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GS Paper: GS2

  • What is Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, launched at Brazil G20?

    Why in the News?

    The recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featured the official launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (referred to as “the Alliance”).

    What are the primary objectives of the Global Alliance?

    • Eradication of Hunger and Poverty: The Alliance aims to eliminate hunger and poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • Support for Vulnerable Populations: It focuses on providing targeted assistance to vulnerable groups through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school meal programs.
    • Resource Mobilization: The initiative emphasizes large-scale resource mobilisation to support its objectives, aiming to reach 500 million people through income distribution programs by 2030.

    Who are the key stakeholders involved in this initiative?

    • The Alliance has 148 founding members, including 82 countries such as India, Brazil, and Bangladesh.
    • It includes participation from 26 international organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNICEF.
    • Nine financial institutions and 31 philanthropic foundations and non-governmental organizations are also involved in supporting the Alliance’s goals.

    How will Alliance function?

    • The Alliance serves as a platform for countries to share best practices and access technical expertise or financial support from other member nations.
    • It offers more than 50 evidence-based policy instruments that member countries can utilize to develop their national strategies against hunger and poverty.
    • Unlike traditional funding bodies, the Alliance does not have an exclusive fund but acts as a matchmaking entity connecting countries in need with donors and technical support providers. Its operational costs are estimated at $2-3 million annually, funded by member contributions.

    What challenges does the Global Alliance aim to address in combating hunger and poverty?

    • Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has exacerbated issues of hunger and poverty, reversing progress made toward the SDGs. The Alliance aims to counteract these setbacks by fostering international cooperation.
    • Global Inequalities: It addresses deepening social, racial, and gender inequalities that have been intensified by recent global crises.
    • Food Insecurity Projections: Current trends suggest that without intervention, millions will continue to live in extreme poverty and hunger by 2030—double the target levels set in the SDGs. The Alliance seeks to reverse these projections through coordinated action.

    Conclusion: The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty aligns with SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by mobilizing resources, fostering collaboration, and implementing targeted interventions to combat hunger, poverty, and inequalities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (UPSC IAS/2024)

  • International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

    Why in the News?

    • India is set to host the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Global Cooperative Conference in Delhi this month.
      • It will mark the first time in the 130-year history of ICA that the ICA General Assembly and Global Cooperative Conference are being hosted in India.

    About the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA):

    Details
    About • Established in 1895 to unite, represent, and serve cooperatives globally.
    • Represents 315 cooperative federations and organizations from 107 countries.
    • Estimated to represent about 1 billion individuals worldwide across various sectors like agriculture, banking, fisheries, health, housing, insurance, and more.
    • It has held consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 1946, making it the first NGO to receive this status.
    • Custodian of the internationally recognized definition, values, and principles of cooperatives. 
    Structure of ICA • Governing Board: A 20-member board responsible for overseeing activities.
    • General Assembly: Highest governing authority, with representatives from member organizations, convened at least annually.
    • ICA is divided into four regional organizations:

    1. ICA Asia-Pacific (New Delhi, India),
    2. ICA Africa (Nairobi, Kenya),
    3. Cooperatives Europe (Brussels, Belgium), and
    4. ICA Americas (San José, Costa Rica).

    • 8 sectoral organizations representing cooperatives in various sectors like agriculture, banking, fisheries, and more.
    • 5 thematic committees focused on cooperative development, economic sustainability, social responsibility, and advocacy.
    Powers and Functions of ICA • Represents cooperatives in international forums, particularly within the United Nations and other multilateral organizations.
    • Influences international policies related to social and economic development and sustainable cooperative businesses.
    • Promote and define cooperative identity globally, ensuring cooperatives adhere to internationally recognized principles.
    • Collects and publishes data about the cooperative sector via reports like the World Cooperative Monitor and ICA Global 300 index.

  • International Criminal Court (ICC)

    Why in the News?

    The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrant for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    About the International Criminal Court (ICC)

    Details
    What is it? • First international permanent court to prosecute individuals for serious international crimes.
    • Established under the Rome Statute (1998, w.e.f 2002).
    • 124 countries are States Parties to the Rome Statute.• Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands.
    Structural Mandate • Official languages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.
    • Members: 124 States Parties to the Rome Statute; Palestine (2015) and Malaysia (2019) became the latest members.
    • Notable non-members: India, Israel, the US, Russia, Ukraine, and China.
    • Funding: By contributions from member states and voluntary contributions.
    • Enforcement: Relies on state cooperation for enforcement, as it does not have its own police force.
    Composition   • Judges: Consists of 18 judges elected by the Assembly of States Parties for a term of 9 years.
    • Prosecutor: Leads the Office of the Prosecutor and investigates crimes.
    • Additional Components: Includes the Trust Fund for Victims (2004), Detention Centre, and the Assembly of States Parties.
    Jurisdiction  Prosecutes 4 main crimes:    

    1. War Crimes: Violations of the laws of war.
    2. Crimes against Humanity: Acts like murder, enslavement, and torture.
    3. Genocide: Intent to destroy a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.
    4. Crimes of Aggression: Unjustified military action against another state.

    • ICC can only prosecute crimes committed after the Rome Statute’s entry into force (July 1, 2002).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] “Rule of Law Index” is released by which of the following?

    1. Amnesty International
    2. International Court of Justice
    3. The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights
    4. World Justice Project

  • A bilateral investment treaty with a ‘bit’ of change

    Why in the News?

    The bilateral investment treaty (BIT) between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), signed earlier this year, has recently been made public. This new treaty will replace the 2014 India-UAE investment agreement and holds significant importance.

    What is the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) for investors?

    • The Model BIT is a framework established by India to guide negotiations for bilateral investment treaties, aiming to protect foreign investments while balancing the state’s regulatory rights.
    • It emphasizes clear definitions, local remedies, and limits on investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) claims.

    Background of  2024 BIT: 

    • The 2014 India-UAE investment treaty, formally known as the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA), was established to enhance economic cooperation and protect investments between India and the United Arab Emirates.
    • This treaty aimed to create a stable and predictable investment climate for investors from both countries, facilitating foreign direct investment (FDI) flows.
    • The 2014 BIPPA was replaced by a new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) signed in February 2024, which came into effect in August 2024.
    • This new BIT introduces several changes aimed at improving investment protection and reducing arbitral discretion while maintaining India’s regulatory sovereignty.

    What are the implications of India’s revised Model BIT for foreign investors?

    • Enhanced Investor Protection: The new BIT aims to provide greater protection for foreign investments while balancing the state’s right to regulate. This is expected to boost investor confidence by assuring minimum standards of treatment and non-discrimination.
    • Quicker Access to ISDS: The reduction of the local remedies exhaustion period from five years to three years allows investors to access international arbitration more quickly if disputes arise, potentially making India a more attractive destination for foreign investments.
    • Clearer Definitions and Reduced Discretion: By refining the definition of what constitutes an investment and removing subjective criteria related to the significance of investments for host state development, the BIT reduces arbitral discretion, which can lead to more predictable outcomes in dispute resolution.

    How does the India-UAE BIT depart from the Model BIT?

    • Exhaustion of Local Remedies: As noted, the India-UAE BIT lowers the exhaustion period from five years to three years, reflecting India’s responsiveness to concerns about lengthy legal processes in its judicial system.
    • Removal of Development Significance Criterion: The BIT omits the requirement that investments must significantly contribute to the host state’s development—a criterion present in the Model BIT. This change simplifies the definition of what constitutes an investment eligible for protection, reducing subjective interpretations by ISDS tribunals.
    • No Reference to Customary International Law: Unlike the Model BIT, which links treaty violations to customary international law (CIL), Article 4 of the India-UAE BIT does not reference CIL, thereby limiting arbitral discretion and providing clearer grounds for evaluating state actions against investments.
    • Prohibition on Third-Party Funding: The new treaty explicitly disallows third-party funding in ISDS proceedings, which may impact investors’ ability to finance their claims against states without personal financial risk.

    What are the positives and future opportunities for India-UAE BIT relations?

    • Strengthened Economic Cooperation: The BIT is expected to enhance bilateral economic ties by providing a stable legal framework that encourages investment flows between India and the UAE, both of which have significant stakes in each other’s economies.
    • Increased FDI Inflows: With UAE being a key source of foreign direct investment (FDI) for India, estimated at around $19 billion, the new treaty is anticipated to stimulate further investments, benefiting various sectors in both countries.
    • Alignment with Broader Economic Agreements: The BIT complements other agreements such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), reinforcing a comprehensive framework for economic collaboration beyond just investment protection.
    • Potential Influence on Future Treaties: India’s approach in negotiating this BIT may serve as a model for future treaties with other countries, reflecting a more flexible stance that could attract additional foreign investments while still safeguarding national interests.

    Conclusion: The India-UAE BIT offers stronger investment protection, quicker dispute resolution, and clearer definitions, fostering bilateral economic ties. This new agreement balances investor rights and state regulation, encourages increased FDI, strengthens economic cooperation, and could influence future treaties for enhanced global investment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [21st November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: An overturning of Sri Lanka’s old political order

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (UPSC CSE 2022)

    Mentor’s Comment:  UPSC Mains have always focused on Regional Geopolitics (2019), Bilateral Ties (2022) and Neighbourhood  Policy (2013).

    Political shifts in the Asian continent can be characterized by several distinct phases, reflecting the diverse historical, social, and economic contexts of various countries. Recent years have seen significant protests and movements demanding political change (e.g., Hong Kong protests, Myanmar coup), reflecting a desire for democratic governance and human rights.

    Today’s editorial focuses on the recent elections in Sri Lanka that illustrate a significant departure from traditional political dynamics, characterized by the decline of elite control and the rise of reformist movements.

    This content can be used for presenting ‘Bilateral ties’ between India-Srilanka and ‘Asian Geopolitics’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The Sri Lankan Presidential election held in September 2024, marked the historic shift in Asian democracy.

    What led to the significant political shift in Sri Lanka?

    • Economic Crisis: The country faced its worst economic crisis, leading to high inflation, shortages of essentials, and widespread public discontent.
    • Public Protests: The ‘Aragalaya’ Mass Movement protests against the government highlighted demands for accountability and change, reflecting the anger over economic mismanagement.
    • Rejection of Established Parties: Voters grew frustrated with traditional political elites, particularly the Rajapaksa family, and sought alternatives.
    • Rise of New Political Forces: National People’s Power (NPP) emerged as a popular choice by advocating for reform and anti-corruption measures, appealing to those wanting a break from the past. Dissanayake’s left-wing platform attracted voters looking for state intervention and social welfare solutions.

    How does this election reflect a departure from traditional political dynamics?

    • Rejection of Established Parties: The election resulted in a substantial loss for established parties, particularly the Rajapaksa-led SLPP and the SJB, signaling a clear rejection of the political elite that has dominated Sri Lankan politics for decades.
    • Shift in Voter Sentiment: Voters expressed a strong desire for change, driven by the economic crisis and widespread protests. This shift indicates a demand for leaders who prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens over elite interests.
    • Multi-Ethnic Appeal: The NPP made significant inroads in Tamil-majority areas, such as Jaffna, traditionally dominated by Tamil nationalist parties. This marks a notable shift towards a more inclusive political landscape.
    • Increased diversity in Representation: The new parliament features a record number of first-time MPs and women, reflecting a broader representation of society and moving away from the previously homogenous political class.
    • Ideological Shift and Leftist Policies: The NPP’s Marxist orientation represents a departure from previous neoliberal policies, appealing to voters seeking state intervention to address economic challenges.

    How India will be impacted due to the political shift in Sri Lanka?

    • Enhanced Bilateral Relations: The new government under Anura Kumara Dissanayake is likely to seek closer relations with India, promoting cooperation in trade and cultural exchanges.
    • Strategic Considerations: Sri Lanka may aim for a balanced relationship with both India and China, potentially renegotiating Chinese deals to align more with Indian interests this time.
    • Tamil Rights and Ethnic Issues: Addressing the concerns of the Tamil population will be crucial for maintaining good relations with India, given the historical ties between Tamils in both countries.
      • Dissanayake’s ability to manage internal challenges, such as ethnic tensions and economic issues, will be essential challenging factor for regional stability and bilateral relations.
    • Economic Dependency: Sri Lanka’s economic recovery will likely rely on Indian assistance, reinforcing India’s role as a key partner.
    Did you Know?

    India has traditionally been among Sri Lanka’s largest trade partners and Sri Lanka remains among the largest trade partners of India in the SAARC. India was Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner with an overall bilateral merchandise trade of US$ 5.45 billion in 2021.

    Way Forward: Sri Lanka has faced significant turmoil and deserves the opportunity to navigate its democratic recovery without external interference. Instead of focusing on exploiting Sri Lanka, major powers (USA, China, and India) should prioritize democratization within their own countries, which would ultimately benefit Sri Lanka’s progress.

  • Chancay Port Project in Peru

    Why in the News?

    The Chancay Port was inaugurated in Peru by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    About Chancay Port Project:

    • The Chancay Port Project was inaugurated in Peru as part of a new land-sea corridor linking China with Latin America.
    • It is funded under Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with a total cost of $3.6 billion.
    • The port can accommodate vessels up to 18,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent unit), the largest shipping vessels in the world.
    • Ownership: 60% of the port is owned by China Ocean Shipping (Group) Company (COSCO), with the remaining stake held by a local company.
    • It is expected to generate $4.5 billion annually for Peru, equivalent to 1.8% of the country’s GDP.
    • Key Exports: The port will handle exports like copper, blueberries, soybeans, and lithium from the lithium triangle (Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina).

    Geo-strategic Location:

    • Proximity to Lima: Located 78 km north of Lima, Peru’s capital, in the small fishing town of Chancay.
    • Natural Deep-Water Port: Chancay is a natural deep-water port, ideal for accommodating large vessels.
    • Trade Gateway: Positioned strategically to facilitate trade between South America and Asia, reducing transit time for goods between the two continents.
    • Alternative to North America: It eliminates the need for Latin American exports to transit through ports in North America, offering a more direct route to Asia.

    Why it is a concern for USA?

    • Chinese Influence in Latin America: The US has traditionally viewed Latin America as its sphere of influence. The Chancay Port increases China’s economic and geopolitical presence in the region.
    • Strategic Gateway for China: The port strengthens China’s access to critical resources in South America, including lithium and copper, raising concerns about China’s growing dominance in the region.
    • US Trade Routes Disruption: The port reduces transportation time between Latin America and Asia, which could disrupt existing US trade routes and diminish its role as a trade facilitator.

    PYQ:

    [2017] What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India?

    (a) India’s trade with African countries will enormously increase.

    (b) India’s relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened.

    (c) India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

    (d) Pakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India.

  • Is imposing tariffs on Chinese imports a good idea?

    Why in the News?

    After the election of the USA, Prez Donald Trump plans to impose tariffs of up to 60% on Chinese imports and 10% on EU imports to address the U.S.-China trade deficit and reduce unfair subsidies.

    What are the economic impacts of imposing tariffs on Chinese imports?

    The imposition of tariffs, particularly those proposed by the U.S. on Chinese imports, can have domestic and international economic consequences. 

    • Increased Domestic Prices: Tariffs raise the cost of imported goods, leading to higher prices for U.S. consumers. This can contribute to domestic inflation, especially if tariffs are applied broadly across consumer goods.
    • Impact on Trade Deficit: While tariffs may help reduce the trade deficit by discouraging imports, they can also lead to a rise in domestic production costs, which might not fully offset the increased prices for consumers.
    • Shifts in Consumption: Tariffs may shift consumer preferences away from imported goods towards domestically produced items. This could boost local industries and potentially increase domestic supply, helping to moderate inflation if production meets demand.
    • Global Trade Relations: The introduction of tariffs can provoke retaliatory measures from affected countries, leading to trade wars that can disrupt global supply chains and negatively impact international trade dynamics.

    How might China respond to increased tariffs?

    • Retaliatory Tariffs: Historically, China has imposed tariffs on U.S. goods in response to American tariffs. This could include targeting products from politically sensitive regions or sectors in the U.S. to maximize political impact.
    • Currency Manipulation: China may allow its currency, the yuan, to depreciate, making its exports cheaper and counteracting the effects of U.S. tariffs.
    • Increased Domestic Support: The Chinese government could implement fiscal stimulus measures to bolster domestic industries affected by U.S. tariffs, including subsidies for exporters and incentives for local production.
    • Diversification of Trade Partners: China might further diversify its trade by strengthening ties with other countries and participating in regional trade agreements that exclude the U.S., reducing its reliance on American markets.

    Do tariffs achieve their intended goals?

    • Trade Balance Improvement: While tariffs are designed to improve the trade balance by reducing imports, their success is contingent upon consumer behaviour and whether domestic producers can meet demand without significant price increases.
    • Political Ramifications: Retaliatory actions from China can undermine the intended benefits of tariffs, leading to a cycle of escalation that may harm both economies. The political fallout from these actions can also influence U.S. domestic politics, particularly if key industries are adversely affected.
    • Long-Term Economic Impact: The long-term economic impact may be limited if countries like China successfully adapt through measures such as currency adjustments or finding alternative markets for their goods.

    How can India benefit from it? 

    • Market Diversification: India can capture U.S. market share by exporting goods as American buyers seek alternatives to Chinese imports.
    • Supply Chain Shift: India can attract companies relocating production from China, leveraging its manufacturing policies and workforce.
    • Boost in FDI: Heightened U.S.-China tensions may increase Foreign Direct Investment in India as firms diversify investment destinations.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Manufacturing and Exports: Enhance domestic production capabilities through schemes like PLI and focus on exporting goods demanded by the U.S., such as electronics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.
    • Attract Global Investments: Improve ease of doing business, offer tax incentives, and promote India as a reliable alternative to China for global supply chains and FDI inflows.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • A thousand days of Ukrainian resilience

    Why in the News?

    Exactly 1,000 days ago, world history took a dramatic turn when Russia initiated a full-scale military invasion with the goal of eradicating Ukrainian statehood, culture, and nationhood.

    ukraine

    How has Ukraine demonstrated resilience against Russian aggression?

    Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable resilience against Russian aggression since the full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022. Key factors contributing to this resilience include:

    • National Unity: The unification of the Ukrainian people under President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been crucial. This collective spirit has galvanized both military and civilian efforts to resist Russian advances, leading to significant victories such as the defense of Kyiv and the liberation of the Kharkiv and Kherson regions.
    • Military Strength: Throughout the conflict, the Ukrainian armed forces have transformed into one of the strongest military forces globally. Their ability to repel invaders and conduct successful counteroffensives has been widely recognized and admired internationally.
    • International Support: Ukraine has received substantial military, financial, and humanitarian aid from allies worldwide. This support has been instrumental in sustaining its defense efforts and rebuilding initiatives.
    • Cultural and Moral Resolve: The war has fostered a strong sense of identity among Ukrainians, who view their struggle as not only for survival but also for European values and democracy. This moral clarity strengthens their resolve against oppression.

    What are the human and economic costs of the conflict for the whole world?

    • Human Costs: Thousands of civilians, including 600 children, have died. Over eight million people have left Ukraine, and 3.6 million are still displaced. Russia has taken more than 20,000 children, many of whom are still missing or in captivity.
    • Economic Costs: Ukraine has lost over $400 billion, and it will need $500 billion to rebuild and $35 billion to clear landmines. The war has affected global supply chains and caused inflation worldwide.

    How can Ukraine in seeking peace and rebuilding?

    • Diplomatic Efforts: Ukraine continues to engage in diplomatic initiatives aimed at securing international support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
      • President Zelenskyy emphasizes that neutrality is not an option countries must choose sides in this conflict.
    • Reconstruction Plans: As rebuilding begins, Ukraine aims to restore its infrastructure while implementing reforms that demonstrate resilience and commitment to democratic values. This effort is supported by international partners who provide financial assistance1.
    • Cultural Restoration: Protecting cultural heritage is a priority, with initiatives underway to restore damaged institutions and memorialize those lost during the conflict. This cultural revival is integral to national identity and unity moving forward.

    What opportunity does India have from this conflict? (Way forward)

    • Strengthening Diplomatic Influence: India can play a key role in diplomatic efforts by supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and promoting peace talks, which enhances its global standing as a peacebuilder.
    • Economic and Trade Opportunities: As Ukraine seeks reconstruction, India can explore investment and trade opportunities in rebuilding efforts, especially in sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
    • Cultural and Educational Collaboration: India can collaborate with Ukraine in preserving cultural heritage and restoring educational institutions, fostering cultural exchanges and strengthening bilateral ties.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (UPSC IAS/2020)

  • [pib] World Toilet Day, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • World Toilet Day, celebrated every year on November 19, is an official United Nations observance aimed at raising awareness of the global sanitation crisis and promoting action for safe toilets worldwide.
      • 2024 Theme: “Sanitation for Peace” – highlights the role of sanitation in promoting peace, security, and resilience.

    About World Toilet Day 

    • It is celebrated each year on November 19 to raise awareness about global sanitation issues.
    • It became an UN-recognized day in 2013 to emphasize the importance of safe sanitation under SDG 6.
    • It was first proposed by Jack Sim of the World Toilet Organization in 2001.
    • Purpose: To address the health, dignity, and environmental challenges linked to inadequate sanitation.

    Significance and Global Collaborations 

    • Public Health: Prevents waterborne diseases; 1,000 child deaths daily linked to unsafe sanitation (WHO).
    • UN Initiatives: UNICEF, WHO, and UN-Water work with countries to improve WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene) facilities.
    • NGO Support: Organizations like World Toilet Organization and WaterAid implement sanitation projects and awareness.
    • International Partnerships: Programs like Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) unify governments and NGOs for sanitation solutions.

    India’s Policies and Successes

    • Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):
      • SBM-Grameen: Over 11.73 crore household toilets built; 5.57 lakh villages ODF.
      • SBM-Urban: 63.63 lakh household toilets constructed; 4,576 cities ODF.
    • Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide piped drinking water to rural households, supporting sanitation.
    • Women’s Safety Campaigns: Programs like Hamara Shauchalay: Hamara Samman link sanitation to dignity, especially for women.
    • Waste Management: SBM Phase II focuses on sustainable waste management and sanitation systems.

    PYQ:

    [2024] Consider the following statements regarding World Toilet Organization:

    1. It is one of the agencies of the United Nations.
    2. World Toilet Summit, World Toilet Day and World Toilet College are the initiatives of this organization, to inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis.
    3. The main focus of its function is to grant funds to the least developed countries and developing countries to achieve the end of open defecation.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 2

    (d) 2 and 3

  • [pib] Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan (2025-2029)

    Why in the News?

    India and Italy signed an ambitious 5-year ‘joint strategic action plan 2025-2029’ that would include cooperation in space sector, critical technology, research, co-production of military equipment and widening the ambit of economic cooperation.

    Key Focus Areas of the Joint Strategic Action Plan:

    Details
    Political Dialogue • Regular high-level meetings and reciprocal visits.
    • Annual bilateral consultations between foreign ministries to discuss mutual interests.
    Economic Cooperation • Boosting trade, market access, and investments in sectors like transportation, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and green technologies.
    • Promoting industrial partnerships and mutual investments.
    Connectivity • Collaborating on sustainable transport initiatives.
    • Enhancing maritime and land infrastructure, participating in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
    Science, Technology, IT, Innovation • Cooperation in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), telecommunications, and digital services.
    • Innovation, research collaborations, and exchange programs for scientific growth.
    Space Sector • Collaboration between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Earth observation and lunar science.
    • Facilitating mutual commercial space collaborations.
    Energy Transition • Technology summits in renewable energy.
    • Cooperation in green hydrogen, biofuels, and energy efficiency.
    • Collaboration in global energy alliances like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Global Biofuels Alliance.
    Defence Cooperation • Joint defence consultations and staff talks.
    • Co-development of defence platforms and equipment.
    • Negotiating a Defence Industrial Roadmap.
    Security Cooperation • Capacity-building in cybersecurity and counter-terrorism.
    • Regular exchanges and sector-specific talks in multilateral forums.

    Significance of the Plan:

    • Time-Bound Initiatives: It outlines specific, time-bound initiatives to ensure measurable progress and accountability.
    • Mutual Growth: By focusing on co-development and co-production, the plan aims to leverage the strengths of both nations for mutual economic and technological advancement.
    • Strategic Alignment: The collaboration in areas like defence, energy transition, and space signifies a strategic alignment of interests, enhancing regional and global stability.
    • Cultural and People-to-People Ties: Emphasizing cultural exchanges and academic collaborations strengthens the social fabric and mutual understanding between the two countries.

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements:

    1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.

    2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2