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GS Paper: GS1

  • INC-3: Global Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution

    Central Idea

    • The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) met in Nairobi for its third round of negotiations under the UN Environment Programme.

    About Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC)

    • INC is a committee that aims to develop a legally binding international instrument to end plastic pollution by 2025, as mandated by UNEA Resolution 5/14.
    • It began working in November 2022 at Punta del Este, Uruguay (INC-1).
    • The second meeting (INC-2) took place in May-June, 2023 at Paris, France.
    • INC is scheduled to complete its work by the end of 2024.

    Overview of INC-3

    • Event: The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) met in Nairobi for its third round of negotiations under the United Nations Environment Programme.
    • Objective: To develop an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution worldwide, as mandated by UNEA Resolution 5/14.
    • Deadline: The INC is tasked with delivering a global plastics treaty by 2025.

    Significance of INC-3

    • Critical Stage: INC-3 was pivotal in negotiating the ‘zero draft’ text, which offered various options for core obligations and control measures.
    • Progress: Compared to INC-2 in Paris, INC-3 made substantive discussions on the treaty’s content.

    Key Aspects of the ‘Zero Draft’

    • Initial Strength: The zero draft proposed strong options for a legally binding treaty.
    • Dilution of Obligations: During negotiations, member states weakened core obligations, especially on primary polymer production, chemicals of concern, and trade.
    • Controversial Elements: The draft faced controversy over its scope and objectives, particularly regarding the production of primary polymers and lifecycle definitions.

    Financial Mechanism Discussions

    • Proposals: The draft included options like a plastic-pollution fee and reducing financial flow into high carbon footprint projects.
    • Opposition: Some countries, particularly those with vested economic interests, opposed these financial provisions.

    Trade in Plastics

    • Trade Restrictions: The treaty aims to address gaps left by the Basel Convention, but faced opposition regarding trade restrictions.
    • Misinterpretation of WTO Rules: Some countries misconstrued WTO rules to oppose trade restrictions, despite legal allowances for health and environmental protection.

    Challenges in Negotiations

    • Advocacy for Strong Provisions: African countries and Small-Island Developing States advocated for binding provisions, representing marginalized voices and emphasizing human rights and public health.
    • Rules of Procedure: INC-2’s unresolved debate on rules of procedure continued, affecting decision-making at INC-3.
    • Industry Influence: The presence of industry lobbyists indicated significant industry influence on the negotiations.
    • Stalling Tactics: Some countries used stalling and blocking tactics, delaying progress and expanding the draft text with national interest-driven changes.

    Outcomes and Takeaways from INC-3

    • Lack of Consensus: The meeting ended without consensus on intersessional work, hindering progress towards INC-4.
    • Exposure of Opposition: INC-3 highlighted the countries and industries opposed to a strong binding treaty.
    • Future Challenges: The lack of mandate adoption for the first draft development indicates significant challenges ahead in achieving a robust and effective global treaty on plastic pollution.

    Conclusion

    • INC-3’s outcomes underscore the complexities and challenges in formulating a global treaty on plastic pollution.
    • The divergent interests of member states, influenced by economic and industry considerations, pose significant hurdles.
    • The upcoming negotiations will be crucial in balancing these interests with the urgent need for effective global action to tackle the plastic pollution crisis.

  • The Ambedkar touch in rethinking social justice policies

    Insights into Editorial: Dr BR Ambedkar: “Architect of the Indian Constitution” - INSIGHTSIAS

    Central idea 

    The article highlights the contrast between Babasaheb Ambedkar’s vision for inclusive post-colonial India and the current erosion of state support for Dalits and Adivasis under neo-liberalism. It calls for a redefined social justice framework aligned with Ambedkar’s principles, emphasizing inclusive integration into the economic order for marginalized groups.

    Key Highlights:

    • Democracy’s Vision: Modern democracy aspires to social harmony and reforms, especially for historically marginalized groups like Dalits and Adivasis.
    • Ambedkar’s Vision: Babasaheb Ambedkar envisioned post-colonial India as distinct, ensuring equal opportunities for all communities in economic and political development.
    • Neo-liberal Impact: Neo-liberal economic development has disrupted traditional support for Dalits and Adivasis from state institutions.

    Key Challenges:

    • Elite Dominance: Various sectors witness the dominance of social elites, perpetuating the control of the conventional ruling class.
    • Tokenistic Representation: Socially marginalized groups experience tokenistic representation in power and privileges.
    • Neglect in Neo-liberalism: Concerns of Dalits and Adivasis are neglected in the neo-liberal economic model.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Neo-liberal Economic Development
    • Social Justice Policies
    • Tokenistic Presence
    • Exploitative Brahmanical Past
    • Market Economy
    • Crony Capitalist Mode
    • Economic Order
    • Pluralist and Cooperative Mode

    Key Quotes:

    • “With the ascent of neo-liberal economic development, the conventional support that Dalits and Adivasis have received from state institutions has derailed.”
    • “It is an appropriate time to imagine how the worst-off social groups can become an integral and substantive part of the new economic order.”

    Key Statements:

    • Neo-liberal Market Critique: The neo-liberal market is alien to ethical values, celebrating the exclusive control of a few corporate bodies and businessmen.
    • State’s Role: The state, in the neo-liberal realm, has become a passive associate of big business, deviating from its social responsibilities.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Ambedkar’s Principles: Reference to Babasaheb Ambedkar’s principles of social justice.
    • Neo-liberal Impact: Mention of the neglect of Dalit and Adivasi concerns in the neo-liberal economic model.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • Impact on Support: Decline in traditional support for Dalits and Adivasis with the rise of neo-liberal economic development.
    • Tokenistic Representation: Socially marginalized groups experience tokenistic representation in positions of power.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Neo-liberal Evaluation: Assessing the impact of the neo-liberal economic model on social justice policies and the neglect of marginalized groups.
    • Ambedkar’s Vision: Evaluating Ambedkar’s vision as a corrective measure for making institutions more democratic and representative.

    Way Forward:

    • Policy Expansion: Expansion of social justice policies to the private economy for democratizing working classes and reducing poverty.
    • Inclusive Integration: Integration of Dalits and Adivasis as influential contributors to the market economy.
    • Affirmative Action: Adoption of affirmative action policies to empower Dalit and Adivasi groups as industrialists, market leaders, and influencers.
    • Redefining Capitalism: Redefinition of capitalism as a pluralist and cooperative mode ensuring substantive participation of marginalized groups.

  • Places in news: Mount Merapi

    volcano

    Central Idea

    • Mount Merapi in Indonesia has erupted yet again this year, spewing an ash tower 3,000 metres into the sky.

     

    Merapi Volcano: A Brief Overview

    • Location: Situated in Central Java, Indonesia, Merapi is aptly named “Mountain of Fire” in Javanese.
    • Activity: It ranks among the world’s most active and perilous volcanoes, known for frequent and often violent eruptions.
    • 2010 Eruption: The last significant eruption in 2010 led to over 350 fatalities and extensive damage to surrounding areas.
    • Tourist Attraction: Despite its dangers, Merapi attracts hikers and tourists drawn to its beauty and geological significance.

    Other active volcanoes in Indonesia

    volcano

    Indonesia is home to many active volcanoes, with over 120 active volcanoes located across the country. Some of the other major volcanoes in Indonesia include:

    • Mount Krakatoa: Located in the Sunda Strait, it’s notorious for the catastrophic 1883 eruption.
    • Mount Rinjani: On Lombok Island, it’s Indonesia’s second-highest volcano and a trekking hotspot.
    • Mount Tambora: Famous for the 1815 eruption, it caused the “year without summer” and is situated on Sumbawa Island.
    • Mount Batur: In Bali, known for scenic vistas and hot springs.
    • Mount Merbabu: The highest in Central Java, it’s a favored destination for climbers.

    Why so many volcanoes in Indonesia?

    • Pacific Ring of Fire: Indonesia’s location on this seismic hotspot explains its high volcanic activity.
    • Volcanic Density: With over 120 active volcanoes, Indonesia faces frequent eruptions, posing risks to its population and infrastructure.

    Back2Basics: Pacific Ring of Fire

    • Geographical Span: This 40,000 km horseshoe-shaped belt around the Pacific Ocean is a seismic hub.
    • Volcanic and Seismic Activity: Home to 75% of the world’s active volcanoes and 90% of earthquakes.
    • Tectonic Movements: The Pacific Plate’s collision with smaller plates leads to subduction, causing friction and pressure.
    • Resulting Phenomena: This tectonic activity results in frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
    • Countries Included: The Ring of Fire affects several regions, including Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, and the Americas’ west coasts.
    • Natural Resources: The region is rich in geothermal energy and minerals.

  • Cyclone Michaung makes landfall

    Central Idea

    • Cyclone Michaung (name suggested by Myanmar) makes landfall in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
    • Michaung is the fourth tropical cyclone over the Bay of Bengal this year.

    About Cyclone Michaung

    • Uncommon Intensity: December cyclones in the North Indian Ocean typically do not reach high intensities. Michaung, with its severe storm classification, is an exception.
    • Upgraded Intensity: Initially predicted as a tropical cyclone, IMD upgraded Michaung to a ‘severe’ storm due to its unexpected intensification.
    • Heat Index Contribution: The intensification is attributed to the above-normal heat index values off the southern Andhra Pradesh coast.

    Indian Tropical Storms: An Overview

    • Annual Cyclones: The North Indian Ocean basin averages about five cyclones per year, predominantly in the Bay of Bengal.
    • Arabian Sea Cyclones: Though less frequent, Arabian Sea cyclones often reach higher intensities and can cause extensive damage.
    • Peak Cyclone Seasons: Cyclones are most common during pre-monsoon (April-June) and post-monsoon (October-December) months, with May and November seeing more intense storms.

    Factors Influencing Storm Intensification

    • Ocean Heat: Cyclones draw energy from warm ocean temperatures, typically around 26 degrees Celsius or higher.
    • Tropical Cyclone Heat Potential (TCHP): This oceanographic parameter is crucial in cyclone genesis and intensification.
    • Complex Atmospheric Conditions: Various atmospheric factors like wind shear, convection, and air-sea interactions also play a role in cyclone development.
    • Coriolis Effect: This effect influences cyclone formation in the northern hemisphere, causing air to move anticlockwise in low-pressure areas.

    Back2Basics: Extratropical and Tropical Cyclones

    • General Definition: Cyclones are large-scale air systems rotating around a low-pressure center, often accompanied by violent storms.
    • Extratropical Cyclones: Found outside the tropics, these cyclones have a cold core and gain energy from interactions between cold and warm air masses. They can form over both land and sea.
    • Tropical Cyclones: These form in tropical regions and are powered by the condensation of water vapor. They lack associated warm or cold fronts and are known as hurricanes or typhoons in different regions.

    Cyclone Naming Process

    • Rotational Basis for Naming: The naming of cyclones is done by countries on a rotational basis, following certain existing guidelines.
    • Responsibilities of RSMCs and TCWCs: Worldwide, there are six regional specialized meteorological centers (RSMCs) and five regional Tropical Cyclone Warning Centers (TCWCs) mandated for issuing advisories and naming of tropical cyclones.
    • IMD’s Role: IMD is one of the six RSMCs providing tropical cyclone and storm surge advisories to 13 member countries under the WMO/Economic and Social Commission for Asia-Pacific (ESCAP) Panel.
    • Naming Authority of IMD: RSMC, New Delhi, is also mandated to name the tropical cyclones developing over the north Indian Ocean, including the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.
    • Guidelines for Naming: Some rules are to be followed while naming cyclones, such as being neutral to politics, religious beliefs, cultures, and gender, avoiding offensive or cruel names, and keeping the name short and easy to pronounce.
    • Future Naming: After ‘Michaung’, the next cyclone as per India’s suggestion will be named ‘Tej’.

  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Naval Legacy

    navy

    Central Idea

    • On Navy Day, December 4, PM Modi highlighted Chhatrapati Shivaji’s understanding of naval power and announced the incorporation of his emblem on naval officers’ epaulettes.

    Indian Navy’s Acknowledgment of Maratha Heritage

    • Training Establishment: The Indian Navy’s training facility in Lonavla is named INS Shivaji.
    • Administrative Hub: The Western Naval Command’s logistics and administrative center in Mumbai is named INS Angre, after Kanhoji Angre, a prominent Maratha naval commander.
    • New Naval Ensign: The Indian Navy’s new Ensign, unveiled in 2022, features the octagonal design of Shivaji’s seal, symbolizing his maritime vision.

    About Maratha Navy

    Details
    Foundation and Expansion – Founder: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

    – First Vessel: Built around 1654 near Kalyan

    – Strategic Naval Bases: Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, Khanderi, Colaba

    – Philosophy: Principle of ‘Jalameva yasya, balameva tasya’ (‘He who rules the seas is all powerful’).
    Composition and Command – Personnel: Native Konkani sailors and mercenaries

    – Notable Commanders: Shivaji Maharaj, Admiral Kanhoji Angre
    Naval Fleet and Technology – Ship Types: ‘Gurab’ (large, three-masted) and ‘Galbat’ (smaller, faster),  Tarande , Shibad, Pal, Taru, Tirkiti and Machchava.

    – Artillery and Arms: Equipped with various cannons, known for innovative naval tactics
    Tactics and Strategies – Coastal Dominance: Excelling in coastal defense

    – Guerrilla Tactics: Using hit-and-run tactics, exploiting shallow creeks and bays
    Major Conflicts and Battles – Against European Powers: Engagements with the British and Portuguese

    – Conflict with the Siddis: Ongoing conflicts with the Siddis of Janjira
    Decline and Legacy – Reasons for Decline: Internal strife, technological advancements by Europeans, rise of British naval power

    – Legacy: Remembered for resisting colonial powers, protecting the western coast of India

  • No, one Centre of Excellence in Transgender Care is not enough

    Transgenders in India- History of community, Types and laws applicable to them - TheLawmatics

    Central idea 

    The article discusses AIIMS’ initiative to establish a Centre of Excellence for transgender healthcare, addressing historical discrimination and legal recognition challenges. It explores legislative milestones, emphasizing comprehensive healthcare for the transgender community.

    Key Highlights:

    • AIIMS’ Vision for Transgender Healthcare: AIIMS, New Delhi, plans a Centre of Excellence for transgender healthcare in 2024, aiming to address historical discrimination and marginalization.
    • Legal Recognition Milestone: Legal recognition for transgender people initiated with the NALSA v Union of India (2014) judgment, endorsing their fundamental rights.
    • Legislative Emphasis on Healthcare: The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act (2019) and Transgender Persons Rules, 2020 emphasize holistic healthcare, sensitivity training, and equal opportunities for the community.

    Key Challenges:

    • Structural Barriers: Transgender community faces obstacles like exclusionary infrastructure, lack of trained healthcare workers, and limited availability of gender-affirming services.
    • Coercive Surgery Mandate: The Transgender Act mandates surgery for legal recognition, contradicting the NALSA judgment against insisting on sex reassignment surgery.
    • Government Healthcare Limitations: Primary and secondary healthcare lack transgender-inclusive services, relying on tertiary institutes and private providers for gender-affirming procedures.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Conversion therapy, transgender rights, sex reassignment surgery, gender-affirming services.
    • Fundamental rights, mental, sexual, and reproductive health, legal recognition.
    • Transgender-inclusive wards, equal opportunity policy, Centres of Excellence, Centres of Inclusion.

    Key Quotes/Statements:

    • “Transgender people have been historically discriminated against and marginalised — pathologised and labelled mentally diseased.”
    • “Transgender people are legally guaranteed equal access to healthcare. Yet, it is denied.”
    • “The plan to open a Centre of Excellence at AIIMS-Delhi is a welcome step but should not be considered a panacea for all ills.”

    Key Examples/References:

    • NALSA v Union of India (2014): Legal recognition and endorsement of fundamental rights for transgender people.
    • Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act (2019) and Transgender Persons Rules, 2020: Legislation emphasizing comprehensive healthcare and inclusivity.
    • AIIMS-Delhi’s Centre of Excellence: An initiative to address healthcare needs of the transgender community.

    Key Facts/Data:

    • Legal recognition for transgender people in India began with the NALSA judgment in 2014.
    • The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act enacted in 2019.
    • Transgender Persons Rules, 2020 outlined guidelines for transgender-inclusive healthcare.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Misplaced Focus on Coercive Surgery: Contradiction with the NALSA judgment raises concerns about legal recognition.
    • Limited Government Initiatives: Transgender individuals often rely on private providers and tertiary institutes due to inadequate government support.
    • AIIMS-Delhi Initiative’s Positive Impact: While a positive step, challenges persist in ensuring comprehensive transgender healthcare across India.

    Way Forward:

    • Curriculum Revision: Revise the medical curriculum to cater to the needs of gender-diverse people.
    • Inclusive Services: Ensure transgender-inclusive services in all government medical colleges and hospitals.
    • Prioritize Centers of Inclusion: Advocate for Centers of Inclusion providing essential healthcare at grassroots levels over Centers of Excellence at premier institutes.
    • Legal Recognition Advocacy: Advocate for legal recognition without coercive surgery, aligning with the NALSA judgment.

  • Vaishali Rameshbabu: India’s New Chess Grandmaster

    Grandmaster

    Central Idea

    • Grandmaster Title: Indian chess player Vaishali Rameshbabu ( Pragnananda’s sister) has achieved the Grandmaster title by crossing 2,500 FIDE ranking points at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain.
    • Significance: She becomes only the third Indian woman player to earn this title, joining the ranks of Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli.

    Understanding the Grandmaster Title

    • Highest Chess Honor: The Grandmaster title is the pinnacle of achievement in chess, awarded by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
    • Prestige: It signifies recognition as one of the world’s most talented chess players, proven in highly competitive environments.

    Other Recognized Chess Titles

    • FIDE Titles: Besides Grandmaster, FIDE awards seven other titles, including International Master (IM), FIDE Master (FM), Candidate Master (CM), Woman Grandmaster (WGM), Woman International Master (WIM), Woman FIDE Master (WFM), and Woman Candidate Master (WCM).
    • Lifetime Validity: All FIDE titles, including the Grandmaster title, are valid for life, barring revocation due to offenses like cheating.

    History and Criteria of Grandmaster Title

    • Origins: The term ‘grandmaster’ dates back about a century and was formalized by FIDE in 1950.
    • Initial Awardees: The first batch of Grandmaster titles in 1950 included 27 players, such as then-world champion Mikhail Botvinnik.
    • Current Criteria: To achieve the Grandmaster title, a player must reach a FIDE Classical or Standard rating of 2,500 and earn three Grandmaster norms.
    • Grandmaster Norms: These norms are based on stringent rules regarding tournament performance, including a performance rating of 2,600 or higher in a FIDE tournament with specific conditions.

    Vaishali Rameshbabu’s Path to Grandmaster

    • Performance: Vaishali’s achievement of the Grandmaster title is a testament to her exceptional performance in international chess tournaments.
    • Representation: Her success adds to India’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in the global chess community.

     

  • India, disability inclusion and the power of ‘by’

    Article: How COVID-19 has fared for persons with disabilities: International Day of Disabled Persons 2020 — People Matters

    Central idea

    The central idea underscores the need for a bottom-up approach, private sector engagement, and innovative models like the SPARK project to bring about attitudinal shifts, economic opportunities, and social recognition for persons with disabilities, ultimately fostering a more equitable and inclusive global development agenda.

    Key Highlights:

    • Disability Intersectionality: Disability intersects with social, economic, and gender vulnerabilities, necessitating comprehensive consideration for equitable action.
    • Global Disability Statistics: Globally, 1.3 billion people live with disabilities, with 80% in developing countries and 70% residing in rural areas.
    • Exclusionary Systems: Current systems designed for non-disabled persons lead to exclusion, resulting in higher instances of poverty, limited education access, and social discrimination for people with disabilities.
    • Importance of Language: The distinction between “for” and “by” in disability inclusion is crucial. Inclusion should involve persons with disabilities in the process, not just for them.
    • Economic Impact: Inclusion of persons with disabilities in the economy could boost global GDP by 3% to 7%, emphasizing the economic benefits of inclusion.
    • Employment Scenario: Current employment scenarios limit job opportunities for persons with disabilities, contradicting the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
    • Rural Challenges: Persons with disabilities in rural areas face heightened challenges, including limited access to education, employment, and exclusion from developmental schemes.
    • UDID Card and Government Schemes: In India, UDID cards and various government schemes exist for persons with disabilities, emphasizing the need for awareness and last-mile connectivity of benefits.
    • SPARK Project: The ILO and IFAD’s SPARK project focuses on disability inclusion in rural areas, with Disability Inclusion Facilitators (DIFs) leading awareness and engagement efforts.

    Key Challenges:

    • Awareness and Accessibility: Limited awareness and accessibility to government benefits for persons with disabilities, particularly in rural areas.
    • Societal Perception: Persons with disabilities often face societal perceptions that view them as objects of charity rather than active participants in decision-making processes.
    • Climate Calamities: Rural areas with high agricultural dependence face increased risks from climate calamities, further impacting persons with disabilities.
    • Private Sector Engagement: While a robust legal framework exists, greater engagement with the private sector is crucial for promoting the employment of persons with disabilities.

    Key Quotes:

    • “For is often used when a person is receiving something and By is to identify the agent performing an action.”
    • “Disability inclusion is rooted in assuring the rights of persons with disabilities and recognizing the economic benefits of inclusion.”
    • “It is about time that the voices and needs of persons with disabilities be prioritized at the center of the global development agenda.”

    Key Terms:

    • Intersectionality: The interconnected nature of social categorizations such as disability, gender, and economic status, which creates overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage.
    • UDID Card: Unique ID for persons with disabilities, a card established as part of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) in India.
    • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A collection of 17 global goals set by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all.
    • Disability Inclusion Facilitators (DIFs): Individuals trained to engage with communities, raise awareness, and identify barriers to inclusion for persons with disabilities.

    Key Phrases:

    • Economic Consequences of Exclusion: Refers to the impact on the global GDP when excluding persons with disabilities from the workforce, as highlighted in the ILO study.
    • Last-Mile Connectivity: Ensuring the final leg of delivery or accessibility of government benefits to the remotest areas, especially in the context of persons with disabilities.
    • Social Development Dimension: Viewing disability inclusion not only as a matter of rights but also as a crucial aspect of social development.

    Key Statements:

    • “Disability as an identity and entity exists at the intersection of multiple vulnerabilities — social, economic, and gender — with each facet requiring careful consideration when conceptualizing action for equity.”
    • “The inclusion of persons with disabilities into the economy can help boost global GDP between 3% to 7%, as per the study by the International Labour Organization.”
    • “It is about time that the voices and needs of persons with disabilities be prioritized at the center of the global development agenda.”

    Key Examples and References:

    • The SPARK Project: Implemented by the ILO and IFAD, the SPARK project in Maharashtra demonstrates successful inclusion efforts led by persons with disabilities.
    • International Labour Organization (ILO): Referenced for its study on the economic consequences of excluding persons with disabilities from the workforce.
    • Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016): Legislation in India that includes provisions for UDID cards and various schemes for persons with disabilities.

    Key Facts:

    • Global Disability Statistics: Approximately 1.3 billion people globally live with some form of disability, with 80% residing in developing countries.
    • Rural Challenges: In India, 70% of persons with disabilities live in rural areas, facing greater challenges in accessing education and employment opportunities.
    • Economic Impact: Inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workforce could boost global GDP by 3% to 7%, according to the ILO study.

    Key Data:

    • Percentage of Global Population with Disabilities: 1.3 billion people, equivalent to nearly the entire population of India.
    • Percentage of Persons with Disabilities in Developing Countries: 80%, with 70% residing in rural areas.
    • Impact on Global GDP: Inclusion of persons with disabilities can boost global GDP by 3% to 7%, according to the ILO.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Bi-Directional Link: Evidence shows a connection between disability, poverty, nutrition, and hunger, emphasizing the need for inclusive opportunities and employment in rural areas.
    • Societal Perceptions: Persons with disabilities often face societal perceptions that view them as objects of charity rather than active participants in decision-making processes.
    • Private Sector Engagement: The importance of engaging the private sector and building confidence in hiring workers with disabilities is highlighted.

    Way Forward:

    Prioritize the voices and needs of persons with disabilities at the core of the global development agenda for genuine inclusion and social justice. This involves awareness, engagement, and a bottom-up approach to disability inclusion, especially in rural areas.

     

  • UAE launches ALTÉRRA Fund for Climate Investments

    Central Idea

    • The United Arab Emirates, as the host of COP-28, has committed US$30 billion to establish ALTÉRRA, a climate investment fund.

    What is ALTÉRRA Fund?

    • Fund Objective: ALTÉRRA aims to mobilize US$250 billion globally by 2030, aspiring to be the largest fund dedicated to climate investments.
    • Focus: The fund is designed to transform emerging markets and developing economies through climate investments.
    • Clean Energy in India: An initial portion of the fund is allocated for developing over 6.0 GW of new clean energy capacity in India, including 1,200 MW of wind and solar projects expected to be operational by 2025.
    • Financial Requirements: Emerging markets and developing economies reportedly need US$2.4 trillion annually by 2030 to address climate change.
    • Key Verticals: ALTÉRRA will focus on four main areas: Energy Transition, Industrial Decarbonisation, Sustainable Living, and Climate Technologies.

    Leadership and Management

    • Chair: COP-28 President, Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, will chair the ALTÉRRA fund.
    • Management Entity: Lunate, an independent global investment manager, has established ALTÉRRA.
    • Domicile: The fund is domiciled in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.

    Mission and Impact

    • Transformational Solution: ALTÉRRA is positioned as a transformative solution for attracting private capital into climate-focused investments.
    • Multiplier Effect: The fund’s scale and structure are expected to create a significant impact in climate investment.
    • Reflection of COP Presidency’s Action Agenda: The launch of ALTÉRRA aligns with the UAE’s COP Presidency Action Agenda and efforts to make climate finance more available, accessible, and affordable.

  • India pitches for Green Credit Scheme at COP28

    Central Idea

    • India introduced the Green Credits Scheme at COP28 in Dubai. PM Modi emphasized that this program goes beyond the commercial nature of carbon credits, offering a broader environmental impact.

    What is Green Credits Programme?

    • Objective: The initiative aims to generate Green Credits through plantation on degraded wasteland.
    • Inception: Launched in October by the Environment Ministry, it is designed to incentivize various environment-positive actions.
    • Action Areas: Includes tree plantation, water management, sustainable agriculture, waste management, air pollution reduction, mangrove conservation, ecomark label development, and sustainable building.
    • Scope beyond Carbon: Unlike existing carbon credit systems, this program extends incentives to actions beyond carbon emission reductions, such as water conservation and soil improvement.

    Distinctive Features

    • Market-Based Approach: The program aims to create a market for trading green credits, similar to carbon credits, where companies can earn credits for environmental actions and trade them.
    • Development Stage: Methodologies and standards for measuring and verifying such actions are under development, and the market for these credits is yet to be established.
    • Initial Buyers: It is anticipated that private companies might purchase these green credits to fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations.
    • Wider Beneficiaries: Unlike carbon markets, which primarily target industries and corporations, the green credit program can benefit individuals and communities as well.