Archives: News

Katchatheevu Island Conundrum

National Parks/WS | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the news?

Prime Minister recently claimed that the then PM Indira Gandhi had given away the island of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka for no reason.

About Katchatheevu Island

Katchatheevu is a small, uninhabited island measuring merely 285 acres, lying between India and Sri Lanka.
It is situated in the Palk Strait.
It was originally owned by the king of Ramnad (present-day Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu).
The island is used by fishermen to dry their nets.
Despite its modest size, the island holds significant religious significance, housing Anthony’s church, a centuries-old Catholic shrine revered by devotees from both nations.
Beyond its religious connotations, Katchatheevu is a vital ecosystem, supporting diverse flora and fauna endemic to the region’s maritime environment.

A Quick Recap of its History

During the British rule, it was administered jointly by India and Sri Lanka.
In the early 20th century, Sri Lanka claimed territorial ownership over the islet.
India ceded the island to Sri Lanka, through a joint agreement in 1974; India further gave up its fishing rights in the region in 1976.

Present Issue

In 1974 and 1976 treaties were signed between the two countries to demarcate the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
However, the agreement could not stop the fishermen from fishing in these waters, as fishermen know no boundary.

Culmination of the Political Dispute

Unresolved Issue: While Indian fishermen retained certain access rights to the island, the agreements failed to address key concerns regarding fishing rights, leading to simmering discontent among fishing communities.
Sri Lankan Atrocities: The civil war in Sri Lanka overshadowed the Katchatheevu issue, with Indian fishermen facing arrests and allegations of mistreatment by the Sri Lankan navy.
Renewed Demands: Instances of fishermen’s rights violations reignited calls for the retrieval of Katchatheevu by Tamil Nadu politicians, who highlighted the plight of affected fishing communities.
Present Backlash: The agreement sparked widespread protests and political backlash in Tamil Nadu, with regional parties and activists condemning the perceived abandonment of Indian sovereignty over Katchatheevu.

PYQ:

Consider the following statements:

1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.

2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.

3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (2020)

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(d) 3 only

Practice MCQ:

With reference to the Katchatheevu Island recently seen in news, consider the following statements:

1. During the British rule, it was administered by India.

2. India ceded the island to Sri Lanka, through a joint agreement in 1974 but holds fishing rights in the region.

Which of the given statements is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

100 Years of Vaikom Satyagraha

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Modern Indian History

Why in the news?

This year April 1^st marks 100 years of the Vaikom Satyagraha, in Kottayam, Kerala.

About Vaikom Satyagraha

Vaikom was the epicentre of the Vaikom Satyagraha, which began in 1924.
This movement aimed to challenge the ban imposed on marginalized communities from entering the vicinity of the Vaikom Mahadevar Temple in the princely state of Travancore.
It sparked similar temple entry movements across India, advocating for the rights of untouchables and backward castes.
It introduced nonviolent public protest as a method of resistance in Kerala.

A Precursor to the Vaikom Satyagraha

Social and Political Developments

Backdrop of Social Injustice: Travancore, characterized by feudal and caste-based governance, imposed stringent restrictions on lower castes, denying them entry to temples and public spaces.

Emergence of Social Consciousness: By the late 19th century, progressive reforms and missionary activities led to increased awareness and education among lower castes, particularly the Ezhavas.
Rise of Educated Elite: Educated individuals from diverse backgrounds, including lower castes, began to challenge social norms and demand equality in opportunities and rights.

Beginning of Agitation

Advocacy for Change: Ezhava leader T K Madhavan spearheaded efforts to challenge temple entry restrictions, advocating for direct action to confront discriminatory practices.
Influence of Gandhi’s Ideals: Inspired by Gandhi’s principles of non-cooperation, Madhavan sought support from the Indian National Congress (INC) to mobilize a mass movement against untouchability.

Actual Course of Events

Agitation

Leaders such as T.K. Madhavan, K.P. Kesava Menon, and George Joseph spearheaded the agitation.
Despite facing resistance and arrests by the police, the Satyagrahis persisted in their protest for over a year, resulting in numerous arrests and jails.
Notable figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Chattampi Swamikal, and Sree Narayana Guru extended their support to the movement, which gained nationwide recognition.
The involvement of women and support from various regions, including Punjab, highlighted the widespread impact of the Satyagraha.

Suspension:

Initially suspended in April 1924 at Gandhi’s suggestion, the movement resumed when attempts to resolve the issue with caste Hindu leaders failed.
The absence of leaders like T.K. Madhavan and K.P. Kesava Menon, who were arrested, posed challenges to the movement.
V. Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) lent support from Tamil Nadu before also being arrested.
The resolution for the right to temple entry faced resistance in the Assembly, thwarted by traditionalist support and government pressure.

Aftermath

On October 1, 1924, a procession of Savarnas (forward castes) submitted a petition to the Regent Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bai of Travancore, signed by around 25,000 individuals, urging for the temple’s open entry.
Gandhi’s meeting with the Regent Maharani and the procession led by Mannath Padmanabhan Nair underscored the growing support for the cause.
Eventually, on November 23, 1925, all temple gates were opened to Hindus except the eastern gate, marking a significant victory.
The Vaikom Satyagraha laid the groundwork for the temple entry proclamation of Kerala in 1936 and inspired similar movements’ nationwide, promoting social justice and equality.

PYQ:

Satya Shodhak Samaj organized (2016):

(a) a movement for upliftment of tribals in Bihar’

(b) a temple-entry movement in Gujarat

(d) a peasant movement in Punjab

Practice MCQ:

The Vaikom Satyagraha of 1924 was essentially a:

(a) Temple Entry Movement

(b) Peasants’ Uprising

(d) Swadeshi Movement

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GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags

Recently Awarded GI Tags

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Intellectual Property Rights

Why in the news?

Over 60 products from various regions received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag simultaneously, marking the largest batch of GI tags ever granted.

What is a GI Tag?

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

Various GI Tags Awarded:

	Details
Bihu Dhol (Assam)	Traditional drum used during Bihu festivals
Jaapi (Assam)	Bamboo headgear worn in rural Assam
Sarthebari metal craft (Assam)	Traditional metal craft producing utensils and artifacts
Mishing handloom products (Assam)	Handwoven textiles including shawls and sarees
Asharikandi terracotta craft (Assam)	Terracotta pottery and decorative items
Pani Meteka craft (Assam)	Brass and copper utensils adorned with intricate designs
Bodo Dokhona (Assam)	Traditional attire of Bodo women
Bodo Eri silk (Assam)	Silk fabric produced from eri silkworms, known for its soft texture and eco-friendly production
Bodo Jwmgra (Assam)	Traditional scarf worn by Bodo community members
Bodo Gamsa (Assam)	Traditional dress of Bodo men
Bodo Thorkha (Assam)	Traditional musical instrument made from bamboo or wood
Bodo Sifung (Assam)	Long flute used in traditional Bodo music
Banaras Thandai (Uttar Pradesh)	Traditional drink made from milk, nuts, seeds, and spices
Banaras Tabla (Uttar Pradesh)	Pair of drums used in classical Indian music
Banaras Shehnai (Uttar Pradesh)	Traditional wind instrument used in Indian classical music
Banaras Lal Bharwamirch (Uttar Pradesh)	Red chili grown in the Banaras region
Banaras Lal Peda (Uttar Pradesh)	Popular Indian sweet made from condensed milk and sugar
Pachra-Rignai (Tripura)	Traditional dress worn by women, consisting of a wrap-around skirt and blouse
Matabari Peda (Tripura)	Sweet delicacy made from condensed milk, sugar, and ghee
Garo Textile weaving (Meghalaya)	Traditional weaving craft practiced by the Garo tribe
Lyrnai Pottery (Meghalaya)	Traditional pottery making characterized by unique designs and techniques
Chubitchi (Meghalaya)	Traditional dish made with meat, local herbs, and spices

PYQ:

Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015)

1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees

2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma

3. Tirupathi Laddu

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

India enacted The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in order to comply with the obligations to (2016):

(a) ILO

(b) IMF

(d) WTO

Practice MCQ:

Consider the following statements about the Geographical Indications (GI) Tag:

1. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry is the nodal agency for GI.

2. A GI tag stands valid for 10 years and cannot be renewed.

Which of the given statements is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

Empathic Voice Interface (EVI): World’s first conversational AI with Emotional Intelligence

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

Why in the news?

Hume, a prominent research lab and tech firm based in New York, has unveiled Empathic Voice Interface (EVI), world’s first conversational AI endowed with emotional intelligence.

What is Empathic Voice Interface (EVI)?

Hume’s Empathic Voice Interface (EVI) is powered by its proprietary empathic large language model (eLLM).
It can decipher tones, word emphasis, and emotional cues, improving the quality of interactions.
As an API, EVI can integrate seamlessly with various applications, offering developers a versatile solution for implementing human-like interactions.

Potential Applications and Future Prospects

Enhanced AI Assistants: Hume’s technology enables AI assistants to engage in nuanced conversations, enhancing productivity and user satisfaction.
Improved Customer Support: By infusing empathy into customer support interactions, Hume’s AI promises to deliver more personalized service and foster stronger relationships.
Therapeutic Potential: Hume’s empathetic AI holds promise in therapeutic settings, offering support and guidance by understanding and responding to human emotions.

PYQ:

What is ’emotional intelligence’ and how can it be developed in people? How does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions? (2013)
“Emotional Intelligence is the ability to make your emotions work for you instead of against you.” Do you agree with this view? Discuss. (2019)
How will you apply emotional intelligence in administrative practices? (2017)

Practice MCQ:

Which of the following statements correctly describes the Empathic Voice Interface (EVI)?

(a) EVI operates as a standalone application, devoid of integration capabilities with other software systems.

(b) It relies on conventional language models, neglecting emotional cues and word emphasis during interactions.

(c) EVI, powered by its proprietary empathic large language model (eLLM), detects emotional nuances such as tones, word emphasis, and cues, enhancing interaction quality.

(d) EVI is developed by the Microsoft.

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

Hepatitis B: Everything you need to know

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

Why in the news?

A recent study by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, revealed alarming deficiencies in public knowledge (transmission, effects & vaccination) about Hepatitis B in India.
Despite the availability of a vaccine for over 30 years, HBV infection rates remain high in India, with prevalence estimates ranging from 2% to 8% and approximately 37 million carriers nationwide.

About Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the liver.
It can be caused by various factors, including viral infections (hepatitis viruses), alcohol consumption, certain medications, toxins, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders.

	Hepatitis A	Hepatitis B	Hepatitis C
Causative Virus	Hepatitis A Virus (HAV)	Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)	Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)
Transmission	Fecal-oral route (contaminated food/water)	Blood and body fluids (unsafe sex, sharing needles)	Blood-to-blood contact (sharing needles, transfusions)
Vaccine Available	Yes	Yes	Yes
Chronic Infection	No (usually acute)	Yes (can become chronic)	Yes (often becomes chronic)
Symptoms	Mild flu-like symptoms, jaundice	Variable, from none to severe symptoms	Often asymptomatic, but can lead to liver damage
Chronic Complications	None	Cirrhosis, liver cancer	Cirrhosis, liver cancer
Preventable by Vaccine	Yes	Yes	No
Treatment	Supportive care	Antiviral medications	Antiviral medications

PYQ:

Which one of the following statements is not correct? (2019)

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

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

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

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

Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing? (2013)

1. Chikungunya

2. Hepatitis B

3. HIV-AIDS

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Practice MCQ:

Consider the following statements regarding Hepatitis C virus:

1. It is spread mainly through contaminated water and food.

2. It primarily affects the functioning of respiratory system.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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NGOs vs. GoI: The Conflicts and Scrutinies

MHA extends FCRA Registration of NGOs

Prelims Only | Governance | Mains Paper 2: NGO, SHG & Civil Society

Why in the news?

The Ministry of Home Affairs extended till June 30 the validity of all FCRA registered NGOs whose licences are expiring on March 31.

What is Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)?

The FCRA regulates foreign donations and ensures that such contributions do not adversely affect internal security.
First enacted in 1976, it was amended in 2010 when a slew of new measures was adopted to regulate foreign donations.
The FCRA is applicable to all associations, groups and NGOs which intend to receive foreign donations.
It is mandatory for all such NGOs to register themselves under the FCRA.
The registration is initially valid for 5 years and it can be renewed subsequently if they comply with all norms.

What contributes to Foreign Donations?

Foreign Contribution’ means the donation, delivery or transfer made by any foreign source of any:

Article (whose market value is not more than one lakh rupees);
Currency (whether Indian or foreign);
Securities

Foreign donations may be those from Governments, international agencies, foreign companies, trusts, corporations, foreign citizens
However, some agencies like the UN, World Bank, IMF etc. are EXEMPTED from the definition of foreign donors.

Who cannot accept donations under FCRA?

According to the FCRA, foreign donations cannot be accepted by:

Election candidates
Editors and publishers of newspapers
Judges and government employees.
Political parties and members of legislature etc.

What was the recent Amendment?

The FCRA was amended in September 2020 to introduce some new restrictions:

There is now a capping of the administrative expenses of NGOs at 20% of their foreign donations.
The new amendment requires them to have a State Bank of India account at a Delhi Branch.
It also prohibits the transfer of grants received under FCRA to any other outfit.
It also gives sweeping powers to the Ministry of Home Affairs to cancel the FCRA certificate of an NGO.
It made legal for political parties to accept foreign aid through Indian subsidiaries.
Under the Act, the government may suspend the registration of a person for a period not exceeding 180 days.
Providing Aadhar is mandatory for all office bearers, directors or key functionaries of the organization.

PYQ:

2015: Examine critically the recent changes in the rule governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976.

2015: How can be the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works relating to protection of the Environment? Discuss throwing light on the major constraints.

Practice MCQ:

Consider the following statements regarding “Foreign Contribution (regulation) Act”:

1. World Bank is excluded from the definition of foreign sources under the act.

2. Political parties are prohibited from taking foreign donations under the act.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) Only 1

(b) Only 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Corruption Challenges – Lokpal, POCA, etc

Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)

Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Money-Laundering & Its Prevention

Why in the news?

The Supreme Court has rejected review petitions challenging its ruling on the initiation of proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The judgment clarified that Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code cannot be invoked for PMLA proceedings unless the alleged conspiracy pertains to a scheduled offence.

Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002

The PMLA was enacted in 2002 with the aim of preventing money laundering and providing for confiscation of property derived from money laundering.
It applies to all financial institutions, banks (including the RBI), mutual funds, insurance companies, and their financial intermediaries.
The Act empowers government authorities to confiscate property and/or assets earned from illegal sources and through money laundering.
It has been amended three times, in 2005, 2009, and 2012.
Under the PMLA, the burden of proof lies with the accused, who must demonstrate that the suspect property/assets have not been obtained through proceeds of crime.

Penalties under PMLA:

Freezing or Seizure of property and records, and/or attachment of property obtained through crime proceeds.
Rigorous imprisonment for a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 7 years. In cases where money laundering is linked with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, the punishment can extend up to 10 years, along with a fine.
Fine imposition.

Authorities for investigation under PMLA:

Enforcement Directorate (ED): It is responsible for investigating offenses under the PMLA.
Financial Intelligence Unit – India (FIU-IND): It is the national agency tasked with receiving, processing, analyzing, and disseminating information related to suspect financial transactions.

What is Article 120 of Indian Penal Code (IPC)?

Section 120 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with the concept of “Conspiracy to commit an offense”.
It states that when two or more persons agree to do, or cause to be done, an illegal act, or an act which is not illegal by illegal means, such an agreement is designated a criminal conspiracy.
Section 120A defines “criminal conspiracy” as when two or more persons agree to do, or cause to be done, an illegal act or an act which is not illegal by illegal means.
Section 120B prescribes the punishment for criminal conspiracy, with death, imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment for a term of two years or upwards, shall be punished in the same manner as if he had abetted such offense.

Punishment for Criminal Conspiracy

Nature of Conspiracy: IPC 120B categorizes conspiracy based on the gravity of the offense and prescribes punishments accordingly.
Serious Offenses: Conspiracy to commit serious crimes punishable by death, life imprisonment, or rigorous imprisonment for 2 years or more warrants severe punishment equivalent to the offense committed.
Other Offenses: Conspiracy for illegal acts not falling under the serious category incurs imprisonment for up to six months, a fine, or both, as per Section 120B.

Practice MCQ:

Which of the following statements are correct regarding ‘Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (PMLA)’?

1. Enforcement Directorate (ED) is responsible for investigating offences under the PMLA

2. The Act enables government authorities to confiscate property earned through money laundering.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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

Global Spread of H5N1 Bird Flu

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

Why in the news?

Since 2020, the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu has been spreading globally, posing a significant threat to both birds and mammals.

H5N1 Bird Flu: Details

H5N1 originated from a virus outbreak on a goose farm in China in 1996 and has since evolved into a highly pathogenic strain.
The virus quickly spread from Europe to Africa, Asia, North America, and South America, and most recently, it reached mainland Antarctica.
H5N1 is a subtype of the influenza A virus that causes severe respiratory disease in birds, known as avian influenza or “bird flu”.
Influenza A viruses are classified by subtypes based on the properties of their surface proteins, with H5N1 being one subtype.

How widespread is it?

The virus has affected birds in over 80 countries, resulting in mass culling of poultry and wild birds.
Furthermore, it has now begun infecting mammals, including seals, sea lions, and marine mammals.
While humans rarely contract bird flu, those at risk are typically individuals who have extensive contact with infected birds at poultry farms.
Bird flu first broke out in Maharashtra in 2006.
The H5N1 virus led to the culling of millions of poultry so as to contain the virus. But it has resurfaced from time to time.

Impact on Animals

Bird Species Affected: Numerous bird species, including Great Skuas and Barnacle Geese, have experienced significant mortality rates due to H5N1.
Endangered Species Threatened: Endangered birds like the California condors have been severely affected, with a notable percentage of the population succumbing to the virus.
Mammalian Casualties: H5N1 has crossed species barriers, infecting mammals such as foxes, pumas, skunks, and marine mammals like sea lions and dolphins.
Devastating Consequences: Mass mortalities of marine mammals, particularly elephant seals, have been reported, raising concerns about the long-term ecological impact.

Factors behind Spread

Climate Change: Some scientists attribute the large-scale spread of bird flu to climate change, which alters bird behavior and facilitates the transmission of the virus.
Warmer Seas: Warmer sea temperatures have weakened marine mammal populations, making them more susceptible to disease outbreaks.

PYQ:

2015: H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases?

(a) AIDS

(b) Bird flu

(d) Swine flu

Practice MCQ:

How many of the given statements about H5N1 Virus is/are correct?

1. It is a type of influenza virus causing highly infectious, respiratory disease in birds.

2. It is highly contagious in humans.

3. Seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals are vulnerable to this Virus.

Select the correct codes from below –

(a) One

(b) Two

(d) None

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA) Ecoregion

National Parks/WS | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the news?

A recent study has revealed about undocumented biodiversity in the newly recognized South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA) Ecoregion.

What is SEAMA Ecoregion?

The SEAMA is a recently recognized ecoregion located in Southern Africa.
It spans across northern Mozambique and incorporating Mount Mulanje in Malawi.
SEAMA is distinguished by its mountainous terrain, encompassing diverse habitats such as montane forests, grasslands, and rock faces.
Despite its relatively recent recognition, SEAMA has been identified as a hub of biodiversity, hosting numerous species of plants, vertebrates, and invertebrates.

Recent Findings on SEAMA Ecoregion

Species Documentation: The researchers identified 127 plants, 45 vertebrates, and 45 invertebrate species, including two endemic genera of plants and reptiles.
Endemic Reptiles: SEAMA is home to 22 strictly endemic reptile species, most of which are threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation.
Global Significance: The remarkable diversity of SEAMA has prompted proposals to designate it as a new ecoregion of global biological importance.

Conservation Challenges

Late Discovery: Despite being located in a region considered the birthplace of modern humans, the mountains of northern Mozambique remained largely unstudied until recent decades due to historical conflicts.
Deforestation Threats: SEAMA faces severe deforestation threats, with up to 18% of its primary humid forest cover lost since 2000.
Causes of Deforestation: Slash and burn shifting agricultural practices, along with charcoal production, are the primary drivers of deforestation in the region.

PYQ:

2013: Which one of the following pairs a correctly matched?

Geographical feature and region

(a) Abyssinian Plateau – Arabia

(b) Atlas Mountains – Northwest Africa

(d) Okavango Basin – Patagonia

Practice MCQ:

The SEAMA Ecoregion often seen in news is located in-

(a) Latin America

(b) Europe

(d) Asia

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Hunger and Nutrition Issues – GHI, GNI, etc.

UNEP Food Waste Index Report, 2024

IOCR | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Inclusive Growth & Issues

Why in the news?

The Food Waste Index Report, 2024 was recently released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), a UK based non-profit organization.

Food Waste Index Report:

It tracks the global and national generation of food and inedible parts wasted at the retail and consumer (household and food service) levels.
It was first launched in 2011.
It was conceived as a tool to monitor progress towards international targets, such as those outlined in the SDG 12.3, which calls for halving food waste by 2030.

Key Findings of the 2024 Report

Total Food Waste Generation in 2022:
- Globally, 1.05 billion tonnes of food waste were generated in 2022.
Distribution of Food Waste by Sector:
- Households accounted for 60% of the total food waste.
- Food services were responsible for 28% of the total food waste.
- Retail accounted for 12% of the total food waste.
Per Capita Food Waste:
- The average per capita food waste was 132 kilograms in 2022.
Economic Cost of Food Waste:
- The economic toll of food loss and waste is estimated at $1 trillion.
Contribution to Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
- Food loss and waste contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 8-10% of annual global emissions.
Regional Trends:
- Food waste levels vary minimally across income groups.
- Hotter climates tend to generate more household food waste due to consumption patterns and infrastructure limitations.
- Rural areas generally exhibit lower levels of food waste compared to urban areas.
Policy Integration:
- Only 21 countries, including Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union, have included food loss and waste reduction in their climate plans or Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

PYQ:

2019: In India, ‘extended producer responsibility’ was introduced as an important feature in which of the following?

(a) The Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

(b) The Recycled Plastic (Manufacturing and Usage) Rules, 1999

(d) The Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011

Practice MCQ:

Which of the following statements is correct about the Food Waste Index Report?

(a) It tracks only the global generation of food waste at the retail level.

(b) It was first launched in 2011 to monitor progress towards reducing food waste in households and food service sectors.

(c) It is a tool aimed at monitoring progress towards international targets outlined in SDG 12.3 to halve food waste by 2030.

(d) It primarily focuses on tracking inedible parts wasted at the industrial level.

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