law, showcasing a collective approach to global issues beyond regional security.
    • Expanded Fellowship Programs: The Quad fellowship program has been expanded to include additional scholarships for STEM education, reflecting a commitment to educational collaboration and capacity building in science and technology.
    • Focus on Health Initiatives: The launch of the Quad Cancer Moonshot demonstrates a proactive approach towards public health challenges, particularly in addressing cervical cancer through international cooperation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Maritime Security Collaboration: Quad nations should deepen cooperation through initiatives like MAITRI and the Quad-at-Sea mission to enhance maritime security, law enforcement, and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring stability amidst regional tensions.
    • Expand Multilateral Health and Development Programs: Building on the success of initiatives like the Quad Cancer Moonshot, the Quad should further invest in collaborative healthcare, disaster response, and capacity-building projects to address pressing global challenges and strengthen resilience across member states.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • Assam records 86% drop in Rhino Poaching since 2016

    Why in the News?

    Kaziranga National Park and other protected habitats of the one-horned rhinoceros in Assam have witnessed an 86% drop in poaching since 2016.

    Reduction in Rhino Poaching

    • From 2000 to 2021, poachers killed 190 rhinos in Assam, with a significant drop occurring after 2016.
    • The announcement was made in a statement marking the celebration of World Rhino Day (22nd September).

    About Project Rhino:

    Details
    Launch Year 2005 (Indian Rhino Vision, 2020)
    Objective To achieve a wild population of at least 3,000 Greater One-Horned Rhinos spread over seven protected areas in Assam by 2020.
    Habitat Terai floodplains of India and Nepal; currently found in Assam, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
    Partners • Assam Forest Department
    • Bodoland Territorial Council
    • World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
    • International Rhino Foundation (IRF)
    • US Fish & Wildlife Service
    Key Actions • Translocation of rhinos from Kaziranga and Pobitora to other protected areas (like Manas National Park) to reduce overcrowding.
    • Improving protection and security against poaching.
    Population Growth • From 2008 to 2012, 18 rhinos were translocated to Manas National Park.
    • By 2020, 14 calves were born in Manas after translocation.
    Conservation Status • IUCN Status: Vulnerable
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
    Significance
    • Project has helped distribute the rhino population across multiple protected areas, making them less vulnerable to poaching and ensuring a stable and sustainable population.
    • The population has increased from around 200 in the 1990s to approximately 2,900 today.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only.
    2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.
    3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • India, USA signed pact to set up Semiconductor Pact for National Security

    Why in the News?

    India and the US have entered into an agreement to establish a semiconductor fabrication plant aimed at producing chips for national security, next-generation telecommunications, and green energy applications.

    Key Features of the Semiconductor Fabrication Plant

    • The semiconductor fab will focus on advanced sensing, communication, and power electronics.
    • The India Semiconductor Mission will support the project and involves a strategic partnership between Bharat Semi, 3rdiTech, and the US Space Force.
    • The plant will manufacture infrared, gallium nitride, and silicon carbide semiconductors, critical components for national security and commercial sectors.

    Shakti Partnership

    • The fab, titled “Shakti” (meaning power), is the first-ever technology partnership between Indian businesses and the US Space Force, and the first of its kind in the Quad, a strategic forum comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia.
    • The project will focus on three key areas essential for modern warfare:
    1. Advanced sensing
    2. Advanced communications
    3. High-voltage power electronics
    • These areas also have significant applications in commercial sectors such as railways, telecom infrastructure, data centers, and green energy.

     

    About India’s Semiconductor Mission (ISM):

    Details
    Launch Year 2021
    Financial Outlay ₹76,000 crore under the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)
    Objective • Develop a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem in India
    • Reduce reliance on imports
    • Position India as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing
    Core Focus Financial support for investments in:
    – Semiconductor fabs
    – Display fabs
    – Semiconductor design
    – Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP) facilities
    Components of ISM
    Scheme for Semiconductor Fabs • Provides fiscal support for setting up semiconductor wafer fabrication (fabs) facilities
    • Aims to attract large investments for semiconductor fabs in India
    Scheme for Display Fabs • Offers fiscal support for setting up TFT LCD/AMOLED display fabs
    • Encourages investments in display fabrication technologies
    Scheme for Compound Semiconductors • Provides 30% capital expenditure support for setting up Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, Sensors, and ATMP/OSAT facilities
    Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme • Offers financial incentives and design infrastructure support for semiconductor design

     

    Significance of Next-Generation Telecom

    • Next-gen telecom (5G and beyond) will revolutionize industries with high-speed internet, IoT, AI, and smart infrastructure.
    • It is crucial for national security, economic competitiveness, and advancing green energy and sustainable development.
    • India’s adoption of 5G will drive innovation across sectors, promoting technological self-reliance and global leadership in telecommunications.

  • Global Cybersecurity Index, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • India has achieved Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
      • With a score of 98.49 out of 100, India is now among the top nations demonstrating role-model cybersecurity practices.

    About Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI):

    Details
    Launch  2015, by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

    About ITU

    • Founded on 17 May 1865 as the International Telegraph Union
    • Presently has 193 member states, with South Sudan joining most recently in 2011
    • India became a member in 1869
    Objective • Measures the commitment of countries to cybersecurity based on five pillars.
    • Helps identify areas for improvement and encourages capacity and capability building.
    Five Pillars • Legal: Laws and regulations on cybercrime and cybersecurity
    • Technical: Implementation of technical capabilities via national and sector-specific agencies
    • Organizational: National strategies and organizations implementing cybersecurity
    • Capacity Development: Awareness, training, education, and incentives for cybersecurity
    • Cooperation: Partnerships between agencies, firms, and countries
    Strengths and Weaknesses • Most countries are strongest in the Legal pillar.
    • The Capacity Development and Technical pillars are where most countries are weakest.
    GCI 2024 Five-Tier Analysis • Tier 1 (Role-modelling): Score of 95-100
    • Tier 2 (Advancing): Score of 85-95
    • Tier 3 (Establishing): Score of 55-85
    • Tier 4 (Evolving):

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1. Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer

    2. Cost of a new computer if some miscreant willfully damages it, if proved so.

    3. Cost of hiring a specialized consultant to minimize the loss in case of cyber extortion

    4. Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third-party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

  • Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

    Why in the News?

    In 2019, MRSA caused over 100,000 deaths, and although vancomycin has been the main treatment for 40 years, a new study shows it may not stay effective for long.

    About Vancomycin

    • Vancomycin is an antibiotic that has been a cornerstone in the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections for over 40 years.
    • It is a glycopeptide antibiotic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, making it particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria like MRSA.
    • It has remained effective against MRSA due to its ability to target bacteria that have become resistant to other antibiotics like methicillin.
    • For decades, vancomycin has been the first-line treatment for severe MRSA infections, such as those affecting the bloodstream, heart, bones, and lungs.

    How Vancomycin is losing its effectiveness against MRSA?

    MRSA rarely develops resistance to vancomycin, but when it does, it leads to the emergence of vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA).

    • Resistance Mechanism: When S. aureus acquires the vanA operon, a gene cluster responsible for vancomycin resistance, it can resist the antibiotic. However, this resistance usually comes with a fitness cost—the bacteria tend to grow slower, making them less virulent.
    • Fitness Compensation: Recent research shows that S. aureus can evolve to overcome this fitness cost, allowing VRSA to grow faster and remain resistant even in the absence of vancomycin. This adaptation means the bacteria are less likely to lose their resistance and can spread more easily.
    • Mutations: The study found that additional mutations in the VRSA strains exposed to vancomycin helped the bacteria adapt and maintain resistance. These mutations made the bacteria more fit, ensuring they could thrive even in the presence of vancomycin.
    • Diminishing Options: As VRSA continues to adapt, vancomycin may no longer be reliable for treating MRSA infections. This raises concerns about the long-term viability of the antibiotic, prompting the need for new treatment strategies.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.

  • Wide-ranging reforms undertaken in food-processing sector in last 10 years

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Thursday that over the past decade, India has implemented “comprehensive” reforms to revolutionize the food-processing sector.

    What are the steps taken by Govt in food processing industry in India?

    • Priority Sector Lending: In April 2015, food and agro-based processing units were included as agricultural activities under the Priority Sector Lending norms, facilitating easier access to credit for these businesses.
    • FDI Policies: The government allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under the automatic route for the food processing sector, encouraging foreign investment and technological transfer.
    • Special Food Processing Fund: A fund of ₹2,000 crore was established with NABARD to support food processing projects and infrastructure development.
    • Regulatory Reforms: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) shifted from product-by-product approvals to an ingredient-based approval process in 2016, simplifying compliance for businesses.
    • Infrastructure Development: Initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) aim to create a robust infrastructure for food processing through cold storage facilities, processing units, and logistics support.

    Status of food processing industries in India

    • Economic Contribution: The sector accounts for approximately 13% of India’s total exports and 6% of industrial investment. It is expected to generate around 9 million jobs by 2024.
    • Growth Rate: The industry has been growing at an average annual rate of about 11.18% over recent years, indicating significant potential for expansion.
    • Market Share: Despite being one of the largest producers of agricultural commodities, India’s food processing sector represents only about 10% of total food production.

    What are the still challenges present in food processing industry in India? 

    • Inadequate Infrastructure: A lack of cold storage and transportation facilities leads to over 30% post-harvest losses.
    • Fragmented Supply Chains: The supply chain is highly fragmented, causing inefficiencies and increased costs due to poor connectivity and coordination among stakeholders.
    • Regulatory Complexities: The industry is burdened by a complex web of regulations that can hinder business operations and compliance efforts.
    • Lack of Skilled Labor: There is a significant shortage of skilled professionals in areas such as food technology and quality control, which hampers innovation and adherence to safety standards.
    • Limited Technology Adoption: Many processors still rely on outdated technologies, which affects productivity and product quality. High costs and lack of technical expertise further inhibit technological advancements.

    What should be done by Govt to resolve these challenges? (Way forward)

    • Infrastructure Investment: Increase investments in cold chain logistics and transportation infrastructure to minimize post-harvest losses and improve supply chain efficiency.
    • Financial Support Mechanisms: Facilitate easier access to finance through specialized loans for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the food processing sector.
    • Skill Development Programs: Enhance vocational training initiatives focused on food technology and safety management.
    • Regulatory Simplification: Streamline existing regulations to reduce bureaucratic hurdles. A unified regulatory framework could help clarify compliance requirements and foster a more conducive environment for business operations.
    • Promote R&D Investment: Encourage investment in research and development to foster innovation within the sector.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Elaborate the policy taken by the Government of India to meet the challenges of the food processing sector. (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • Cabinet approves continuation of PM-AASHA to provide better prices to farmers

    Why in the News?

    The government has approved the extension of the PM-AASHA scheme, allocating ₹35,000 crore, to ensure farmers receive better prices for their produce and to regulate price fluctuations of essential commodities for consumers.

    What is PM-AASHA?

    Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) is an umbrella scheme launched by the Government of India in September 2018, aimed at ensuring remunerative prices for farmers’ produce. It integrates various existing schemes to provide a comprehensive approach to price support, including:

    • Price Support Scheme (PSS): Physical procurement of specific crops by central agencies.
    • Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS): Direct payments to farmers for the difference between the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and market prices.
    • Pilot of Private Procurement & Stockist Scheme (PPPS): Involvement of private players in crop procurement.

    The scheme has been extended until 2025-26 with a financial outlay of ₹35,000 crore to enhance its effectiveness and reach.

    What are the implications of PM-AASHA?

    • Income Security: By ensuring MSP, PM-AASHA aims to stabilize farmers’ incomes and protect them from price fluctuations in the market.
    • Increased Production: The assurance of remunerative prices is expected to encourage farmers to increase production, particularly in pulses and oilseeds, which have historically been underproduced.
    • Market Stability: The scheme helps regulate prices of essential commodities, making them affordable for consumers while ensuring fair compensation for producers.
    • Strengthened Procurement Mechanism: The integration of various schemes under PM-AASHA enhances the overall procurement process, making it more efficient and transparent.

    What are the issues related to MSP?

    • Limited Coverage: MSP is primarily applicable to a few crops like wheat and rice, leaving many farmers without guaranteed prices for their produce.
    • Inefficient Procurement Infrastructure: The existing infrastructure for procurement is inadequate, leading to delays and inefficiencies that affect farmers’ ability to sell their produce at MSP.
    • Lack of Awareness: Many farmers are unaware of their rights regarding MSP or how to access these benefits effectively.
    • Regional Disparities: There are significant regional disparities in the implementation of MSP. States like Punjab and Haryana benefit more from MSP due to better procurement systems, while farmers in other states may struggle to access these benefits.
    • Market Distortions: The MSP system leads to market distortions, encouraging overproduction of certain crops while neglecting others.

    What should be done to resolve the issues related to MSP?

    • Expand MSP Coverage: The government should consider extending MSP to a wider range of crops, particularly those that are crucial for food security and farmer livelihoods.
    • Enhance Procurement Infrastructure: Investments should be made in developing better procurement facilities, including storage and transportation systems, especially in rural areas.
    • Increase Awareness Campaigns: Implementing educational programs for farmers about their rights regarding MSP and how they can benefit from it would empower them significantly.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue the farmers from the low income trap?  (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • Bombay HC strikes down amended IT rules

    Why in the News?

    The Bombay High Court on Friday struck down the amended IT Rules, 2023, which allowed the Centre to establish a fact-check unit for monitoring government-related misinformation.

    Background of the Case

    • In April 2023, the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MEiTY) amended the Information Technology (IT) Rules, 2021, to establish a Fact Check Unit (FCU) aimed at identifying “fake, false, and misleading” information about the Central government on social media platforms.

    Reason Behind the Strike Down

    • Violation of Fundamental Right: Justice Chandurkar struck down the amended IT Rules 2023 on grounds that they violated Articles 14 (right to equality), 19 (freedom of speech and expression), and 19(1)(g) (freedom to practice any profession) of the Constitution.
    • Lack of clear defination: The terms “fake, false and misleading” were deemed vague due to the absence of clear definitions, leading to potential misuse and a chilling effect on intermediaries’ operations.
      • The ruling emphasized that the lack of clarity in the rules could lead to arbitrary censorship by the government, undermining democratic principles.

    What are the IT Rules 2023?

    • The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023 empower the government to mandate social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to remove content deemed “fake, false or misleading” regarding government affairs.
    • The Fact Check Unit (FCU) was designated as the authority to identify such content. If intermediaries failed to comply with its directives, they risked losing their safe harbour status under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000.

    The implications of FCU: 

    • Potential censorship of political discourse and criticism.
    • Increased pressure on social media platforms to comply with government directives.
    • A risk of undermining independent journalism and fact-checking efforts by civil society organizations.

    Way forward: 

    • Clear Definitions and Safeguards: Introduce precise definitions for terms like “fake, false, and misleading” and establish an independent oversight mechanism to prevent arbitrary censorship, ensuring the protection of free speech and democratic values.
    • Strengthen Accountability: Encourage collaboration between the government, civil society, and tech platforms to create transparent and accountable fact-checking processes while protecting intermediaries’ safe harbour status and upholding freedom of expression.

  • Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has dismissed the curative petitions filed by major telecom service providers, seeking relief from the 2019 judgment regarding Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues.

    What is Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)?

    • AGR is the usage and licensing fee that telecom operators are charged by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
    • It forms the basis for calculating telecom companies’ dues to the government, including the license fee and spectrum usage charges (SUC).
    • The AGR is divided into:
    1. Spectrum Usage Charges (SUC): These are pegged at 3-5% of AGR, depending on the telecom company’s spectrum holdings.
    2. License Fees: Telecom operators are required to pay 8% of their AGR as a license fee to the government.

    Contention over AGR Calculation

    • The DoT maintains that AGR should include all revenues earned by telecom companies, including non-telecom sources such as deposit interest, asset sales, and dividends.
    • Telecom operators, on the other hand, insist that AGR should only include revenues generated from core telecom services, excluding income from non-telecom sources like interest and capital gains.

    Legal Disputes on AGR

    1. Beginning of the Dispute (2005): The AGR saga began in 2005 when the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) challenged the government’s definition of AGR in court. The dispute centered on whether non-telecom revenue should be included in the AGR calculation.
    2. TDSAT Ruling (2015): In 2015, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) ruled in favor of telecom companies. TDSAT held that AGR should include only revenue from core telecom activities and exclude non-core sources such as rent, profit from the sale of assets, dividends, and interest income.
    3. Supreme Court Ruling (2019): Setting aside the TDSAT decision, the SC upheld the DoT’s definition of AGR on October 24, 2019, declaring that AGR must include all revenue sources, including non-telecom activities like interest and capital gains. This ruling significantly increased the financial liabilities of telecom companies, as they had to pay outstanding dues.

    Financial Impact of the AGR Ruling

    The Supreme Court ruling had serious financial implications for telecom companies:

    • Massive Liabilities: Telecom companies, especially Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel, faced huge financial liabilities. The ruling resulted in unpaid dues amounting to over ₹1.4 lakh crore, which included penalties and interest.
    • Vodafone Idea’s Crisis: Vodafone Idea, in particular, was hit hard by these liabilities and faced potential insolvency, with its future in the Indian telecom sector hanging in the balance.
    • Sector Consolidation: The financial pressure from the AGR liabilities led to the consolidation of the telecom sector, with smaller players exiting the market.

    PYQ:

    [2019] In India, which of the following review the Independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.?

    1. Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament
    2. Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees
    3. Finance Commission
    4. Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission
    5. NITI Aayog

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 1, 3 and 4

    (c) 3, 4 and 5

    (d) 2 and 5

  • Bio-RIDE Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the “Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) scheme” to support cutting-edge research and development in biotechnology.

    About Bio-RIDE Scheme

    Details
    Objective To support cutting-edge research, bio-entrepreneurship, and bio-manufacturing in biotechnology.
    Total Outlay ₹9,197 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26).
    Components
    • Merges Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D) and Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED).
    • Introduces Bio-manufacturing and Bio-foundry as new components.
    Key Aims
    • Fostering Innovation: Promote bio-entrepreneurship and strengthen India’s position in biotechnology.
    • Bridging Gaps: Accelerate research and product development.
    Implementation Focus
    • Promoting Bio-Entrepreneurship: Seed funding, incubation, mentorship for startups.
    • Advancing Innovation: Grants for research in synthetic biology, bio-pharma, and bio-plastics.
    Focus Areas
    • Extramural Funding for research in agriculture, healthcare, bioenergy, and environmental sustainability.
    • Nurturing human resources in biotechnology.
    Industry-Academia Collaboration Synergies between academic institutions and industry to accelerate commercialization of bio-based products.
    Significance
    • Enhances bio-innovation and supports sustainable development.
    • Contributes to achieving green goals and global leadership in biotechnology.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the

    (a) Department of Science and Technology

    (b) Ministry of Labour and Employment

    (c) NITI Aayog

    (d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship