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GS Paper: GS2

  • Abject failure: Reports Global Hunger Index (GHI), 2024

    Why in the News?

    The 2024 Global Hunger Index (GHI) indicates that the number of undernourished people in India this year, approximately 200 million, would rank as the seventh largest population in the world, comparable to the size of Brazil’s population.

    Why it is a matter of concern?

    • High Undernourishment Levels: India’s Global Hunger Index rank is 105 out of 127 countries, classified under the “serious” category with a score of 27.3. An estimated 200 million people, or roughly 14% of India’s population, are undernourished, a figure comparable to the population of Brazil.
    • Child Malnutrition: India’s child stunting rate stands at 35.5%, and the child wasting rate is 18.7%, indicating widespread malnutrition. These rates reflect a failure in the healthcare and social safety net systems.
    • Infant Mortality Rate: Although India’s infant mortality rate is slightly below the global average (26 per 1,000 live births compared to the global average of 28), it remains a significant issue.
    • Impact of Food Inflation: Food inflation more than doubled between FY22 and FY24, increasing from 3.8% to 7.5%. This disproportionately affects low-income households, leading to reduced food accessibility.

    What about India’s GDP growth?

    • High Economic Growth Rate: India was the world’s fastest-growing economy in FY24, with a growth rate of 6.8% and a GDP nearing $4 trillion, ranking fifth globally.
    • Low Per Capita Income: Despite rapid economic growth, India’s per capita income remains low at $2,485 in FY24, which is less than a fourth of the global average of $13,920 in FY22. This disparity suggests significant income inequality and limited improvement in living standards for many.
    • Record Food Production vs. Hunger: In FY24, India achieved one of its highest food production levels at 332 million tonnes. However, the abundance in food production did not translate into improved food security due to distribution challenges, economic disparities, and climate-related impacts.

    What is the debate about data collection methodology?

    • Use of Sample Registration System (SRS) Data: The GHI uses data from India’s Sample Registration System (SRS), which is annually published by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. It provides statistics on births, deaths, infant mortality, and other vital indicators.
    • Government’s Criticism of GHI Methodology: There has been ongoing criticism from the Indian government regarding the GHI’s methodology, particularly the reliance on survey data and subjective measurements for assessing hunger and malnutrition. 
      • The government argues that the GHI may not accurately reflect the improvements in nutrition and food distribution initiatives.
    • Challenges in Addressing Undernutrition: Even with abundant food production, systemic issues such as poor nutrition programs, climate impacts on agricultural productivity, and socioeconomic factors continue to affect food security in India.  

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Nutrition and Social Safety Programs: India should enhance the effectiveness of nutrition programs, such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and Mid-Day Meal Scheme, ensuring better coverage, quality, and targeting to reduce child malnutrition and undernourishment.
    • Address Economic Inequality and Improve Food Access: Implement policies to reduce income disparities and make essential foods more affordable, such as expanding the Public Distribution System (PDS) to cover vulnerable groups affected by inflation and climate-related agricultural disruptions.

  • India, Pakistan avoid blaming each other at SCO meeting

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informally interacted with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during the SCO summit’s concluding lunch in Islamabad.

    About SCO:

    • The SCO was established in 2001 to promote regional cooperation in security, economic development, and cultural exchange among its member states, which include China, India, Russia, Pakistan, and several Central Asian countries.
    • The organization represents around 40% of the global population, making it one of the largest regional groups. Its influence spans economic, political, and security dimensions.
    • The SCO focuses on combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism (the “three evils”), enhancing regional security, and fostering economic collaboration among member states.
    • The SCO holds annual summits, rotating between member countries, to discuss various topics ranging from economic cooperation to regional security challenges.

    What were the major insights during SCO 2024 summit?

    • Diplomatic Engagement: The informal interaction between India’s External Affairs Minister and Pakistan’s leadership marked a notable shift in diplomatic engagement, highlighting a more constructive tone compared to previous meetings.
    • Avoidance of Contentious Issues: Both India and Pakistan’s leaders refrained from discussing sensitive topics such as Kashmir, indicating a focus on cooperation rather than conflict during this summit.
    • Collective Responsibility: The Indian foreign minister emphasized the need for an “honest conversation” about trust and cooperation in the SCO region, highlighting the importance of addressing concerns over terrorism and separatism in fostering trade and connectivity.
    • Positive Outcomes: The summit resulted in the signing of eight documents, including proposals for economic dialogue, cooperation in the creative economy, and strategies for addressing challenges in areas like green development and digital economy.
    • Future Cooperation: The joint statement from the summit emphasized optimizing the region’s potential in various sectors such as trade, innovation, and climate change, indicating a commitment to collaborative economic growth.

    Challenges for India: 

    • India-Pakistan Relations: Pakistan’s membership complicates India’s position within the SCO. The rivalry between India and Pakistan can hinder India’s ability to assert its interests effectively, especially since China and Russia are influential players in the organization.
    • Balancing Relations: India’s participation in the SCO necessitates a delicate balancing act between its traditional ties with Russia and its growing partnerships with Western nations. This is particularly challenging given the SCO’s often anti-Western posture.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Regional Cooperation: India should prioritize common interests within the SCO, such as counter-terrorism, economic development, and connectivity, while using diplomatic channels to reduce tensions with Pakistan and maintain constructive dialogue.
    • Strategic Balancing: India can pursue a balanced approach by aligning its SCO engagements with its broader foreign policy goals, leveraging partnerships with Russia and Central Asia while carefully managing its ties with Western nations.

  • Canada accuses Indian diplomats?

    Why in the News?

    India-Canada relations have reached a historic low after Justin Trudeau’s government accused Indian officials of being involved in “activities that pose a significant threat to public safety,” claims that New Delhi has strongly rejected as “preposterous.”

    What specific allegations has Canada made against Indian diplomats?

    • Violent Extremism: Canadian authorities claim that agents of the Government of India have been involved in violent extremist activities affecting both countries.
    • Involvement in Criminal Activity: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have accused Indian diplomats and consular officials of being linked to homicides, acts of violence, and the use of organized crime to create a sense of insecurity among the South Asian community in Canada.
    • Foreign Interference: Investigations suggest Indian officials leveraged their positions to collect information on certain individuals or groups in Canada, either directly or through proxies. This intelligence was allegedly shared with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in India.
    • Threats and Coercion: The allegations include coercion tactics where individuals in Canada were reportedly threatened regarding their immigration status or faced risks to their family members in India.
    • Connections with Organized Crime: There are claims that Indian intelligence conveyed information to criminal networks in India, allegedly linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is in custody in India. These networks are suspected of intimidating or targeting Canadians of South Asian descent.
    • Involvement in Assassinations: The controversy began with the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, and was further linked to the killing of Sukhdool Singh Gill in Winnipeg. Both incidents allegedly have ties to Indian government directives.

    How has India responded to Canada’s accusations?

    • Denial of Allegations: India has categorically dismissed the allegations as “absurd” and “preposterous.” Indian authorities have rejected claims of any involvement in criminal activities in Canada or targeting the Sikh community.
    • Accusations of Canadian Tolerance for Extremism: New Delhi has countered by accusing Canada of allowing anti-India elements and Khalistani separatist groups to operate freely, impacting India’s sovereignty and security.
    • Denial of Diplomatic Cooperation: Reports suggest that while India initially agreed to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, it later denied visas to RCMP officials who intended to share evidence with Indian counterparts.

    What actions have both countries taken in retaliation?

    • Expulsion of Diplomats: Following Canada’s expulsion of an Indian diplomat, India retaliated by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat, escalating the diplomatic dispute.
    • Visa Suspension: In response to the diplomatic tensions, India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens, citing security concerns for Indian diplomatic personnel in Canada.
    • Reduced Diplomatic Presence: The crisis has resulted in both nations significantly scaling back their diplomatic staff, affecting consular services and visa issuance.
    • Diplomatic Disengagement: India’s foreign minister has hinted at limiting diplomatic interactions with Canada, reflecting the deterioration in bilateral ties.

    What are the potential implications of this diplomatic crisis for both sides?

    • Bilateral Relations: The row represents a historic low in India-Canada relations. Both nations may experience prolonged diplomatic disengagement, adversely affecting cooperation in trade, education, and defence.
    • Economic Impacts: Canada is a significant partner for Indian students and the Punjabi diaspora, which could face disruptions in visa issuance, immigration processes, and consular services.
    • Geopolitical Ramifications: The dispute may strain India’s relations with Western allies, including the United States, which has strong ties with both India and Canada.
    • Division in Diaspora Communities: The Sikh community in Canada could be further divided, with escalating tensions around pro-Khalistan activities. Allegations against Indian officials may also increase anti-India sentiments among diaspora groups.

    Way forward: 

    • Diplomatic Engagement and De-escalation: Both countries should prioritize diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions, perhaps through neutral intermediaries or international platforms, ensuring that the crisis does not further damage long-term relations, trade, and people-to-people ties.
    • Focused Cooperation on Extremism and Criminal Activity: A joint task force or collaborative investigation involving both nations could be set up to address concerns about violent extremism and criminal activity, fostering transparency and trust, while respecting sovereignty and legal frameworks.

  • A Nobel prize for explaining why nations fail or succeed

    Why in the News?

    U.S. economists Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson won the 2024 Economics Nobel for their research on how the formation of institutions influences a nation’s prosperity and economic success.

    What are the key factors that explain why some nations are rich while others are poor?

    • Quality of Institutions: According to the 2024 Nobel laureates, the primary determinant of economic success is the quality of a country’s institutions. Inclusive institutions, which ensure secure property rights, political freedoms, and economic opportunities, tend to promote growth.
    • Rule of Law and Property Rights: When laws protect private property and are enforced impartially, individuals are incentivized to invest and engage in economic activities. Weak or corrupt legal systems can deter investments and slow growth.
    • Political Stability and Governance: Countries with stable, democratic governance structures often provide a conducive environment for economic activities. In contrast, political instability and authoritarianism can hinder development.
    • Geography and Natural Resources: Some scholars argue that geographic factors, such as access to trade routes and natural resource endowment, play a role in shaping a nation’s wealth. However, resource-rich nations can still struggle if their institutions are weak (resource curse).
    • Human Capital and Education: Nations that invest in education and healthcare build a skilled and productive workforce, which can drive long-term economic growth.
    • Technological and Industrial Development: The ability to adopt and innovate technologies is crucial for economic advancement, which historically facilitated the “Great Divergence” during the Industrial Revolution.

    How do historical contexts and colonial legacies impact current economic outcomes?

    • Colonial Institution Setup: Colonizers often set up institutions based on their motivations and local conditions. In places with harsh climates or high disease rates, extractive institutions were established to exploit resources quickly.
    • Impact of Extractive Institutions: In countries where extractive institutions were set up, economic policies often focused on resource extraction and wealth concentration, which led to long-term stagnation. For instance, regions in Africa and South Asia that experienced extractive colonial policies face lasting developmental challenges.
    • Path Dependence: Colonial institutions created trajectories that persisted even after independence. Post-colonial governments often inherited the same extractive structures, leading to continued corruption, inequality, and weak rule of law.
    • Unequal Development: Colonialism exacerbated regional disparities by favouring some areas (urban centres, resource-rich regions) over others, affecting infrastructure development and economic integration.

    What criticisms exist regarding the theories proposed by the Nobel laureates?

    • Oversimplification of Institutional Role: Critics argue that attributing economic success primarily to institutions might ignore other important factors, such as culture, geography, and international trade dynamics, which also significantly shape economic outcomes.
    • Neglect of Global Power Structures: Some scholars believe that focusing on domestic institutions alone overlooks the influence of global economic structures and the power imbalances that exist between countries, which can perpetuate inequality.
    • Limited Consideration of Economic Policies: Critics point out that macroeconomic policies, market dynamics, and state-led development strategies also play a crucial role in determining economic trajectories, beyond institutional quality alone.
    • Debate Over Inclusiveness of “Inclusive Institutions”: Some argue that even countries with ostensibly inclusive institutions (e.g., Western democracies) can exhibit extractive practices, such as unequal wealth distribution, labor exploitation, and environmental degradation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Institutions with Reforms: Focus on reforming political and economic institutions to promote inclusiveness, transparency, and rule of law, ensuring secure property rights and equal opportunities for all citizens.
    • Address Global Inequities and Support Development: International efforts should aim to reduce global economic disparities by promoting fair trade, debt relief, and development aid.

  • Places in news: Jordan Valley

    Jordan Valley

    Why in the News?

    Extremist groups held drone strikes on Israeli territory in the Jordan Valley (which forms Jordan’s border with Israel and the West Bank).

    About Jordan Valley:

    Details
    Geography • Part of the Great Rift Valley, extending from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea.
    • Forms a natural border between Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank.
    • Low-lying, with parts below sea level, especially near the Dead Sea.
    Climate • Semi-arid to arid, with hot summers and mild winters.
    • Limited rainfall, necessitating irrigation for agriculture.
    Significance • An essential agricultural region, growing citrus, dates, and vegetables.
    • The Jordan River is a vital water source for agriculture and drinking water.
    • Ecological corridor for migratory birds.
    History • Rich in biblical and historical significance, including Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River.
    • Archaeological sites from ancient civilizations like the Canaanites and Romans.
    Geopolitical Aspects • Critical in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with strategic importance for security and border control.
    • Vital for Palestinian economic development and a future state.
    • Shared water resources create tensions between Israel, Jordan, and Syria.
    Economic Activities • Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy.
    • Tourism is also significant due to religious and historical sites.
    Environmental Concerns • Water scarcity and the shrinking Dead Sea due to river diversion are major issues.
    • Pollution and overuse of the Jordan River affect water quality and ecosystem health.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea?

    (a) Syria

    (b) Jordan

    (c) Lebanon

    (d) Israel

  • UAE to review India’s concerns on surge in Silver, Platinum Alloy imports

    Why in the News?

    India has raised concerns over the increase in imports of silver products, platinum alloy, and dry dates from the UAE under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    Issues Raised by India:

    • The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has called for an urgent review of the India-UAE CEPA, citing concerns that the agreement allows unlimited imports of gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds with zero tariffs.
    • GTRI claims that many of these imports do not meet Rules of Origin requirements and thus should not qualify for concessions.
      • India’s gold and silver imports from the UAE increased by 210% to $10.7 billion in 2023-24.
      • India allows customs duty concessions of 7% on silver and 1% on 160 metric tonnes of gold under the agreement.
    • India also requested that the Indian Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai be classified as a Designated Zone to allow domestic jewellery manufacturers to benefit from concessional duties, including those not registered under UAE’s domestic regulations.
    • India also requested the UAE to grant recognition to the i-CAS (India Conformity Assessment Scheme) Halal scheme to simplify the certification process and boost exports of animal products.
    • The UAE expressed its willingness to review this request after consulting internal stakeholders, including federal tax authorities.

    India-UAE Trade Relations:

    Details
    Volume • The UAE is India’s 3rd largest trading partner with $83.65 billion in bilateral trade in 2023-24.
    • Trade between India and UAE grew from $180 million in the 1970s to $85 billion in 2022-23.
    Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) • Signed in February 2022, making India the first country to sign such an agreement with the UAE.
    • CEPA has slashed tariffs on 80% of goods and offers zero duty access to 90% of Indian exports to the UAE.
    Non-Oil Trade Target • The target of reaching $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030 is seen as achievable given current growth trends.
    Investment from UAE • UAE’s investments in India are around $20-21 billion, with $15.5 billion as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
    • The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has invested in projects like the NIIF Master Fund and renewable energy initiatives.
    India’s Exports to UAE • UAE is India’s 2nd largest export destination after the US, with exports worth $31.61 billion in 2022-23.
    • Key exports include petroleum products, gems, food items, textiles, and engineering goods.
    India’s Imports from UAE • UAE is a critical partner for India’s energy security.
    • India imports petroleum, gems, minerals, and chemicals from UAE.
    • UAE is India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier and 2nd largest for LNG and LPG.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? 

  • Article 142 of the Indian Constitution

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court declined a PIL seeking directions under Article 142 to include sexual offences against men, trans-persons, and animals in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

    Supreme Court’s Observations:

    • The petitioner argued that the new BNS omitted Section 377 of the IPC, which previously criminalized ‘unnatural sex’ and carnal intercourse involving a man, woman, or animal.
    • In the Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018) case, the Supreme Court struck down Section 377 to the extent that it criminalized consensual sexual acts between adults.
    • Non-consensual homosexual acts remained punishable under this provision.
    • The BNS does not include provisions criminalizing sexual offences against men, trans persons, and animals.
    • During the hearing, the bench comprising CJI DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra stated that:
      • The Court cannot direct Parliament to create or reintroduce an offence.
      • The creation of offences falls within the parliamentary domain, not under the court’s jurisdiction, even with Article 142.

    About Article 142:

    Details
    Definition • Grants discretionary power to the Supreme Court to pass orders or decrees necessary for complete justice in matters before it.
    • Allows the court to act beyond the limits of statutory law if required.
    Purpose • Ensures justice is delivered in cases where regular laws may not provide adequate remedies.
    • Aims to empower the Supreme Court to address extraordinary situations effectively.
    Key Clauses • Article 142(1): Allows the Supreme Court to pass enforceable orders across India for doing complete justice.
    • Article 142(2): Empowers the court to secure attendance, discovery of documents, or punishment for contempt.
    Notable Cases • Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1989): Supreme Court awarded $470 million compensation, bypassing limitations of ordinary law.
    • Ayodhya Case (2019): Directed the formation of a trust for Ram Mandir construction.• Liquor Sale Ban (2016): Imposed a 500-metre ban on liquor shops along highways using Article 142, extending it beyond central government orders.
    Constructive Application • Invoked for environmental protection, such as in the Taj Mahal cleanup.
    • Justice for undertrials by addressing systemic delays in the judicial process.
    Controversies • Accusations of judicial overreach in certain cases, where actions have seemingly breached the separation of powers principle.
    • Supreme Court Bar Association v. Union of India: Clarified that Article 142 should supplement, not replace the law.
    Impact on Governance • Empowers the Supreme Court with a tool for upholding justice, but raises debates over checks and balances in a democratic system.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following?

    (a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law.

    (b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament.

    (c) In the event of grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet.

    (d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of Union Legislature.

  • Why did Delhi HC allow a 60-year-old couple to access their dead son’s sperm?

    Why in the News?

    The Delhi High Court recently permitted a couple in their sixties to access their late son’s sperm sample, thus opening the door for posthumous assisted reproduction.

    About the Present Case:

    • The Delhi HC allowed a couple in their sixties to access their deceased son’s sperm sample for posthumous assisted reproduction, marking a significant legal ruling.
    • The son, who passed away from cancer in 2020, had cryopreserved his sperm at a hospital. The hospital refused to release the sample without a court order since there were no guidelines for cases without a surviving spouse.
    • The parents sought court intervention to carry on their son’s legacy, with the assurance that they would take full responsibility for any child born through surrogacy using the sperm sample.

    What is the ART Act?

    • The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021 regulates fertility treatments and artificial insemination procedures in India.
    • It provides guidelines for posthumous retrieval of sperm but is limited to cases where the deceased is married, allowing the surviving partner to seek sperm retrieval.
    • The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare stated that the current legislation does not account for “postmortem grandparenthood” cases, where grandparents seek to use a deceased individual’s sperm.

    What are present International practices?

    • Uruguay: Allows posthumous reproduction with written consent valid for one year.
    • Belgium: Permits posthumous reproduction after a six-month waiting period following death, and the request must be made within two years.
    • Victoria, Australia: Requires written or oral consent before witnesses, approval from a “patient review panel,” and counseling for the parent.
    • Canada and the UK: Both require written consent for posthumous reproduction.
    • Israel: Limits the use of a deceased individual’s sperm to the female partner, with some exceptions allowing parents to use it. The Delhi High Court ruling referenced a similar case in Israel involving a 19-year-old soldier.

    Precedents and Concerns:

    • Legal Precedent for Non-Spousal Claims: The Delhi High Court’s ruling sets a precedent where parties other than a spouse, such as parents, can claim the right to access a deceased individual’s cryopreserved reproductive material.
      • This expands the legal interpretation beyond the scope typically covered by existing laws, which usually prioritize the spouse’s consent.
    • Ethical and Consent Issues: Posthumous reproduction raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding the presumed consent of the deceased individual.
      • Determining whether the deceased intended for their reproductive material to be used after death can be complex, especially when explicit written consent is not available.
    • Child Welfare Considerations: The ruling highlights concerns about the future child’s welfare, who would grow up without one genetic parent.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish Clear Legal Guidelines: Develop comprehensive legal frameworks for posthumous reproduction, addressing scenarios beyond spousal claims and ensuring explicit consent requirements to guide such cases.
    • Prioritize Child Welfare and Ethical Considerations: Implement safeguards like mandatory counseling, ethical review panels, and consideration of the child’s best interests in decisions involving posthumous assisted reproduction.

  • A blueprint for safeguarding children

    Why in the News?

    A recent Supreme Court ruling redefines the act of watching and downloading child pornography as a serious crime, rather than merely an adult indulgence.

    Effectiveness of Existing Laws:

    • Expansion of Legal Scope: The Supreme Court ruling corrected the limited interpretation of the Madras High Court by making downloading and storage of Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) a crime under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This strengthens the legal framework for child protection.
    • Shift in Terminology: The judgment reframed “child porn” as CSEAM, emphasizing that it is a severe crime rather than an “adult indulgence,” thereby acknowledging the harm caused to children.
    • Mandating Responsibilities for Intermediaries: The court placed stringent obligations on social media platforms to report CSEAM content to authorities in real-time, ensuring compliance with Indian law.

    What new measures will be implemented to enhance Child Safety?

    • Cybercrime as an Organized Crime: Explicitly defining cybercrimes involving CSEAM as economic and organized crimes in Indian law, including outlawing emerging offenses like AI-generated child sexual abuse content.
    • Forensic Lab Establishment: A domestic forensic lab equipped with advanced technology will be set up to handle CSEAM cases, enabling faster response times to flagged content and coordination with law enforcement agencies.
    • National Database on Sexual Offenders: Ensuring that individuals prosecuted for possession or sharing of CSEAM are added to a database and prohibited from employment in child-related sectors.

    Collaboration among Stakeholders:

    • Real-Time Reporting by Social Media Platforms: The judgment mandates social media companies and intermediaries to report instances of CSEAM to law enforcement immediately, facilitating rapid intervention.
    • International Cooperation: Calls for the establishment of an International Database of Sex Offenders to strengthen cross-border coordination in tracking offenders. This includes working with international agencies like Interpol to streamline efforts.
    • Role of Financial Institutions: Leveraging financial institutions to trace and disrupt the financial transactions that support networks involved in child exploitation.

    Educational Initiatives:

    • Awareness Programs on Digital Safety: Launching campaigns to educate parents, children, and communities about the dangers of online child exploitation and methods for protecting themselves.
    • Training for Law Enforcement and Judiciary: Providing specialized training to authorities on identifying and prosecuting CSEAM cases, including the use of AI in the creation of exploitative material.
    • School-Based Programs: Implementing programs in schools to teach children about safe online behavior and recognise signs of potential exploitation.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Legal and Technological Frameworks: Update laws to explicitly classify CSEAM-related cybercrimes as organized crimes and establish a state-of-the-art forensic lab for swift case handling and coordination with global agencies.
    • Enhance Prevention and Awareness Initiatives: Implement nationwide digital safety education for children, parents, and authorities, while bolstering collaboration with international bodies and financial institutions to dismantle exploitation networks.

  • Nile nations agree on Water-Sharing without Egypt’s nod

    nile river

    Why in the News?

    A regional partnership of 10 countries announced that an agreement on the equitable use of Nile River water resources has come into effect, despite Egypt’s opposition.

    Why discuss this?

    • The legal status of the “cooperative framework” was confirmed by the African Union after South Sudan joined the treaty.
    • The treaty is backed by the Nile Basin Initiative.
    • Countries Involved:
      • Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have ratified the agreement.
      • Egypt and Sudan have refused to sign.
      • Congo abstained, while Kenya has yet to submit its ratification documents.

    About Nile River:

    Details
    Length Approximately 6,650 km (4,130 miles), making it the longest river in the world.
    Tributaries White Nile (originating from Lake Victoria in Uganda) and Blue Nile (originating from Lake Tana in Ethiopia).
    Countries Traversed 11 countries: Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.
    Source
    • White Nile from Lake Victoria,
    • Blue Nile from Lake Tana.
    Mouth Mediterranean Sea, forming the Nile Delta in Egypt.
    Major Cities Includes Cairo, Khartoum, and Alexandria.
    Key Dams
    • Aswan High Dam (Egypt), controls flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and forms Lake Nasser.
    • Built in 1970 across the Nile in Aswan, Egypt; helps in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation but also disrupts silt flow.
    Economic Importance Provides over 90% of water for Egypt and Sudan; vital for agriculture, fishing, industry, and energy production.
    Disputes Between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water rights, particularly due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
    Historical Treaties
    • 1929 and 1959 Nile Water Agreements allocated water mostly to Egypt and Sudan; upstream countries seek revision.
    • Nile Basin Initiative (NBI): Established in 1999, it is a partnership among Nile Basin countries aimed at promoting cooperation, development, and sustainable management of the Nile’s resources.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs:

    River Flows into
    1. Mekong Andaman Sea
    2. Thames Irish Sea
    3. Volga Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 4 only