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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Maldives

    UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) Harbour Project

    | Security Issues | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    utf

    Central Idea: The article discusses the recent commissioning of the Indian grant-in-aid UTF (Uthuru Thila Falhu- Island) Harbour Project, the coastal surveillance radar system, in the Maldives. The project is a significant milestone in the growing defence ties between the two countries.

    What is the UTF Project?

    • The UTF project was announced during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit in February 2021.
    • It is among the biggest Indian grant-in-aid projects in the Maldives.
    • It is aimed at developing a maintenance and repair hub for naval vessels and will help the Maldives become self-sufficient.

    Importance of the Project

    • The project marked a major step in growing defence cooperation between India and Maldives.
    • The facility will strengthen the capability of the Maldivian Coast Guard and facilitate regional humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

    Controversy Surrounding the Project

    • There were allegations that the project was a cover for Indian military presence in the Maldives.
    • An “India Out” campaign was launched in the island nation backed by its opposition leader Abdulla Yameen.
    • Maldives President Ibrahim Solih banned anti-India protests as a threat to national security.

    Defence Cooperation and Other Projects

    • India has gifted a Dornier aircraft and a patrol vessel to the Maldives in the past.
    • India has provided 24 vehicles and a naval boat and will build police facilities on 61 islands in the country.
    • The joint statement released by India and Maldives after Defence Minister’s visit highlighted ongoing defence cooperation between the two neighbours.
    • The countries have agreed to explore additional avenues for cooperation, including in areas of defence trade, capacity building, and joint exercises.
    • Both the countries are working closely to address challenges, including those on maritime security, terrorism, radicalisation, piracy, trafficking, organised crime, and natural disasters.
    • India has financed the Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), a $500 million project, to build a 6.74 km bridge and causeway linking the capital of Maldives, Male, with neighboring islands.

    India-Maldives Relations: A backgrounder

    • India and Maldives are neighbors sharing a maritime border.
    • Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from British rule in 1966.
    • India was one of the first nations to recognize Maldives’ independence.
    • Since then, India and Maldives have developed close strategic, military, economic and cultural relations.
    • Maldivians generally regard Indians and India as a friend and trusted neighbor in the field economic, social and political.

    Causes for the anti-India sentiments

    • Political instability: The anti-India sentiment is nearly a decade old and can be traced back to when Abdulla Gayoom became president in 2013. He used anti-India sentiments for his political mobilization and started tilting China.
    • Controversy over helicopter gift: Two Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters (ALF) that were given by India to the Maldives for ocean search-and-rescue operations. Opposition tried to portray this as military presence in the country.
    • Confidential agreements: Most agreements being signed between the Ibrahim Solih government and India are backdoor and has not been publicly discussed in the Maldives Parliament.
    • Alleged interference in domestic politics: India being a big neighbour, there are unsubstantiated perceptions & allegations on Indian Diplomats stationed in Maldives interfering in Domestic affairs.

    Restoration of ties

    Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who became President in 2018 has restored Maldives close ties with India.

    Major irritants in ties

    • Political Instability: India’s major concern has been the impact of political instability in the neighborhood on its security and development.
    • Increasing radicalization: In the past decade or so, the number of Maldivians drawn towards terrorist groups like the Islamic State (IS) and Pakistan-based jihadist groups has been increasing.
    • Inclination towards terror: Radicalism in the island nation has increased the possibility of Pakistan based terror groups using remote Maldivian islands as a launch pad for terror attacks against India and Indian interests.
    • Chinese affinity: China’s strategic footprint in India’s neighborhood has increased. The Maldives has emerged as an important ‘pearl’ in China’s “String of Pearls” construct in South Asia.

    Recent gestures by India

    [1] 2014 Male drinking-water crisis

    • In the wake of a drinking water crisis in Malé in December 2014, following collapse of the island’s only water treatment plant, Maldives urged India for immediate help.
    • India came to rescue by sending its heavy lift transporters like C-17 Globemaster III, Il-76 carrying bottled water.

    [2] 2020 Covid-19 crisis

    • During the COVID-19 crisis of 2020, India extended help to Maldives in the form of financial, material and logistical support.
    • Also, the IAF airlifted 6.2 tonnes of essential medicines and hospital consumables to Maldives, as part of ‘Operation Sanjeevani’.

    [3] Greater Male Connectivity Project

    • India has recently announced the signing of a $500-million infrastructure project for the construction of the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP).
    • This infrastructure project, the largest-ever by India in the Maldives, involves the construction of a 6.74-km-long bridge and causeway link.

    Maldives’ significance for India

    • Increasing maritime cooperation: As maritime economic activity in the Indian Ocean has risen dramatically in recent decades, the geopolitical competition too in the Indian Ocean has intensified.
    • Toll Gate in Indian Ocean: It is situated at the hub of commercial sea-lanes running through the Indian Ocean. More than 97% of India’s international trade by volume and 75% by value passes through the region.
    • Naval cooperation: Maldives is an important partner in India’s role as the net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.
    • Important SAARC member: Besides, Maldives is a member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC).
    • People To People Contact: There is a significant population of Maldivian students in India. They are aided by a liberal visa-free regime extended by India. There is also medical tourism.
    • Major destination for Tourists: Tourism is the mainstay of the Maldivian economy. The country is now a major tourist destination for some Indians and a job destination for others.

    Way forward

    • India continues to be an important partner of the Maldives.
    • India must not grow complacent over its position and must remain attentive to the developments in the Maldives.
    • India must play a key role within Indo-Pacific security space to ensure regional security in South Asia and surrounding maritime boundaries.
    • At present, the ‘India Out’ campaign has support from a limited population but this cannot be taken for granted by the Indian government.

     

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Myanmar

    India operationalizes Sittwe Port in Myanmar

    | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    myanmar kaladan

    Central Idea

    • The Sittwe Port in Myanmar has been made operational with the departure of the inaugural shipment, the MV-ITT LION (V-273), from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata.
    • This development is part of the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport project, which aims to provide alternate connectivity from the eastern coast of India to the northeastern states through the Sittwe port.

    About Sittwe Port, Myanmar

    • The Sittwe Port in Myanmar has been built under a grant assistance from the Indian government.
    • It has been developed under a framework agreement between India and Myanmar for the construction and operation of a multimodal transit transport facility on the Kaladan river.

    Significance of Sittwe Port

    • The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has stated that the port will open up new opportunities for trade and transit from and to Myanmar, particularly the Rakhine state.
    • The port is expected to enhance trade and commerce between India and Myanmar, and the wider region.

    Connectivity of KMTTP

    • Once fully operationalized, the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport project will provide alternate connectivity from the eastern coast of India to the northeastern states through the Sittwe port.
    • The port connects to Paletwa in Myanmar through an inland waterway, and from Paletwa to Zorinpui in Mizoram through a road component.
    • The port is expected to boost trade and commerce between India and Myanmar, and the wider region.

    Back2Basics: Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project

    myanmar

    • It connects the seaport of Kolkata in India to Sittwe seaport in Rakhine State, Myanmar, by sea.
    • In Myanmar, the project links Sittwe seaport to Paletwa in Chin State via the Kaladan river boat route and then from Paletwa by road to Mizoram state in Northeast India.
    • The project is being funded by the Indian government and is aimed at reducing the distance from Kolkata to Sittwe by approximately 1,328 km.

    History of the Project

    • It was initially scheduled to be completed by 2014.
    • The project is affected by Chin conflict, Rohingya conflict, and militant groups such as Arakan Army and Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA).

    Route of the Project

    • There are different sections of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which combines multi-modes of transport, including sea, river, and road routes.
    • It includes- Kolkata-Sittwe shipping route, Sittwe seaport to Paletwa inland jetty river boat route, Sittwe Special Economic Zone at Ponnagyun town, Paletwa inland jetty to Zorinpui road route in Myanmar, and the Zorinpui to Aizawl road route in India.
    • This project will complement the river-road route of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project in Myanmar-Mizoram.
    • It has the Sittwe-Kyaukhtu railway in Myanmar, Kyaukhtu-Zorinpui in Myanmar, and the Zochawchhuah (Zorinpui)-Sairang railway in India.

     

     

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  • Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

    What is Project Dantak?

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    The Prime Minister has praised the initiative by Border Roads Organisation Project Dantak to commemorate 64th Raising Day.

    What is Project Dantak?

    Description
    Establishment Established on April 24, 1961, as per the agreement between the third king of Bhutan and then Prime Minister of India Jawahar Lal Nehru.
    Objective Identify the most important aspects of connectivity and spur the socio-economic development and growth of Bhutan.
    Responsibility Construct and maintain roads suitable for motorised transportation in Bhutan.
    Legal Provision Established under the provision of the Indo-Bhutan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1949.

     

    Works and Involvement

    Description
    Infrastructure Development Constructing infrastructure in adjoining Indian districts, including Sherbathang–Nathu La road, Gangtok–Sherbathang road, and Sevoke–Gangtok road.
    Establishment of Facilities Establishing medical and education facilities in outlying areas, which were the first in those regions.
    Takthi Canteen Takthi Canteen, commonly known as the DANTAK canteen, is a major stop for travelers midway between Phuentsholing and Thimphu.
    Recruitment of Workers Recruiting local workers from Bhutan and Indian workers from adjoining districts like Jaigaon, Alipurduar, and other parts of Eastern and North-Eastern India under a basic monthly wage.
    Supervision of Work Posting officials from India for the supervision of work.

     

    Controversies and Incidents

    • The Bhutanese Government accused DANTAK of installing Indian tricolour-themed raised pavement markers or reflectors on the highway railings. DANTAK confirmed their presence, and those reflectors were immediately replaced.
    • A 204 meters long bridge in Haa along the Damchu-Haa road collapsed in February 2021, leaving 3 workers dead and 6 missing. The bridge was handed over to Project DANTAK by the contractor.
    • The project has faced criticisms for its approach to hiring practices and labor management.

    Major projects undertaken

    • Paro Airport: Built in 1968 as an airstrip for on-call helicopter services for the Indian Armed Forces. Now used as an international airport.
    • Yonphula Airfield: Domestic Airport in Bhutan
    • Thimphu – Trashigang Highway: Major Highway in Bhutan
    • Damchu-Chukha Road: Major Road in Bhutan
    • India House Estate: The Indian Embassy in Bhutan.

     

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  • Zoonotic Diseases: Medical Sciences Involved & Preventive Measures

    FDA approves first vaccine for Respiratory Syncytial Virus

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    respiratory

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first vaccine ‘Arexvy’ for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to lower respiratory tract disease in people older than 60 years.

    What is Respiratory Syncytial Virus?

    • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause illness in people of all ages.
    • It is the most common cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children, and it can also affect older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
    • RSV is highly contagious and spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face.
    • Symptoms of RSV can range from mild to severe, including runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
    • In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or death.

    Identification of Protein F

    • In 2013, Barney Graham and other scientists identified the key protein, protein F, responsible for the RSV virus to infect human cells.
    • The protein, introduced in humans, elicited neutralizing antibodies against the virus.

    Approval and Efficacy of Arexvy

    • The FDA has approved Arexvy, the first RSV vaccine to be approved anywhere in the world, manufactured by GSK.
    • The approval was based on a phase-3 trial carried out on nearly 25,000 participants.
    • It showed a single dose of the vaccine reduced the risk of developing lower respiratory tract disease caused by the RSV virus by 82.6% and severe disease by 94.1% in people older than 60 years.
    • The vaccine will be available for older adults in the U.S. before the 2023-2024 RSV season.

     

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Scientists help find new kind of Molecular Motor

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    motor

    Central Idea: Researchers from the National Centre for Biological Sciences have discovered a new kind of molecular motor that has potential applications in biology and medicine.

    What is a molecular motor?

    • Cells use molecular motors to move things like organelles and molecules, and disruption of these processes can lead to diseases.
    • Molecular motors use biochemical energy to do mechanical work.

    What did the new study find?

    • The study found that EEA1, a long protein, can regain its rigid shape to create a new kind of two-part molecular motor.
    • EEA1 regains its rigid shape through a reaction called GTP hydrolysis, mediated by enzymes called GTPases.
    • The researchers believe this could mark a new class of molecular machines that operate as motors in a unique way with novel collective effects.

    Why is the finding significant?

    • The motor is different from most motors because it doesn’t produce a lever-like back-and-forth action and it uses GTP instead of ATP (Adenosine Tri Phosphate) for energy.
    • EEA1 exerts an entropic force on the membranes that it pulls, which is a unique feature.
    • The finding could have potential applications for understanding membrane fusion and for many other mechanochemical proteins or assemblies.

    What are the potential applications?

    • The discovery of the molecular motor could have potential applications in biology and medicine.
    • The study provides a general mechanism that is applicable to many mechanochemical proteins or assemblies that harness chemical energy for mechanical work in cells.

     

     

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  • Liquor Policy of States

    Legalizing Cannabis Cultivation and Decriminalizing Drug Use

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Cannabis

    Central Idea

    • Himachal Pradesh is reportedly considering legalizing cannabis cultivation, joining Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The criminalisation of cannabis cultivation and drug use in India under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985 has resulted in long pre-trial incarceration, stigmatisation of users, and poor rehabilitation prospects. A public health approach could help address drug dependence and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system.

    What is Cannabis?

    • Cannabis, also known as marijuana among other names, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used primarily for medical or recreational purposes.
    • The main psychoactive component of cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is one of the 483 known compounds in the plant, including at least 65 other cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD).
    • It is used by smoking, vaporizing, within the food, or as an extract.

    Prospects of legalizing Marijuana

    1. Health benefits:
    • The cannabinoids found in Cannabis is a great healer and has found mentioned in Ayurveda.
    • It can be used to treat a number of medical conditions like multiple sclerosis, arthritis, epilepsy, insomnia, HIV/AIDS treatment, and cancer.
    1. Ecological benefits:
    • The cannabis plant and seeds apart from being labelled a super-food as per studies is also a super-industrial carbon-negative raw material.
    • Each part of the plant can be used for some industry. Hemp currently is also being used to make bio-fuel, bio-plastics and even construction material in certain countries. The cosmetic industry has also embraced Hemp seeds.
    1. Marijuana is addiction-free:
    • An epidemiological study showed that only 9% of those who use marijuana end up being clinically dependent on it.
    • The ‘comparable rates’ for tobacco, alcohol and cocaine stood at 32%, 15% and 16% respectively.
    1. Good source of Revenue:
    • By legalizing and taxing marijuana, the government will stand to earn huge amounts of revenue that will otherwise go to the Italian and Israeli drug cartels.
    • In an open letter to US President George Bush, around 500 economists, led by Nobel Prize winner Milton Friedman, called for marijuana to be “legal but taxed and regulated like other goods.
    1. A potential cash crop:
    • The cannabis plant is something natural to India, especially the northern hilly regions. It has the potential of becoming a cash crop for poor marginal farmers.
    • If proper research is done and the cultivation of marijuana encouraged at an official level, it can gradually become a source of income for poor people with small landholdings.
    1. Prohibition was ineffective:
    • In India, the consumption of synthetic drugs like cocaine has increased since marijuana was banned, while it has decreased in the US since it was legalized in certain states.
    • Moreover, these days, it is pretty easy to buy marijuana in India and its consumption is widespread among the youth. So it is fair to say that prohibition has failed to curb the problem
    1. Marijuana is less harmful:
    • Marijuana consumption was never regarded as a socially deviant behaviour any more than drinking alcohol was. In fact, keeping it legal was considered as an enlightened view.
    • It is now medically proven that marijuana is less harmful than alcohol.

    All you need to know about Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act 1985

    • The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act is an Indian law that prohibits the production, manufacture, possession, transportation, sale, and consumption of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
    • The Act was enacted in response to the US-led global war on drugs in the 1970s.
    • The NDPS Act has been amended several times since its enactment, with the most recent amendment being in 2014.
    • The Act defines different categories of drugs and prescribes different punishment for different offenses.
    • The Act has been criticized for its strict provisions, especially for small-scale drug users, who are often imprisoned and face difficulty accessing rehabilitation and de-addiction centers. In recent years, there have been calls for decriminalizing small-scale drug use and treating drug consumers as victims rather than offenders.

    Why criminalizing drug users is not a good option?

    • Pre-trial incarceration and stigmatization: Criminalization means long pre-trial incarceration and stigmatization of drug users, who are often from socially and economically vulnerable backgrounds.
    • Lack of access to de-addiction centres: Many drug users lack access to de-addiction centres, which makes their rehabilitation difficult.
    • Difficulty in rehabilitation: Putting drug users behind bars makes their rehabilitation difficult and exposes them to the risk of becoming peddlers.
    • Overburdened criminal justice system: Over-criminalisation of drug users clogs already burdened courts and adds to the workload of overworked investigating agencies.
    • Squandering public resources: Public resources that could have been deployed to set up a robust rehabilitation network are squandered away in the process.
    • Ineffective in deterring drug use: Criminalisation was intended to deter the use of drugs. However, drug dependence has increased over the years across the world.
    • Undermining social well-being: The over-criminalisation of drug users undermines their social well-being, which perpetuates the cycle of addiction and crime.

    Steps to address the negative impact of criminalizing drug users

    • Decriminalization: The government should consider decriminalizing the possession of small quantities of drugs for personal consumption, as recommended by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. This will treat drug users as victims rather than culprits and facilitate their rehabilitation.
    • Public health approach: The government should adopt a public health approach to address drug use as a public health issue. This involves providing healthcare services to drug users, focusing on their well-being and rehabilitation, rather than just punishing them.
    • Differentiating between peddlers and consumers: The government should differentiate between drug peddlers and drug consumers and take different approaches to dealing with them. While drug peddlers should be punished, drug users should be treated as victims and provided with rehabilitation services.
    • Setting up a robust rehabilitation network: The government should allocate resources to set up a robust rehabilitation network for drug users. This will help address the root cause of drug use and reduce its negative impact on society.
    • Public awareness campaigns: The government should conduct public awareness campaigns to educate people about the negative impact of drug use on health and well-being. This will help reduce the demand for drugs and prevent drug use among the population.

    Facts for prelims

    What is CBD oil?

    • CBD oil is a type of oil that contains cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant.
    • CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the plant and diluting it with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil.
    • It is used for a variety of purposes, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep.

    Conclusion

    • The criminalization of drug use in India has not deterred drug dependence and has resulted in a burden on the criminal justice system. A public health approach could help address drug dependence and reduce the stigma associated with drug use. India could learn from the examples of countries like Portugal and Canada and the state of Sikkim.

    Mains Question

    Q. Recently more and more states are considering legalizing cannabis cultivation. In light of this discuss the benefits of its cultivation and impact of criminalizing drug users in India.

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    Himachal Pradesh considering legalizing Cannabis Cultivation

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  • G20 : Economic Cooperation ahead

    India’s Leadership of G-20 and SCO: Challenges and Realities

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India,India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Central Idea

    • India’s year-long presidency of the G-20 and leadership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) should not create unrealistic expectations about the dividends India can reap from these summits. The current geopolitical climate is characterized by a high level of distrust and tensions running high and the threat of conflict looming large. The need for India is to proceed with caution during its presidency.

    Overview of the current geopolitical climate

    • Tensions and distrust between the US-led camp and China/Russia-led camp pose a threat of global conflict.
    • China is on a major diplomatic-cum-strategic offensive across Asia, particularly in West Asia, and is flexing its naval and military muscle in the East and Southeast Asian seas.
    • India is facing challenges due to China’s offensive and its efforts to widen the arc of conflict with India.
    • The situation in Ukraine is fraught, with the US and its allies providing advanced weaponry and training to Ukrainian troops, while Russia is receiving support from its allies.
    • India’s ties with Russia are not necessarily anchored in defense cooperation, and India is looking more to the West, especially the US, for state-of-the-art weaponry.
    • India needs to proceed with caution while holding the presidency of the G-20 and the SCO and balance the contradictory demands of the two institutions and the Global South.

    Reasons for the distrust between the two camps; United States and China/Russia

    • Economic competition: The US and China are in a race for economic and technological supremacy, with both countries vying for dominance in fields such as artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and cybersecurity. This has led to tensions between the two countries.
    • Military competition: The US and China are also in a race for military supremacy, with both countries investing heavily in their armed forces and developing advanced weapons systems. This has led to concerns about a potential arms race between the two countries.
    • Territorial disputes: China has territorial disputes with several countries in the region, including India, Japan, Vietnam, and the Philippines. This has led to tensions and concerns about China’s expansionist policies.
    • Human rights issues: The US and other Western countries have criticized China and Russia for their human rights records, including issues such as the treatment of Uighur Muslims in China and the treatment of political dissidents in Russia. This has led to tensions between these countries and the West.
    • Political influence: The US has accused China and Russia of attempting to interfere in its political processes, including the 2016 US presidential election. This has led to concerns about the countries’ intentions and their influence in other countries.
    • Strategic competition: The US and China/Russia have differing visions for the international order, which has led to strategic competition and tensions between them. The US seeks to uphold the current order, while China and Russia seek to challenge it and establish a new order that reflects their interests and values.
    • COVID-19 pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated tensions between the US and China, with both countries blaming each other for the outbreak and its spread.

    Issues for India specifically with China

    • Border disputes: India and China have long-standing border disputes, which have led to multiple conflicts over the years. The recent clashes in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 resulted in the deaths of Indian and Chinese soldiers and have further escalated tensions between the two countries.
    • China’s aggressive behavior: China’s assertive stance and expansionist policies in the South and East China Seas, as well as its attempts to limit India’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region, have led to tensions between the two countries.
    • China’s regional initiatives: China’s regional initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the China-Indian Ocean Region Forum are of concern to India as they may limit India’s strategic and economic interests in the region.
    • The Quad: China sees India’s partnership in the Quad (an informal strategic grouping of India, Australia, Japan, and the US) as a threat to its regional ambitions, and has openly criticized the grouping.
    • Cyber warfare and hybrid tactics: India is also concerned about China’s ability to engage in cyber warfare and hybrid tactics, including the adoption of cyber tactics and the ‘politics of water’ by re-directing the Himalayan rivers.

    Other turmoil’s in India’s immediate neighborhood

    • Afghanistan: The situation in Afghanistan appears to be steadily worsening and is now beginning to affect nations on its periphery. India has lost all traction with the Taliban in Afghanistan.
    • Pakistan: The relations between India and Pakistan are strained due to various reasons, including cross-border terrorism.
    • Sri Lanka: The political situation in Sri Lanka has been unstable in recent years, and it has caused concerns for India.
    • Nepal: The political situation in Nepal has been unstable in recent years, with frequent changes in government and disagreements over the new constitution. India has also had strained relations with Nepal over various issues, including border disputes.
    • Myanmar: The military coup in Myanmar in February 2021 has led to widespread protests and violence, causing concerns for India’s security in its Northeast region as well as affecting India’s strategic interests in the region.

    Way ahead

    • Identifying commonalities: India should focus on identifying areas of commonality between the G-20, the SCO, and the Global South, such as sustainable development, climate change, and economic cooperation, and work towards promoting these goals in each forum.
    • Prioritizing issues: India should prioritize the issues that are most important to its national interests, such as regional security and economic development, and work towards finding solutions that are mutually acceptable to all parties.
    • Engaging with all parties: India should engage with all parties in each forum, including the major powers, to ensure that its voice is heard and its interests are taken into account.
    • Building coalitions: India should work towards building coalitions with like-minded countries within each forum, such as other developing countries, to promote its interests and priorities.
    • Developing strategic partnerships: India should develop strategic partnerships with key players in each forum, such as China and Russia in the SCO, to promote regional stability and cooperation.

    Conclusion

    • India needs to be aware of the persisting challenges it faces, tone down the high expectations being generated of reaping a rich dividend from helming the G-20 and the SCO, and proceed with caution. It must chart a course that balances the contradictory demands of the G-20 and the SCO and even more so that of the Global South. India should not claim to have attained its goal of being a global power, as there are many obstacles that have to be overcome before India can achieve its predetermined goal.

    Mains Question

    Q. The current geopolitical climate is characterized by a high level of distrust and tensions running high and the threat of conflict looming large. In light of this discuss the issues for India specifically with China and how other turmoil’s in immediate neighborhood compounding the problems for India.

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    India could lead the G20 agenda in a unique way

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  • Digital India Initiatives

    Smart Meters to Bring a Revolution in the Power Sector

    op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life

    Smart Meters

    Central Idea

    • India is replacing conventional electric meters with prepaid smart meters to bring a revolution in the power sector. The majority of smart meter users have begun to experience some of the technology benefits. However, the low uptake of smart meter apps and access to detailed electricity bills are some of the road bumps that need to be solved.

    What are Smart Meters?

    • Smart meters are next-generation digital electricity meters that measure energy consumption and communicate this information back to the utility company in near real-time.
    • Unlike traditional electric meters that require manual reading, smart meters automatically send readings to the utility company, enabling a two-way communication between the meter and the utility.

    A study on Smart Meters

    • A recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) found that the majority of smart meter users have already begun to experience some of the technology benefits.
    • The study covered about 2,700 urban households that use prepaid or postpaid smart meters across six States.
    • Half the users reported improvements in billing regularity, and two-thirds said paying bills had become easier.
    • Around 40% of users alluded to multiple co-benefits such as a greater sense of control over their electricity expenses, a drop in instances of electricity theft, and improved power supply to the locality.
    • In fact, 70% of prepaid smart meter users said they would recommend the technology to their friends and relatives.
    • These findings give confidence that India’s smart metering transition is heading in the right direction.

    Advantages of Smart Meters over traditional electric meters

    • Accurate billing: Smart meters enable accurate billing as they eliminate the need for estimated bills, providing customers with accurate and transparent information about their energy usage.
    • Near real-time data: Smart meters provide near real-time data on energy consumption, enabling customers to monitor their usage and make informed decisions about their energy consumption.
    • Dynamic pricing: Smart meters have the potential to enable dynamic pricing, where electricity tariffs vary depending on the time of day, season or other factors, incentivizing customers to use energy when it’s cheaper and reducing demand during peak hours.
    • Improved energy management: Smart meters allow utilities to better manage energy supply and demand, reduce power outages, and integrate renewable energy sources more effectively.
    • Energy theft detection: Smart meters can help detect and respond to energy theft, reducing losses for utilities and ensuring a fair distribution of energy costs.
    • Customer control: Smart meters provide customers with more control over their energy consumption, allowing them to better manage their energy usage and reduce their bills.

    Challenges in the Smart Meter Deployment

    • High installation costs: The upfront cost of installing smart meters can be significant, and may be a barrier to adoption for utilities or customers.
    • Technical challenges: Installing and integrating smart meters into existing grid infrastructure can be technically complex, requiring significant upgrades to communication networks and other equipment.
    • Data privacy and security: Smart meters collect and transmit sensitive customer data, raising concerns about data privacy and security.
    • User adoption: Encouraging customers to adopt smart meters can be a challenge, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the technology or if there is a lack of education around the benefits of smart meters.
    • Interoperability: Ensuring that smart meters are interoperable with different communication protocols and standards can be a challenge, particularly in areas with multiple utility providers.
    • Regulatory challenges: The regulatory environment can also be a challenge, particularly if regulations around smart meters are unclear or if there is resistance from stakeholders such as utility providers or consumer groups.

    Ways to improve smart meter deployment

    • Education and awareness: Utilities and governments can run awareness campaigns to educate customers about the benefits of smart meters, and how they can help reduce energy consumption and save money. These campaigns should target different socio-economic groups, and provide actionable tips and information on how to use smart meters to their advantage.
    • Co-ownership and collaboration: Utilities and government bodies should collaborate to ensure a smooth installation and recharge experience for users, and leverage smart meter data for revenue protection and consumer engagement. Discoms (distribution companies) should take the driving seat and co-own the program with Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISPs) who are responsible for installing and operating the AMI system.
    • Innovative and scalable data solutions: Discoms, system integrators, and technology providers should collaborate to devise innovative and scalable data solutions to effectively use smart meter data to unlock their true value proposition. This would require an ecosystem that fosters innovation in analytics, data hosting and sharing platforms, and enables key actors to collaboratively test and scale new solutions.
    • Empower consumers: Policymakers and regulators must strengthen regulations to empower consumers to unlock new retail markets. They must also enable simplification and innovation in tariff design and open the retail market to new business models and prosumagers (producers, consumers, and storage users). Regulations should be put in place concerning phase-out of paper bills, arrear adjustment, frequency of recharge alerts, buffer time, rebates, and data privacy.
    • Interoperability: It is crucial to ensure that smart meters are interoperable with different communication protocols and standards. This can be achieved through standardization, certification, and testing programs.
    • Pilot programs and learning opportunities: Utilities and governments can run pilot programs to test new smart meter technologies and business models, and learn from the results to scale up successful models.

    Smart Meters

    Conclusion

    • India is on a unique journey of meeting its growing electricity demand while decarbonizing its generation sources. Smart meters comprise a critical part of the transition toolbox, by way of enabling responsible consumption, efficient energy management, and cost-effective integration of distributed energy resources. A user-centric design and deployment philosophy will be crucial for the success of India’s smart metering initiative. With the effective implementation, India can improve smart meter deployment and user satisfaction, making the smart-meter revolution a reality.

    Facts for prelims:

    Electricity Regulatory Commissions (ERCs):

    • ERCs are independent statutory bodies established by the government to regulate the generation, transmission, distribution, and trading of electricity in a particular state or region.
    • The primary role of ERCs is to protect the interests of electricity consumers by ensuring that electricity is supplied to them at reasonable and affordable rates while ensuring the financial viability of the electricity sector.
    • ERCs also have the power to issue licenses to power generation and distribution companies, set tariffs, and adjudicate disputes between stakeholders in the electricity sector.

    Mains Question

    Q. India is replacing conventional electric meters with prepaid smart meters to bring a revolution in the power sector. In this light discuss advantages and challenges of deploying smart meters. How India can improve smart meter deployment and user satisfaction, making the smart-meter revolution a reality?

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    Electricity Amendment Bill 2022 – Addressing the transition and equity

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  • Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

    Govt. program for Non-Communicable Diseases renamed

    | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Health & Education

    disease

    Central Idea: The article discusses the decision by the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to rename and expand its program for the control and prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

    What are Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)?

    • NCDs are also known as chronic diseases, which are not caused by infectious agents and are not transmissible from person to person.
    • NCDs are long-lasting and progress slowly, typically taking years to manifest symptoms.
    • Examples of NCDs include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.
    • These diseases are often caused by modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, and environmental factors.
    • NCDs are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for around 70% of all deaths globally.

    Why in news?

    • The addition of many new diseases and health initiatives have prompted the Indian government to expand and rename its NCD program.

    Renaming of the NCD Program and Portal

    • The Ministry has renamed the NPCDCS as the “National Programme for Prevention & Control of Non-Communicable Diseases [NP-NCD].”
    • The application or software named Comprehensive Primary Healthcare Non-Communicable Disease (CPHC NCD IT) will now be renamed “National NCD Portal.”
    • The Ministry communicated this decision to the States on May 3, 2023, through a one-page letter and asked them to adhere to the changes.

    Implementation and future action

    • The NPCDCS is implemented under the National Health Mission across India.
    • The letter addressed to Principal Secretaries and Health Secretaries of all States and Union Territories advised the government to use the new names for the scheme and portal in all their future references and correspondences with the Indian government.
    • Under NPCDCS, 677 NCD district-level clinics, 187 District Cardiac Care Units, 266 District Day Care Centres and 5,392 NCD Community Health Centre-level clinics have been set up.

    Burden of NCDs in India

    • The study ‘India: Health of the Nation’s States – The India State-Level Disease Burden Initiative in 2017’ by the ICMR estimated that the proportion of deaths due to NCDs in India has increased from 37.9% in 1990 to 61.8% in 2016.
    • The four major NCDs are:
    1. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)
    2. Cancers
    3. Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) and
    4. Diabetes
    • The study shared four behavioural risk factors – unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and the use of tobacco and alcohol.

    Solutions to mitigate NCD burden

    • Promote healthy lifestyle: Encourage people to adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical activity, balanced and nutritious diet, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and getting enough sleep.
    • Increase awareness and education: Increase awareness among the public about the risk factors of NCDs and educate them about ways to prevent these diseases.
    • Improve healthcare infrastructure: Increase access to healthcare facilities, especially in rural and remote areas, to ensure early detection, treatment, and management of NCDs.
    • Implement policies and regulations: Implement policies and regulations that promote healthy living, such as increasing taxes on tobacco and alcohol products, and regulating the marketing of unhealthy food products.
    • Foster public-private partnerships: Foster partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil society organizations to work collaboratively towards preventing and managing NCDs.
    • Increase research and innovation: Increase research and innovation in the prevention, early detection, and treatment of NCDs to develop new and effective interventions.

     

     

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  • Coronavirus – Health and Governance Issues

    Covid is no longer an Emergency: what changes?

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    Central Idea: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared an end to the global emergency status for COVID-19. It had in 2020 declared the disease as Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

    Practical effects of WHO declaration

    • The classification of COVID-19 as a global emergency is meant to warn political authorities of an extraordinary event that could constitute a health threat to other countries and requires a coordinated response to contain it.
    • For the average person, the decision to end the global emergency classification will have no practical effect.
    • WHO’s emergency declarations are typically used as an international SOS for countries who need help or to spur countries to introduce special measures to combat disease or release extra funds.

    What is PHEIC?

    Definition: Under the International Health Regulations (IHR), a public health emergency is defined as “an extraordinary event which is determined, as provided in these Regulations: to constitute a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease; and to potentially require a coordinated international response”.

    Emergencies declared so far

    • WHO has previously declared global emergencies for outbreaks of swine flu, Zika, Ebola, polio, and monkeypox.
    • Polio was declared nearly nine years ago, and its emergency status has persisted even as officials work to wipe out the disease from a shrinking number of countries.
    • MPOX was declared a global emergency last July but technically remains a global emergency.

    What criteria does the WHO follow to declare PHEIC?

    • PHEIC is declared in the event of some “serious public health events” that may endanger international public health.
    • The responsibility of declaring an event as an emergency lies with the Director-General of the WHO and requires the convening of a committee of members.

    Implications of a PHEIC being declared

    • There are some implications of declaring a PHEIC for the host country, which in the case of the coronavirus is China.
    • Declaring a PHEIC may lead to restrictions on travel and trade.
    • However, several countries have already issued advisories to their citizens to avoid travelling to China, while others are airlifting their citizens from it.

    Is COVID-19 still a pandemic?

    • Yes, COVID-19 is still a pandemic, as the virus is here to stay and thousands of people continue to die every week.
    • WHO chief Tedros warned that the risk remains of new variants emerging that cause new surges in cases and deaths.
    • Countries need to transition from emergency mode to managing COVID-19 alongside other infectious diseases.

    When will the COVID-19 pandemic end?

    • It is unclear when the COVID-19 pandemic will end, as the virus is still a public health threat and its continued evolution could cause future problems.
    • Pandemics only truly end when the next pandemic begins.
    • COVID-19 will continue to spread among people for a very long time but at a much lower level of threat that does not require extraordinary measures taken to try to curb the virus’ spread.

     

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  • Railway Reforms

    Rail Vikas Nigam gets Navratna Status

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) was recently granted Navratna status by the Ministry of Railways.

    About RVNL

    • RVNL was incorporated in 2003 with the aim of implementing rail infrastructure projects quickly and raising extra budgetary resources for SPV projects.
    • The company started operating in 2005 after the appointment of its board of directors.
    • RVNL was granted Mini-Ratna status in 2013.

    RVNL’s functions

    • RVNL has been assigned to undertake project development and execution of works covering the full project lifecycle.
    • The company will create project-specific SPVs for individual works if required.
    • RVNL will hand over completed railway projects to the concerned zonal railway for operation and maintenance.

    Major projects undertaken

    RVNL has implemented various projects in the rail sector, including:

    • Doubling and electrification of existing lines
    • Construction of new lines
    • Gauge conversion projects.

    Navratna status and its benefits

    • Navratna’s status will give RVNL more operational freedom and financial autonomy.
    • Enhanced delegation of powers will also be granted to the company.
    • Navratna’s status will be a huge boost to RVNL’s progress.
    • This status will be especially beneficial for the company as it expands its operations beyond the railway’s sector and into international projects.

    Back2Basics: Central Public Sector Enterprises

    • The Government runs the CPSEs under the Department of Public Enterprises of Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.
    • The government grants them the status of Navratna, Miniratna and Maharatna based upon the profit made by these CPSEs.
    • The Maharatna category has been the most recent one since 2009, other two have been in function since 1997.
      Maharatna Navratna Miniratna Category-I Miniratna Category-II
    Eligibility Net profit of ₹2,500 crore per annum OR

    Net worth of ₹10,000 crore for 3 yrs.

    		 Score of 60 based on financial parameters AND be a Miniratna with 4 independent directors

    Net profit of ₹30 crore per annum for last 3 years

    		 Net profit of ₹30 crore per annum OR Positive net worth and profit for last 3 years
    Benefits for investment ₹1,000-5,000 crore or 15% of net worth Up to ₹1,000 crore or 15% of net worth on a project OR 30% of net worth per annum Up to ₹500 crore or net worth, whichever is lower Up to ₹300 crore or 50% of net worth, whichever is lower

     

     

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  • Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

    All India Radio (AIR) to be renamed Akashvani

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    radio

    Central idea: The Centre has ordered that public broadcaster All India Radio (AIR) be exclusively referred to as Akashvani in all broadcasts and programmes.

    All India Radio: Through history

    • The journey of radio broadcasting in India began with the first commercial transmission sent out by the Radio Club of Bombay in 1923.
    • In 1927, the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC) was established and in 1930, the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) was set up.
    • In 1936, ISBS was renamed as All India Radio (AIR).
    • At the time of Independence, AIR covered only two percent of India’s land area and reached just 11 percent of its population.
    • Today, AIR has a network of over 262 radio stations, covering 92% of India’s area and nearly all of its population.
    • It broadcasts in 23 languages and 146 dialects and also has an External Services Division which broadcasts in 11 Indian and 16 foreign languages, reaching out to more than 100 countries.
    • AIR’s News Services Division broadcasts 647 bulletins daily for a total duration of nearly 56 hours.
    • FM broadcasting began in 1977 in Chennai and today, AIR has 18 FM stereo channels.

    Why the name change?

    • The order to exclusively refer to AIR as Akashvani is in line with the provisions of the Prasar Bharati Act, 1990, passed by Parliament.
    • Listeners have more of a connect with Akashvani and that the name change is in tune with the law which came into being in 1997.

    Importance of AIR

    • AIR played a crucial role in communicating momentous events in India’s recent history, prior to the advent of television or digital media.
    • AIR’s place in history is cemented due to its role in broadcasting Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech in 1947 and Kapil Dev’s mythical 175 run knock in 1983, among other events.
    • For many Indians, the Akashvani jingle evokes nostalgia and memories of a bygone era when they woke up to the sounds of the jingle at the break of dawn and started their day with AIR programming.

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  • Capital Markets: Challenges and Developments

    Europe de-recognizes 6 Indian clearing corporations

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    Central Idea

    • The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has de-recognised 6 clearing corporations in India as Third Country Central Counterparty (TC-CCP) with effect from April 30.
    • However, it allowed European banks to continue business with them till April 2023 without penal consequences.

    What are Clearing Corporations?

    • Clearing corporations, also known as central counterparties (CCPs), are financial institutions that act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers in financial markets.
    • They help to manage the risk of default by ensuring that each party involved in a trade has the necessary funds or securities to fulfil their obligations.
    • Clearing corporations also ensure that trades are settled in a timely and efficient manner.
    • In the context of this article, clearing corporations refer to those involved in the clearing and settlement of trades in India’s cash and derivatives market.

    Decisions by ESMA

    • ESMA has withdrawn recognition of six Indian clearing corporations including- CCIL, Indian Clearing Corporation Ltd, NSE Clearing Ltd, Multi Commodity Exchange Clearing, India International Clearing Corporation, and NSE IFSC Clearing Corporation.
    • ESMA asked Indian regulators to sign an agreement to give it the power to monitor and supervise the clearing corporations.
    • Indian regulators refused to give supervisory power to foreign entities in Indian clearing corporations.
    • ESMA recognised these clearing corporations as Third Country Central Counterparty (TC-CCP) in the EU region.

    India’s rebuttal

    • ESMA had asked the RBI and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to sign an agreement giving it the power to monitor and supervise the clearing corporations.
    • Indian regulators did not agree to give supervisory power to a foreign entity on Indian clearing corporations.

     

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Middle East

    CEPA is the Growth Engine For India-UAE Bilateral Trade

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    CEPA

    Central Idea

    • The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signifies a deep, fraternal, and strategically important relationship between the two countries that goes beyond just economic cooperation. The success of the agreement in stimulating economic growth and providing investment opportunities has unlocked new possibilities for multi-sectoral collaboration and partnerships

    Background: India-UAE relationship

    • Historical ties: The India-UAE relationship has been shaped by centuries of cultural and economic engagement on the Indian Ocean’s network of exchange. The two countries share historical ties that go back to pre-modern times, with Arab traders having visited the west coast of India since the fourth century AD.
    • India’s third-largest trading partner: The UAE emerged as India’s third-largest trading partner, highlighting the two countries’ positive outlook towards economic cooperation.
    • Trade partnership strengthened with oil: The India-UAE partnership was forged first on the trade of traditional items, and then strengthened with oil. It found a formal dimension after the creation of the UAE Federation in 1971, and then accelerated in the 1990s when a liberalised India embraced the opportunity to export to the UAE and markets beyond.
    • Relationship is today more than an economic partnership: It speaks to the Emirates’s deep, fraternal, and strategically important relationship with India, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a key partner in India’s foreign policy. The two countries share strong cultural and people-to-people ties, with a significant Indian diaspora in the UAE.
    • key partner in India’s development agenda: The UAE has been a key partner in India’s development agenda, including investments in the oil and gas sector, renewable energy, and infrastructure. The UAE has also been supportive of India’s efforts in combating terrorism and enhancing security cooperation.

    India- UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

    • The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is a bilateral trade agreement that aims to strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
    • The CEPA covers a wide range of subjects, including trade in goods, trade in services, investment, intellectual property rights, and competition policy.
    • The CEPA has been in the making for several years, with negotiations starting in 2017 and the agreement finally coming into force on May 1, 2022. The agreement builds on the decades of mutual enterprise between the two countries, with the UAE emerging as India’s third-largest trading partner.

    How India- UAE CEPA benefits both the countries?

    • Increased trade: The CEPA is expected to significantly increase trade volumes between India and the UAE, with the potential to create new investment opportunities and increase business partnerships. This will help both countries to diversify their trade relationships beyond their traditional trading partners.
    • Diversified trade: The CEPA covers a wide range of subjects, including trade in goods, trade in services, investment, intellectual property rights, and competition policy, allowing for a more diversified trade relationship between the two countries.
    • Access to new markets: The CEPA is inspiring innovators and investors, catalysing SMEs, startups, and India Inc to make decisive inroads into new markets, particularly the Emirati market, and from there to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. This will benefit both countries in terms of access to new markets and opportunities.
    • Support for entrepreneurship: The CEPA provides support for startups in both India and the UAE, enabling them to explore growth and diversification into each other’s markets, as well as other markets in the region and beyond. The India-UAE Startup Bridge will also enable them to attract investment from venture capitalists and angel investors.
    • Addressing developmental challenges: The CEPA provides a trade lens to tackle issues such as energy and food security, agriculture, and sustainability, making it a strategic catalyst in addressing vital developmental challenges.

    CEPA

    Facts for prelims: UPI in UAE

    • Indian travelers can now seamlessly make payments in the UAE using the UPI-based apps.
    • National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has partnered with the Mashreq Bank’s NEOPAY to enable UPI-based payments in the Gulf Nation.
    • UPI payments will only be possible in UAE shops that have NEOPAY terminals. The user should have a bank account with an Indian bank account along with a mobile app like BHIM that supports UPI payments.
    • Currently, UPI payments are accepted in Bhutan and Nepal. It is likely to go live in Singapore by the end of this year.
    • Back in 2021, the UPI services were launched in Bhutan in collaboration with its central bank, the Royal Monetary Authority.

    Way ahead?

    • Looking ahead, the India-UAE CEPA presents a unique opportunity to further deepen economic and strategic ties between the two countries. Some of the key steps that can be taken to build on the success of the CEPA include:
    • Strengthening infrastructure: India and the UAE can collaborate to strengthen infrastructure, including ports, airports, and logistics networks, to facilitate the movement of goods and people between the two countries.
    • Enhancing cooperation in emerging sectors: The two countries can explore cooperation in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and fintech, among others, to promote innovation and economic growth.
    • Promoting investment: Both India and the UAE can take steps to promote investment in each other’s markets, including through the creation of investment promotion agencies, bilateral investment treaties, and other measures.
    • Strengthening cultural ties: Cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts can be further enhanced to deepen the historical and cultural ties between the two countries.
    • Addressing developmental challenges: The CEPA provides a platform for addressing key developmental challenges faced by both countries, such as energy and food security, sustainability, and agriculture. Further efforts can be made to leverage this platform to achieve meaningful progress in these areas.

    Conclusion

    • The UAE-India CEPA has unlocked new possibilities for multi-sectoral collaboration and partnerships, leading the nations to build competitive, resilient, sustainable, and vibrant economies.

    Mains Question

    Q. India-UAE completed its one year of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) implementation. In this background discuss impact on the Bilateral Trade.

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  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    Aspirational Cities Programme (ACP): A Step in the Right Direction

    op-ed snap | Governance | Mains Paper 1: Population & Associated Issues

    ACP

    Central Idea

    • Maharashtra’s Aspirational Cities Programme (ACP) aims to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation by adopting a holistic approach to urban governance. The ACP is set to focus on improved governance, address persistent civic issues, and increase funding avenues for the urban local bodies. The success of the ACP could have a significant impact on Maharashtra’s economy and lead to ease of living in urban areas.

    Urban population of India

    • According to the Census of India 2011, the urban population of India was 377 million, which accounted for 31.16% of the total population. Around 590 million people would live in the cities by 2030.
    • While cities constitute about 3 per cent of the land in the country, they generate 70 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and contribute substantially to economic growth and opportunities.
    • There is a robust relationship between the index of cities’ liveability and the country’s GDP per capita suggesting that long-term growth is only feasible if the city attributes in terms of providing equitable access to basic services, residences, and improved economic management are woven seamlessly through digital service delivery platforms.

    Challenges of urbanization in Maharashtra

    • Deficient Infrastructure: Maharashtra’s cities are grappling with issues of deficient infrastructure, such as inadequate roads, public transport, water supply, and waste management systems.
    • Air Pollution: Urbanization has led to an increase in air pollution in Maharashtra’s cities, primarily due to vehicular emissions and industrial activities.
    • Social Inequities: The growth of informal settlements and slums in Maharashtra’s cities has led to social inequities, with the urban poor lacking access to basic services, such as healthcare, education, and housing.
    • Mobility and Migration: Maharashtra’s cities continue to face the challenge of frequent mobility and migration, with an inward net movement of people for better livelihood opportunities.
    • Vulnerabilities to Disasters and Climate Change: Rapid urbanization has increased the vulnerability of Maharashtra’s cities to disasters and climate change, such as floods and heatwaves.
    • Poor Urban Planning: Many of the challenges faced by Maharashtra’s cities are a result of poor urban planning, with a lack of coordination between various government departments and inadequate implementation of policies and programmes.

    What is Aspirational Cities Programme (ACP)?

    • The Aspirational Cities Programme (ACP) is an initiative of the Government of Maharashtra aimed at addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization in the state by adopting a holistic approach to urban governance.
    • The ACP has identified 57 cities that have been proposed for the programme. Service level benchmarking will be done for the cities based on the data collected on the Performance Assessment System of the Government of Maharashtra.
    • The performance of the 57 selected cities would be monitored and ranked quarterly through a standard digital monitoring platform with indicators on the themes of urban infrastructure, education, urban services, skill development, and climate change.
    • The ACP is based on three priority areas: inclusive urban development, scientific data methods for assessing and monitoring outcomes, and citizen participation in civic affairs.

    ACP

    The Maharashtra government’s Aspirational Cities Programme (ACP) focuses on three priority areas

    1. Inclusive Urban Development: The ACP aims to bring an integrated approach to urban programming that involves all development sectors. This is aimed at ensuring that the benefits of urban development reach all sections of society, including the most vulnerable.
    2. Scientific Data Methods: The ACP seeks to adopt scientific data methods for assessing and monitoring the outcomes of both state and central schemes. This will provide a better understanding of the impact of various policies and programmes on the ground.
    3. Citizen Participation: The ACP aims to enhance the voice and participation of citizens in civic affairs through physical and digital means. This is aimed at ensuring that governance is citizen-centric and responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people.

    Other key features of Maharashtra’s ACP

    • Improved Governance: The ACP is set to focus on improved governance, address persistent civic issues, and increase funding avenues for the urban local bodies. This is aimed at ensuring that the governance of cities is efficient, transparent, and accountable.
    • Service Level Benchmarking: Service level benchmarking will be done for the cities based on the data collected on the Performance Assessment System of the Government of Maharashtra. This will enable the state government to monitor and rank the performance of the 57 selected cities quarterly through a standard digital monitoring platform.
    • Provision of Adequate Potable Tap Water: The ACP agenda includes provisioning adequate potable tap water to all households by taking advantage of the ambitious Jal Jeevan Mission.
    • Reformed Property Tax: The ACP aims to reform property tax by delinking it from the reasonable rental value method and adopting the market value of the property as a base for assessment.

    Facts for prelims

    What is Urban 20 (U20)?

    • Within the G20 ecosystem, a city diplomacy initiative called the Urban 20 (U20) was launched in December 2017.
    • As one of the formal Engagement Groups under G20, the U20 forum was meant to collectively raise critical urban issues of G20 cities during the G20 negotiations.
    • Despite U20’s concerted efforts to run parallel to G20, the absence of any written constitution, procedures, or formal agreement has made U20 unable to effectively address the aspirations and concerns of cities.

    Conclusion

    • It is time to accept the reality that New India is moving from its villages to the cities, and therefore, the need for renewed thinking and policies that are citizen-centric. The ACP is an example of a policy that puts people first as part of urban development. This effort by the Government of Maharashtra is strategically contextualised with the Viksit Bharat vision for India in 2047.

    Mains Question

    Q. New India is moving from its villages to the cities which highlights the need for renewed thinking and policies that are citizen-centric. In light of this discuss how Maharashtra’s Aspirational Cities Programme (ACP) could help to address the challenges of urbanization

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  • North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

    Article 355 imposed in Manipur

    | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    manipur

    Central Idea

    • Recently, unrest in the state of Manipur was triggered by a decision of the High Court to pursue a 10-year-old recommendation to grant Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the non-tribal Meitei community.
    • In view of the prevailing unprecedented burning situation, the Centre has imposed Article 355 in the state, in an effort to control the situation, according to reliable sources.

    What is Article 355?

    • Article 355 of the Indian Constitution is a provision that empowers the Union government to protect every state in India against external aggression and internal disturbances.
    • It is a provision under Part XVIII of the Constitution, titled “Emergency Provisions”.
    • It is based on the principle of “duty to protect” enshrined in the Constitution, which makes it mandatory for the Union government to protect every state from external and internal threats.

    Restrictions under Article 355

    Under Article 355, the Union government has the power to issue directions to any state to ensure compliance with the Union’s laws and regulations. However, there are certain restrictions on this power:

    • The directions can only be given when there is a failure of the state machinery to comply with or give effect to any Union law or regulation.
    • The directions should be of an urgent nature and may not extend beyond the necessary period for remedying the failure of the state machinery.
    • The state government should be given an opportunity to submit its views before the issuance of such directions.
    • The Union government cannot use this power to intervene in the internal affairs of a state unless there is a failure of the state machinery.

    Duration of restriction

    • The duration of the assistance provided under Article 355 is not specified in the Constitution.
    • The Union government can withdraw its assistance when the situation is normalized or when the state government requests it to do so.
    • The duration of the assistance provided under Article 355 is subject to judicial review and can be challenged in court if it violates any fundamental rights or constitutional provisions.

    Circumstances of imposition

    Article 355 can be invoked by the President of India in certain circumstances, such as:

    1. When a state fails to comply with or to give effect to any of the directions given by the Union under the Constitution.
    2. When the security of India is threatened by external aggression or internal disturbance.
    3. When there is a threat to the unity and integrity of India due to any violent activities by any group or organization.
    4. When a state requests for assistance from the Union to maintain public order and the Union is satisfied that the situation in the state cannot be controlled by the state’s own forces.
    5. When a state fails to provide adequate protection to minorities, particularly in cases of communal violence.
    6. When a state government fails to ensure that the constitutional machinery is maintained in the state.

    Reasonable restrictions

    It is important to note that the use of Article 355 is subject to certain restrictions:

    1. The President cannot use this article on his/her own initiative; it must be done on the advice of the Union Council of Ministers.
    2. The use of Article 355 does not authorize the President to intervene directly in the affairs of the state.
    3. The President can use this article only to give directions to the state government, and not to the state legislature or the judiciary.
    4. The use of Article 355 should be limited in duration and scope, and should not result in the permanent erosion of the state’s autonomy or the violation of its constitutional rights.

    Centrestage of the row: Meitei Community

    • Manipur is geographically divided into the Imphal Valley and the surrounding hills.
    • The Imphal Valley is dominated by the non-tribal Meitei community, which accounts for more than 64% of the population.
    • The hills, which comprise 90% of Manipur’s geographical area, are inhabited by more than 35% recognized tribes, which are largely Christians.
    • The Meiteis are largely Hindus followed by Muslims, while the 33 recognized tribes are broadly classified into ‘Any Naga tribes’ and ‘Any Kuki tribes.’

    Behind the ST status: The Meitei Argument

    • The Manipur High Court directed the State government to submit a 10-year-old recommendation for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list.
    • The ST status is needed to “preserve” the community and “save the ancestral land, tradition, culture, and language” of the Meiteis.
    • The Meiteis were recognized as a tribe before the merger of the State with the Union of India in 1949.

    Tribal groups’ opposition to the ST Status

    • Advantaged community: Many tribal groups say the Meiteis have a demographic and political advantage besides being more advanced than them academically and in other aspects.
    • Benefits at others cost: They feel the ST status to the Meiteis would lead to loss of job opportunities and allow them to acquire land in the hills and push the tribals out.
    • Already benefited: The language of the Meitei people is included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, and many of them have access to benefits associated with the SC, OBC, or EWS status.
    • Political vendetta: The demand for ST status is a ploy to attenuate the fervent political demands of the Kukis and Nagas, as well as a tacit strategy of the dominant valley dwellers to make inroads into the hill areas of the State.

    Immediate triggers of unrest

    • Some tribal groups with vested interests are trying to scuttle Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh’s crusade against drugs.
    • The anti-drug drive began with destroying poppy fields and the theory that “illegal settlers” from Myanmar — ethnically related to the Kuki-Zomi people of Manipur — are behind clearing forests and government lands to grow opium and cannabis.
    • The first violent protest on March 10 was against the eviction of the residents of a Kuki village.
    • The large-scale arson and violence claiming the life of at least one person on May 3 and 4 followed a “tribal solidarity rally” against the reported move to include the Meiteis in the ST list.

     

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  • RBI Notifications

    CBDC for efficient Cross-Border Payment

    | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

    cbdc

    Central Idea: RBI Deputy Governor T. Rabi Shankar commented on CBDC platforms and their potential impact on cross-border payments during the G20 TechSprint.

    About Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)

    • CBDC is a central bank-issued digital currency which is backed by some kind of assets in the form of either gold, currency reserves, bonds and other assets, recognised by the central banks as a monetary asset.
    • The present concept of CBDCs was directly inspired by Bitcoin, but a CBDC is different from virtual currency and cryptocurrency.
    • Cryptocurrencies are not issued by a state and lack the legal tender status declared by the government.

    Hurdles in Cross-Border Payments

    • Fragmented and truncated data formats: Lack of standardization in data formats creates inefficiencies in cross-border payments. Fragmented and truncated data formats create additional costs and delays in the processing of transactions.
    • Complex processing of compliance checks: Cross-border payments require compliance with different regulatory frameworks in different jurisdictions. Compliance checks can be complex and time-consuming, causing delays and additional costs.
    • Limited operating hours: Traditional banking systems have limited operating hours, which can cause delays in cross-border payments. International time zone differences also contribute to these challenges.
    • Legacy technology platforms: Traditional banking systems still rely on legacy technology platforms, which can be slow and outdated. This can lead to inefficiencies and delays in cross-border payments.
    • Long transaction chains: Cross-border payments often involve multiple intermediaries, which can lead to long transaction chains. Each intermediary adds additional costs and can increase the time it takes for a transaction to be completed.
    • Funding costs: Cross-border payments require funding in multiple currencies, which can lead to additional costs. Exchange rate fluctuations can also impact the cost of cross-border payments.
    • Weak competition: The lack of competition in the cross-border payments industry can contribute to inefficiencies and high costs. The dominance of a few large players can limit innovation and hinder the development of more efficient solutions.

    Potential benefits with CBDC

    • Less intermediaries: CBDC can reduce the need for multiple intermediaries in cross-border payments, leading to a faster and more efficient process.
    • Enhanced efficiency: It can increase the speed and efficiency of cross-border payments by reducing processing times and delays.
    • Enhanced integration: It can enable better integration between different payment systems, reducing fragmentation and increasing interoperability.
    • Enhanced technical compatibility: It can be designed to work with existing payment infrastructure, making it easier to adopt and integrate into the current system.
    • Enhanced safety: It can provide enhanced security measures that can help mitigate the risk of fraud and cyber-attacks in cross-border payments.
    • Mitigation of cross-currency risks: CBDC can help mitigate risks associated with cross-border and cross-currency transactions, such as exchange rate fluctuations, currency conversion fees, and transaction processing delays.

    How can this be implemented to practice?

     

    Description Examples
    Model 1 Enhancing Compatibility Among Domestic CBDC Systems Many central banks are working to enhance the compatibility of domestic CBDC systems. Common international standards are required, which require regulatory coordination and market practices.
    Model 2 Interlinking CBDC Systems CBDC networks are linked up by synchronizing payment actions without the need for a trusted third party or a common platform.
    Model 3 Establishing a Single mCBDC System Cross-border payments are processed through a jointly operated “corridor network”.

     

    RBI’s push for CBDC adoption @ G20

    • RBI emphasized the need for increased adoption of CBDCs across countries for them to play a role in the cross-border payments arena.
    • Countries need to decide to create CBDCs and create an infrastructure for various CBDCs to interface for CBDCs to be effective in cross-border payments.
    • RBI suggested India’s model of digitization, where the basic infrastructure was created by the public sector and the fintech/financial/start-up ecosystem was allowed to create innovative solutions, could also be successful with CBDCs globally

    Conclusion

    • CBDCs could bring about a significant change in the sphere of cross-border payments, but coordination across countries and between the public and private sectors is essential for that to happen

     

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  • Nuclear Diplomacy and Disarmament

    What is the Washington Declaration?

    IOCR | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Important International Institutions

    washington

    Central Idea: The context is the recent visit of the South Korean President to the US to commemorate the 70th anniversary of US-South Korea bilateral relations. During the visit, the two countries signed the “Washington Declaration” as a nuclear deterrence strategy against North Korea’s regional aggression.

    Washington Declaration: Key Terms

    • Nuke deployment by US: According to the declaration, an American nuclear ballistic submarine would be deployed in the Korean peninsula.
    • Intel mechanism: A nuclear consultative group would be formed to formulate principles of joint response tactics, and South Korea would receive Intel from the US regarding nuclear advancements.
    • Joint training: The US will strengthen South Korea’s nuclear deterrence capabilities through joint military training programs and an annual intergovernmental simulation.
    • Deterrence creation: The declaration reaffirmed the Non-Proliferation Treaty implying that South Korea would not venture into the creation of its own independent nuclear capabilities and would instead focus on deterrence measures through an alliance-based approach.

    Implications of the treaty

    • Big power politics: While the existence of the agreement is based on the security needs of South Korea, the policy reflects big power politics where the interests of the larger power (US) takes precedence.
    • US proprietorship over the nukes: The US is the only ‘sole authority’ to use the nuclear arsenal of the US in the event of a nuclear confrontation.
    • Maintaining stability: The assurance that the US and its nuclear weapons would protect its allies by being responsible for maintaining stability in the region aligns with the larger goal of non-proliferation.

    US Stance on South Korea’s Nuclear Capabilities

    • Fouled the SK nuclear program: South Korea’s nuclear development programme supported by former president Park Chung Hee was hindered due to US pressure.
    • Strategic arms reduction: The US withdrew one hundred nuclear weapons from South Korea in the 1990s as part of their “Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty” to make North Korea unarm itself.
    • Renewed interest after North Korea’s Rise: The Nuclear Posture Review 2022 reflects a shift in the US narrative where it is now concerned about the progressing nuclear capacities of North Korea.

    Regional and domestic responses

    • China: It said it undermines the nuclear non-proliferation regime and the strategic interests of other countries.
    • North Korea: Kim Jong-Un’s sister warned that the declaration would only result in making peace and security of North-East Asia and the world be exposed to more serious danger.

    Conclusion

    • Overall, the Declaration is an important step in the direction of creating a more overt and close coordination among the US allies in the Indo-Pacific.
    • It seeks to deal with not only North Korea but also moves of China and Russia.

    Back2Basics: Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

    The NPT is an international treaty signed in 1968 that aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

    Key facts about the NPT include:

    • Members: There are currently 191 parties to the treaty, including the five recognized nuclear-weapon states (the US, Russia, China, France, and the UK).
    • Three main pillars: Non-proliferation, Disarmament and Peaceful use of nuclear energy.
    • Non-nuclear-weapon states: They are parties to the treaty agree not to acquire nuclear weapons and to accept International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards on their nuclear activities.
    • Nuclear-weapon states: They are the parties to the treaty agree not to transfer nuclear weapons or technology to non-nuclear-weapon states.
    • 5 year review: The treaty is reviewed every five years at a conference of parties, with the most recent review conference taking place in 2015.
    • Criticisms: NPT has been criticized for not doing enough to promote disarmament, and for perpetuating a system of haves and have-nots in which certain states have nuclear weapons while others do not. However, proponents argue that the treaty has helped to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and to promote peaceful use of nuclear energy.

     

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  • Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

    All Cantonments to be disbanded: Centre

    Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    cantonment

    Central Idea: The Union government has kicked off a plan to abolish the 62 cantonments around the country as “archaic colonial legacies”. The first cantonment to be renamed a military station is Yol in Himachal Pradesh.

    What is the plan?

    • The plan is to carve out the military areas in all cantonments and convert them into “exclusive military stations” with the Army exercising “absolute control” over them.
    • The civilian areas, in turn, will be merged with the local municipalities, which will be responsible for their maintenance among other things.
    • The Army moved away from the concept of cantonments after independence, mainly due to the friction between military and civilian authorities.
    • But some major cantonments continued to exist. Ex. Pune Cantonment, Agra Cantonment etc.

    What are Cantonments?

    • Cantonments in India are permanent military stations where a group of military personnel are stationed for administrative purposes.
    • These cantonments are governed by the Cantonments Act, 2006 which provides for municipal administration and control of these areas.
    • There are 62 cantonments in India which are located in various states across the country.
    • These areas are maintained by the Defence Estates Organization (DEO) under the Ministry of Defence, and are distinct from military bases or barracks which are temporary locations for military personnel.
    • Cantonments are generally considered to be areas with better infrastructure and facilities compared to other parts of the country.

    Their features

    • Cantonment Boards are democratic bodies comprising elected and nominated members.
    • In terms of Entry 3 of the Union List (Schedule VII) of the Constitution of India, Urban Self Governance of the Cantonments and the Housing Accommodation therein is the subject matter of the Union.
    • The Station Commander of the Cantonment is the ex-officio President of the Board, and an officer of the IDES or Defence Estates Organisation is the Chief Executive Officer who is also the Member-Secretary of the Board.
    • They have equal representation of elected and nominated/ex-officio members to balance official representation with democratic composition.
    • They maintain ecological balance while providing better civic facilities to the residents.

    History of establishments

    • The Cantonments Act, 1924 was enacted by the British to regulate the municipal administration of Cantonments.
    • After India’s independence, the Cantonments Act, 1924, was modified to suit the democratic setup of the country.
    • The Cantonments Act, 2006, replaced the Cantonments Act, 1924, and aims to provide greater autonomy and accountability to the Cantonment Boards.

    Categories

    There are four categories of Cantonments, depending on the size of the population residing inside a Cantonment:

    1. Category I: Cantonments having a population of more than 50,000.
    2. Category II: Cantonments having a population of 10,000 to 50,000.
    3. Category III: Cantonments having a population of less than 10,000.
    4. Category IV: Industrial or training Cantonments, irrespective of their population size.

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  • G20 : Economic Cooperation ahead

    SAI20 and India’s Presidency of G20

    op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    SAI20

    Central Idea

    • Under India’s presidency, the G20 leaders will be focusing on collective progress, equity, and inclusive growth, with the summit theme of One Earth, One Family, One Future. India’s commitment to green development, circular economy, and lifestyle behavior changes aim to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The Comptroller & Auditor General of India (CAG) will chair SAI20, the Engagement Group for Supreme Audit Institutions (SAls) of G20 countries in Goa in June.

    Top Priority areas for SAI20 deliberations Under India’s presidency

    • The Comptroller & Auditor General of India (CAG) will chair SAI20 in Goa in June this year.
    • Two priority areas have been selected for SAI20 deliberation:
    1. Blue economy
    2. Responsible Artificial Intelligence

    What is SAI20?

    • SAI20 stands for Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of G20 countries.
    • It is a forum where SAIs from G20 countries can engage with each other to share their experiences and expertise in auditing public policies and governance practices.
    • The group meets annually to discuss important issues related to public auditing and to develop joint initiatives to promote good governance and accountability in their respective countries.

    What is Blue Economy?

    • Blue Economy is defined by the World Bank as the Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of the ecosystem.
    • Gunter Pauli’s book, The Blue Economy: 10 years, 100 innovations, 100 million jobs” (2010) brought the Blue Economy concept into prominence.
    • The UN first introduced blue economy at a conference in 2012 and underlined sustainable management, based on the argument that marine ecosystems are more productive when they are healthy. In fact, the UN notes that the Blue Economy is exactly what is needed to implement SDG 14, Life Below Water.
    • The term ‘blue economy’ includes not only ocean-dependent economic development but also inclusive social development and environmental and ecological security.

    Key functions and significance of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs)

    • Independent audits: SAIs conduct independent audits of government finances and operations to ensure that public funds are being used in accordance with the law, and that government agencies are operating effectively and efficiently.
    • Promoting transparency and accountability: SAIs promotes transparency and accountability by making audit reports publicly available, and by providing information to the public about government spending and operations.
    • Improving governance: By identifying weaknesses and inefficiencies in government operations, SAIs can help to improve governance and promote more effective use of public resources.
    • Supporting the legislative branch: SAIs supports the legislative branch by providing information and analysis that can help lawmakers make informed decisions about government programs and policies.
    • Ensuring compliance with laws and regulations: SAIs ensure compliance with laws and regulations by reviewing government operations and financial statements to ensure that they comply with applicable laws and regulations.
    • Fostering international cooperation: Through international organizations such as the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), SAIs collaborates and share best practices with their counterparts in other countries to promote good governance and accountability globally.

    Facts for prelims

    What is Compendium of Asset Accounts of Natural Resources?

    • The Compendium of Asset Accounts of Natural Resources is a comprehensive report prepared by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) in line with the United Nations system of Environmental and Economic Accounts.
    • It is the first-ever country-wide compendium of natural resource accounting methodologies and provides a guide for the Indian government to utilize natural resources optimally.
    • The report covers various aspects of natural resources such as forests, minerals, water, and land, and includes accounts of physical quantities, values, and transactions related to these resources.
    • The main objective of the compendium is to improve the management of natural resources and promote sustainable development.

    SAI20

    How CAG can lead the SAI20 engagement group?

    • Setting the agenda: The CAG can set the agenda for SAI20 deliberations, identifying priority areas for discussion and ensuring that they align with the broader goals of the G20 and the United Nations.
    • Providing technical expertise: The CAG can provide technical expertise in auditing and public finance management, which can help other SAIs in the group to develop their capacity and improve their performance.
    • Developing audit toolkits: The CAG can take the lead in developing audit toolkits, which can help SAIs in the group to assess development in coastal stretches, track marine water quality, and promote sustainable development.
    • Building consensus: The CAG can work towards building consensus among SAIs in the group, promoting constructive dialogue and agreement on how to improve auditing of performance in specific areas of ocean-based activities.
    • Strengthening accountability: The CAG can use SAI20 to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in ocean-based activities, which can help ensure that economic growth benefits are shared fairly across generations.

    Conclusion

    • The toolkits being prepared by SAI20 under the leadership of the CAG of India will be presented at the SAI20 Engagement Group meet, which will provide a unique opportunity for constructive dialogue and agreement to improve auditing of performance in specific areas of ocean-based activities. This collaborative effort would not only build capacity for auditors across SAI20 member countries but also help regional auditing communities by providing a common and replicable auditing tool.

    Mains Question

    Q. The Comptroller & Auditor General of India (CAG) will chair SAI20 (Supreme Audit Institutions) of G20 countries this year. In this light discuss the role of SAI 20 and How CAG can lead the engagement group for sustainable economic growth?

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