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GS Paper: GS3-13.Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc:

  • [4th February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Some wind behind the sails of India’s shipping industry

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC CSE 2017)

    Q) The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous co-ordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2022)

     

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Sustainable Development (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2022), and Budget Initiatives (2017 and 2021).

    Currently, India holds only about 0.05% of the global market share in shipbuilding, significantly lower than competitors like China (47%), South Korea (30%), and Japan (17%). This disparity highlights that without addressing inefficiencies in container movement and logistics integration, infrastructure growth alone will not lead to meaningful progress.

    The editorial discusses the recent positive developments in India’s shipping industry, particularly following the government’s announcements in the Union Budget 2025-26. This content can be used to present challenges in the Maritime Sector.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The Union Budget 2025-26 appears to have met most of the shipping industry’s demands; but it has missed an opportunity to address tax disparities.

     

    What specific government initiatives are being introduced to support the shipping industry?

    • Maritime Development Fund (MDF): This initiative is the establishment of a MDF with an initial corpus of ₹25,000 crore which aims to provide long-term financing for the shipbuilding and maritime sectors, facilitating investment and growth within the industry.
    • Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy: The government has announced a revamp of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) which aims to address cost disadvantages faced by domestic shipyards by providing direct financial subsidies, thereby encouraging local shipbuilding and enhancing competitiveness.
    • Customs Duty Exemptions and Incentives: This Budget extends customs duty exemptions on inputs and components used for manufacturing ships for more than 10 years.
      • Additionally, credit notes will be issued for shipbreaking activities, promoting a circular economy within the industry in order to make shipbuilding and recycling more competitive.
    • Extension of Tonnage Tax Scheme: The benefits of the existing tonnage tax scheme, which previously applied only to sea-going ships, will now be extended to inland vessels registered under the Indian Vessels Act, 2021.
      • This change aims to promote inland water transport and enhance the overall efficiency of the maritime sector.
    • Establishment of Shipbuilding Clusters: The Indian shipping industry has been advocating for the extension of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) for another 10 years under the Amritkaal Maritime Vision 2047.
      • The government plans to facilitate the creation of shipbuilding clusters to increase capacity and capabilities in ship manufacturing.

    How can these initiatives impact India’s position in the global shipping market?

    • Enhanced Global Competitiveness: By establishing the Maritime Development Fund and revamping financial assistance policies, India aims to boost its shipbuilding capabilities and reduce costs associated with ship construction and repair.
      • This could elevate India’s ranking in global shipbuilding from 22nd to potentially within the top 10 by 2030 and top 5 by 2047, thereby increasing its share of global ship tonnage from less than 1% to around 5%.
    • Improved Infrastructure and Efficiency: The government’s focus on port modernization through initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030 is set to enhance port infrastructure, logistics efficiency, and multimodal connectivity.
      • These improvements will reduce turnaround times for vessels and lower logistics costs, making Indian ports more attractive for international shipping lines and increasing cargo handling capacity significantly.
    • Attracting Foreign Investment: With a favorable investment climate that allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in port development, India is positioned to attract significant foreign capital into its shipping sector.
      • This influx of investment can lead to technological advancements, better operational practices, and increased capacity, further solidifying India’s role as a key player in global maritime trade.

    What challenges does the Indian shipping industry face despite these positive developments?

    • High Costs and Financial Constraints: Indian shipyards face significant cost disadvantages compared to global competitors, particularly in terms of higher material and labor costs, as well as expensive financing options.
      • This results in a 25-30% cost disadvantage for Indian shipyards compared to those in countries like China and South Korea.
      • Additionally, the imposition of a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on ship imports, which is not refunded for international operations, further strains financial resources for shipping companies.

    Does the SARFAESI Act impact loan availability?

    • Under Section 31(d) of the SARFAESI Act, banks and financial institutions cannot create a security interest in vessels as defined by the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
    • This limitation means that lenders cannot easily seize and auction ships in case of loan defaults, which reduces their willingness to extend credit to shipowners.
    • The ongoing discussions about amending the SARFAESI Act to include provisions for ships indicate a recognition of these challenges.
    • By allowing banks to hold security interests in vessels, the government can enhance loan availability and create a more favorable environment for financing within the maritime sector.
    • Infrastructure Bottlenecks: Major Indian ports are grappling with issues such as congestion, inefficiency, and inadequate infrastructure to support increasing traffic volumes.
      • The growth in cargo traffic has outpaced the development of port facilities, leading to delays and higher operational costs.
      • For example, backlogs for rail freight have increased significantly, impacting the timely movement of goods.
      • Furthermore, labor strikes and outdated technology contribute to lower productivity at ports, making them less attractive to global shipping lines.
    • Dependence on Foreign Suppliers: Indian shipyards heavily rely on foreign suppliers for critical components and technology, which increases costs and complicates supply chains.
      • This dependency results in longer lead times for procurement and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions.
      • The lack of a robust domestic supply chain for high-tech maritime components further exacerbates these challenges, limiting the competitiveness of Indian shipbuilding firms.

    Way Forward:

    To realize its aspirations under the Amritkaal Maritime Vision 2047, India must prioritize investments in infrastructure, streamline regulatory processes, and foster a skilled workforce.

    • The path forward requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to transform these challenges into opportunities for sustainable development in the maritime sector.
    • Establish a National Port Grid Authority to coordinate development across major and minor ports, promoting specialization and eliminating inter-port competition.
    • Implementing a hub-and-spoke model with mega ports acting as transshipment hubs can optimize cargo movement and efficiency.
    • Deploy Smart Port Infrastructure Management Systems (SPIMS) and introduce blockchain-based Port Community Systems to facilitate paperless and IoT based trade.

  • How will the govt. produce the required fuel ethanol?

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that India will reach its goal of blending 20% ethanol with petrol in the next two months, a year earlier than planned. This will require producing about 1,100 crore litres of ethanol in a year.

    Does India’s ethanol distillery industry have the capacity to produce large ethanol? 

    • Current Production Capacity: India’s ethanol distillery capacity has significantly increased to 1,600 crore litres as of 2024-25, up from 423 crore litres in 2019-20. This expansion has been driven by government incentives and a stable market for ethanol.
    • Projected Production: To meet the target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol, approximately 1,100 crore litres of fuel ethanol will be produced annually, with sugarcane expected to contribute around 400 crore litres this ethanol year.
    • Diverse Feedstocks: Ethanol production is now utilizing not just sugarcane but also high-grade molasses, broken rice, and maize, indicating a shift towards a more diversified feedstock strategy.
    • Government Support: The Indian government has implemented various measures to boost ethanol production, including reducing the Goods & Services Tax on ethanol and encouraging the establishment of grain-based distilleries.

    Why have maize imports increased substantially in the past year?

    • Rising Demand for Ethanol: The increase in maize imports can be attributed to the government’s restrictions on using sugar and high-quality molasses for ethanol production, leading to a greater reliance on maize as an alternative feedstock for ethanol.
    • Import Figures: From April to June 2024, approximately ₹100 crore worth of maize was imported. For the fiscal year 2023-24, maize imports reached about $33 million, with total imports from April to November 2024 valued at $188 million.
    • Impact on Domestic Production: As farmers shift towards maize cultivation due to its lucrative potential for ethanol production, maize output is projected to reach around 42 million tonnes for the 2024-25 ethanol year, with an estimated 9 million tonnes available for ethanol production.
    • Market Adjustments: The growth in maize cultivation is expected to continue without necessitating further imports due to favourable conditions for Kharif crops this year. Farmers are increasingly diverting maize from traditional uses to meet the demands of the ethanol market.

    What are the significance of the ethanol distillery industry?

    • Energy Security and Reduced Import Dependence: The ethanol distillery industry plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s energy security by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. By blending ethanol with petrol, India aims to substitute a significant portion of its crude oil imports, which account for over 87% of its needs.
    • Environmental Benefits: Ethanol production and blending contribute to significant reductions in carbon emissions and urban air pollution. Ethanol’s chemical properties allow for more complete combustion, which lowers harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter.
    • Economic Growth and Rural Development: The ethanol industry stimulates economic growth by providing additional income streams for farmers through the cultivation of sugarcane, maize, and other biofuel crops. This has led to increased investments in distilleries and agro-processing industries, creating jobs and revitalizing rural economies.
      • The government’s initiatives, such as the PM-JI-VAN Yojana, further incentivize ethanol production, ensuring stable farmer incomes and promoting diversification in agricultural practices.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhancing Domestic Maize Production: Strengthen R&D in high-yield maize varieties, improve irrigation infrastructure, and provide financial incentives to farmers to ensure a stable domestic supply for ethanol production, reducing import dependency.
    • Sustainable Feedstock Diversification: Promote second-generation (2G) biofuels using agricultural waste and non-food biomass to minimize food security concerns while maintaining ethanol production growth.

    PYQ:

    Q With reference to the usefulness of the by-products of sugar industry, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC IAS/2022)

    1. Bagasse can be used as biomass fuel for the generation of energy.
    2. Molasses can be used as one of the feed stocks for the production of synthetic chemical fertilizers.
    3. Molasses can be used for the production of ethanol.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Cabinet approves Mechanism for procurement of ethanol by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) under EBP Programme

    Why in the News?

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved a revision in the ethanol procurement price for Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024-25.

    What is the significance of the Price Revision?

    The recent revision of the ethanol procurement price for Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) is significant for several reasons:

    • Price Stability and Remuneration: The increase from ₹56.58 to ₹57.97 per litre ensures price stability and provides a more remunerative rate for ethanol suppliers, which is crucial for maintaining a steady supply of ethanol.
    • Support for Sugarcane Farmers: The separate payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and transportation charges will benefit sugarcane farmers, enhancing their income and encouraging production.
    • Meeting Blending Targets: The 3% increase in the price is aimed at ensuring adequate availability of ethanol to meet the ambitious blending target of 20% by 2025-26, advancing from the original target of 2030.
    • Reducing Crude Oil Dependency: This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce India’s dependency on crude oil imports, leading to substantial foreign exchange savings and environmental benefits.

    What is Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP)?

    The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is a government initiative aimed at promoting the blending of ethanol with petrol to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel option.

    • OMCs are currently blending up to 20% ethanol with petrol, which helps reduce reliance on imported crude oil and lowers carbon emissions.
    • Ethanol blending has dramatically increased from 38 crore litres in the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2013-14 to 707 crore litres in ESY 2023-24, achieving an average blending rate of 14.60%.
    • The programme has resulted in estimated savings of over ₹1,13,007 crore in foreign exchange and has substituted approximately 193 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil over the past decade.

    What are other initiatives taken to promote biofuels?

    • National Policy on Biofuels (2018): This policy aims to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development by encouraging the production and use of biofuels from various feedstocks such as sugarcane, broken rice, and maise.
    • Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana: This initiative focuses on accelerating the development of second-generation (2G) ethanol capacity in India, providing viability gap funding to support the establishment of 2G ethanol projects.
    • Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA): Launched in September 2023, this alliance aims to accelerate the global adoption of cleaner fuels and support decarbonization goals. It involves collaboration with multiple countries to enhance biofuel deployment.
    • Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) Initiative: Launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in 2018, this initiative aims to convert used cooking oil into biofuel, thereby preventing its reuse in food preparation and promoting sustainability.
    • Biodiesel Production Targets: India has set a biodiesel blending target of 5% by 2030. The government is mobilizing production through policies that support feedstock availability, including used cooking oil and non-edible industrial oils.
    • Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Initiatives: The National Biofuel Coordination Committee has established targets for blending SAF in domestic flights, aiming for 1% by 2025 and 5% by 2030.
    • Ethanol Blending Advancements: The target for ethanol blending has been advanced from 2030 to 2025, with plans to achieve 20% blending. This includes signing long-term off-take agreements with dedicated ethanol plants to ensure a steady supply.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Feedstock Supply Chain: Enhance agricultural productivity and diversify feedstock sources including maize and non-food biomass, to ensure a stable and sustainable ethanol supply.
    • Expand Infrastructure and Investments: Develop ethanol storage, blending, and distribution networks while encouraging private sector participation through financial incentives and policy support.

    Prelims PYQ:

    [2013] With reference to the usefulness of the by-products of the sugar industry, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Bagasse can be used as biomass fuel for the generation of energy.
    2. Molasses can be used as one of the feedstocks for the production of synthetic chemical fertilizers.
    3. Molasses can be used for the production of ethanol.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • IWAI sets up new Regional Office at Varanasi

    Why in the News?

    The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, upgraded its sub-office in Varanasi to a full-fledged Regional Office. This move aims to strengthen the implementation of Inland Water Transport (IWT) activities in National Waterway-1 (NW-1), covering the Ganga River, and other waterways in Uttar Pradesh.

    IWAI’s Regional Expansion:

    • Varanasi becomes IWAI’s 6th regional office, joining those in Guwahati, Patna, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, and Kolkata.
    • Capacity augmentation is also underway for NW-2 (Brahmaputra River), NW-3 (West Coast Canal), and NW-16 (Barak River).

    Important Projects by IWAI: 

    • Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): A World Bank-supported initiative aimed at capacity augmentation of NW-1 through:
    • River conservancy works like bandalling and maintenance dredging.
    • Construction of key infrastructure, including:
      • Multi-Modal Terminals (MMTs): Varanasi, Sahibganj, and Haldia.
      • Inter-Modal Terminal: Kalughat.
      • Navigational Lock: Farakka, West Bengal.
    • Development of 60 community jetties across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal to support local communities like farmers, artisans, and fishermen.

    About Inland Waterways Authority of India

    • Established in 1986 under the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act, 1985.
    • Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
    • Objective: To reduce the underutilization of India’s 14,500 kilometers of navigable waterways, which account for just 2% of the transportation mix.
    • Structural Mandate:
      • Responsible for regulating and developing inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
      • Develops and maintains Inland Water Transport (IWT) infrastructure on national waterways with grants from the Ministry of Shipping.
      • Ensures safe and efficient navigation to integrate waterways into the national transport system.
    • Powers and Functions:
      • Planning and Execution: Implements and maintains navigation and shipping infrastructure projects.
      • National Waterways Management: Oversees 111 national waterways under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
      • Infrastructure Development: Focuses on dredging, terminal construction, and maintaining year-round navigability for vessels.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.

  • Jawaharlal Nehru Port

    Why in the News?

    The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai is on track to become India’s first port to join the ranks of top global ports by handling 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually by 2027.

    About the Jawaharlal Nehru Port

    • JNP is situated in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, covering an area of 200 square kilometers. Its strategic location enables vital trade links with international shipping routes.
    • Key Features:
      • India’s first 100% Landlord Major Port.
      • Operates five container terminals, including BMCT, NSICT, and GTIPL.
      • Customs facilities: 30 container freight stations and connectivity to 52 inland depots.
      • Handles vessels with 9,000 TEUs capacity, soon upgrading to 12,200 TEUs.
      • Processes 200 international ships monthly.
    • Future Developments:
      • Fourth Container Terminal operational by April 2025, adding 4.8 million TEUs capacity.
      • Developing a satellite port at Vadhvan and dry ports at Jalna and Wardha.

    Key Highlights of JNPA’s Expansion

    • In 2024, JNPA handled its highest-ever container volume of 7.05 million TEUs, operating at more than 90% capacity.
    • The port recorded an 11% year-on-year growth compared to the previous year.
    • The second phase of Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal will add 2.4 million TEUs to JNPA’s total capacity.
    • The upgradation of Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal in 2025 will further enhance the port’s capabilities.
    • The total container handling capacity is projected to increase from 7.6 million TEUs to 10.4 million TEUs by 2027.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Chhattisgarh

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Rajasthan

  • How is TRAI and the govt. combating spam?

    Why in the News?

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plans to use blockchain technology (DLT) to track and manage customer preferences for blocking spam, according to its chairman, Anil Kumar Lahoti.

    What is the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?

    • The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) plays a crucial role in regulating Unsolicited Commercial Communications (UCC), commonly referred to as spam. Established under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997.

    What is TRAI’s role in fighting spam?

    • Do-Not-Disturb (DND) Registry: Launched in 2007, the DND registry allows customers to opt out of receiving commercial calls and messages. Users who register are not supposed to receive any spam communications.
    • Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR): Enacted in 2018, this regulation penalizes telemarketers who violate DND preferences. It includes warnings for offenders and potential blacklisting from sending messages if they accumulate enough violations.
    • DND App Development: TRAI collaborated with external agencies to create a DND application that enables users to register their preferences and report complaints. By 2024, it became mandatory for telecom providers to include DND reporting features in their apps.

    What role does blockchain play?

    TRAI has mandated the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to enhance its spam control measures:

    • Immutable Record Keeping: Blockchain technology allows for a constantly updated and tamper-proof list of approved SMS senders and message formats. This ensures that only legitimate messages are sent, as each entry is unalterable by any party involved.
    • Message Traceability: Regulations require that messages be sent using sender IDs instead of phone numbers, enhancing traceability. This measure helps prevent unauthorized entities from sending spam by ensuring that all message origins are recorded.
    • Enhanced Regulations: In 2024, TRAI tightened regulations to ensure complete traceability of messages, addressing previous loopholes that allowed fraudulent registrations on blockchain systems

    What are the other steps taken by the government to end spam?

    • Sanchar Saathi Portal: This portal includes a reporting platform called Chakshu for complaints about fraudulent calls and messages. It collaborates with law enforcement and banks to identify and cancel numbers associated with unauthorised telemarketers.
    • Real-Time Monitoring: The establishment of the Telecom Security Operation Centre enables real-time monitoring of suspicious internet traffic, enhancing the government’s ability to respond promptly to spam-related threats.
    • AI-Based Detection: Telecom companies like Airtel have begun using Artificial Intelligence to label suspicious calls as “Suspected Spam,” a practice that is being adopted by other providers as well.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen International Collaboration: Partner with global VoIP providers and international regulators to curb spam and fraudulent calls originating from abroad, ensuring seamless enforcement across borders.
    • Promote AI and ML Integration: Expand the use of AI/ML technologies for proactive detection and blocking of spam calls and messages, while continuously improving user-friendly reporting mechanisms.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q For achieving the desired objectives,it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences in recent past. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Centre reconstitutes Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Why in the news?

    The Government of India has reconstituted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to include new members, reflecting recent appointments in key administrative positions.

    About the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Details
    About
    • Governing body of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), under the direct charge of the Prime Minister of India.
    • Established on 3 August 1948 under the Department of Scientific Research; reconstituted as “Atomic Energy Commission of India” on 1 March 1954 with enhanced powers and autonomy.
    • First Chairperson: Homi J. Bhabha (1948–1966).
    • Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
    Functions
    • Organize research in atomic science and train atomic scientists within the country.
    • Promote nuclear research through its own laboratories and provide financial assistance to autonomous institutes engaged in nuclear research.
    • Undertake prospecting and extraction of atomic minerals for industrial use.
    • Enabled significant achievements, such as India’s first underground nuclear test at Pokhran, Rajasthan on 18 May 1974.
    Structural Mandate
    • Membership includes a Chairperson, scientists, policymakers, and other experts appointed by the government to guide strategic direction and decision-making.
    • Provides recommendations on nuclear energy policies, oversees India’s nuclear energy program, and ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
    • Collaborates with international organizations for peaceful nuclear energy development and security.

    Operates 6 key research centers:

    1. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai.
    2. Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
    3. Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
    4. Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), Kolkata, West Bengal.
    5. Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad, Telangana.
    6. Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP), Bahadurgarh, Haryana.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.

  • National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) is launched

    Why in the News?

    The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), has introduced the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS), a landmark initiative aimed at ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable navigation along India’s inland waterways.

    About National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS)

    • The NRT&NS aims to modernize and enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of inland water transport.
    • It leverages real-time data and technology to optimize navigation on India’s National Waterways, supporting eco-friendly and cost-effective transport for goods and passengers.
    • Key Features:
      • Real-time monitoring using GPS and GIS for safe vessel navigation.
      • Centralized traffic control centers for efficient operations.
      • Digital platforms for route planning, cargo tracking, and alerts.
      • Integrated infrastructure to streamline operations and reduce delays.
      • Focus on sustainability, economic growth, and capacity building in the inland water transport sector.
    • The system is being deployed across India’s National Waterways, including:
      • NW 1 (River Ganga): Key cargo routes from Haldia to Varanasi.
      • NW 2 (River Brahmaputra): Major transport corridor in the Northeast.
      • NW 3 (West Coast Canal, Champakara Canal, and Udyogmandal Canal), NW 4 (Krishna and Godavari), and NW 5 (Mahanadi rivers and its tributaries): Supporting regional trade and tourism.

    Status of Inland Waterways in India

    • India has a vast network of 14,500 km of navigable waterways, including 111 declared National Waterways (NWs) under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Increase in Operational Waterways: The number of operational NWs has increased by 767% since 2014.
      • Cargo Traffic Growth: Cargo traffic rose from 18 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 133 million tonnes in 2023-24, achieving a CAGR of over 22%.
      • Infrastructure Investments: Investments in NW development increased by 233% post-2014, supported by projects like:
        • Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): Focused on NW 1 (Ganga).
        • Arth Ganga: Empowering local communities through economic activities along NW 1.
      • Tourism Growth: River cruise tourism expanded significantly, with 25 cruise vessels operational in 2023-24, up from 3 in 2013-14.
      • Challenges: Despite this, the share of IWT in India’s overall transport mix remains relatively low compared to global standards.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.

  • Several workers stuck in a coal mine in Assam

    Why in the News?

    Recently nine workers were trapped in an illegal coal mine in Assam’s Dima Hasao district.

    What is Rat Hole Mining?

    • Rat hole mining is a form of illegal mining prevalent in northeastern India, particularly in Assam. It involves creating small tunnels or “rat holes” to extract coal, typically done by hand without proper safety measures or regulations.
    • This method is dangerous due to its unregulated nature, leading to frequent accidents, including flooding and collapses.
    • The mines are often poorly ventilated and can be highly unstable.

    What are the Current Laws and Regulations Related to Mining in India?

    • Constitutional Provisions: Mining and minerals are listed under both the Union List and State List in Schedule VII of the Constitution, granting regulatory powers to both the Central and State governments.
    • Key Legislations: Major laws governing mining include the MMDR Act, 1957 for regulation and development, the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 for coal management, the Environment Protection Act, 1986 for environmental clearances, and the Mines Act, 1952 for miners’ safety and welfare.
    • Regulatory Bodies: The Ministry of Coal formulates coal policies, the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) enforces safety standards, and State Mining Departments manage state-level operations.
    • Supreme Court Directives: The Supreme Court banned rat-hole mining in Meghalaya in 2014, emphasizing the need for environmental clearances and the adoption of scientific and sustainable mining practices.

    What are the present Issues with Rat-Hole Mining?

    • Safety Concerns: The lack of safety measures in rat hole mining poses significant risks to miners. Accidents are common, as evidenced by the recent tragedy in Assam where miners were trapped due to flooding caused by inadequate infrastructure.
    • Environmental Impact: Rat hole mining contributes to severe environmental degradation, including deforestation and soil erosion. The unregulated extraction of minerals disrupts local ecosystems.
    • Regulatory Failures: There are systemic failures in enforcing mining laws. Opposition parties have criticized the government for allowing illegal mining activities to flourish, suggesting collusion between officials and miners. This has raised questions about accountability and governance in the region.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Enforcement and Regulation: Ensure strict implementation of existing mining laws to conduct regular inspections, and establish accountability for illegal mining activities through penalties and prosecution of violators.
    • Promote Sustainable Livelihoods: Develop alternative livelihood opportunities for communities dependent on rat-hole mining, along with awareness campaigns on environmental and safety concerns, to reduce reliance on illegal mining practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • [pib] UJALA: 10 Years of Energy-Efficient Lighting

    Why in the News?

    The UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) scheme, launched on January 5, 2015 has completed a decade of remarkable success.

    About UJALA Scheme:

    Launch Details
    • Launched on 5th January 2015 by PM Narendra Modi.
    • Originally called the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP).
    • Aims to promote energy-efficient LED appliances in households.
    • Recognized as the world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic lighting initiative.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) under the Ministry of Power.
    • Competitive bidding ensures reduced prices for LED appliances.
    • LED appliances distributed via DISCOMs and designated centers.
    • Real-time e-procurement and transparency audits ensure accountability.
    Significant Features
    • Affordability: LED prices significantly lower than market rates (e.g., ₹70 per bulb, ₹220 per tube light).
    • Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume 90% less energy than incandescent lamps (ICLs) and 50% less than CFLs.
    • Cost Savings: Reduced electricity bills and lower annual ownership costs.
    • Market Transformation: Sale of over 407 crore LED bulbs in India.
    • Environmental Impact: Reduction in carbon emissions, aligning with India’s climate goals.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to street lighting, how do sodium lamps differ from LED lamps?

    1. Sodium lamps produce light in 360 degrees but it is not so in the case of LED lamps.
    2. As street lights, sodium lamps have a longer lifespan than LED lamps.
    3. The spectrum of visible light from sodium lamps is almost monochromatic while LED lamps offer significant colour advantages in street lighting.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3