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GS Paper: GS3

  • Recently awarded GI Tags

    gi tag

    In the news

    • In the past week, many Geographical Indications (GI) Tags were awarded across the states of India.

    About GI Tag

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

    Recently Awarded GI Tags

    [1] Narasapur Crochet Lace Craft:

    Details
    Technique Handcrafted crochet lace-making using fine threads
    Design Intricate patterns and motifs inspired by nature and traditional motifs
    Uniqueness Known for delicate and intricate designs, used in sarees, dress materials, and home decor
    Economic Impact Provides livelihood to local artisans, enhances market value, protects against imitation
    Recognition GI tag promotes cultural heritage, supports economic empowerment of artisans

     

    [2] Mukha Shilpa of Majuli:

    Details
    Origin Majuli, Assam, the world’s largest river island
    Artform Traditional mask-making, also known as Mukha Shilpa
    Material Made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo, clay, and cloth
    Uniqueness Masks depict mythological characters, deities, and animals, preserving Assamese culture
    Cultural Significance Used in traditional Sattriya dance forms, rituals, and festivals
    Economic Impact GI tag promotes tourism, empowers local artisans, supports conservation efforts
    Conservation Efforts Recognition boosts efforts to preserve and promote this ancient art form

     

    [3] Traditional Tribal Attire ‘Risa’:

    Details
    Origin Tripura, northeastern state known for rich tribal culture
    Attire Traditional attire worn by Tripuri tribal women
    Fabric Handwoven cotton fabric with vibrant colors and intricate designs
    Uniqueness Unique weaving techniques and motifs representing tribal identity
    Cultural Heritage Integral part of Tripuri culture, worn during festivals and ceremonies
    Economic Impact GI tag enhances market visibility, supports livelihoods of weavers
    Preservation Efforts Recognition promotes preservation and revival of traditional weaving techniques

     

    [4] Riyawan Garlic (Madhya Pradesh):

    Details
    Origin Riyawan village in Ratlam district, Madhya Pradesh
    Variety Special type of garlic known for unique taste, aroma, and medicinal properties
    Cultivation Grown organically in fertile soil and favorable climate
    Uniqueness Distinct flavor and pungency, popular in culinary uses and Ayurvedic medicine
    Health Benefits Rich in antioxidants, believed to have medicinal properties for various ailments
    Economic Impact GI tag boosts local agriculture, provides economic opportunities to farmers
    Quality Assurance Recognition ensures authenticity and quality, protects against imitation

     

    [5] ‘Chandi Tarakasi’ or Silver Filigree:

    Details
    Origin Cuttack, Odisha, renowned for centuries-old silver filigree craftsmanship
    Craftsmanship Intricate art of twisting and curling thin silver wires to create delicate patterns and designs
    Utility Used in jewelry, utensils, decorative items, and souvenirs
    Uniqueness Unique designs reflecting Odia culture and heritage, passed down through generations
    Artistic Value Prized for craftsmanship and artistic appeal
    Economic Impact GI tag enhances market value, supports local artisans, promotes preservation of cultural heritage
    Cultural Heritage Recognition promotes preservation and continuation of traditional art form

     

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2018:

    Q.India enacted The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to-

    (a) ILO

    (b) IMF

    (c) UNCTAD

    (d) WTO

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”2u8zuekcwj” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • India’s first National Dolphin Research Centre finally a reality

    In the news

    • The inauguration of the National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) in Patna marks a significant step towards the conservation of the Gangetic Dolphin.
    • The NDRC aims to facilitate in-depth studies on various aspects of Gangetic dolphins, including behavior, survival skills, food habits, and mortality factors.
    • Led by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, this pioneering institute promises to advance scientific understanding and foster conservation efforts for this iconic species.

    Key Facts about Gangetic Dolphin

    Details
    Discovery Platanista gangetica also known as the “Tiger of the Ganges,” was officially discovered in 1801.
    Habitat Historically distributed in major river systems of India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, including the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu.
    Features
    • Essentially blind, hunts by emitting ultrasonic sounds.
    • Frequently found alone or in small groups, usually with a calf.
    • Females larger, give birth once every 2-3 years.
    Importance
    • Indicator of river ecosystem health.
    • Designated National Aquatic Animal (2009) and State Aquatic Animal of Assam.
    Major Threats
    • Unintentional killing in fishing gear.
    • Poaching for dolphin oil.
    • Habitat destruction due to development and pollution.
    Protection Status
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • CMS: Appendix I
    • Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
    Government Initiatives

    Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2015:

    Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

    (a) Saltwater crocodile
    (b) Olive ridley turtle
    (c) Gangetic dolphin
    (d) Gharial

     

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”981av4h59u” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Chakshu Platform launched against Spam Calls

    In the news

    • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) introduced Chakshu, a new platform aimed at enabling telecom users to report fraud or spam callers.

    Chakshu Platform

    • Chakshu (meaning eyes), accessible at sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc, empowers citizens to proactively report suspicious communications, as announced by the DoT.
    • The government will collaborate with private firms like Truecaller to improve the functionality of the platform.
    • The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is also working on building an app for the ‘Chakshu’ platform.

    Features of the platform

    • Reporting Options: Users can report various types of frauds, including those related to bank accounts, payment wallets, SIM cards, gas and electricity connections, KYC updates, impersonation, and sextortion.
    • Enhanced Reporting Mechanism: Chakshu offers a comprehensive mechanism for reporting fraudulent activities, ensuring that telecom users can address a wide range of concerns.

  • Plans for Non-Lapsable Defence Modernization Fund put on hold

    In the news

    • The Ministry of Defence (MoD) had informed Parliament recently a separate mechanism by the Ministry of Finance in consultation with the MoD to explore a special dispensation to operationalize a “Non-lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund” because the non-lapsable pool has drawbacks as it affects parliamentary scrutiny and accountability.

    About Non-Lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund (DMF): 

    • The DMF aims to create a dedicated pool of funds that carry over from year to year, ensuring that unutilized funds are retained for future defence modernisation initiatives. Currently, defence funding in India operates on a yearly basis, with unspent funds being returned at the end of each fiscal year.
    • The dedicated Modernisation Fund is intended to supplement regular budgetary allocations and provide certainty in funding for various defence capability development and infrastructure projects.

    Recommendation by XV Finance Commission

    • The 15th Finance Commission proposed a dedicated Modernisation Fund for Defence and Internal Security.
    • It said the Union may constitute in the Public Account of India, a dedicated non-lapsable fund, Modernisation Fund for Defence and Internal Security (MFDIS).

    About the Public Account of India

    • The Public Account of India was constituted by Article 266(2) of the Indian Constitution which states that “All other public moneys received by or on behalf of the Government of India or the Government of a State shall be credited to the public account of India or the public account of the State, as the case may be.”
    • These funds are used to manage transactions where the government serves as a banker, such as provident funds, small savings, and other deposits. 
    • The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) is responsible for auditing all expenditures from the Public Account of India.
    • Withdrawal or utilization of money can only occur for specific purposes authorized by law or parliamentary approval, ensuring proper allocation and utilization of funds.

     Need for Non-Lapsable Funds:

    • Addressing Budgetary Limitations: Yearly budget allocations lead to the surrender of unutilized funds, hindering defense modernization efforts.
    • Creating Certainty: Non-lapsable funds offer certainty in funding availability, promoting stability and continuity in modernization initiatives.
    • Enhancing Flexibility: These funds provide flexibility for addressing unforeseen contingencies and promoting long-term planning.

    Significance of Non-Lapsable Funds:

    • Certainty and Continuity: Non-lapsable funds offer assurance of funding for defence modernisation, eliminating the need for frequent requests for additional funds and ensuring continuity in project execution.
    • Flexibility: These funds provide flexibility in utilization, allowing for the allocation of resources to unforeseen requirements or contingencies that may arise during the year.
    • Long-term Planning: By allowing funds to carry over across fiscal years, non-lapsable funds facilitate long-term planning for defence modernization projects, promoting systematic and strategic development.

    Challenges and Considerations

    • Parliamentary Scrutiny: Establishing a non-lapsable fund may raise concerns about reduced parliamentary scrutiny and accountability over defense spending.
    • Operational Modalities: Determining the sources of funding and operational modalities for the DMF require careful consideration to ensure effectiveness and transparency.
    • Interagency Coordination: Coordination between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Finance is essential for the successful implementation of the fund.

    Conclusion

    • The proposal for a Non-Lapsable Defence Modernisation Fund represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges associated with defence funding in India.
    • While the concept offers several potential benefits, its implementation requires careful deliberation and collaboration between key stakeholders to ensure accountability, transparency, and optimal utilization of resources in support of national security objectives.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2014:

    Q.With reference to Union Budget, which of the following, is/are covered under Non-Plan Expenditure?

    1. Defence-expenditure
    2. Interest payments
    3. Salaries and pensions
    4. Subsidies

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 2, 3 and 4

    (d) None

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”299adksz0k” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • Possible Uptick in Hangul Population in Kashmir

    hangul

    In the news

    • Kashmir’s Hangul, a shy and endangered species of deer, has exhibited a robust breeding season, suggesting a hopeful future for its population in the Dachigam National Park.
    • The Hanguls population could surpass 300 this spring, marking the first time in over 30 years.

    About Hangul (Kashmir Stag)

    Details
    Scientific Name Cervus hanglu
    Habitat Dense riverine forests in high valleys and mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, northern Himachal Pradesh
    Geographic Range Endemic to Kashmir and surrounding areas
    Distribution
    • Primarily found in Dachigam National Park;
    • Small population in Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Critically Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest level of protection)

    Threats to Hanguls

    • Predator Concerns: Hangul faces threats from predators like leopards and Asiatic Black Bears, necessitating further research and monitoring.
    • Environmental Challenges: Drying drainages and snowless glacial areas in Dachigam raise concerns about habitat sustainability, highlighting the impact of climate change.

    About Dachigam National Park

    • DNP boasts diverse flora and fauna, encompassing deep valleys, rocky outcrops, wooded slopes, and alpine pastures.
    • Spanning altitudes from 1600 m to 4200 m above sea level, the park is divided into upper and lower regions, each harboring unique ecosystems.
    • The park is home to a plethora of plant species, including wild cherry, pear, plum, walnut, oak, pine, and elm, fostering a biodiverse ecosystem.
    • Apart from hangul, the park supports a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, brown bears, leopards, Himalayan black bears, jungle cats, and species of wild goats like markhor and ibex.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:

    Which one of the following groups of animals belongs to the category of endangered species?

    (a) Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass

    (b) Kashmir Stag, Cheetal, Blue Bull and Great Indian Bustard

    (c) Snow Leopard, Swamp Deer, Rhesus Monkey and Saras (Crane)

    (d) Lion-tailed Macaque, Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur and Cheetal

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”6naow7100o” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • NUCFDC: Umbrella Body for Urban Co-op Banks established

    In the news

    • The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation officially inaugurated the National Urban Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Limited (NUCFDC), marking a significant milestone in the development of urban cooperative banking.

    About NUCFDC

    • Regulatory Approval: NUCFDC has obtained approval from the RBI, authorizing it to function as a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and serve as the apex body for the urban cooperative banking sector.
    • Self-Regulatory Status: Additionally, NUCFDC has been granted the status of a Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) for the sector, empowering it to oversee and regulate various aspects of urban cooperative banking operations.
    • Capital Enhancement: NUCFDC aims to augment its capital base, with ambitions to achieve a capitalization level of Rs. 300 crores, facilitating its mission to support and strengthen Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs).

    Functions of NUCFDC

    • Utilization of Funds: The organization intends to deploy its capital resources towards bolstering the financial capabilities of UCBs, including the development of a shared technology infrastructure to enhance service delivery and reduce operational costs.
    • Comprehensive Support: Apart from providing financial liquidity and capital assistance, NUCFDC will establish a collaborative technology platform accessible to all UCBs, enabling them to expand their service offerings efficiently and affordably.
    • Advisory Services: NUCFDC will also extend advisory and consultancy services to UCBs, assisting them in areas such as fund management, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning.

    About Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs)

    • Origins: UCBs trace their roots to cooperative credit societies, offering financial services to members within specific community groups.
    • Regulations: Regulated by the RBI under the Banking Regulation Act of 1949, UCBs adhere to stringent prudential norms and guidelines to ensure financial stability.
    • Operational Classification: UCBs are categorized into urban and rural cooperative banks based on their geographic scope. They operate under the governance of State Registrars of Cooperative Societies (RCS) or the Central Registrar of Cooperative Societies (CRCS) and the RBI.
    • Historical Evolution: The journey of UCBs dates back to the establishment of the first Cooperative Credit Society of Haryana in 1904, evolving over time with regulatory amendments and institutional reforms.

    Reforming the UCBs

    • Narasimham Committee Report (1998): It suggest subsequent regulatory interventions aimed at enhancing the governance, capitalization, and operational efficiency of UCBs.
    • Structural Recommendations Committee (2021): The formation of a 4-tier structure for UCBs, proposed by a committee appointed by the RBI in 2021, seeks to streamline their operations and ensure effective regulatory oversight based on deposit size tiers:
    1. Tier 1 with all unit UCBs and salary earner’s UCBs (irrespective of deposit size) and all other UCBs having deposits up to Rs 100 crore.
    2. Tier 2 with UCBs of deposits between Rs 100 crore and Rs 1,000 crore,
    3. Tier 3 with UCBs of deposits between Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 10,000 crore, and
    4. Tier 4 with UCBs of deposits more than Rs 10,000 crore.

    Challenges Faced by UCBs

    • Capital Constraints: UCBs encounter limitations in capital mobilization due to regulatory restrictions on dividend payouts and limited avenues for raising external funds.
    • Diversification Hurdles: The lack of operational diversification and dependence on member contributions for capital infusion pose challenges to UCBs’ financial resilience and expansion prospects.
    • Funding Alternatives: Access to alternative funding sources remains constrained for UCBs, necessitating innovative approaches to address liquidity requirements.
    • Profit Distribution Dynamics: Incentives for profit distribution are subdued in UCBs, impacting their attractiveness to investors and hindering their growth trajectory.
    • Solvency Pressures: Expansion initiatives and acquisitions can strain UCBs’ solvency and liquidity positions, necessitating prudent risk management practices and strategic planning.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2021:

    With reference to ‘Urban Cooperative Banks’ in India, consider the following statements:

    1. They are supervised and regulated by local boards set up by the State Governments.
    2. They can issue equity shares and preference shares.
    3. They were brought under the purview of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 through an Amendment in 1966.

    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

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”vge2nqi6bd” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • NDSA expert panel to examine Kaleshwaram Project

    Kaleshwaram Project

    In the news

    • The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) has been under scrutiny following concerns over the sinking of piers at the Medigadda barrage.
    • To address these issues, National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) will conduct a thorough examination of the project.

    What is Kaleshwaram Project?

    Details
    Location Kaleshwaram village, Telangana, India

    Earlier called as Pranahita-Chevella Lift Irrigation Project
    Confluence Point Pranhita-Godavari River confluence
    Project Size Claimed to be the world’s largest multi-stage and multi-purpose lift irrigation project
    Key Features Series of underground and surface water pumping stations, stretching over 300 km
    Purpose Supply water to 45 lakh acres in Telangana
    Commencement Started in 2016, utilizing approximately 283 TMC of water from the Godavari River
    Components Divided into 7 links and 28 packages through 13 districts

    Aims to source a total of 240 TMC of water

    Construction of barrage at Medigadda, with water reverse-pumped into the Godavari River
    Major Pumping Facilities Ramadugu (largest), Medaram, Annaram, and Sundilla

     

     

    About Godavari River

     

    • The Godavari River, also known as Dakshin Ganga, is the largest peninsular river system in the region.
    • Its basin is bordered by the Satmala hills to the north, the Ajanta range and Mahadeo hills to the south, the Eastern Ghats to the east, and the Western Ghats to the west.
    • Originating from Trimbakeshwar near Nasik in Maharashtra, the Godavari River flows for approximately 1465 km before reaching the Bay of Bengal.
    • The Godavari basin spans across Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, with smaller portions in Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and the UT of Puducherry.
    • Right bank tributaries include the Pravara, Manjira, and Maner.
    • Left bank tributaries comprise the Purna, Pranhita, Indravati, and Sabari rivers.

     

    About National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA): Ensuring Dam Safety in India

    The NDSA plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety standards of dams across the country.

    • Constitutional Basis: Although water management falls under the State List, the Union government has the authority to enact laws related to dam safety under Article 246 of the Constitution. (Parliament holds the power to make laws for any part of India not included within a State, irrespective of whether the subject falls under the State List.)
    • Dam Safety Act, 2021: Parliament has passed the Dam Safety Act to establish an institutional mechanism for ensuring dam safety in India.

    Objectives and Functions

    • Institutional Mechanism: The NDSA is tasked with maintaining standards for dam safety, preventing dam-related disasters, and addressing interstate concerns regarding dams.
    • Leadership Structure: The authority is headed by a chairman and supported by five members with expertise in various domains, including policy and research, technical aspects, regulation, disaster management, resilience, and administration and finance.
    • Surveillance and Inspection: Special provisions are in place for the surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of all large dams in the country to prevent dam failure-related disasters.
    • Penal Provisions: The Dam Safety Act includes penal provisions and a list of offenses along with corresponding penalties to ensure compliance.

    Organizational Setup

    • Headquarters: The headquarters of the NDSA is located in the National Capital Region (NCR).
    • Regional Offices: The authority is supported by four regional offices strategically positioned across the country to facilitate efficient oversight and management of dam safety.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2015:

    Q.Consider the following rivers:

    1. Vamsadhara
    2. Indravati
    3. Pranahita
    4. Pennar

    Which of the rivers given above are the tributaries of Godavari?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2, 3 and 4

    (c) 1, 2 and 4

    (d) 2 and 3 only

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”hdrmke4wcn” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your responses here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

    Also Read:

    [Sansad TV] Perspective: Concerns over Dam Safety

  • Harnessing AI to Address India’s Water Crisis

    In the news

    • Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal tool in addressing various challenges, including India’s pressing water crisis.
    • While the public’s perception of AI remains mixed, its potential to revolutionize water management cannot be overstated.

    River Inter-Linking

    • Background: As India grapples with the challenges of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns, the need to mitigate water deficits has become a critical priority for policymakers. One proposed solution is the ambitious river-linking project, aimed at connecting flood-prone rivers with those facing water deficits.
    • Objective: The goal of the river-linking initiative is to optimize water distribution across regions, ensuring maximum benefits for the most people while minimizing environmental impact and resource depletion.

    Assessing River Inter-Linking using AI

    • Computational Modeling: Researchers from institutions such as IIT-ISM, Dhanbad, and NITs in Tripura and Goa have leveraged AI tools to develop computational models for analyzing the proposed Pennar-Palar-Cauvery link canal.
    • Multi-Objective Optimization: The AI models employ a multi-objective approach, aiming to achieve multiple objectives simultaneously. For example, optimizing crop yield while minimizing water usage and environmental impact.
    • Data Utilization: These models utilize extensive datasets, including water level measurements, crop-sowing patterns, and economic factors such as minimum support price and cost-benefit analysis for farmers.
    • Predictive Analysis: By analyzing historical data and making predictions based on AI algorithms, researchers can identify optimal strategies for crop selection and water management, ultimately maximizing agricultural productivity while conserving water resources.

    Key Findings and Recommendations

    • Optimizing Farm Returns: The AI-based models suggest that by making adjustments to crop selection and water management practices, it is possible to improve farm returns without depleting groundwater or wasting water resources.
    • Need for Detailed Data: Collecting more detailed and accurate data will enhance the effectiveness of AI-based models, enabling more focused and accurate predictions for optimizing water usage and agricultural productivity.

    Way Forward

    • Improved Data Collection: Enhanced data collection efforts will further refine AI-based predictions, enabling more precise and focused solutions to water management challenges.
    • Collaborative Efforts: Collaboration between academia, government agencies, and technology experts is crucial in harnessing AI’s full potential for sustainable water management.
    • Public Awareness: Educating the public about the benefits of AI-driven water management solutions can garner support and facilitate implementation at scale.

    Conclusion

    • The integration of AI into the river-linking initiative holds immense potential for addressing water scarcity challenges in India.
    • By harnessing the power of AI-driven predictive modelling, policymakers can make informed decisions to optimize water distribution, enhance agricultural productivity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change on water resources.
    • As India’s development journey progresses, leveraging AI technologies will be instrumental in achieving sustainable water management practices and ensuring water security for future generations.

    Tap to read more about:

    [Burning Issue] Interlinking of Rivers in India

  • Grey Zone Warfare: Navigating the Space between Peace and Conflict

    Grey Zone

    In the news

    • In contemporary international relations, the concept of grey zone warfare has gained prominence, reflecting a complex space between overt conflict and peace.
    • This nuanced form of warfare encompasses a spectrum of activities aimed at advancing national objectives while avoiding direct confrontation.

    What is Grey Zone Warfare?

    • Middle Ground: Grey zone warfare denotes an ambiguous space where activities blur the distinction between peace and war.
    • Diverse Tactics: It encompasses a wide array of activities, including economic coercion, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, proxy warfare, and territorial assertiveness, among others.

    Historical Context and Rationale

    • Cold War Legacy: The conditions of the Cold War era, marked by nuclear deterrence between superpowers, spurred the adoption of grey zone tactics to avoid catastrophic escalation.
    • Resourceful Adversaries: Nations resort to grey zone tactics to advance their interests without triggering a full-scale conflict, particularly when faced with superior adversaries.
    • Examples of Grey Zone Warfare:
    1. South China Sea Disputes: China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea, including maritime militia presence and territorial claims, exemplify grey zone warfare. Confrontations with countries like the Philippines underscore the contentious nature of these tactics.
    2. Taiwan Strait Tensions: Chinese military maneuvers near Taiwan and Taiwan’s complaints of increased Chinese military activity highlight the use of grey zone strategies to pressure without provoking outright conflict.
    3. US-China Economic Rivalry: Economic sanctions, trade tariffs, and maritime reconnaissance efforts by the United States against China illustrate grey zone competition beyond military realms.

    Motivations and Objectives

    • Covert Intentions: Grey zone tactics serve to advance strategic interests while maintaining plausible deniability and avoiding direct confrontation.
    • Escalation Management: Adversaries seek to exploit vulnerabilities and escalate tensions across multiple dimensions, complicating crisis management efforts.

    Challenges and Responses

    • Complexity of Response: Grey zone warfare poses challenges in crafting appropriate responses, as actions are often covert and multifaceted.
    • Risk of Over-Escalation: Tactics such as baiting adversaries into escalation can lead to unintended consequences and heightened tensions, necessitating cautious crisis management.

  • Under-Sea Cable Disruptions expose key Telecom Vulnerability

    In the news

    • Three undersea cables connecting India to global telecom networks—Asia-Africa-Europe-1, Europe India Gateway, and Tata Global Network—have been damaged in the Red Sea Conflict, possibly due to targeted attacks.

    What are Submarine Communications Cable?

    • Submarine cables are laid on the seabed between land-based stations to transmit telecommunication signals across stretches of ocean and sea.
    • These cables employ fiber-optic technology, with optical fiber elements coated with protective layers suitable for the marine environment.
    • Submarine cables offer a reliable, cost-efficient, and high-capacity means of internet connectivity compared to satellites.

    India’s Submarine Cable Infrastructure

    • With 17 submarine cables landing in 14 cable landing stations, mainly in Mumbai and Chennai, India is actively expanding its undersea connectivity.
    • The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced regulations categorizing Cable Landing Stations (CLS) into Main CLS and CLS Point of Presence to enhance data flow and reduce reliance on foreign providers.
    • TRAI’s recommendations also include recognizing submarine cable operations as critical services, proposing legislative amendments, and suggesting exemptions from custom duty and GST for essential goods.
    • Examples:
    1. MIST Submarine Cable System (connecting India with Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore)
    2. Reliance Jio Infocomm’s India Asia Xpress (IAX) (India to the Maldives, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand)
    3. India Europe Xpress (IEX) (India to Italy via Saudi Arabia and Greece)
    4. SeaMeWe-6 project (Singapore to France via India, Bangladesh, and Maldives)
    5. Africa2 Cable (connecting India with the UK via several African countries)

    Vulnerabilities in Telecom Infrastructure

    • Ongoing Conflict’s Impact: Damage to undersea cable systems in the Red Sea due to regional conflict exposes vulnerabilities in India’s internet and overseas telecom connectivity.
    • Limited Connectivity: India’s relatively few connections to such cables and regulatory restrictions on expanding the submarine cable industry pose significant concerns.
    • Choke Points: Cable disruptions underscore a choke point in subsea connections between Europe and Asia, particularly concerning for India due to limited connections and regulatory constraints.

    Current Challenges in Submarine Cable Infrastructure

    • Capacity Shortages: Rising demand from data centers, retail usage, and enterprise applications exacerbates capacity constraints in India’s submarine cable networks.
    • Opaque Ownership Structures: Lack of transparency in ownership of submarine cable systems raises national security concerns, particularly regarding the involvement of International Long Distance Operators (ILDOs).
    • Regulatory Constraints: Stringent regulations impede investment in submarine cable infrastructure, limiting redundancy and hindering security measures.

    Implications of TRAI Proposals

    • Digital Transformation: TRAI’s recommendations align with India’s digital ambitions, facilitating the expansion of data centers and enhancing internet connectivity.
    • Balancing Act: DoT’s decision on TRAI’s proposals will shape the future of India’s submarine cable industry, balancing the interests of stakeholders and national security concerns.

    Case Study: Australia’s Cable Protection Zone Regime

     

    • Legislative Framework: ACPZs established within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), offer a legislative model for protecting international submarine cables.
    • Regulatory Authority: The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) oversees the enforcement of protection measures within designated zones, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations.
    • Prohibited Activities: It restricts activities such as seabed trawling, vessel anchoring, and dredging within Cable Protection Zones, mitigating the risk of cable damage.

    Way Forward

    [A] Replicating Success in Indian Waters

    • Adopting Legislative Framework: India can collaborate with Australia to enact similar laws within its territorial waters, leveraging sovereign rights over submarine cables within the EEZ.
    • Establishing Protection Zones: Creation of Submarine Cable Protection Zones, consistent with UNCLOS provisions, enables India to enforce jurisdictional and physical safeguards.
    • Regional Cooperation: India can advocate for the adoption of Australia’s model legislation across the Indian Ocean Rim Association, fostering multilateral cooperation in protecting subsea infrastructure.

    [B] Operational Implementation and Collaboration

    • Coordination Mechanisms: Collaboration among navies and coastguards of Quad nations and like-minded countries facilitates operational coordination in monitoring and protecting high-density cable zones.
    • Policy Alignment: Aligning domestic legislative frameworks with regional initiatives ensures seamless coordination and collective action in safeguarding submarine assets.
    • Reducing Risks: Enhanced cooperation minimizes the risk of cable damage and sabotage, bolstering connectivity and resilience in the Indian Ocean Region.

    Conclusion

    • India stands at a pivotal juncture in safeguarding its subsea infrastructure amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
    • India must fortify its submarine cable assets, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and advancing its digital aspirations.
    • Through proactive legislative measures and strategic collaboration, India can mitigate risks and emerge as a global leader in subsea infrastructure protection.