Why in the News?
PM Modi inaugurated the 100 TPD cattle dung-based Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Gwalior.
About the CBG PlantÂ
Working features:
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What is Compressed Biogas (CBG)?
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| Process of Making CBG |
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| Significance of CBG |
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GS Paper: GS3
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[pib] Indiaâs first modern Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plant
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[23rd November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Understanding the changing face of extremist violence
PYQ Relevance:
Q) Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism. (UPSC CSE 2022)Mentorâs Comment: UPSC Mains have always focused on âLeft Wing Extremismâ (2023), âGrowth of Naxalism, and Radicalizationâ (2022 and 2024).
The SATP report notes an increase in Maoist activities across 12 states, highlighting a rise from 10 states in 2022. Despite claims of declining violence due to the National Policy and Action Plan (NPAP), challenges remain.
But Why? What is the root cause?
Todayâs editorial talks about the significance of vigilance and adaptability in combating extremist violence. This content can be used for âRising Radicalization and Terrorism in Indiaâ.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
At the end of COP 29 in Baku (Azerbaijan), India will push for ambitious climate mitigation financing from developed nations. At the same time, India is at a critical juncture in its environmental and public health journey.
What are the key observations from the early post-independence history?
⢠The India-Pak partition in 1947 resulted in one of the largest mass migrations (14 to 18 million people displaced) that led to widespread communal violence, resulting in approximately one million deaths across religious communities. This continues to affect India-Pakistan relations even today.
⢠Further, under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the government employed a combination of negotiations and military action to integrate these states into the Indian Union. For example, Hyderabad through Operation Polo and Junagadh’s accession following a plebiscite.
⢠The new Indian government emphasized secularism as a foundational principle, and the Constitution adopted a framework for democracy and civil rights while promoting equality among all citizens. The practice of untouchability was abolished, and reservations were implemented for marginalized communities.
o But in the immediate years, agricultural productivity was low, exacerbated by droughts and inadequate infrastructure.
o The government recognized the need for economic reforms to uplift the agrarian sector and improve living conditions.
⢠This period (1950s-1960s) also witnessed the emergence of political movements addressing regional aspirations and demands for statehood, such as the formation of Andhra Pradesh following widespread protests after the death of Potti Sriramulu during a hunger strike.How has the nature of extremist violence evolved in the digital age?
- Increased Accessibility and Propagation: The internet has made extremist content more accessible than ever before. Individuals can easily find and engage with violent extremist materials online, which contributes to normalization and desensitization to radical ideas.
- Social media platforms have become critical tools for extremists to disseminate their messages and recruit new members.
- Research shows that social media played a role in the radicalization processes of nearly 90% of extremists in certain datasets between 2005 and 2016. It allows individuals to radicalize without physical contact, often leading to what is termed “lone actor terrorism”.
- Use of Disinformation Tactics: Extremists have increasingly created echo chambers where their ideologies are reinforced without challenge. Right-wing extremists, in particular, have been noted to benefit from such tactics more than other groups, utilizing disinformation campaigns to further their agendas.
- Role of Anonymity and Encryption: Encrypted messaging apps and decentralized platforms enable them to communicate securely, share resources, and organize activities without attracting attention from law enforcement. This shift has made it more challenging for authorities to monitor and counteract.
- Gaming Platforms: Emerging trends show that gaming platforms are being leveraged by extremists as new venues for recruitment and radicalization. These environments allow for interaction with potential recruits in less scrutinized settings, where extremist ideologies can be presented in a more palatable manner.
What are the reasons behind the rise of new forms of extremist violence?
- Socio-Political Factors: Ongoing geopolitical issues and perceived injustices within the country and the society, fuel extremist sentiments. Economic disparities and social inequalities drive individuals towards extremist ideologies.
- Recruitment and Exploitation: Extremist groups generally prefer these isolated individuals, particularly children and youth, for recruitment.
- Hybridization of Extremist Ideologies: Individuals combine various ideologies and conspiracy theories, creating complex motivations for violence. Their narratives are often tailored to personal experiences and grievances faced by the Indian society.
- Covert Operations: Digital Encryption allows extremists to communicate and organize without detection. For Example, increased incidents of individuals committing violence independently, often using online resources for planning.
What strategies can be implemented to effectively counteract extremist violence?
- Community Engagement and Empowerment: Engage local communities through initiatives that foster trust between law enforcement and community members. Ensure that community engagement efforts are broad-based and inclusive, addressing all forms of ideologically motivated violence.
- Education and Awareness Programs: Implement educational initiatives that promote respect for diversity, human rights, and critical thinking skills among youth. This can help counteract extremist narratives and reduce susceptibility to radicalization.
- Countering Online Radicalization by PPP: The government can collaborate with technology companies to develop tools that can help identify and counter extremist content online while respecting privacy rights.
- Socio-Economic Development: Focus on socio-economic development by offering effective alternatives to violence for at-risk groups. This includes enhancing participatory decision-making processes and strengthening local governance to address the root causes of discontent that can lead to radicalization.
- Increased Accessibility and Propagation: The internet has made extremist content more accessible than ever before. Individuals can easily find and engage with violent extremist materials online, which contributes to normalization and desensitization to radical ideas.
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Democratising AI needs a radically different approach
Why in the News?
Policymakers globally are addressing Big Tech’s dominance in AI by investing in sovereign cloud infrastructure, open data platforms, and supporting start-ups, yet these measures may inadvertently reinforce Big Tech’s control.
How can we ensure that AI is implemented in a way that upholds democratic values?
- It promotes Open Data Initiatives: While open data can enhance AI systems, it must be safeguarded against commercial capture by larger entities. Initiatives should focus on making data accessible and usable for smaller players without allowing Big Tech to monopolize it.
- It invests in Public Compute Infrastructure: Establishing public computing resources can provide alternatives to private cloud services dominated by Big Tech. However, these resources must be competitive in terms of cost and functionality to be effective.
- It fosters Smaller AI Models: Shifting focus from large-scale deep learning models to smaller, theory-driven AI models can democratize development. This approach emphasizes domain expertise and lived experiences over sheer data volume, which aligns better with democratic values.
What role should public participation play?
- Engagement in Policy Development: Involving diverse stakeholders, including community representatives and industry experts, can help create policies that reflect a broader range of interests and concerns regarding AI deployment.
- Transparency and Accountability: Mechanisms should be established to ensure transparency in AI decision-making processes. Public oversight can help hold organizations accountable for their AI practices, particularly regarding data usage and algorithmic biases.
- Community-Centric AI Solutions: Encouraging local communities to participate in the design and implementation of AI solutions can lead to more equitable outcomes. This involvement ensures that AI applications address specific community needs rather than serving corporate interests alone.
What are the risks associated with technocratic governance?
- Concentration of Power: The dominance of Big Tech can lead to a concentration of power where a few entities dictate the terms of AI development and deployment. This scenario risks sidelining smaller players and reducing diversity in innovation.
- Surveillance and Privacy Concerns: The use of AI for surveillance by powerful corporations can threaten individual privacy rights. Policymakers must carefully consider the implications of deploying AI technologies that could exacerbate existing inequalities or infringe on civil liberties.
- Erosion of Public Trust: If the public perceives that AI governance is primarily driven by technocratic elites without adequate input from citizens, trust in these systems may erode. This distrust can hinder the effective implementation of AI technologies that could otherwise benefit society.
Way forward:Â
- Establish Inclusive AI Governance: Create multi-stakeholder frameworks involving governments, communities, and smaller players to ensure transparency, accountability, and equitable access to AI resources, safeguarding against monopolistic practices.
- Prioritize Ethical, Small-Scale AI Development: Shift focus from large-scale deep learning models to theory-driven, domain-specific AI solutions that respect privacy, foster community involvement, and address localized needs, promoting democratic values in AI deployment.
Mains PYQ:
Q The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) hasinitiated e-Governance as an integral part of governmentâ. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)
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Kaziranga National Park
Why in the News?
A sub-adult female tiger from Kamakhya Reserve Forest in Assam strayed near Kaziranga National Park and was attacked by locals.
All facts about Kaziranga National Park:
Details About ⢠Located in the Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath, and Nagaon districts of Assam, India.
⢠Spans 430 sq. km. (166 square miles).
⢠Established as a reserve forest in 1905, declared as a National park in 1974, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
⢠Declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2006.Geographical Features ⢠The park is crisscrossed by the Brahmaputra River along with numerous small bodies of water.
⢠Dominated by tall elephant grass, marshland, and tropical moist broadleaf forests.
⢠Terrain includes sandbars, beels (flood-formed lakes), and chapories (elevated areas).Flora and Fauna - Flora: Includes 4 main vegetation types: alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
- Â Fauna: Home to 35 mammalian species(15 threatened), it also includes the worldâs largest populations of Indian rhinoceros (2,613), wild water buffalo (1,666), swamp deer (468), elephants (1,940), gaur (1,300), and sambar (58).
⢠Important bird area with 57 species of birds, including migratory species.
⢠Rich biodiversity, including significant populations of chital, Indian muntjac, wild boar, and hog deer.
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following pairs:
National Park River flowing through the Park
1. Corbett National Park : Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None
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In news: Ashtamudi Lake
Why in the News?
Several dead fish are floating on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala due to illegal use of âthottaâ (explosives) and ânanchuâ (poisons) for fishing.
About Ashtamudi Lake:
Details About ⢠Brackish-water estuarine lake, located in Kerala, covering 5,700 hectares.
⢠Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2002.Geographical Features ⢠Encompasses 8 channels (arms) connecting to the lake, giving it the name “Ashtamudi.” (gateway to the backwaters of Kerala)
⢠Second largest lake in Kerala (first being the Vembanad Lake), drains into the sea via Neendakara estuary.
⢠Kallada River is the main water source for the lake.
⢠Historical significance as a major port city of Quilon, as recorded by Ibn Battuta.Flora and Fauna ⢠Mangrove species: Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Sonneratia caseolaris.
⢠Endangered species: Syzygium travancoricum and Calamus rotang.
⢠57 species of avifauna, including 6 migratory species and 51 resident species.
â˘Â In 2014, the Clam Governing Council became the first Marine Stewardship Council certified fishery in India for their sustainable clam fishing.PYQ:
[2018] Which one of the following is an artificial lake?
(a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)
(b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh)
(c) Nainital (Uttarakhand)
(d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh)
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[22nd November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: India needs an environmental health regulatory agency
PYQ Relevance:
Q) “The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws. (UPSC CSE 2022)Mentorâs Comment: UPSC Mains has recently focused on Environmental Issues (2020) and regional Environmental Challenges (2023).
According to the Emissions Gap Report 2024 from the United Nations Environment Programme, India has seen over 6% more greenhouse gas emissions than the previous year.
Today at the end of COP 29 in Baku (Azerbaijan), India will push for ambitious climate mitigation financing from developed nations. These two examples show that India is at a critical juncture in its environmental and public health journey.
Todayâs editorial talks about the challenges around the current environmental health governance in India. This content can be used for âEnvironmental regulations and challengesâ.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
At the end of COP 29 in Baku (Azerbaijan), India will push for ambitious climate mitigation financing from developed nations. At the same time, India is at a critical juncture in its environmental and public health journey.
What are the current gaps in India’s environmental health regulations?
- Fragmented Regulatory Framework: Current environmental governance is divided among multiple ministries, such as the Ministryof Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
- This fragmentation results in a disconnect between environmental monitoring and health impact assessments, leading to ineffective responses to pollution-related health issues.
- Outdated Legislation: Many existing laws, such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, have not been updated to reflect current environmental challenges.
- They do not adequately address modern pollution sources or incorporate contemporary scientific understanding of environmental health risks.
- Insufficient Data Collection and Research: There is a lack of reliable, comprehensive data on the health impacts of environmental pollutants.
- While organizations like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conduct important research, there is no centralized body to synthesize this data into actionable policies. This gap hampers effective regulation and public health interventions.
- Inadequate Enforcement Mechanisms: Although laws exist to regulate pollution, enforcement remains weak due to bureaucratic inertia, lack of resources, and sometimes political influence.
- Compliance with pollution control measures is often not monitored effectively, allowing violations to persist without consequences.
- Exemptions in New Regulations: Recent proposals, such as the Remediation of Contaminated Sites Rules, 2024, have notable exemptions that exclude certain types of contaminated sites from regulation (e.g., radioactive sites, abandoned mines).
- This can leave significant areas unaddressed in terms of cleanup and remediation efforts
How would a dedicated environmental health regulatory agency improve public health outcomes?
- Integrated Approach: The agency would combine environmental and public health oversight, ensuring that regulations address the interconnectedness of environmental factors and health outcomes.
- Enhanced Regulation and Enforcement: It would enforce stricter regulations on pollutants and ensure compliance from industries, reducing harmful exposures to air and water quality issues.
- Data Collection and Research: The agency would prioritize systematic data collection on environmental health impacts, leading to better-informed policies and timely interventions for pollution-related health issues.
- Public Awareness and Education: By educating the public about environmental health risks, the agency would empower communities to advocate for cleaner environments and healthier living conditions.
What international best practices can India adopt for an effective framework?
- Implementation of EHS Guidelines: India can utilize the World Bank Group’s EHS Guidelines, which provide comprehensive standards for managing environmental health risks across various industries.
- Framework for Environmental Public Health Functions: India can implement the EEPHF framework developed by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which outlines responsibilities for health actors and governance structures necessary for effective environmental health management.
- Comprehensive Risk Management: Implementing a structured risk management framework similar to that outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would allow India to evaluate multiple contaminants and exposure pathways comprehensively.
- Environmental Health Incident Management: India can adopt a coordinated incident management framework like the Australiaâs system, which provides mechanisms for responding to environmental health incidents effectively. This includes preparedness measures, effective communication strategies, and collaboration across government sectors to minimize impacts on public health.
Way Forward: To improve environmental health in India, there is a need for an integrated regulatory approach that updates laws, enhances enforcement, engages communities, and ensures comprehensive monitoring of pollutants.
- Fragmented Regulatory Framework: Current environmental governance is divided among multiple ministries, such as the Ministryof Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
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The SECI solar bid at the centre of Gautam Adaniâs US indictment
Why in the News?
A 2019 tender by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) is now central to a US district court indictment alleging that Gautam Adani and others offered âš2,029 crore ($265 million) in bribes to Indian officials.
What specific allegations have been made regarding the SECI solar bid?
- The US Department of Justice alleges that Gautam Adani and his associates offered approximately âš2,029 crore (US $265 million) in bribes to Indian government officials.
- This was to facilitate the signing of power supply agreements (PSAs) between SECI and state electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs), which were initially reluctant to engage due to high energy prices following the tender bidding process.
- Failure to Secure Agreements: After SECI awarded the tender, which included 12,000 MW of generation capacity and 3,000 MW of module manufacturing capacity, it struggled to finalize PSAs with DISCOMs.
- This inability jeopardized the lucrative letters of award (LOAs) that Adani Green and Azure Power expected from the project.
How has SECI’s role in the solar bidding process been scrutinized?
- SECI is a public sector entity under the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, tasked with promoting renewable energy sources in India.
- Its role as a facilitator in power procurement has come under scrutiny due to its inability to secure buyers for the power generated under this tender.
- Challenges Faced: SECI’s difficulties in finding buyers stemmed from DISCOMs’ reluctance to commit to PSAs at higher tariffs when they anticipated further reductions in solar power prices due to market conditions.
- This situation created a fertile ground for alleged corrupt practices as companies sought alternative means to secure contracts.
- Impact on Credibility: The allegations have raised questions about SECI’s operational integrity and its effectiveness in managing large-scale renewable energy projects, potentially undermining public trust in governmental processes related to renewable energy procurement.
What are the potential repercussions for India’s renewable energy sector?
- Investor Confidence: The indictment could deter foreign investment in India’s renewable energy sector, as potential investors may view the allegations as indicative of systemic corruption within the industry.
- Regulatory Scrutiny: Increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies both domestically and internationally may lead to tighter regulations and oversight on bidding processes and contract awards in the renewable sector.
- Market Dynamics: If proven true, these allegations could disrupt existing contracts and lead DISCOMs to reassess their engagement with solar projects, particularly if they fear further legal ramifications or reputational damage associated with such contracts.
- Long-term Impact on Policy: The case could catalyze reforms aimed at improving transparency and accountability within government procurement processes for renewable energy projects, potentially reshaping how future tenders are conducted.
Way forward:Â
- Rebuild Investor Confidence: The government must actively engage with international stakeholders, assuring them of corrective actions and fostering a business-friendly environment through improved governance and adherence to global best practices in renewable energy projects.
- Strengthen Regulatory Frameworks: India should enhance transparency in renewable energy procurement by establishing robust anti-corruption mechanisms, independent oversight committees, and clear guidelines to prevent undue influence in tender processes.
Mains PYQ:
Q Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at the World Leaders Summit of the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November 2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)? (UPSC IAS/2021)
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[pib] Indiaâs First Indigenous Antibiotic: Nafithromycin
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Science & Technology has launched Nafithromycin, Indiaâs first indigenous antibiotic to combat drug-resistant infections.
About Nafithromycin:
Details About ⢠It was developed with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a unit under the Department of Biotechnology, to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
⢠It aims to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
( Awaiting final approval from CDSCO for manufacturing and public use.)Features  ⢠Developed over 14 years of clinical trials in the U.S., Europe, and India.
⢠10 times more effective than azithromycin. (3 doses to combat Drug-Resistant Pneumonia)
⢠Minimal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and food-independent.Significance  ⢠It targets both typical and atypical pathogens.
⢠It addresses a global health issue, especially CABP, contributing to over 2 million deaths annually.
⢠Offers a more effective, faster, and safer treatment for drug-resistant pneumonia.
⢠Demonstrates successful public-private collaboration between the government and Wockhardt Pharmaceuticals.
⢠A cost-effective solution for treating resistant infections in low-resource settings.PYQ:
[2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4 -
Species in news: King Cobra
Why in the News?
A 12-year study by researchers from the Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology has revealed that the king cobra, previously believed to be a single species, actually comprises four distinct species.
Important facts related to King Cobra:
Details About ⢠Scientific Name: Ophiophagus hannah.
⢠It is the largest Venomous Snake; Reaches up to 18 feet (5.5 meters).
⢠Venom is Neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system.Re-categorization Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology identified the species as: - O. Hannah (Northern),
- O. bungarus (Sunda),
- O. kaalinga (Western Ghats), and
- O. salvatana (Luzon).
Species differ by 1-4% genetically, justifying their reclassification.
Habitat and Behavioural Features ⢠Found in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions ( India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines)
⢠Solitary and territorial, with a diet of snakes, lizards, birds, and rodents.
⢠Mating occurs annually during monsoon, with females laying up to 40 eggs in nests.
⢠Raises and spreads its hood when threatened, appearing larger.
⢠Vital in controlling snake populations and maintaining ecological balance.Conservation Status - IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.
- CITES: Appendix II.
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule II.
PYQ:
[2010] King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?
(a) It is a snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes
(b) It is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring
(c) It is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatched
(d) It is a large, cold-blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season -
Project Veer Gatha 4.0
Why in the News?
Over 1.76 crore school students participated in Project Veer Gatha 4.0, sharing creative tributes to the bravery and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel.
About Project Veer Gatha:
Details About ⢠Launched in 2021 to honor the acts of bravery and selfless sacrifice of Gallantry Awardees.
⢠1.76 crore students from 36 states and UTs participated.
⢠Conducted annually since its inception, with increasing participation:
⢠First Edition (2021): 8 lakh students, Second Edition (2022): 19.5 lakh students, Third Edition (2023): 1.36 crore students.Aims and Objectives ⢠Instill patriotism and national pride among students.
⢠Spread awareness about the heroic contributions of Gallantry Awardees.
⢠Foster creativity through various forms of artistic expression.
⢠Promote national unity and pride across Indiaâs diverse school system.
⢠Enhance knowledge about unsung heroes and military heritage.Features of the Program ⢠Creative content submissions, including poems, paintings, essays, and videos.
⢠100 national-level winners annually, with a âš10,000 cash prize and recognition by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence.
⢠District and state awards for outstanding students.
⢠Educational outreach programs by the Ministry of Defence to engage students.
⢠Digital submission via the MyGov portal, making the process inclusive and easy for wide participation.
⢠Focus on both famous Gallantry Awardees and unsung heroes.PYQ:
[2024] Operations undertaken by the Army towards upliftment of the local population in remote areas to include addressing of their basic needs is called:
(a) Operation Sankalp
(b) Operation Maitri
(c) Operation Sadbhavana
(d) Operation Madad