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GS Paper: GS3

  • [1st October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Having private participation in India’s nuclear energy

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q). Discuss the natural resource potentials of ‘Deccan Trap’. (UPSC CSE 2022)
    Q). With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Q). In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to its situation? (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Prelims:

    In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the ‘Additional Protocol’ with the `International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’? (UPSC CSE 2018) 

    a) The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.
    b) The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA.
    c) The country will have the privilege to buy uranium from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
    d) The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.

    Mentor’s Comment:  Nuclear power is the fifth-largest source of electricity in India, following coal, gas, hydroelectricity, and wind power. As of November 2020, India has 22 nuclear reactors in operation across 8 nuclear power plants, with a total installed capacity of 7,380 MW. From 2020 to 21, nuclear power produced 43 TWh, contributing 3.11% of India’s total power generation. In today’s editorial, we will be introduced to the private investment in India’s nuclear power sector, which is expected to have significant implications for the safety and security of nuclear power plants.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The government is negotiating with major firms, including Reliance Industries, Tata Power, Adani Power, and Vedanta, for investments of around $5.3 billion each.

    • This initiative aims to enhance electricity generation from non-carbon-emitting sources, aligning with India’s ambitious goal of achieving 50% non-fossil fuel-based electric generation capacity by 2030, up from 42% currently.

    What are the potential benefits of private investment in nuclear energy for India’s energy security?

    • Increased Capacity: The government aims to add 11,000 megawatts (MW) of nuclear power generation capacity by 2040. By ramping up nuclear power, India can reduce its heavy reliance on coal, which constitutes over 50% of its installed capacity.
    • Financial Investment and Infrastructure Development: The initiative seeks approximately $26 billion in private investments, which will facilitate the construction and operation of new nuclear plants. This financial boost is essential for meeting ambitious clean energy targets.
    • Technological Advancements and Innovation: Private firms may bring innovative technologies and practices that can enhance efficiency and safety in nuclear operations. Collaborations could also foster research and development in areas such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which offer potential cost savings and reduced construction times.
    • Alignment with National Energy Goals: The investment aligns with India’s goal to achieve 50% non-fossil fuel-based electricity generation by 2030, aiding in the transition towards cleaner energy sources.
    • Reduction in Carbon Emissions: Nuclear energy is a non-carbon-emitting source, which can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By ramping up, India can move closer to its goal of achieving 50% non-fossil fuel-based electricity generation by 2030.
    • Conservation of Natural Resources: Nuclear power plants require less land per unit of electricity generated compared to solar or wind farms. This efficiency can help conserve land resources and minimize habitat disruption, particularly in densely populated regions.

    How will the operational framework be structured between private companies and NPCIL?

    • Roles and Responsibilities: Private Companies will be responsible for making investments in nuclear plants, acquiring necessary land and water resources, and undertaking construction activities outside the reactor complex.
      • The rights to build, operate, and manage the nuclear stations, including fuel management, will remain with NPCIL as per existing legal provisions.
    • Revenue Generation: Private companies are expected to generate revenue from electricity sales once the plants are operational. This model allows private entities to benefit financially.
    • Hybrid Model: This model aims to accelerate nuclear capacity expansion without requiring amendments to the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, although it does require final approval from the Department of Atomic Energy.
    • Regulatory Compliance: The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) will oversee safety and regulatory processes, maintaining stringent standards throughout construction and operation.
    • Public-Private Partnerships: There is potential for forming public-private partnerships where NPCIL or a similar government body retains majority ownership (51%) of nuclear plants.

    What challenges and regulatory considerations must be addressed for successful implementation?

    • Safety and Environmental Concerns: There is significant public concern regarding the safety of nuclear power plants, as evidenced by protests against facilities like Kudankulam.
      • Increasing the frequency of inspections and enhancing emergency response protocols are recommended to ensure that safety standards are met consistently across all facilities.
    • Investment Conditions and Restrictions: Current policies restrict direct foreign investment in nuclear energy, allowing only limited participation in equipment manufacturing.
    • Infrastructure and Technological Development: The capital-intensive nature of nuclear projects requires a highly skilled workforce. Investments in training and capacity-building will be critical to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
    • Lack of Institutional Independence: The AERB currently lacks sufficient independence, as it operates under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
      • Secondly, the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 restricts private sector involvement in nuclear energy, granting the government exclusive rights to produce and manage nuclear power.
    • Legal Uncertainties: The existence of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA) framework poses risks for investors, as the government retains the right to novate contracts related to nuclear operations.

    How can India address these challenges?

    • Legislative Reforms: The government should amend existing legislation to formally establish the AERB as an independent statutory authority, ensuring that regulatory decisions are made based on safety and technical considerations rather than political or administrative pressures.
    • Establishment of a New Regulatory Authority: Reviving the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill, to issue safety policies and regulations without interference from the DAE, thereby enhancing its credibility and operational effectiveness.
    • Establishing a governance structure where the regulatory body operates independently would reduce conflicts of interest and improve regulatory oversight.
    • Enhanced Oversight Mechanisms: Increasing parliamentary oversight over the AERB’s operations can enhance accountability. Unlike executive orders, which have limited scrutiny, statutory authorities are subject to more rigorous checks, including judicial inquiries for member removals, which can bolster independence.
    • Adoption of Global Standards: Aligning with international best practices and standards set by organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) can help strengthen regulatory frameworks. 

  • The La Nina and North India’s pollution

    Why in the News?

    The delayed onset of La Niña and the late retreat of the monsoon have diminished hopes that Delhi’s residents might enjoy improved air quality this winter compared to previous years.

    What is Triple-dip La- Nina?

    Triple-dip La Niña refers to the rare occurrence of La Niña persisting for three consecutive years, causing prolonged cooler ocean temperatures in the Pacific and influencing global weather patterns, including stronger monsoons.

    How has the triple-dip La Niña phenomenon influenced air quality in North India?

    • No dispersion of pollutants: The delayed onset of La Niña has led to stagnant air and calm winds, preventing the dispersion of pollutants. In previous winters, La Niña helped improve air quality with stronger winds and atmospheric circulation.
    • Trapped air pollutants: The slower monsoon retreat resulted in extended periods of high humidity, reduced atmospheric mixing, and trapped pollutants near the surface, contributing to deteriorated air quality.

    What meteorological factors contributed to the observed anomalies in air quality?

    • Monsoon Retreat and Humidity: The delayed retreat of the monsoon contributes to prolonged periods of high humidity and calm winds. These conditions reduce atmospheric mixing, trapping pollutants near the surface and leading to elevated levels of PM2.5 and PM10.
    • Stagnant Winds: The absence of La Niña conditions results in stagnant surface winds, which hinder the dispersion of pollutants. This stagnation is particularly problematic given the regional emissions from stubble burning and other sources.
    • Stubble Burning: With prevailing north-north-westerly winds, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana could significantly worsen Delhi’s air quality if it occurs at even half the intensity seen in previous years.

    What implications does this have for future climate and air quality management strategies?

    • Need for Broader Focus: There is a growing recognition that air quality management must shift from a localized emission-centric approach to one that considers larger meteorological patterns and regional airsheds.
    • Policy Recommendations: Policymakers should prioritize mitigating PM2.5 emissions over PM10, as PM2.5 poses greater health risks.
    • Integration of Climate Factors: Future air quality strategies should integrate climate change considerations, recognizing that local emissions are only part of the equation.

    Way forward:

    • Adopt Regional Airshed Management: Shift from a localized approach to a broader airshed strategy, accounting for meteorological patterns and regional pollution sources to improve air quality management.
    • Prioritize PM2.5 Mitigation and Climate Integration: Focus on reducing PM2.5 emissions, which pose higher health risks, and incorporate climate change factors into long-term air quality policies for comprehensive solutions.

  • New science awards, old political project 

    Why in the News?

    In 2023, the government replaced numerous opaque science awards with the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP), a streamlined set with clear criteria. It aimed to address concerns about transparency by involving committees led by respected scientists.

    Introduction of Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP):

    • In 2023, the government replaced multiple science-related awards with the RVP, a consolidated and streamlined set of awards.
    • RVP introduced specific categories and clear eligibility criteria to enhance transparency and reduce opacity in the selection process.
    • Committees led by reputed scientists were tasked with finalizing the awardees, a measure intended to address concerns about bureaucratic interference.

    Concerns Over Selection Process:

    • Chance of political interference: The modification of rules overnight and the omission of some scientists from the final list, despite being shortlisted by the RVP committee, created suspicion of political interference.
    • Omission of the critic of Govt policy: Notably, some of the omitted scientists had previously criticized government policies, leading to concerns that the awards process might be used to marginalize dissenting voices within the scientific community.

    Shift in Authority:

    • Original Process: Initially, the RVP committee head had the authority to finalize the awardees.
    • Recent Change: A last-minute rule modification allowed the committee head to only “recommend” the final list to the Science Ministry, increasing the possibility of government intervention in the selection process.
    • Recognition Framework: The RVP awards are categorized into four main types: Vigyan Ratna for lifetime achievements, Vigyan Shri for distinguished contributions, Vigyan Yuva for young scientists, and Vigyan Team for collaborative efforts.

    Impact on the Scientific Community

    • Concerns Over Transparency: The modification of selection criteria just before the announcement of awardees has led to suspicions that political motives might influence who receives recognition.
      • Notably, some scientists who were initially included in the recommended list were omitted from the final public announcement, prompting questions about whether political pressures were involved.
    • Exclusion of Dissenting Voices: Many excluded scientists had previously expressed dissent against government policies. This trend suggests a troubling pattern where recognition is contingent upon alignment with governmental perspectives, potentially stifling academic freedom and critical discourse within the scientific community.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Transparency and Autonomy: Establish an independent, non-governmental oversight body to ensure that the selection process remains transparent and free from political interference.
    • Safeguard Academic Freedom: Implement safeguards to prevent exclusion based on political or ideological views, ensuring that recognition is purely merit-based.

  • [pib] Exercise KAZIND-2024

    Why in the News?

    The 8th edition of Exercise KAZIND-2024 has commenced in Uttarakhand.

    About Exercise KAZIND-2024

    • Exercise KAZIND is an annual joint military exercise between India and Kazakhstan.
    • It was first initiated as Exercise PRABAL DOSTYK in 2016 and later renamed Exercise KAZIND after the second edition.
    • The exercise involves Army contingents from both countries and, since 2023, also includes Air Force personnel, making it a Bi-service Exercise.
    • Focus Areas:
      • It focuses on Counter Terrorism operations in sub-conventional environments under the United Nations mandate.
      • Tactical drills practiced include Raid, Search and Destroy Operations, Small Team Insertion and Extraction, and Counter Unmanned Aerial System Operations.
    • Significance:
      • The exercise aims to develop skills, resilience, and coordination for joint military operations in semi-urban and urban environments.
      • It allows both countries to share best practices, enhance mutual cooperation, and strengthen military ties.

    PYQ:

    [2024] Which of the following statements about the Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023 is/ are correct?

    1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.
    2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).
    3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.
    4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

    Select the answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 1 and 4

    (c) 1 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • Neutrino Fog

    Why in the News?

    The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment revealed that as we continue to push the boundaries of dark matter detection, the issue of neutrino fog becomes increasingly significant.

    What is the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) Experiment?

    • The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment is a cutting-edge dark matter detection project located deep underground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, USA.
    • It is one of the most sensitive experiments in the world designed to detect dark matter particles, which are believed to make up about 85% of the matter in the universe but have not yet been directly observed.
    • The heart of the LZ experiment is a tank filled with 10 tonnes of liquid xenon, a very dense and pure material.
    • The idea is that if a dark matter particle collides with a xenon atom, it will produce a tiny burst of light and free electrons.
    • These interactions are then detected by sensitive equipment surrounding the xenon.
    • The experiment is located 1.5 km below the Earth’s surface.

    What is Neutrino Fog?

    • Neutrinos, often referred to as “ghost particles,” are subatomic particles with nearly zero mass and no electric charge. 
    • “Neutrino Fog” refers to the interference caused by neutrinos—subatomic particles that rarely interact with matter—in dark matter detection experiments.
    • Neutrinos are produced naturally in the Sun’s core, supernovae, and even Earth’s atmosphere.
    • Though they pass through most matter undetected, their weak interactions can cause small disturbances in highly sensitive detectors.
    • As dark matter detectors become larger and more sensitive, they are more likely to detect neutrinos, leading to a “fog” of signals that can obscure or mimic potential dark matter interactions.

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.

    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter

    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3 only

  • Hepatitis E Virus (HEV)

    Why in the News?

    Recent research indicates that pigs may act as a transmission vehicle for a strain of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) commonly found in rats, known as Rocahepevirus ratti, or rat HEV.

    Role of Pigs in Transmission

    • HEV Reservoir: Pigs naturally carry hepatitis E virus (HEV), particularly strains that can infect humans.
    • Transmission via Pork: Humans can contract HEV by consuming raw or undercooked pork from infected pigs.
    • Environmental Contamination: Infected pigs shed HEV in faeces, contaminating the environment and water sources, potentially spreading the virus to humans.
      • Poor sanitation in pig farms facilitates HEV transmission between pigs and increases the risk of human infection through the food chain.
    • Cross-Species Transmission: Pigs may also act as intermediaries for rat HEV, transmitting the virus from rats to humans in farm environments.

    About Hepatitis E Virus (HEV):

    • Hepatitis E is caused by the Hepatitis E Virus (HEV), which is a positive-sense, single-stranded, non-enveloped RNA virus.
    • HEV is classified under the family Hepeviridae, genus Orthohepevirus.
    • It was first identified during an outbreak among Soviet soldiers in Afghanistan in 1983.
    • The earliest well-documented HEV epidemic occurred in New Delhi, India, in 1955, retrospectively identified as HEV.
    • Transmission:
      • The primary route of transmission is fecal-oral, especially through contaminated water and food.
      • Zoonotic transmission is possible with genotypes 3 and 4, commonly spread through undercooked meat or direct animal contact.
    • Symptoms:
      • Jaundice, nausea, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes.
      • Severe cases can lead to liver failure, especially in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.
    • Prevention and Cure:
      • A vaccine, HEV 239, is approved for use in China, but no vaccine is widely available or approved in most countries, including the United States.
      • There is no specific antiviral treatment for acute HEV.
      • Prevention relies on improved sanitation, safe drinking water, and proper food handling.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Which one of the following statements is not correct?

    (a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.

    (b) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.

    (c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.

    (d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.

  • Dead Coral Skeletons hinder Reef Regeneration

    Why in the News?

    A study conducted at Moorea, French Polynesia, has revealed that the network of dead coral skeletons left behind by bleaching events prevents reefs from regenerating.

    About Corals

    • Corals are marine invertebrates made up of genetically identical organisms called polyps.
    • Polyps have a mutualistic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues.
    • Zooxanthellae perform photosynthesis, providing the corals with carbohydrates, while the corals offer compounds needed for photosynthesis.
    • Corals have calcium carbonate skeletons, which help in building the reef structure.
    • Thousands of polyps combine to form coral colonies, which multiply and grow over time.
    • Coral reefs are underwater ecosystems formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate skeletons from corals.
    • Known as the “rainforests of the seas”, they provide habitat and protection for a wide variety of marine life.
    • Coral reefs are built by both hard and soft corals and grow over time as more corals attach to the reef structure.
    • They are the largest living structures on the planet, vital for marine biodiversity.

    Challenges due to Dead Corals

    • Shelter for Seaweed: Dead coral skeletons create a complex structure that offers protection to macroalgae (seaweed) from herbivores. This allows seaweed to colonize the reef quickly, outcompeting young coral.
    • Impeded Herbivory: The complex landscape of dead corals prevents herbivores, which normally graze on algae, from accessing the macroalgae effectively. This leads to unchecked algae growth.
    • Increased Competition: Macroalgae grow faster and reproduce more frequently than coral, leading to increased competition for space, light, and nutrients, which further inhibits young coral from settling and growing.
    • Annual Coral Reproduction: Coral typically spawns only once a year, while algae reproduce continuously. This gives algae a competitive advantage in newly available spaces left by dead coral skeletons.
    • Altered Ecosystem Balance: The presence of dead coral shifts the balance between herbivores, algae, and coral, making it difficult for the reef to regenerate naturally.

    Conditions for Reef Regeneration

    • Flat Substrate: After events like cyclones, which remove coral but leave behind a flat surface, reefs tend to recover more easily, as young coral can settle and regrow without much competition from macroalgae.
    • Herbivore Activity: Active herbivory is crucial for reef recovery, as herbivores control the growth of macroalgae, allowing space for coral recruits to settle and thrive.
    • Clear Space for Coral Recruits: To regenerate effectively, coral needs open space free from excessive algae. Removing dead coral skeletons might help create these conditions.
    • Frequent Disturbances: Coral reefs are better adapted to recover from frequent but non-lethal disturbances like storms, which scrape off coral and allow for fresh regrowth, compared to bleaching events, which leave the dead coral structure intact.
    • Water Quality and Temperature: Coral recovery depends on optimal water conditions, including the absence of pollutants and suitable temperatures.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements

    1. Most of the world’s coral reefs are in tropical waters.
    2. More than one-third of the world’s coral reefs are located in the territories of Australia, Indonesia and Philippines.
    3. Coral reefs host far more number of animal phyla than those hosted by tropical rainforests.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [30th September 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Common Practice Standards must have India outlook 

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q). Should the pursuit of carbon credits and clean development mechanisms set up under UNFCCC be maintained even though there has been a massive slide in the value of a carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth. (UPSC CSE 2014)
    Q). In the view of the declining average size of land holdings in India which has made agriculture non – viable for a majority of farmers should contract farming and land leasing be promoted in agriculture? critically evaluate the pros and cons. (UPSC CSE 2015)
    Q). Sikkim is the first ‘Organic State’ in India. What are the ecological and economical benefits of Organic State? (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Prelims:

    In the context of India, which of the following is/are considered to be practice(s) of eco-friendly agriculture? (UPSC CSE 2020)
    1. Crop diversification
    2. Legume intensification
    3. Tensiometer use
    4. Vertical farmingSelect the correct answer using the code given below:
    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
    (b) 3 only
    (c) 4 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

    Mentor’s Comment:  Agroforestry plays a crucial role in enhancing the resilience of Indian agriculture through various mechanisms. By integrating trees with crops and livestock, agroforestry provides farmers with multiple income streams, reducing dependence on single crops and mitigating the impact of market fluctuations. The integration of trees provides shade and wind protection, making agricultural systems more resilient to extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. This adaptability is vital for farmers facing unpredictable climate patterns. In today’s editorial, we will focus on Indian-centric issues.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recent studies indicate that with the right policies and financial support, India could sequester an additional 2.5 billion tons of CO2 equivalent by 2030 in the agroforestry sector.

    • Currently, agro-forestry represents 8.65% of India’s land and contributes 19.3% of its carbon stocks, playing a vital role in both environmental sustainability and economic growth.
    • India is poised to increase agroforestry area from 28.4 million hectares to 53 million hectares by 2050.
    CASE STUDY of UP:

    • In Uttar Pradesh, a new agroforestry project aims to connect local farming with the global carbon credit market, potentially generating 4.5 million carbon credits valued at around Rs 230 crore.
    • This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance rural incomes while increasing the state’s green cover from 9.23% to 15% by 2027.
    • The success of these projects hinges on adapting carbon finance standards to better suit India’s unique agricultural landscape, which could unlock further opportunities for smallholder farmers.

    How does the ‘Polluter Pays Principle’ apply to carbon credits in agro-forestry?

    The Polluter Pays Principle (PPP) is a fundamental concept in environmental economics that holds polluters responsible for the costs associated with their environmental impact.

    • Responsibility for Emissions: Industries that emit greenhouse gases are required to compensate for their emissions by purchasing carbon credits.
      • Each credit represents one ton of CO2 or its equivalent that has been sequestered or reduced, which creates a financial incentive for these industries to invest in carbon offset projects like agroforestry.
    • Market Dynamics: The carbon credit market operates on the principle that companies must buy credits to offset their emissions, thus internalizing the external costs of pollution.

    What are the present issues for the Indian Market?

    • In carbon finance, “common practice” assesses the projects that have additional regional activities (larger areas), meaning they are disqualified from earning carbon credits if they don’t provide additional environmental benefits.
      • For example, standards like Verra’s VCS and Gold’s current definitions reflect large-scale agricultural practices in regions like Latin America and the U.S., overlooking India’s context of small, fragmented landholdings.
    • However, in India, approximately 86.1% of farmers have less than two hectares, often practicing agroforestry in a non-systematic manner, which may not meet the additionality criteria. Many Indian farmers are excluded from ARR carbon finance projects due to this.

    Why is there a need for an India-centric approach?

    Revising standards to fit India’s fragmented small-holder model could allow more farmers to participate in carbon finance projects.

    • Enhanced Income Streams: Integrating agroforestry with Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR) initiatives provides farmers with additional income through carbon credits, diversifying their revenue sources.
      • This integration helps tackle issues such as low productivity, small land holdings, dependence on monsoons, and environmental degradation by promoting sustainable land management practices.
    • Soil and Ecosystem Health: Agro-forestry practices improve soil quality, enhance water retention, and mitigate erosion, contributing to overall ecosystem health and agricultural productivity.
    • Biodiversity Conservation: The integration encourages greater biodiversity by incorporating various tree species alongside crops, promoting ecological balance within agricultural landscapes.
    • Alignment with National Goals: The integration supports India’s climate goals and commitments under international agreements by increasing carbon sequestration potential and enhancing green cover.
    • Long-Term Sustainability: By establishing a systematic approach to agroforestry through ARR initiatives, farmers can achieve sustainable agricultural practices that ensure long-term productivity and environmental health.

    Way Forward:

    • The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has launched 19 ARR projects across seven states in India, benefiting over 56,600 farmers.
    • To scale these initiatives, international carbon finance platforms must revise their standards to align with the realities of Indian agriculture.
    • A systematic approach to agro-forestry supported by carbon finance can help farmers diversify their income, making them more resilient to climate variability.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/common-practice-standards-must-have-india-outlook/article68698577.ece

  • Param Rudra Supercomputer

    Why in the News?

    PM has dedicated three “PARAM Rudra” Supercomputers along with High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems, ‘Arka’ and ‘Arunika’, to the nation.

    What are High-Performance Computing (HPC) Systems?

    • HPC systems are powerful computational systems that perform large-scale and complex computations at incredibly high speeds.
    • HPC Arka system at IITM has 11.77 Peta Flop capacity and will, for the first time, help improve the country’s horizontal resolution of its global weather prediction models to 6 km from the existing 12 km.
    • HPC Arunika comes with 8.24 Peta Flop capacity. This HPC will prove beneficial in upgrading weather forecast resolution at block levels.

    What is PARAM Rudra?

    • PARAM Rudra is a high-performance computing (HPC) system and part of India’s PARAM series of supercomputers.
    • It is developed indigenously by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM).

    Applications of PARAM Rudra

    • Astronomy: Used by the Giant Metre Radio Telescope (GMRT) in Pune to study Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) and other astronomical phenomena.
    • Atomic Physics and Material Science: The Inter-University Accelerator Centre (IUAC) in Delhi uses PARAM Rudra for research in these areas.
    • Physics, Cosmology, and Earth Sciences: The supercomputer at the SN Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences in Kolkata supports advanced studies in these domains.
    • Weather Forecasting and Agriculture: The supercomputers enhance weather forecasting, benefiting industries like agriculture, where improved predictions help farmers make informed decisions.

    Back2Basics: National Supercomputing Mission (NSM):

    Details
    Launch Year 2015
    Objective
    • To enhance India’s research capacities by creating a Supercomputing grid supported by the National Knowledge Network (NKN)
    • To position India as a global leader in supercomputing technology by boosting research, development, and innovation
    Nodal Agency Department of Science and Technology (DST);

    Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
    Implementation Agencies C-DAC, Pune  and IISc, Bengaluru
    Phases 1. Phase I: Assembling supercomputers
    2. Phase II: Manufacturing components in India
    3. Phase III: Designing an indigenous supercomputer
    Historical Context India’s supercomputer program began after the USA’s technology embargo in the late 1980s, leading to the creation of C-DAC and the unveiling of PARAM 800 in 1991 (second-fastest globally at the time)
    Notable Supercomputers AI Supercomputer’ AIRAWAT’ and PARAM Siddhi – AI are currently the fastest supercomputers in India.

    AIRAWAT has been ranked 75th in the world as of June 2023.
    Global Context Frontier (USA) is the world’s fastest supercomputer since December 2023.

  • Nanjangud Rasabale Banana

    Why in the News?

    The “Nanjangud Rasabale banana” has been revived after a drastic decline in cultivation, despite receiving Geographical Indication (GI) certification in 2006 for its unique taste and aroma.

    About Nanjangud Rasabale Banana

    Details
    Origin Devarasanahalli village near Nanjangud, Mysore district, Karnataka
    Unique Features
    • Unique taste, aroma, small size, buttery soft texture
    • 5-8 cm in length, 2-3 cm in diameter
    Cultivation
    • In 2006-07, 180 farmers cultivated on 100 hectares; dropped to 15 farmers on 10 hectares by 2019-20.
    • By the end of 2023-24, 200 farmers cultivating on 75 hectares.
    Soil  Black saline alluvial soil along the banks of the Kapila River
    Significance Popular in traditional festivals, religious ceremonies, and Kannada literature
    Cultural Reference Mentioned in Kayyar Kinhanna Rai’s poem, a notable Kannada literary work
    Challenges Decline in quality due to heavy use of chemical fertilizers
    Economic Impact Significant for local farmers, high demand due to limited availability

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

    (a) Andaman Islands

    (b) Anaimalai Forests

    (c) Maikala Hills

    (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast