💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (August Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS3

  • India could face ‘Imported Inflation’: Asian Development Bank (ADB)

    Why in the News?

    The Asian Development Bank recently issued a cautionary note for India’s susceptibility to imported inflation due to potential rupee depreciation amidst escalating interest rates in the West.

    What is Imported Inflation?

    • Imported inflation refers to the increase in the prices of goods and services within a country caused by a rise in the cost or price of imports.
    • This phenomenon occurs when factors such as a depreciating currency, higher import costs, or increased international prices lead to elevated expenses for imported goods and services.
    • Consequently, producers may adjust their prices upward to offset these higher costs, resulting in inflationary pressures within the domestic economy.
    • This idea connects with the theory of cost-push inflation, which means that when input costs go up, it can cause prices for final products to go up too.

    Reason behind the imported inflation:

    • Capital Flows: Increased interest rates in Western economies attract foreign investors seeking higher returns, leading to capital outflows from countries like India and potentially depreciating the Indian rupee.
      • When a currency depreciates, local consumers require more of their domestic currency to procure foreign goods, consequently elevating import prices.
    • Borrowing Costs: Indian businesses and the government may face higher borrowing costs for infrastructure projects and investments if they raise funds in foreign currency-denominated international markets.
    • Inflationary Pressures: Capital outflows can pressure the Indian rupee, causing imported inflation as the cost of imported goods rises due to currency depreciation.
    • Trade Competitiveness: Exchange rate fluctuations from Western interest rate changes affect India’s trade competitiveness, impacting exports, imports, and domestic consumption.

    Back2Basics: Asian Development Bank (ADB)

    Information
    Establishment Established in 1966 as a result of the Conference on Asian Economic Cooperation held by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East.
    Headquarters Manila, Philippines
    Official Status Official United Nations Observer
    Objectives
    • Reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration.
    • Providing Loans, technical assistance, and Grants.
    • Offering “hard” loans on commercial terms primarily to middle income countries and “soft” loans with lower interest rates to poorer countries.
    • Providing direct financial assistance to private sector companies for projects with clear social benefits.
    • Maximizing development impact through policy dialogues, advisory services, and co-financing operations.
    Membership
    • 67 members, with 48 from the Asia and Pacific region.
    • Admits members of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and non-regional developed countries.
    Funding
    • Japan and United States hold the largest proportion of shares at 15.607%.
    • China holds 6.444%, India holds 6.331%, and Australia holds 5.786%.
    Sources
    • Bond issues on the world’s capital markets.
    • Members’ contributions and retained earnings from lending operations.
    • Repayment of loans.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following?​

    1. Expansionary policies​
    2. Fiscal stimulus​
    3. Inflation-indexing wages​
    4. Higher purchasing power​
    5. Rising interest rates​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 3, 4 and 5 only

    (c) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • What share of Global CO2 Emissions comes from Aviation?

    Why in the news?

    Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. But it has contributed around 4% to global warming to date

    Year-wise Global Aviation demand, Energy Efficiency, and CO2 emissions

    Global Co2 emissions from aviation 

    The reason behind Aviation accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions:

    • CO2 Emissions: When jet fuel burns, it releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, much like any other combustion process. CO2 as a greenhouse gas has contributed around 4% to global warming to date.
    • Non-CO2 effects: In addition to CO2, aircraft emissions also include other substances like nitrogen oxides, soot, water vapor, and sulfate aerosols. These substances interact with the atmosphere in various ways and can have different climate impacts. For example:
      • Contrails: These are the visible trails of condensed water vapor and ice crystals that form behind aircraft in certain atmospheric conditions. Contrails can contribute to the formation of cirrus clouds, which can have a warming effect on the climate.
      • Induced cirrus cloud formation: Aircraft can also induce the formation of cirrus clouds through their emissions, further contributing to warming.

    Initiatives taken by the Indian Government:

    • India is a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), its Kyoto Protocol (KP) and the Paris Agreement (PA).
    • As a Party to the UNFCCC, India periodically submits its National Communications (NCs) and Biennial Update Reports (BURs) to the UNFCCC which includes national Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory.
    • The energy sector contributed 75%, Industrial Process and Product Use 8%, the agriculture sector 14%, and the waste sector contributed 3% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2016.
    • The Land Use Land-Use Change and Forestry  (LULUCF) sector was the net sink and absorbed about 15% of the carbon dioxide in 2016.

    Way Forward:

    • Transitioning to Alternative Fuels: Invest in Research and Development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), such as biofuels, hydrogen, or synthetic fuels, which emit fewer CO2 emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.
    • Improving Aircraft Efficiency: Encourage the adoption of more fuel-efficient aircraft and technologies, including advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and efficient engines.
    • Implementing Operational Improvements: Enhance air traffic management systems to optimize flight routes, reduce delays, and minimize fuel consumption during taxiing, takeoff, and landing.

    Mains PYQs:

    1. Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (2021)
    2. Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg protocol. (2022)

  • How are hydrocarbons extracted from under the ground? | Explained

    Why in the news? 

    The geological processes, extraction methods, and environmental impact of hydrocarbon extraction.

    BACK2BASICS

    Where are Hydrocarbons located?

    • Hydrocarbons originate from plant and animal fossils that were formed by the forces of temperature and weight over millennia.
    • They are mostly found deep underground, in porous rock formations, such as sandstone, limestone, and shale. Hydrocarbons exist in Subterranean rock formations in various forms like natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum, typically found in reservoirs.
    • The primary source of hydrocarbons in underground rocks is kerogen, organic matter deposits originating from lakes, marine ecosystems, or terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Different types of kerogen yield various hydrocarbon products such as waxy oils, oil and gas, light oils, gas, and coal.
    • Petroleum geologists utilize tools and techniques from petroleum geology to evaluate these rocks, assessing factors like porosity and permeability.

    How Hydrocarbons are extracted? 

    The extraction of hydrocarbons, such as oil and gas, has several negative impacts on the environment: 

    • Damage to Marine Life and Ecosystems: The extraction process can lead to the release of toxic substances and chemicals, which can harm marine life and ecosystems. This can lead to the death of fish, birds, and other marine animals, as well as the destruction of habitats.
    • Deforestation and Destruction of Flora: The search for hydrocarbon deposits often involves the clearing of large areas of land, which can lead to deforestation and the destruction of plant life. This can have a significant impact on local ecosystems and biodiversity.
    • Water Pollution: The extraction process can lead to the contamination of groundwater and surface water.
    • Destruction of Fertile Land: The extraction process can destroy fertile land, which can have serious consequences for agriculture and food production. This can lead to soil erosion, desertification, and the loss of biodiversity.

    Renewable sources that can serve as alternatives for hydrocarbons include:

    • Hydroelectricity: This is the most significant renewable energy source at 6% of the global total
    • Solar Energy: Solar power is a promising renewable energy source that can be harnessed using solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy. The solar power development sector is the fastest-growing renewable energy sector in the U.S
    • Wind Energy: Wind turbines can generate electricity from wind power, and this technology is becoming increasingly popular and efficient
    • Biomass Energy: Biomass energy can be derived from organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste.
    • Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy is generated and stored in the Earth’s crust. This energy source can be used for heating, cooling, and electricity generation
    • Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): RNG is a pipeline-quality gas that can be utilized by utilities interchangeably with conventional natural gas. RNG can be produced from methane waste sources such as farm and landfills

    Conclusion: Hydrocarbons, found in subterranean rock formations, are extracted using petroleum geology techniques. Extraction poses environmental risks like marine damage, deforestation, and water pollution. Renewable alternatives include hydroelectric, solar, wind, biomass, geothermal energy, and renewable natural gas.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain.

  • Siachen: 40 years of Operation Meghdoot

    Why in the News?

    April 13, 2024, marks the 40th anniversary of Operation Meghdoot, which was launched by the Indian Army to pre-empt Pakistan and occupy the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram ranges.

    The genesis of Operation Meghdoot

    • Launched: April 13, 1984 (by the Indian Armed Forces);
    • Aim: To seize control of the Siachen Glacier in Kashmir, marking the first assault in the world’s highest battlefield.
      • It was a response to Pakistan’s Operation Ababeel.
    • Indian troops, including the Kumaon Regiment and Ladakh Scouts, successfully gained control of critical peaks and passes like Sia La, Bilafond La, and Gyong La, along with the commanding heights of the Saltoro Ridge, giving India a strategic advantage in the region.
    • Operation Meghdoot resulted in the first of its kind and the only army in the world to have deployed tanks and heavy ordnance at such high altitudes.
    • The Siachen Glacier conflict arose due to a vague demarcation of territories in the Karachi Agreement of 1949, leading to both India and Pakistan claiming the barren heights and the glacier, which escalated tensions in the region.

    Significance of Siachen Glacier:

    • Preventing ingress from Pakistan and China: Siachen forms a hub between Shaksgam Valley, Karakoram Pass, and Aksai Chin, making it vital for India to prevent ingress not only from Pakistan but also from China.
    • Maintaining the status quo: The Indian Army’s presence in the region has helped maintain the status quo and prevent any territorial changes that could compromise India’s security.
    • Watershed and drainage: The Siachen Glacier acts as a watershed, with its melting waters being the main source of the Nubra River in the Indian region of Ladakh, which drains into the Shyok River and ultimately the Indus River, a major water source for Pakistan.

    Recent developments on the Glacier

    • Technological Advancements: The introduction of VSAT technology has revolutionized communication on the glacier, improving mobile and data connectivity for troops. This has enhanced real-time situational awareness and telemedicine capabilities.
    • Improved Mobility and Logistics: The induction of Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, logistic drones, and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) has significantly improved mobility across the glacier and the supply of essential provisions to remote posts, especially during winters. New logistics chains ensure the availability of fresh rations and vegetables for forward posts.
    • Aircraft Support: Various aircraft from the Indian Air Force (IAF) operate in support of Operation Meghdoot, providing crucial support to troops in remote posts. Helicopters, including Chinook, remain a lifeline for troops.
    • Enhanced Medical Facilities: Medical facilities in Partapur and Base Camp boast some of the best medical and surgical specialists in the country.

    Way forward:

    • Continued Diplomatic Talks: India and Pakistan may continue to engage in diplomatic dialogues, potentially at higher levels, to discuss the demilitarization of Siachen and other related issues. These talks could aim to find common ground and address mutual concerns.
    • Authentication of AGPL: India’s insistence on authenticating the Actual Ground Position Line (AGPL) as the first step towards demilitarization could remain a key sticking point. Efforts may be made to find a mutually acceptable way to verify and authenticate the AGPL.
    • Involvement of Third Parties:   Third-party mediation or involvement from international organizations could be explored to facilitate discussions and help build trust between India and Pakistan.

  • What is Exoatmospheric Interception?

    Why in the news?

    Israel successfully intercepted an Iranian missile outside Earth’s atmosphere using an Exoatmospheric kill vehicle.

    Israeli Air-Defence Systems


    Israel’s multi-layered air defence system, including Iron Dome, The Arrow, and David’s Sling, was activated in anticipation of the attack.

    1. IRON DOME: The short-range Iron Dome air defence system was built to intercept the kind of rockets fired by the Hamas in Gaza. Developed by state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with US backing, it became operational in 2011. Each truck-towed unit fires radar-guided missiles to blow up short-range threats like rockets, mortars and drones in mid-air.
    2. ARROW: The long-range Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 system, developed by Israel with an Iranian missile threat in mind, is designed to intercept ballistic missiles outside the earth’s atmosphere, using a detachable warhead that collides with the target. It operates at an altitude that allows for the safe dispersal of any non-conventional warheads.
    3. DAVID’S SLING: This mid-range system is designed to shoot down ballistic missiles fired from 100 km to 200 km away. Developed and manufactured jointly by Israel’s state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and the U.S. Raytheon Co, David’s Sling is also designed to intercept aircraft, drones and cruise missiles.

    What are Exoatmospheric Missiles?

    • Exoatmospheric missiles, or anti-ballistic missiles (ABMs), operate beyond Earth’s atmosphere to intercept incoming ballistic missiles.
    • They employ advanced sensors and guidance systems to detect, track, and destroy targets in space.
    • Kinetic kill vehicles, like the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV), rely on high-speed collisions to neutralize threats.
    • It travels at hypersonic speed.

    Working Mechanism of Exoatmospheric Missiles:

    • The EKV uses a solid rocket booster to propel itself into space.
    • Advanced sensors and onboard computers identify and track incoming threats.
    • Precise maneuvering allows the missile to navigate towards the target.
    • Impact from a high-speed collision eliminates the threat without traditional warheads, enhancing speed and accuracy.

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

  • What is Shrinkflation?

    Why in the news?

    • As input prices turn inflationary, the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) segment faces the spectre of shrinking packs, impacting consumer choices and industry dynamics.

    What are FMCGs?

    • Fast-moving consumer goods, also known as consumer packaged goods, are products that are sold quickly and at a relatively low cost.
    • Examples include non-durable household goods such as packaged foods, beverages, toiletries, candies, cosmetics, over-the-counter drugs, dry goods, and other consumables.

    What is Shrinkflation?

    • Shrinkflation is a business practice where companies reduce the size or quantity of a product while keeping its price the same.

    Causes for Shrinkflation:

    1. Cost Management: It helps companies manage rising production costs, such as raw materials or labor, without sacrificing profitability.
    2. Market Competition: In competitive markets, companies may use shrinkflation to maintain their market share by keeping their prices competitive.

    Effects of Shrinkflation:

    • Consumer Perception: If consumers notice the change, it can lead to negative perceptions of the brand, loss of trust, and reduced customer loyalty.
    • Accuracy of Inflation Measurement: Shrinkflation complicates accurate measures of inflation since the price remains constant while the quantity decreases.
    • Limitations: Companies can only implement shrinkflation discreetly and for a limited number of times before consumers become aware and react negatively. Overuse can damage brand reputation.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only

    (b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation

    (c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

    (d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

  • [pib] Exercise DUSTLIK

    Why in the news?

    Indian Army contingent departed for the 5th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK in Uzbekistan.

    Exercise DUSTLIK

    • Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual event alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
    • It is named after Dustlik, a town in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan.
    • The first edition of the exercise was held in 2019 near Tashkent.
    • Previous edition held in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023.

    Objectives and Focus Areas:

    • Focus on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
    • Emphasis on special arms skills and multi-domain operations.
    • Tactical drills include establishing command posts, intelligence centers, heliborne operations, and room intervention.
    • Incorporation of combat support arms and services besides Infantry.
    • Opportunity to share Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) of joint operations.
    • Strengthening interoperability and camaraderie between soldiers of both nations.

    India’s bilateral exercises with Central Asian Countries

    Country Exercise
    Kazakhstan Ex PRABAL DOSTYK, Ex KAZIND
    Kyrgyzstan Ex KHANJAR
    Mongolia Ex NOMADIC ELEPHANT
    Tajikistan Ex  Farkhor

  • Fertility Levels drop below one in many Asian Nations

    Why in the News? 

    Many countries in East and Southeast Asia are in the middle of a population crisis, with fewer births every year and record-low fertility rates.

    • In March this year, several hospitals in China stopped offering newborn delivery services due to declining demand.

    What is TFR? 

    Total Fertility Rate is a measure used in demography to represent the average number of children that would be born to a woman over her lifetime.

    TFR of Asian countries and India and Comparison with others: 

    Reasons behind the Fertility levels dropping below one in many Asian nations:

    • Family Planning Measures: Countries like South Korea and Singapore have implemented stringent family planning policies, limiting the number of children couples are encouraged to have. For example, South Korea’s slogan in the 1980s, “Even two children per family are too many for our crowded country,” reflects the emphasis on controlling population growth.
    • Career Opportunities for Women: With more opportunities for women to pursue careers, there has been a shift in priorities away from having children.
    • Declining Marriage Rates: Dropping marriage rates contribute to lower fertility rates, as marriage traditionally correlates with childbearing. As fewer people get married or delay marriage, the window for childbearing narrows.
    • Cost of Raising Children: The rising cost of raising a child is cited as a deterrent to having larger families. Financial considerations such as education, healthcare, and housing expenses may dissuade couples from having more children.
    • Ideal fertility rate: The ideal fertility rate for a population to remain stable, assuming no immigration or emigration, is 2.1 children per woman. This rate is known as the replacement rate, and it ensures that each generation will replace itself.

    Suggestive Measures to maintain an ideal Fertility Rate:

    • Supporting Work-Life Balance: Implement policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible work schedules, parental leave, and affordable childcare, to encourage individuals to have children while pursuing their careers.
    • Financial Incentives: Offer financial incentives or subsidies for families to alleviate the financial burden of raising children, making it more feasible for individuals to start families.
    • Education and Awareness: Provide education and awareness programs on the benefits of having children at a younger age and the importance of family planning to help individuals make informed decisions about their fertility.
    • Healthcare Support: Improve healthcare services related to fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth to ensure a safe and supportive environment for individuals considering starting a family.

    Conclusion: Declining fertility rates in Asian nations prompt a population crisis due to stringent family planning, women’s career opportunities, declining marriage rates, and high child-raising costs. Need to take measures include work-life balance policies, financial incentives, education, and healthcare improvements to maintain an ideal fertility rate.

     

    Mains PYQ  

    Q Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR poverty is the mains cause of population increase in India.

  • Decoding the judgment on Jim Corbett

    Why in the news? 

    In its March ruling, the Supreme Court highlighted the corrupt collaboration between politicians, forest officials, and local contractors that led to the illegal felling of 6,000 trees in the Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand.

    Key points related the judgment

    • Shift from Anthropocentrism to Eco-centrism: The Supreme Court emphasized the need for an eco-centric approach rather than anthropocentrism in ecotourism management.
    • Ban on Tiger Safaris in Core Areas: : The court disagreed with the 2019 guidelines of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) permitting tiger safaris on the lines of a zoo in national parks, The court directed the banning of tiger safaris in core areas of national parks, aiming to minimize environmental damage and disturbance to wildlife habitats.
    • Committee Formation for Feasibility Study: A committee was constituted to explore the feasibility of permitting tiger safaris in peripheral areas of national parks across India, indicating a cautious approach towards balancing tourism with conservation goals.

    What the court missed

    Absence of Well-Defined Methodology: The court’s decision to recover the cost of restoration from errant individuals and officers lacks a well-defined methodology, making it challenging to accurately assess the damage done to the green cover of Jim Corbett.

    Suggestive measures 

    • Need for Ecosystem Services-Based Valuation: In light of growing degradation of biodiversity hotspots and support for revenue-generating eco-tourism, there is a need for a valuation method based on ecosystem services, which includes benefits like food, water, and climate regulation.
    • Precedent on Ecosystem Services: The court could have set a precedent by prioritizing ecosystem services over eco-tourism or highlighting the need for a precise law and policy regarding ecosystem services, which play a crucial role in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
    • Reference to International Court of Justice (ICJ) Ruling: The reasoning provided by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Costa Rica v. Nicaragua (2018) regarding the compensability of damage to the environment could have been used to better understand methodologies for evaluating environmental damage and loss of ecosystem services

    Conclusion 

    The Supreme Court’s ruling on Jim Corbett underscores a shift towards eco-centric ecotourism management, banning tiger safaris in core areas. However, the absence of a clear restoration methodology and the need for ecosystem services-based valuation remain unaddressed, suggesting room for improvement.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • Geroscience: the Science related to Ageing

    Why in the news?

    • Dr. Daniel Belsky from Columbia University introduced the concept of “Geroscience” and develops a blood test, termed “gerozyme,” to measure aging pace by studying DNA methylation.
    • Various research groups explore drugs like Metformin and Rapamycin to target aging and enhance immunity in the elderly.

    What is Geroscience?

    • Geroscience refers to the interdisciplinary field focused on understanding the biological mechanisms of ageing and age-related diseases.
    • It involves studying various factors, including DNA methylation, enzyme activity (such as the gerozyme), socio-economic influences, and lifestyle interventions like nutrition, exercise, and music therapy.
    • It aims to develop strategies, such as drug interventions targeting specific ageing-related processes, to promote healthy ageing and combat age-related conditions like dementia.

    What is DNA Methylation?

    • DNA Methylation is a process in which methyl groups (CH3) are added to the DNA molecule.
    • This modification typically occurs at cytosine bases within the DNA sequence, often in the context of CpG dinucleotides (where cytosine is followed by guanine).
    • DNA methylation plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and maintaining genome stability.
    • It can affect various cellular processes, including embryonic development, X-chromosome inactivation, genomic imprinting, and silencing of repetitive DNA elements.
    • Aberrant DNA methylation patterns have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders.

    Drug Interventions in Geroscience

    • Metformin and TORC1 inhibitors show promise in targeting aging and improving immune response in seniors.
    • Research proposes rapamycin’s potential in extending longevity and combating age-related diseases.

    Impact of Socio-Economic Factors in Ageing

    • Dr. Belsky’s research reveals the influence of socioeconomic status on DNA methylation levels, highlighting the role of disadvantage in ageing.
    • Columbia Aging Centre emphasizes the role of a balanced diet in supporting brain health and reducing inflammation.
    • Healthline.com advocates for proteins, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich foods to promote healthy ageing, crucial for India’s ageing population.

    PYQ:

    [2011] At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

    1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.
    2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.
    3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3