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  • Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

    Why protecting India’s forests should be a part of national security?

    25 July 2023 | op-ed snap | Environment
    Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    forests

    What’s the news?

    • Recently, a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) gave its endorsement to the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, which seeks to amend the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The proposed amendments have attracted objections and controversy, raising concerns.

    Central idea

    • Since the early 1970s, growing awareness of the environmental damage caused by human activities has led to an understanding of its impact on our lives. Disastrous events, such as wildfires, extreme weather conditions and the loss of biodiversity, have adversely affected billions of people worldwide. In response, numerous multilateral environmental agreements and policies have been established to reverse these trends.

    What is the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill, 2023?

    • The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Bill is a proposed legislation aimed at amending the Forest Conservation Act of 1980 in India.
    • The proposed amendments seek to address certain issues and introduce changes to enhance forest conservation efforts and promote sustainable development.

    Background: Forest Conservation Act, 1980

    • The Forest Conservation Act, 1980, was enacted to protect the country’s forests and empower the central government to regulate the extraction of forest resources, including timber, bamboo, coal, and minerals, by industries and forest-dwelling communities.
    • Prior to the implementation of the Forest Conservation Act, extensive deforestation and diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes were prevalent.
    • From 1951 to 1975, approximately four million hectares of forest land were diverted. However, since the Act came into effect, from 1980 to 2023, only around one million hectares have been diverted.

    Analysis: Proposed Amendments and Their Implications

    • Reclassification of Forest Areas:
    • The proposed amendment restricts the Forest Conservation Act’s application to only areas officially declared as forest after October 25, 1980, which may invalidate the expansive interpretation provided by the Supreme Court’s 1996 judgment.
    • Potentially, this could lead to thousands of square kilometers of forests losing legal protection, putting 27.62 percent of India’s forest cover at risk.
    • Exemptions for Projects Near Border Areas and Security Purposes:
    • The amendment proposes to eliminate the requirement of forest clearances for security-related infrastructure within 100 km of international borders.
    • While national security is important, ecological security plays an equally critical role in safeguarding citizens’ well-being. Fast-tracking without environmental appraisal could lead to irreversible damage to ecologically significant ecosystems in these regions.
    • Exemptions for Zoos, Safari Parks, and Ecotourism Activities:
    • Granting exemptions for zoos, safari parks, and ecotourism activities may result in the destruction of natural ecosystems, which are vital in buffering against climate change-induced weather patterns.
    • Instead, conservation centers should be established away from forested areas, and ecotourism projects should undergo thorough environmental assessments to prevent adverse impacts.
    • Disempowering Local Communities:
    • The proposal to exempt a vast number of projects from the clearance process would deprive forest-dwelling communities of their right to be consulted.
    • The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, mandates obtaining free, prior, and informed consent from local communities through gram sabhas.
    • By bypassing this process, the proposed amendment undermines the rights of forest-dwelling tribal people and others.

    Challenges in forest conservation in India

    • Inadequate Forest Cover: With only 21 percent of India’s land area having forest cover and a mere 12.37 percent being intact natural forest, meeting the target of 33 percent forest cover poses a significant challenge.
    • Decline in Northeastern Forests: The northeastern states, known for their biodiversity richness, have experienced a net decline of 3,199 sq km of forest cover from 2009 to 2019, further exacerbating the forest conservation challenge.

    Why should protecting India’s forests be a part of national security?

    • Ecological Security: Forests play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and stability, providing essential ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, water regulation, and biodiversity conservation.
    • Climate Change Mitigation: By safeguarding forests, India can contribute significantly to global efforts in mitigating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Water Security: Forests act as natural watersheds, regulating water flow and ensuring the replenishment of groundwater, thereby securing a sustainable water supply.
    • Biodiversity Conservation: Protecting forests is vital for maintaining ecological resilience and preserving unique plant and animal species.
    • Livelihoods and Food Security: Millions of people, especially tribal communities, depend on forests for their livelihoods, food, and cultural practices.
    • Prevention of Conflict: Protecting forests near international borders can help prevent conflicts related to resource disputes and cross-border activities.
    • National Economy and Resources: Forests contribute significantly to the national economy through industries like timber and non-timber forest products.
    • Health and Well-being: Access to green spaces and forests promotes healthier lifestyles and reduces stress, benefiting public health.

    Way forward: key steps and strategies to consider

    • Strengthen Implementation of Existing Laws: Rather than introducing new amendments, focus on enhancing the implementation of existing laws, such as the Forest Act, 1980, and the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers Act, 2006. Effective enforcement and monitoring of these laws can lead to better protection of forests and the rights of local communities.
    • Maintain a Broader Interpretation of Forest: Uphold the Supreme Court’s interpretation of forest as encompassing all forests, regardless of official declarations. This will ensure the continued legal protection of ecologically sensitive areas, preventing the loss of forests due to reclassification.
    • Preserve Ecologically Important Areas: Avoid exempting projects near border areas and for security purposes from forest clearances, especially in ecologically significant regions like the northeastern states. Maintain a balance between national security concerns and ecological security.
    • Review Exemptions for Development Projects: Reassess the exemptions for zoos, safari parks, and ecotourism activities. Develop guidelines and criteria for ecotourism projects that prioritize environmental conservation and minimize negative impacts.
    • Ensure Transparent Decision-Making: Eliminate the provision allowing the central government to exempt clearances for any other purposes to avoid potential misuse, and ensure transparent and accountable decision-making in all projects.
    • Empower Local Communities: Uphold the rights of forest-dwelling communities by actively involving them in decision-making processes. Obtain free, prior, and informed consent through gram sabhas before implementing any projects on forest lands.
    • Raise Public Awareness: Educate the public about the importance of forests, biodiversity, and environmental conservation. Create awareness campaigns to garner public support for sustainable forest management and protection.
    • Research and Science-Based Conservation: Support scientific research on forest ecosystems and their functions. Utilize scientific evidence to inform conservation policies and strategies.

    Conclusion

    • While the preamble of the Forest Conservation Amendment Bill, 2023, outlines commendable goals, the proposed amendments themselves appear to contradict these objectives. It is essential to prioritize environmental protection and consider the long-term consequences of such amendments on India’s natural ecosystems and the well-being of its citizens. To safeguard our environment for future generations, it is crucial to avoid any changes that weaken existing protective measures.

    Also read:

    Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Bill and the Forests rights

     

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  • Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

    What does India’s first gig workers’ rights Bill stipulate?

    25 July 2023 | op-ed snap | Economics
    Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy, Issues relating growth and development, employment

    Gig

    What’s the news?

    • The Rajasthan Assembly on Monday passed the Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, without a debate amid uproar by the opposition members in the House.

    Central Idea

    • The Rajasthan government has taken a significant stride towards safeguarding the interests of gig workers with the passage of the Rajasthan Gig Workers Bill, 2023. This groundbreaking legislation, the first of its kind, seeks to establish a Welfare Board and a dedicated welfare fund, ensuring social security measures for platform-based gig workers in the state.

    Definition of gig Workers?

    • The bill defines gig workers as individuals who perform work or participate in work arrangements outside the traditional employer-employee relationship. These workers earn from such activities and typically work on a contract that outlines specific terms and conditions, including piece-rate work.
    • Gig workers are often associated with the gig economy, which is characterized by a flexible and on-demand labor market. They may work in various sectors, including ride-hailing, food delivery, online freelancing, home services, and other platform-based services.

    Key features of the bill

    • Applicability: The bill applies to both aggregators, which are digital intermediaries connecting buyers and sellers, and primary employers, encompassing individuals or organizations that engage platform-based workers.
    • Formation of Welfare Board: A crucial aspect of the legislation is the establishment of a Welfare Board, chaired by the minister in charge of the Labour Department. The Board will consist of nominated members, with at least one-third representing women. It will be responsible for overseeing and implementing welfare measures for platform-based gig workers in the state.
    • Registration and Unique ID: The Welfare Board will ensure the registration of both platform-based gig workers and aggregators operating within the state. Each gig worker will receive a Unique ID applicable across all platforms, streamlining access to various welfare schemes and benefits.
    • Social Security and Welfare Fund: To support registered gig workers, the state government will create The Rajasthan Platform Based Gig Workers Social Security and Welfare Fund. This dedicated fund will be utilized to provide social security benefits to gig workers, enhancing their financial protection.
    • Welfare Fee Deduction Mechanism: Aggregators will be responsible for contributing to the welfare fund by deducting a welfare fee from each transaction related to platform-based gig workers. The fee will be based on a percentage of the transaction value, ensuring a sustainable funding mechanism for gig workers welfare.
    • Access to Social Security Benefits: The Bill guarantees gig workers access to various social security benefits formulated by the state government. These benefits are intended to offer financial protection and support to gig workers during times of need, such as accidental insurance and health insurance.
    • Grievance Redressal Mechanism: Gig workers will have the right to present grievances related to entitlements, payments, and benefits offered under the Act. A robust grievance redressal mechanism will be put in place to address these concerns and ensure timely resolutions.
    • Representation in Decision-Making: Gig workers will have a voice in decisions impacting their welfare through representation on the Welfare Board. This provision ensures that the interests of gig workers are taken into account when formulating policies and programs.
    • Compliance and Fines: Aggregators are mandated to comply with the provisions of the Act and the rules set forth by the Welfare Board. Failure to adhere to these regulations may lead to fines imposed by the state government. For the first contravention, a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh may be imposed, and for subsequent contraventions, the fine may extend up to Rs 50 lakh.

    Concerns raised over the bill

    • Vague Terminologies: Labor unions have objected to the use of vague terminologies in the bill, fearing that they may create loopholes for companies and aggregators. The lack of clarity in definitions and language could potentially weaken the protection provided to gig workers.
    • Funding Mechanism: Labor unions have expressed concerns about gig workers being required to contribute to the welfare fund. They argue that the funding burden should primarily fall on aggregator companies and State funds due to the fluctuating and inadequate nature of gig workers’ pay.
    • Scope of Social Security Benefits: The bill’s limited mention of social security benefits, primarily focusing on accidental insurance and health insurance, has been criticized. Labor unions recommend a comprehensive list of benefits to ensure adequate coverage for gig workers.
    • Grievance Redressal Mechanism: Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness and responsiveness of the grievance redressal mechanism outlined in the bill. Reports of ineffective redressal mechanisms for gig workers have raised doubts about their efficacy.
    • Definition of Gig Workers: Some stakeholders have questioned the scope of the bill’s definition of gig workers, as there may be other forms of gig workers not covered under the defined criteria.
    • Rights Recognition: While the bill improves on the eligibility criteria compared to existing labor laws, critics argue that gig workers may not be fully recognized as employees entitled to certain labor rights.
    • Implementation Challenges: The successful implementation of the bill relies on the effectiveness of the Welfare Board and State government in ensuring seamless registration, representation, and benefit distribution to gig workers.

    Way forward

    • Addressing Concerns: Hold consultations with labor unions and stakeholders to clarify ambiguous terms and ensure a more equitable funding mechanism for the welfare fund.
    • Comprehensive Social Security Benefits: Expand benefits to include disability coverage, maternity benefits, and retirement benefits, in addition to accidental and health insurance.
    • Strengthening Grievance Redressal: Establish a responsive mechanism for prompt resolution of disputes between gig workers and aggregators.
    • Empowering the Welfare Board: Provide adequate resources and authority to the Welfare Board for effective implementation and decision-making.
    • Periodic Review and Feedback: Conduct regular evaluations to assess the bill’s impact and seek feedback from gig workers, labor unions, and aggregators.
    • Awareness and Outreach: Organize awareness campaigns to educate gig workers about their rights and entitlements.
    • Transparent Implementation: Ensure transparency in registration, benefit distribution, and fund utilization.
    • Collaborative Approach: Foster collaboration among government departments, labor unions, aggregators, and gig worker representatives for an inclusive framework.

    Conclusion

    • The Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Bill, 2023, sets a notable precedent for acknowledging the significance of gig workers and their rights in the Indian workforce. While the legislation addresses various aspects related to the welfare and social security of gig workers, there remains room for refinement and further expansion of benefits to ensure their overall well-being and empowerment.

    Also read:

    Rajasthan minimum income Bill: provisions, what makes it unique

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

    National Broadcasting Day 2023: How the Radio came to India

    24 July 2023 | Prelims Only | Economics
    Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    radio

    Central Idea

    • This July 23, commemorated 100 years of radio broadcast in India.
    • All India Radio (AIR) started broadcasting in 1923 via 2 private stations called the Radio Club of Bombay and Calcutta Radio Club.

    Facts for Prelims: Usha Mehta’s Secret Radio

    usha mehta radio

    • On August 8, 1942, the historic Quit India Resolution was passed during the All India Congress Committee meeting in Bombay.
    • In this response, the idea of an underground radio station, known by various names such as the Freedom Radio, the Ghost Radio, or the Congress Radio, was conceived to counter the British-controlled AIR.
    • Usha Mehta, a 22 YO master’s student at Wilson College, became the voice of the Congress Radio.
    • The radio was an expensive endeavour, but funds were procured through various means, including contributions from Mehta’s colleague, Babubhai Khakhar.
    • Radio engineering expert Nariman Abarbad Printer constructed the Congress Radio transmission set.
    • Their first broadcast was on 14 August 1942.
    • Welcome line in her voice: “This is the Congress Radio calling on 42.34 from somewhere in India.”
    • In the beginning, they were broadcasting twice a day, in Hindi and English. But they reduced it to just once in the evening between 7.30 and 8.30 pm.
    • On 12th November 1942, the police raided the radio while Vande Mataram was being played and arrested Mehta and others.
    • Mehta was conferred the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honours in 1998.

    About All India Radio

    • On July 23, 1927, the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC) was formed, but it faced liquidation within three years.
    • To revive the IBC, Lionel Fielden, a BBC producer, was appointed as the first Controller of Broadcasting in August 1935.
    • In June 1936, the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) transformed into All India Radio.
    • In August 1937, it became the Central News Organisation (CNO) under the Department of Information and Broadcasting.

    Expansion and Name Change

    • In 1947, India had six radio stations, covering 2.5% of the area and 11% of the population. Pakistan had three radio stations.
    • In 1956, the name “AKASHVANI” was adopted as the National Broadcaster, used interchangeably with AIR, primarily for Hindi broadcasting.
    • The famous jingle of AIR was composed by Walter Kaufmann, who joined AIR in 1937 and significantly contributed to Indian music.

    Current Status of AIR

    • Today, AIR has a network of around 260 radio stations, covering nearly 92% of the country’s total area and serving almost the entire population.
    • It broadcasts in 23 languages and 146 dialects, making it a broadcasting giant in India.

    Controversies

    • Vividh Bharati Service: Launched in 1957, it included popular film music as a major component.
    • BV Keskar’s Ban on Film Music: In 1952, AIR imposed a ban on film music, causing Radio Ceylon to gain popularity among Hindi film music enthusiasts with shows like Geetmala.
    • Film Industry’s Response: The film industry withdrew music rights from AIR, leading to the absence of film music on the radio.

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  • Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

    Donanemab: A promising drug for Alzheimer’s

    24 July 2023 | Prelims Only | Science and Technology
    Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Donanemab

    Central Idea

    • Donanemab, a drug in trials has shown significant potential in slowing cognitive decline in individuals with early Alzheimer’s.

    What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

    • Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and irreversible neurological disorder.
    • Beta-amyloid, a protein that is crucial for brain function, turns toxic in Alzheimer’s patients, forming clumps that disrupt brain cell connections, leading to cognitive issues like memory loss.
    • These protein deposits disrupt communication between neurons, leading to their deterioration and death.
    • Early signs include forgetfulness, difficulty finding words, problem-solving challenges, confusion, and disorientation.
    • The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not fully understood but is believed to involve genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
    • Family history, genetic mutations, head injuries, cardiovascular disease, and certain lifestyle factors are also risk factors.

    Donanemab: An antedote

    • Development: Donanemab is a drug developed by Eli Lilly and aims to treat individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease.
    • Targeting Amyloid Plaques: The drug targets a common hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease: amyloid plaques in the brain.

    Breakthrough in Slowing Cognitive Decline

    • Alarming Burden: With an estimated 14 million cases of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, expected in India by 2050, the need for effective treatments is urgent.
    • Phase III Trial: In a phase III trial, Donanemab demonstrated promising results, slowing cognitive decline by 35% compared to a placebo.
    • Significance: This marks a significant milestone in Alzheimer’s research, as it is the second drug, within a year, to show effectiveness in checking cognitive decline in early-stage Alzheimer’s patients.
    • Limitations: It is essential to note that Donanemab and the previous drug do not stop or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. However, slowing cognitive decline can significantly improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.

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  • Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

    Adjournment Motion in Indian Parliament

    24 July 2023 | Prelims Only | Polity
    Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Central Idea

    • During the monsoon Session of Parliament, Opposition parties demanded discussions on alleged sexual assaults in Manipur and ongoing ethnic violence.
    • Many MPs moved adjournment motions, leading to the Lok Sabha’s adjournment.

    Let’s explore the various motions raised in Indian Parliament and their significance.

    (A) Short Duration Discussion (Rule 193)

    • Applicability: This procedure is available in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
    • Description: A short-duration discussion can take place when the Chairman or Speaker believes that a matter is urgent and of sufficient public importance. The discussion can last for a maximum of two and a half hours.

    (B) Motion with a Vote (Rule 184)

    • Applicability: This motion is relevant in Lok Sabha.
    • Description: If a motion meets certain conditions, such as not containing defamatory statements, being on a matter of recent occurrence, and not being pending before any statutory authority or court of enquiry, it can be admitted. The Speaker can then allocate a time period for the discussion. This type of motion involves a vote to determine Parliament’s position on the issue and requires the government to follow Parliament’s decision.

    (C) Adjournment Motion

    • Applicability: The adjournment motion is relevant only in Lok Sabha and is not available in Rajya Sabha.
    • Description: An adjournment motion is moved to discuss a “definite matter of urgent public importance” with the Speaker’s consent. The notice for this motion must be given before 10 AM on a given day to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General. The motion must meet specific criteria to be admitted. The passage of an adjournment motion does not require the government to resign but is seen as a strong censure of the government.

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  • Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

    In news: Opium Wars

    24 July 2023 | Prelims Only |
    Mains Paper 1

    opium war

    Central Idea

    • The Opium Wars, waged by European colonial powers on China, exemplify how opium, as an inanimate object, became a powerful historical agent under specific social and political circumstances.

    Possible mains question:

    Q. Discuss the historical significance of opium as a powerful agent in shaping world history, with a focus on its role in the Opium Wars and its impact on colonialism and Chinese society.

    Story of Opium and Tea

    opium

    • Tea’s Introduction to Europe: Tea, originating in China over 2,000 years ago, became popular among the British elite in the mid-17th century and transcended class barriers to become the quintessential British beverage.
    • Trade Deficit with China: However, the British East India Company faced a trade deficit with China due to the import of tea.
    • Opium as a Solution: In 1763, the British acquired a monopoly on opium production and trade, which was already in demand in China. Selling opium to China from their rapidly growing colony in India helped offset the trade deficit caused by tea imports.

    Opium Cultivation in India

    • Rapid Growth: Under the British Opium Department, opium production in India saw a massive increase, rising almost 800% within a century. India’s total opium exports to China increased a hundred-fold between 1780 and 1880.
    • Selective Selling: Interestingly, while India grew all the opium, the British avoided selling it in their own colony, choosing instead to push it into Chinese society.

    China’s Addiction and Socio-economic Crises

    • Addiction Spreads: The highly addictive and debilitating drug led to widespread addiction among China’s upper classes and literati, causing socio-economic crises.
    • Decline of Qing Dynasty: The ruling Qing dynasty’s inability to curb opium trade eroded the machinery of the state and legitimacy of China’s governance.

    The Opium Wars

    • Discovery of Opium: In 1839, after discovering his son’s opium use, the Qing Emperor launched a crackdown, leading to tensions with British opium traders in Canton.
    • First Opium War (1839-42): British forces arrived in China to protect “free trade,” leading to a series of defeats for China. The Treaty of Nanking forced China to compensate British opium traders, cede Hong Kong, and open more ports for European trade.
    • Second Opium War (1856-60): Triggered by a conflict between a Chinese official and British traders, the war further expanded European presence in China and legalized opium trade.

    Opium as a Historical Agent

    • Colonialism and Opium: The Opium Wars epitomized colonialism in Asia, generating immense profits for colonialists at the expense of Indian labor and Chinese sobriety.
    • Continued Impact: Opioid crises worldwide show opium’s capacity to transcend social classes, making it a historical force with tragic consequences.

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    Narco-Terrorism and Manipur Violence

    24 July 2023 | | Internal Security
    Mains Paper 3: Linkages Between Development & Spread Of Extremism

    manipur narco

    Central Idea

    • A civil society organization has written a letter to the European Parliament (EP) expressing concerns over the portrayal of violence in Manipur as a religious conflict.
    • It ascertains that the ongoing violence is not a religious issue but rather fueled by narco-terrorism and illegal settlements.
    • The organization highlighted the dangers of Manipur becoming a new Golden Triangle, a notorious drug trafficking corridor in Southeast Asia.

    Golden Triangle Reference to Manipur

    • Golden Triangle: The Golden Triangle is a well-known area spanning China, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, notorious for opium poppy cultivation and drug trafficking.
    • Chin-Kuki and Meitei Communities: Manipur is home to various ethnic groups, with the Kukis being the third-largest community, after the non-tribal Meiteis and the tribal Nagas. The ethnically-related Chins are primarily from Myanmar, and some have allegedly settled illegally in Manipur over the years.

    manipur golden triangle

    Rise of Narco-Terrorism in India

    • Golden Crescent Influence: India’s proximity to the “Golden Crescent” provides easy access to narcotics from Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.
    • Cross-Border Connections: India shares borders with countries known for their involvement in drug trafficking, such as Pakistan.
    • Financing Mechanism: Socioeconomic factors like poverty and unemployment contribute to the involvement of individuals in the drug trade.
    • Corruption and Weak Law Enforcement: Corruption within law enforcement agencies facilitates drug trafficking operations, especially in Punjab.
    • High Profits and Demand: The lucrative nature of the drug trade makes it an attractive revenue source for terrorist organizations.
    • Transnational Networks: Transnational drug syndicates collaborate with terrorist groups, enabling the flow of drugs and funding for terrorist activities.

    Security Implications of Narco-Terrorism

    • Criminalization of Youth: Drug trafficking and abuse lead to increased crime, violence, and corruption within communities.
    • Public Health Concerns: Drug addiction and related health issues pose significant challenges to public health systems.
    • Threat to National Security: The linkages between drug trafficking networks and terrorist organizations create a complex security environment.
    • Drain on Resources: Combating narco-terrorism requires substantial human resources, equipment, and funding.

    Efforts to Combat Narco-Terrorism

    • Rehabilitation Programs and Counselling Centers: Government-funded drug rehabilitation measures and counselling centres are established across all districts.
    • Operation Sadbhavana: The Indian Army conducts de-addiction counselling centres and awareness camps to combat drug addiction.
    • Nasha Mukt J&K Campaign: The campaign aims to make J&K drug-free, with a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics. The same should be replicated in North East.

    Recommendations to Curb Narco-Terrorism

    • Strengthening ED: The Enforcement Directorate’s jurisdiction should be improved to monitor terrorist financing and money laundering.
    • Anti-Drone Technology: Enhance anti-drone technology along the Line of Control and international borders to counter drug trafficking via drones.

    Way Forward

    • Community Engagement and Rehabilitation: Focus on community awareness, education, and rehabilitation programs.
    • Target Financing Networks: Strengthen efforts to track and disrupt financing networks supporting narco-terrorism.
    • Cross-Border Intelligence Sharing: Strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with countries affected by drug trafficking.
    • De-radicalization: Implement sustainable economic development programs to provide alternatives to communities involved in the drug trade.

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  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    What are Marine Heat Waves (MHWs)?

    24 July 2023 | Prelims Only | Environment
    Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    heat wave

    Central Idea

    • MHWs have engulfed regions like the northeast Pacific, southern Indian Ocean, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean, as reported by Mercator Ocean International.
    • In April, the Sea Surface Temperature (SST) peaked at 21.1 degrees Celsius, breaking the previous record set in 2016.

    What are Marine Heat Waves (MHWs)?

    • While we often associate heatwaves with the atmosphere, they can also occur in the ocean, known as Marine Heatwaves (MHWs).
    • These prolonged periods of excessively warm sea surface temperatures (SST) can have significant consequences for marine ecosystems and industries.

      • SST is the temperature of the top layer of the ocean, typically measured at a depth of 1 millimeter to a few meters using buoys.

    • MHWs can happen in both summer and winter, with “winter warm-spells” affecting specific regions and species.

    How are MHWs measured?

    • Threshold Criteria: A marine heatwave is characterized by seawater temperatures exceeding a seasonally-varying threshold (often the 90th percentile) for at least 5 consecutive days.
    • Continuity of Events: Successive heatwaves with gaps of 2 days or less are considered part of the same MHW event.

    heat wave

    Causes of Marine Heatwaves

    • Air-sea heat flux: Ocean currents and air-sea heat flux are common drivers of MHWs, leading to the build-up of warm water in specific areas.
    • Influences of Wind and Climate Modes: Wind patterns can enhance or suppress MHWs. They influence the likelihood of events occurring in certain regions.
    • Large-Scale Climate Drivers: Events like the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) can also contribute to the formation of MHWs.
    • Intensification with Global Warming: Rising global temperatures have resulted in longer-lasting, more frequent, and intense MHWs in recent decades.
    • Human Influence: 87% of MHWs can be attributed to human-induced warming, with the oceans absorbing significant amounts of heat due to greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Oceans as Heat Sink: Oceans have absorbed 90% of the additional heat caused by greenhouse gas emissions, increasing global mean sea surface temperature by nearly 0.9 degrees Celsius since 1850.

    Impacts of Marine Heatwaves

    • Ecosystem Structure: MHWs can disrupt ecosystem structure, supporting certain species while suppressing others.
    • Kelp Forest Destruction: MHWs along the Western Australian coast in 2010-2011 devastated kelp forests and fundamentally altered the ecosystem of the coast.
    • Economic Losses: MHWs can cause economic losses, particularly in fisheries and aquaculture industries.
    • Vulnerability of Temperature-Sensitive Species: Species such as corals are highly vulnerable to MHWs. The 2016 marine heatwaves in northern Australia caused severe bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef.

    Impact on Marine Ecosystems

    • Catastrophic Effects: MHWs have led to the death of numerous marine species, altered migration patterns, and caused coral bleaching, endangering coral reefs.
    • Coral Bleaching: High ocean temperatures in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean in 2005 led to a massive coral bleaching event, impacting over 80% of surveyed corals, with severe consequences for marine life.
    • Invasive Species and Ecological Imbalance: MHWs fuel the growth of invasive alien species, disrupting marine food webs and posing threats to wildlife. Ex. Whale entanglements in fishing gear.

    Consequences for Humans

    • Amplifying Storms: Higher ocean temperatures associated with MHWs make storms like hurricanes and cyclones stronger, leading to severe weather events and flooding.
    • Threat to Coral Reefs: Half a billion people depend on coral reefs for food, income, and protection, but MHWs pose a grave threat to these ecosystems, impacting human livelihoods.
    • Socio-Economic Impact: Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable to the socio-economic impacts of MHWs, affecting fisheries and tourism.

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  • Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

    Gyanvapi’s scientific survey by ASI begins

    24 July 2023 | | History
    Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    gyanvapi

    Central Idea

    • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has commenced a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
    • It aims to ascertain whether the mosque was constructed atop a pre-existing Hindu temple, a matter that has been a subject of contention.
    • The mosque is not an ASI-protected site, and the ASI has no role in its maintenance or upkeep.

    Updates till date

    (A) Varanasi Court’s Order

    • Discovery during Previous Survey: During a court-mandated survey in May 2022, a structure claimed to be a “Shivling” by the Hindu side and a “fountain” by the Muslim side was found in a sealed section, which remained inaccessible since a previous Supreme Court order.
    • Exclusion from Survey: The court directed the ASI to exclude the sealed section from the survey while emphasizing the necessity of a scientific investigation to establish the historical facts.

    (B) Supreme Court’s Ruling

    • Protection Order: Earlier, the Supreme Court ordered the protection of the area around the claimed “Shivling” discovered during a video survey of the complex.
    • Mosque Management’s Argument: The mosque management contended that the structure in question is part of the water fountain mechanism at the ‘wazukhana’, the reservoir where devotees perform ablutions before offering namaz.
    • Legal Implications: Lawyers representing the mosque cited the Place of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits altering the character of any place of worship from its status on August 15, 1947. However, this Act does not apply to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid legal dispute.

    History of the Gyanvapi Mosque

    • Construction: The Gyanvapi Mosque was constructed in 1669 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who ordered the demolition of the existing Vishweshwar temple and its replacement with a mosque.
    • Temple Elements Incorporated: The plinth of the original temple was left intact, serving as the mosque’s courtyard, while one wall was spared and turned into the qibla wall, facing Mecca. Evidence of the temple’s materials can still be seen in the mosque’s construction.
    • Name Origin: The mosque’s name is derived from an adjoining well known as the Gyanvapi or Well of Knowledge.
    • Current Temple: The present Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built in the 18th century, adjacent to the Gyanvapi Mosque, becoming a significant Hindu religious centre over the years.

    Longstanding Claims and Legal Framework

    • Claims of Hindu Worship: Many Hindus believe that the original deity of the Vishweshwar temple was hidden inside the Gyanvapi well during Aurangzeb’s raid. This belief has fueled the desire to perform puja and rituals at the site.
    • Places of Worship Act: The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, stipulates that the nature of all places of worship, except for the one in Ayodhya, should be maintained as it was on August 15, 1947. It aims to preserve the character of religious sites and prevents legal challenges to pre-existing structures.
    • Conflicting Claims: The case involved arguments from both sides, with the temple worshipers claiming that the mosque was built on the site of an older temple, while another side pleaded that it was built on Wakf premises.

    Issue in the Limelight

    • Archaeological Survey: In April 2021, a Fast Track Court Civil Judge ordered the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive physical survey of the complex. The survey aimed to determine the structural relationship between the two religious structures.
    • Critique of the Cut-off Date: Worshippers argue that the cut-off date of August 15, 1947, prohibiting claims to religious sites, is arbitrary and denies Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs the right to “reclaim” their places of worship.
    • Opposition to the Law: Some groups have opposed the Places of Worship Act since its introduction, contending that the Centre lacks the authority to legislate on pilgrimage or burial grounds, which fall under the state list.

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  • Biofuel Policy

    Ethanol Blending Programme

    24 July 2023 | op-ed snap | Economics
    Mains Paper 3: S&T – Applications In Everyday Life

    Ethanol

    What’s the news?

    • The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has recently announced an ambitious plan to achieve 20% ethanol-blended petrol nationwide by 2025.

    Central idea

    • India’s ethanol production program has witnessed significant strides in the last five years, with both increased quantities supplied to oil marketing companies (OMCs) and a shift towards diverse raw materials, including rice, damaged grains, maize, and millets. Ethanol, a 99.9% pure alcohol blendable with petrol, has seen a remarkable transformation in its sourcing, production, and utilization.

    What is Ethanol?

    • Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol, is a clear, colorless, and flammable liquid. It is a type of alcohol with the chemical formula C2H5OH.
    • Ethanol is one of the most common types of alcohol and is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast or other microorganisms.

    Applications of Ethanol

    • Ethanol is a key component in alcoholic beverages
    • Ethanol is now heavily used as a biofuel or an additive to gasoline, creating a blend known as ethanol-blended petrol or gasohol
    • Ethanol is used in various industrial processes, including in the production of solvents, cleaning agents, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and chemicals
    • Its ability to kill bacteria and viruses makes it a valuable ingredient in antiseptics and hand sanitizers
    • Ethanol is utilized in food processing for various purposes, including as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and food-grade solvent

    An overview: Evolution of India’s ethanol production

    • Traditional Feedstocks: Until 2017-18, ethanol production in India relied mainly on ‘C-heavy’ molasses, a by-product of sugar production. Sugar mills produced ethanol from molasses with a sugar content of 40-45%, yielding 220–225 liters of ethanol per tonne.
    • Policy Changes: In 2018-19, the Indian government introduced a differential pricing policy to incentivize the use of alternative feedstocks for ethanol production. Higher prices were fixed for ethanol produced from B-heavy molasses and sugarcane juice, compensating mills for reduced sugar production.
    • Feedstocks Diversification: Apart from molasses and sugarcane juice, ethanol production expanded to include rice, damaged grains, maize, jowar (sorghum), and other millets. Ethanol yields from grains were found to be higher than from molasses.
    • Year-Round Production: Leading sugar companies invested in modern distilleries equipped to operate on multiple feedstocks throughout the year. This flexibility allowed distilleries to switch between B-heavy molasses during the crushing season and grains during the off-season, ensuring continuous ethanol production.
    • Increase in Ethanol Blending: The government’s policy and the adoption of diverse feedstocks led to a significant boost in ethanol production and blending with petrol. The all-India average blending of ethanol with petrol increased from 1.6% in 2013-14 to 11.75% in 2022-23.
    • Environmental Sustainability: Distilleries implemented modern techniques like the multi-effect evaporator (MEE) units to treat liquid effluents (spent wash), reducing pollution.
    • Promoting Green Energy: The evolution of ethanol production in India aligns with the country’s goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable and green energy sources

    Advantages of India’s ethanol production program

    • Ethanol production reduces India’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, enhancing the country’s energy security and reducing vulnerability to fluctuating global oil prices.
    • Blending ethanol with petrol lowers carbon emissions. This helps combat climate change and improve air quality.
    • Ethanol production from various feedstocks supports agricultural diversification and provides additional income sources for farmers, benefiting the rural economy.
    • The program utilizes agricultural byproducts and residues to produce ethanol, promoting efficient resource utilization and reducing waste.
    • The ethanol production program creates job opportunities in rural areas, particularly near sugar mills and distilleries, contributing to rural economic growth.
    • Ethanol production aligns with India’s renewable energy goals, contributing to the country’s commitment to sustainable development.

    Byproducts of ethanol production

    • Spent Wash:
    • During alcohol production, liquid effluent known as spent wash is generated. Spent wash is a byproduct that can pose serious environmental problems if discharged without proper treatment.
    • It contains residual sugars and other substances from the fermentation process, making it a high-strength organic wastewater.
    • DDGS (Distillers’ Dried Grain with Solubles):
    • DDGS is a byproduct of grain-based distilleries.
    • After the liquid from the spent wash is separated, the remaining solid material undergoes a drying process, resulting in distillers’ dried grain with solubles (DDGS).

    How byproducts of ethanol production can be beneficial?

    • Concentrating the spent wash reduces its volume, and using it as a boiler fuel along with bagasse offers a sustainable energy source, minimizing the need for fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
    • The ash resulting from the incineration of the concentrated spent wash contains up to 28% potash. This potash can be used as fertilizer, promoting soil health and supporting agricultural sustainability.
    • Byproduct utilization in the form of DDGS as animal feed optimizes resource utilization and minimizes waste.
    • The conversion of spent wash and wet cake into useful products reduces waste generation.
    • The byproduct utilization exemplifies the principles of a circular economy where waste is minimized, and resources are recycled and reused.

    Way forward

    • India should continue to diversify its feedstocks for ethanol production, including cane molasses, direct sugarcane juice, rice, damaged grains, maize, jowar, bajra, and other millets.
    • States like Uttar Pradesh, a major sugarcane grower, can contribute significantly to ethanol production from cane and molasses, while Bihar, known for maize cultivation, can play a crucial role in utilizing maize for ethanol.
    • Emphasize research to optimize the conversion of maize and other grains into ethanol, reducing the process duration and enhancing overall productivity.
    • Build new distilleries and upgrade existing ones
    • Provide stable and long-term policy support, including differential pricing, tax incentives, and mandates for ethanol blending with petrol, tailored to the specific characteristics of different feedstocks.
    • Gradually increase the blending percentage of ethanol with petrol
    • Explore opportunities for international collaboration in ethanol production and blending

    Conclusion

    • The move towards a 20% ethanol-blended petrol by 2025 demonstrates the nation’s commitment to energy independence and a greener future. By leveraging multiple feedstocks and adopting sustainable practices, the ethanol industry can continue to play a vital role in India’s journey towards a cleaner and more self-reliant energy landscape.

    Also read:

    Global Biofuel Alliance can power India’s energy transition drive, but must have time-bound targets

     

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