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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Space Debris: India’s Contribution and Efforts to Tackle the Problem

    op-ed snap | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Space Debris

    Central Idea

    • Space debris, particularly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), is becoming an increasingly urgent problem due to the rising number of rocket launches and payloads, as well as anti-satellite missile tests and collisions. On March 7, 2023, ISRO successfully carried out a controlled re-entry for the decommissioned Megha-Tropiques-1 (MT1).

    Space Debris

    ISRO’s controlled re-entry of the decommission

    • Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully carried out a controlled re-entry of the decommissioned Megha-Tropiques-1 (MT1) satellite.
    • MT1 was launched over a decade ago with the objective of studying clouds in the tropical regions of the world.
    • As the satellite had reached the end of its operational life, ISRO brought it down in a controlled manner to reduce space debris in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and limit the potential risks associated with it.

    Space debris

    • Space debris refers to any human-made object that is in orbit around the Earth but no longer serves any useful purpose. This can include pieces of spacecraft, rocket stages, and other materials that have been left in space after they have completed their missions or have been discarded.
    • Space debris can vary in size, from small paint flecks and bolts to larger objects like satellites and old rocket bodies.
    • There are currently more than 26,000 objects larger than 10 cm in orbit around the Earth, and many smaller objects that are too small to be tracked.

    Space Debris

    Surge in Space Debris

    • Increasing number of payloads: The surging number of rocket launches and the increasing number of payloads carried in recent years have made the space junk problem acute, especially after private companies such as SpaceX launched thousands of satellites to provide Internet access.
    • For instance: In 2022, over 2,160 objects were launched into space, about 300 more than 2021 and 900 more than 2020.
    • Data on fragmented debris: The number of satellites in space has crossed the 10,000 mark, including active and defunct ones still orbiting Earth, and the number of fragmentation debris is hurtling towards the 14,000-mark.
    • Smaller debris poses a bigger challenge: While satellite launches are the reason for the rise in rocket bodies orbiting Earth, fragmented debris are mostly a consequence of collisions and Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile tests. The fragmented junk poses a bigger challenge as tracking debris smaller than 10 centimetres is tough.

    Countries responsible

    • Russia: Close to 35% originated from the Soviet Union/Russia,
    • US: 31% from the U.S.,
    • China: 29% from China, over 2,700 pieces of debris from a Chinese anti-satellite test in 2007, marked as the single worst contamination of space in history, are still in orbit.
    • India: India’s contribution is 0.5%.
    • India added to the problem in 2019 by testing an ASAT missile which targeted a live satellite in LEO which resulted in 400 pieces of orbital debris
    • While all the trackable debris from India’s test have re-entered Earth in subsequent years, over 50 pieces from a break-up event of the 4th stage of PSLV-C3 in 2001 are still in orbit.

    Space Debris

    The cost of avoiding collision

    • High cost: While debris has the potential to cause serious accidents, the cost of manoeuvres to avoid collisions is high.
    • For instance: In 2022, ISS had to conduct two such collision avoidance manoeuvres due to threats posted by debris from Russia’s ASAT test in 2021.
    • Challenges: Such manoeuvres are costly as they require hours of monitoring, fuel for movement, and also result in loss of data as instruments are turned off during such operations.
    • India’s honest efforts:
    • India conducted 21 such corrections for its satellites in 2022, the highest ever for the country.
    • Also, in 2021, ISRO monitored 4,382 events in LEO and 3,148 events in geostationary orbit (GEO) in which debris or other space objects came close to India’s space assets.

    Conclusion

    • Small debris orbiting Earth pose threats to space assets, the immediate need is that the countries must acknowledge the responsibility. India’s continues efforts towards controlled decommission set the bar high.

    Mains Question

    Q. Discuss the challenges posed by increasing space debris and the potential risks associated with it.

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  • Government Budgets

    Budget For The Education Sector

    op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Government Budgeting

    Budget

    Central Idea

    • The Union Budget 2023 has made nominal increases in the allocation for education, which will not suffice to improve the education sector’s current situation.

    Government Expenditure on Education

    • As per the Economic Survey 2023, the combined expenditure on education by the Centre and States (as a percentage of GDP), has remained stagnant at 2.9% during 2019-20 to 2022-23 (BE).
    • As a percentage of total government expenditure, it slid from 10.7% in 2019-20 to 9.5% in 2022-23 (BE), while the share of education in social services nosedived from 42.5% to 35.5% during the same period.

    Budgetary allocation for School sector

    • Allocation for School Education increases due to new scheme: The school sector has been allocated ₹68,804.85 crores, as against ₹63,449.37 crore last year, largely due to a fresh allocation of ₹4,000 crore for the PM ScHools for Rising India), or PM-SHRI alone.
    • Existing schools suffer due to allocation for new initiatives: This combined with the newly announced Eklavya model residential schools to be opened in every district of India actually brings down the provisions for already existing schools and their activities, leaving them high and dry to deal with rising prices and the pressure of increasing enrolment in government schools.
    • Majority of Indian students attend government schools: Government and government-aided schools are still where the deprived and have-nots go to. Out of about 15 lakh schools, 10 lakh schools are owned and managed by the government, employing about 97 lakh teachers and catering to over 26 crore students.

    Allocation for Higher Education

    • Allocation for higher education has increased: The allocation for higher education has increased from ₹40,828 crore to ₹44,094 crore, with autonomous bodies receiving an average increase of 13.60%. The central universities have benefitted the most with a 22.39% increase.
    • Reduction in Budgetary Support to Indian Institutes of Management: The budgetary support for Indian Institutes of Management has been drastically reduced with most of the allocation meant for loan repayment. The reduction in funding for IIM was expected due to their increased fees. The impact of this on equity in these institutions is uncertain.
    • No provision for HEFA and reduced allocations: There is no provision for Higher Education Funding Agency (HEFA) in this year’s Budget, which means no new loans for infrastructure development in centrally funded institutions. The allocation for world class universities has also been reduced. The allocation for Prime Minister’s Girls’ hostels has been reduced by half.

    Allocation for Research and Innovation Initiatives

    • Reduction in Startup India and Design Innovation Initiatives: The Startup India initiative for higher educational institutions has been reduced and also provisions for the national initiative for design innovation have been reduced.
    • Drastic Reduction in IMPRINT and SPARC Allocations: The allocations for IMPacting Research, INnovation and Technology (IMPRINT) and the Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC) have also been drastically reduced.
    • No Allocation for IMPRESS: The Budget does not provide any allocation for Impactful Policy Research in Social Sciences (IMPRESS).
    • National Research Foundation awaits Cabinet Approval: The proposed National Research Foundation has been allotted ₹2,000 crore through the Department of Science and Technology, but this awaits approval from the Union cabinet.

    Conclusion

    • In today’s time, everyone wants to benefit and improve their lives. However, not investing enough in education could harm the growth and improvement of education. Unfortunately, the 2023 budget doesn’t offer anything new to make the sector ultimately effective. The education sector needs more investment to improve the quality of education and provide equal opportunities for all students.

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  • Tourism Sector

    Tourism Potential In Border States

    op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Border Area Security Challenges,Issues relating growth and development, employment

    Central Idea

    • India has tremendous tourism potential in its border states, which remains largely untapped due to the remoteness of locations and difficulty of access. The government has made unprecedented efforts to build border infrastructure and announced plans to open villages along the northern border for tourists under the Vibrant Villages Programme. However, encouraging tourism in these areas requires promoting hubs of civilian presence, building necessary infrastructure, and conducting feasibility studies to ensure sustainable development.

    What is Vibrant Villages Programme?

    • Improve infrastructure in villages along India’s border with China: The Vibrant Villages program is a government initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and creating job opportunities in villages situated along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
    • Overview: The program involves a significant allocation of funds, i.e., Rs 4,800 crore, to upgrade 633 villages situated in five states, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Union Territory of Ladakh. Under the programme, residential and tourist centres will be constructed.
    • Objectives of the program: The program aims to enhance the living conditions of the people residing in the border areas and improve the security situation along the LAC with China.
    • Expected Benefits: The Vibrant Villages program aims to provide better facilities like schools, 24×7 electricity, and more 4G telecommunication towers in the border areas to match what is available in settlements across the LAC.
    • Strategy to enhance security: The Vibrant Villages program is part of the broader Indian government strategy to enhance security along the border with China. The investment in developing infrastructure and creating job opportunities is a crucial step towards improving the living conditions of the people in the border areas and enhancing the security situation along the LAC with China.
    • Program is modelled after Chinese actions on LAC: The program is modelled after the Chinese military and civilian authorities’ actions on their side of the LAC to build permanent population settlements along the border.

    Tourism potential in Border areas

    1. Karakoram:
    • Regular motorcycle expeditions should be organised for civilians in cooperation with India’s major motorcycle manufacturers. Areas such as the Saser Kangri massif could be explored for mountaineering expeditions by small experienced teams in tandem with the armed forces and the Indian Mountaineering Federation.
    1. Areas around Pangong Lake:
    • The area around Pangong Lake and Chushul is a delight for photographers and birdwatchers. In the Changthang wildlife sanctuary, there are wetlands and a thriving population of the Kiang, a wild ass.
    • Lhari Peak is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.
    • The Demchok area is home to several hot springs that are popular for naturopathy cures.
    • The nearby villages of Tsaga, Koyul and Hanle can also be further developed.
    • Tourism can be promoted in the Tso Moriri lake area, with a particular focus on home stays.
    1. Mana Pass and Niti Valley in Uttarakhand:
    • It is one of the world’s highest vehicle-accessible passes.
    • The village of Mana is rich in mythology, believed to be the gateway to heaven, and is situated near popular destinations like Hemkund and the Valley of Flowers and the revered Badrinath shrine is located nearby.
    • Tourists can enjoy sailing on the Deo Tal Lake near Mana, while skiing enthusiasts can make use of the nearby slopes. Mount Kamet and other peaks in the Nilang-Jadang valley are also ideal for mountaineering expeditions.
    1. Tourism Potential in Sikkim:
    • In Sikkim, the region around Doka La is ripe for tourism.
    • Pedong, Nathang Valley, Zuluk, Kupup, Baba Harbhajan Mandir and the Yak Gold Course, the highest golf course in the world, are nearby.
    • Conducted tours, including trekking expeditions up to Batang La, could be a start.
    1. Bum La Pass in Arunachal Pradesh
    • In the eastern sector, the Bum La Pass in Arunachal Pradesh is already a well-established tourism hub.
    • There is scope to bring in more tourists all the way up to Zero Point, the site of border personnel meetings with China.
    • Publicity should be given to the memorial built there in honour of Subedar (Baba) Joginder Singh, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for outstanding bravery in the battle near Tongpen La during the India-China war in 1962.
    • Nearby, the Pangateng and Sangetsar lakes are picturesque.
    • Expeditions on the lines of NIMAS’s Winter Bailey Trekking Expedition could attract international tourists to Tawang and the interiors of the State

    What measures should be taken to promote commercial activity in India’s remote border areas?

    1. Transition from Military to Tourism in Remote Areas:
    • Encourage Commercial Activity:
    • Prioritize Tourism
    • Build Infrastructure for Tourism
    1. Developing Border Areas for Sustainable Growth:
    • Establish Civilian Hubs and Home Stays
    • Allocate Border Area Development Programme Funds
    • Install Vital Infrastructure and Sustainable Energy Sources

    Conclusion

    • While developing border areas for security is crucial, conducting feasibility studies before implementing tourism projects is equally important to ensure sustainability. Unplanned construction violates norms and harms the Himalayan belt, so promoting sustainable infrastructure that benefits the local economy is necessary.

    Mains Question

    Q. India’s Border Areas have Tremendous Tourism Potential, but it remains largely untapped due to remoteness and accessibility. What measures should be taken to promote commercial activity in India’s remote border areas?

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

    Meeting India’s ‘Carbon Sink’ target

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    carbon-sink

    Central idea: India’s commitment to reduce its carbon emissions and increase its carbon sink as part of the Paris Climate Agreement. The Agreement is a legally binding international treaty signed by 196 parties, including India, to limit global warming to well below 2°C.

    What is a carbon sink?

    • A carbon sink is a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere.
    • It can be a natural ecosystem such as forests, oceans, or soil, or it can be an artificial system like carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology.
    • Carbon sinks help to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere and mitigate the negative effects of climate change.

    Methods of Carbon Sinks

    There are two types of carbon sinks:

    (A) Natural Carbon Sinks: These are ecosystems that naturally absorb and store carbon from the atmosphere. The most common natural carbon sinks are:

    • Forests: Trees absorb CO2 through photosynthesis and store it in their trunks, branches, and roots.
    • Oceans: The Ocean absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere, where it dissolves and forms carbonic acid.
    • Soil: Carbon can be stored in soil in the form of organic matter, such as dead plant and animal material, which is broken down by microorganisms.

    (B) Artificial Carbon Sinks: These are human-made technologies that capture and store carbon from the atmosphere. The most common artificial carbon sinks are:

    • Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): CCS technology captures CO2 emissions from industrial processes, such as power plants, and stores it underground.
    • Direct Air Capture (DAC): DAC technology captures CO2 directly from the air and stores it underground or repurposes it for other uses.

    India’s carbon sink target

    • India has pledged to create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030.
    • This will be achieved through afforestation, reforestation, and other land-use changes.

    India’s progress towards its carbon sink target

    • India has already achieved 24.6% of its carbon sink target as of 2017.
    • This was primarily due to afforestation and tree plantation programs, such as the Green India Mission and the National Afforestation Programme.

    Challenges in meeting India’s carbon sink target

    • Unavailability of accurate data: There is a lack of accurate data on the extent and health of India’s forests, which makes it difficult to measure the effectiveness of afforestation and reforestation programs.
    • Conversion of natural forests: The conversion of natural forests to monoculture plantations that have lower carbon sequestration potential can reduce the effectiveness of carbon sinks.
    • Pressure on land: The pressure on land for agriculture and other forms of development can lead to deforestation and the loss of carbon sinks.
    • Lack of funding: Afforestation and reforestation programs require significant funding, which can be a challenge for India.
    • Lack of awareness: Lack of awareness among the public and policymakers about the importance of carbon sinks and the need for their conservation and restoration can hinder efforts to meet India’s carbon sink targets.

    Conclusion

    • India’s commitment to increasing its carbon sink is crucial in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
    • More efforts are needed to ensure the success of afforestation and reforestation programs and to address the challenges facing India’s forests.
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  • Blockchain Technology: Prospects and Challenges

    Money Laundering laws will now cover Cryptocurrency Trade

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

    crypto

    The government has imposed the Prevention of Money-laundering Act, 2002 on cryptocurrencies or virtual assets as it looks to tighten oversight of digital assets.

    Central idea: The Prevention of Money-laundering Act, 2002, now covers various financial activities related to virtual digital assets, including exchanges between fiat currencies and digital assets, transfer and storage of digital assets, and provision of financial services related to the sale of digital assets by an issuer.

    What are Cryptocurrencies?

    • Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual currencies that use encryption techniques to secure and verify transactions and control the creation of new units.
    • They operate independently of central banks and financial institutions and use a decentralized ledger technology called blockchain to record transactions.
    • They can be used to make purchases, transfer funds, or as a store of value, and some are designed to facilitate specific use cases, such as smart contracts.
    • Bitcoin is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, but there are thousands of others, including Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin.
    • Cryptocurrencies can be purchased on cryptocurrency exchanges or obtained through mining, a process in which computers solve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and earn new cryptocurrency units as a reward.

    Why regulate cryptocurrencies?

    • Consumer protection: Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and can be subject to fraud, scams, and other forms of financial crime.
    • Preventing money laundering and terrorist financing: Cryptocurrencies can be used to anonymously transfer funds, making them potentially attractive to criminals and terrorists.
    • Systemic risk: Cryptocurrencies are not currently part of the traditional financial system, but they could potentially have an impact on it if they were to become more widely adopted.
    • Taxation: Cryptocurrencies can be used to evade taxes or hide assets. Regulation can help ensure that cryptocurrency transactions are properly taxed and that tax evasion is prevented.
    • Market stability: being highly volatile, regulation can help promote market stability and prevent excessive speculation or manipulation of cryptocurrency markets.

    What is the recent move?

    • Indian crypto exchanges will have to report suspicious activity to the Financial Intelligence Unit India (FIU-IND).
    • The move is in line with the global trend of requiring digital-asset platforms to follow anti-money laundering standards similar to those followed by other regulated entities like banks or stock brokers.

    Recent regulatory moves

    • In the Budget for 2022-23, finance ministry had brought a 30% tax on income from transactions in such assets.
    • Also, to bring such assets under the tax net, it introduced a 1% TDS (tax deducted at source) on transactions in such asset classes above a certain threshold.
    • Gifts in crypto and digital assets were also taxed.

    Back2Basics: Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)

    • PMLA, 2002 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted by the NDA government to prevent money laundering and to provide for confiscation of property derived from money laundering.
    • It was enacted in response to India’s global commitment (including the Vienna Convention) to combat the menace of money laundering.
    • PMLA and the Rules notified there under came into force with effect from July 1, 2005.
    • The act was amended in the year 2005, 2009 and 2012.

     

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    NASA hands over NISAR satellite to ISRO

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

    nisar

    The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has received the NASA-ISRO SAR (NISAR) satellite.

    What is NISAR?

    • NISAR has been built by space agencies of the US and India under a partnership agreement signed in 2014.
    • The 2,800 kilograms satellite consists of both L-band and S-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) instruments, which makes it a dual-frequency imaging radar satellite.
    • While NASA has provided the L-band radar, GPS, a high-capacity solid-state recorder to store data, and a payload data subsystem, ISRO has provided the S-band radar, the GSLV launch system and spacecraft.
    • Another important component of the satellite is its large 39-foot stationary antenna reflector.
    • Made of a gold-plated wire mesh, the reflector will be used to focus the radar signals emitted and received by the upward-facing feed on the instrument structure.

    Objectives of NISAR

    • Once launched into space, NISAR will observe subtle changes in Earth’s surfaces, helping researchers better understand the causes and consequences of such phenomena.
    • It will spot warning signs of natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and landslides.
    • The satellite will also measure groundwater levels, track flow rates of glaciers and ice sheets, and monitor the planet’s forest and agricultural regions, which can improve our understanding of carbon exchange.
    • By using synthetic aperture radar (SAR), NISAR will produce high-resolution images.
    • SAR is capable of penetrating clouds and can collect data day and night regardless of the weather conditions.
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  • International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

    Moon to get its own Time Zone

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

    moon

    The European Space Agency is planning a universal timekeeping system for the moon.

    Timekeeping on the Moon

    • The Moon has its own day and night cycle, which lasts about 29.5 Earth days.
    • This means that if humans were to live on the Moon, they would need to develop their own timekeeping system.
    • Currently, the time on the Moon is measured using Universal Time Coordinated (UTC), which is the same timekeeping system used on the Earth.
    • However, because the Moon’s day is much longer than Earth’s day, it would be difficult to use UTC for day-to-day activities on the Moon.

     

    Universal Time Coordinated (UTC)

    • Universal Time Coordinated (UTC) is a time standard used to keep time consistent around the world.
    • UTC is based on International Atomic Time (TAI), which is maintained by atomic clocks around the world.
    • It is the primary time standard used by many countries, international organizations, and scientific research institutions.
    • UTC is expressed as a 24-hour clock and is used to indicate the time offset from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+0).
    • Time zones are defined as an offset from UTC, with some time zones being ahead of UTC (UTC+1, UTC+2, etc.) and others being behind UTC (UTC-1, UTC-2, etc.).
    • UTC is adjusted periodically to account for changes in the Earth’s rotation, which can cause variations in the length of a day.
    • These adjustments are made through the addition of leap seconds to UTC, which help to keep the time standard synchronized with the Earth’s rotation.

     

    Why need lunar time zone?

    • The Moon is the Earth’s only natural satellite, and humans have been interested in exploring and colonizing it for many years.
    • With recent advancements in space technology, there is renewed interest in lunar exploration and settlement.

    Proposed Lunar Time Zone

    • To address this issue, scientists and researchers have proposed creating a lunar time zone that would be based on the Moon’s day and night cycle.
    • This would make it easier for lunar settlers to keep track of time and coordinate activities.

    Benefits offered

    • Having a lunar time zone would also make it easier for scientists and researchers to conduct experiments and collect data on the Moon.
    • It would also help to prevent confusion and errors that could arise from using different timekeeping systems on Earth and the Moon.

    Various challenges

    • Time on Earth is precisely tracked by atomic clocks, but synchronizing time on the moon is tricky because clocks run faster there, gaining around 56 microseconds, or millionths of a second, per day.
    • It would also be difficult to establish a consistent time zone for the entire Moon, given that the terrain and lighting conditions vary widely across its surface.
    • Additionally, any timekeeping system on the Moon would need to be able to account for the Moon’s irregular rotation and movement.

     

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India – Germany

    Green Hydrogen Mission: Five Priorities For The Vision

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2:

    Mission

    Central Idea

    • The 2023 Union Budget has allocated ₹19,700 crore for the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This will set in motion a programme that can position India as a green hydrogen (super)power.

    What is Green Hydrogen?

    • Clean and no harmful gas emission: The Green hydrogen is the one produced with no harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Produced by electrolysis of water: It is made by using clean electricity from surplus renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, to electrolyse water. Electrolysers use an electrochemical reaction to split water into its components of hydrogen and oxygen, emitting zero-carbon dioxide in the process.
    • Clean energy source: It can serve as an energy source (heavy industry, long-distance mobility, aviation, and power storage) and an energy carrier (as green ammonia or blended with natural gas).
    • Energy intensive process: It is an energy-intensive process for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable power to achieve this.

    Mission

    All you need to know about National Green Hydrogen Mission

    • The National Green Hydrogen Mission is a program launched by the government of India to promote the production and use of green hydrogen in the country.
    • It aims to establish India as a leading producer and consumer of green hydrogen. The mission is expected to create demand for 100-125 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy, 60-100 GW of electrolysers, and an investment opportunity of ₹8 lakh crore, while cutting 50 MMT of annual emissions.

    Why is this important and what will it take?

    • India’s ambitious renewable energy goal for 2030: By 2030, India aims to generate 50% of its electricity from non-fossil fuel sources, while also requiring an industrial energy transition.
    • Industrial sectors contributing to India’s greenhouse gas emissions: Steel, cement, fertilizers, and petrochemicals contribute significantly to India’s industrial greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Green hydrogen’s potential for fuelling industrial growth and reducing emissions: Green hydrogen has the potential to fuel industrial growth and reduce industrial emissions simultaneously.
    • India’s production target for green hydrogen and its requirements: India has set a production target of five million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030, surpassing that of any other single economy. This target would create a demand for 100-125 GW of renewable energy, 60-100 GW of electrolysers, and an investment opportunity of ₹8 lakh crore, while reducing annual emissions by 50 MMT.
    • India’s advantage as a cost-effective green hydrogen producer: India’s abundance of sunshine and wind energy resources position it well to become one of the world’s most cost-effective green hydrogen producers.

    Mission

    Five Priorities(5Ps): For the vision to convert into reality

    1. Domestic demand is critical: If we are not a big player domestically, we cannot be a major player in the international market. The mission introduces a Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) fund for five years, with ₹13,000 crore as direct support to consume green hydrogen. This will encourage heavy industries to increase demand, offering economies of scale by which suppliers can reduce prices.
    2. India can be an attractive destination for domestic and foreign investment: Green hydrogen production projects announced/underway in India are far fewer compared to others. Green hydrogen is difficult and expensive to transport. The mission envisions green hydrogen hubs to consolidate production, end use and exports. A mission secretariat can ensure project clearance is streamlined and reduce financial risks.
    3. Support and targeted funding: Currently, manufacturers are importing stacks and assembling them. We must become more competitive with targeted public funding in manufacturing the most critical and high-value components of electrolysers in India.
    4. Establish bilateral partnerships to develop resilient supply chains: Globally, about 63 bilateral partnerships have emerged; Germany, South Korea and Japan have the most. Using yen- or euro-denominated loans for sales to Japan or to the EU, respectively, could reduce the cost of capital and help us become export competitive. India must cooperate with like-minded countries on trade, value chains, research and development, and standards
    5. Coordinate with major economies to develop rules for a global green hydrogen economy: In the absence of common global frameworks, attempts for rules and standards are being driven by collectives of private corporations rather than through structured intergovernmental processes. There are already signs of conflicting regulations and protectionist measures in major markets. These put India’s ambitions at risk.

    What is Green Steel?

    • Green steel refers to steel that is produced using sustainable and environmentally friendly methods.
    • Green steel, is produced using renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, and by utilizing low-emission technologies that reduce carbon emissions.
    • One of the main ways to produce green steel is through the use of hydrogen instead of coal or natural gas as the reducing agent in the steel-making process.
    • Green steel is seen as a way to reduce the environmental impact of the steel industry, which is responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions.
    • Costs of green steel, made from green hydrogen, are currently much higher, but could be reduced with economies of scale and changes in production technologies

    Conclusion

    • India’s G20 presidency is an opportunity to craft rules for a global green hydrogen economy. These rules must address operational threats, industrial competitiveness and strategic threats. India should promote a global network on green hydrogen via which companies could collaborate. Green hydrogen will be a critical industrial fuel of the 21st century. India is well-positioned to show leadership in our collective interest and that of the planet.

    Mains Question

    Q. What is National Green Hydrogen Mission launched by the government of India? Discuss the key priorities of the mission that will they help India achieve its ambitious production target.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India – Germany

    India-Germany Relations: Opportunities and Challenges

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 3: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    Germany

    Central Idea

    • India and Germany are enhancing their relationship through bilateral talks and collaboration, with Germany showing interest in being a key partner in India’s defence, trade, and clean energy. The recent visit of German Chancellor Scholz to India highlights the importance of India-German cooperation in shaping a new global order.

    India-Germany Relations: Background

    • Freedom struggle: Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent freedom fighter for Indian independence, made a determined effort to obtain India’s independence from Britain by seeking military assistance from the Axis powers. The Indische Legion was formed to serve as a liberation force for British-ruled India principally made up of Indian prisoners of war.
    • Diplomacy: India maintained diplomatic relations with both West Germany and East Germany and supported their reunification in 1990. Contrary to France and the UK, Germany has no strategic footprint in Asia.
    • Past contentions: Germany condemned India for liberating Goa from Portuguese rule in 1961 and supported Portugal’s dictatorial regime under Salazar against India. It was critical of India for intervening in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. It rejected India’s 1998 nuclear tests.
    • Quest for UNSC: India and Germany both seek to become permanent members of the UNSC and have joined with Japan and Brazil to coordinate their efforts via the G4 collective.
    • Cultural ties: Germany has supported education and cultural programs in India. Germany helped establish the IIT Madras after both governments signed an agreement in 1956 and increased its cooperation and supply of technology and resources over the decades to help expand the institution
    • Trade and investment: Germany is India’s largest trading partner in Europe. Germany is the 8th largest foreign direct investor (FDI) in India.

    Germany

    What is the significance of Chancellor Scholz’s visit to India?

    • Chancellor Scholz’s visit to India is significant as it builds on Germany’s growing political outreach to Asia and highlights India’s importance as a key partner in Germany’s overall strategy for the Indo-Pacific region.
    • The visit aimed to expand cooperation between India and Germany in areas such as defence, trade, clean energy, migration, digital transformation, and the Indo-Pacific.
    • It also assumes greater importance as India holds the G-20 presidency this year and seeks to avoid geopolitics hampering cooperation in the forum.

    India-Germany Cooperation: Opportunities

    • Defence collaboration: Germany could become an important defence partner for India as the country attempts to diversify from its military dependence on Russia. The two countries have discussed co-development of military hardware and tech transfers, and a deal worth $5.2 billion where Germany would jointly build six conventional submarines in India could be underway.
    • Economic ties: India and Germany share strong economic ties, with Germany being India’s largest trading partner in the European Union. Germany is also interested in stability of supply chains and trade routes linking Asia to Europe, given its status as Europe’s economic powerhouse and its reliance on exports.
    • Indo-Pacific region: Germany’s overall strategy for the Indo-Pacific region mentions India as a key partner. Germany has enhanced its political outreach to Asia, including India, as part of this strategy.
    • Multilateral cooperation: Both cooperate in multilateral forums, including as part of the G-4 grouping pushing for United Nations Security Council reform, and as evident in Germany’s invitation to Mr. Modi to attend last year’s G-7 summit.
    • Development projects: A recent agreement on India-Germany triangular cooperation involving development projects in third countries is an important step in enhancing strategic involvement in the region.
    • Security collaboration: The first ever France-India-Germany military exercise drill is slated to take place in 2024 towards enhanced security and defence collaboration.

    Germany

    India-Germany Cooperation: Challenges

    • Different geopolitical priorities: Germany is focused on ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific region for the sake of trade and economic growth, while India is more concerned with territorial conflicts with neighbouring China.
    • Germany’s economic dependence on China: Germany has strong economic ties with China, making it difficult to completely decouple from the country. This creates a challenge for Germany in trying to balance its economic interests with its security interests.
    • Differences in defence capabilities: India and Germany have different defence capabilities and priorities, which can make it challenging to collaborate effectively on defence projects.
    • Historical baggage: Germany’s colonial past and role in World War II can create challenges in developing closer relations with India, particularly in the context of Germany’s efforts to deepen its involvement in the Indo-Pacific region.

    Germany

    Conclusion

    • Amidst geopolitical shifts and multipolarity, New Delhi’s ties with Berlin could be vital in shaping a new global order. There are high expectations on both sides regarding the potential for deeper collaboration, particularly in the defence sector. However, it will take time and effort to develop the necessary trust and alignment of interests.

    Mains Question

    Q. In recent times, India and Germany have been enhancing their relationship through bilateral talks and collaboration. In light of this, discuss challenges and opportunities that lie ahead?

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  • Digital India Initiatives

    5G: Security Features and Concerns

    op-ed snap | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Cyber Security,S&T – Applications In Everyday Life

    5G

    Central Idea

    • With the arrival of 5G technology, all electronic devices will potentially be connected to the internet. Cyber damage scenarios, imagined only in dystopian fiction, could become a reality. A collaborative approach between the government, academia, and businesses is necessary to address these cyber security concerns and ensure that 5G technology is safe and secure for consumers.

    What exactly is 5G?

    • Latest advancement: 5G, or fifth-generation wireless technology, is the latest advancement in mobile communication and internet technology.
    • Higher frequency spectrum: 5G operates on a higher frequency spectrum than 4G, typically between 24 GHz to 90 GHz. This higher frequency range allows for faster data transfer rates and lower latency.
    • MIMO technology: 5G uses a technology called MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) to transmit and receive multiple data streams simultaneously. This allows for greater capacity and faster speeds.
    • Network slicing: It also utilizes network slicing, which enables the creation of multiple virtual networks on a single physical network. This allows for more efficient use of network resources and can improve overall network performance.
    • Applications: 5G technology is expected to enable the development and implementation of emerging technologies such as self-driving cars, virtual and augmented reality, and smart cities.

    Security Features of 5G Technology

    • Security-by-Design Approach: 5G technology is designed with a security-by-design approach that embeds security features from the beginning. This approach ensures that security is an integral part of the technology, rather than an afterthought.
    • Strong Encryption Standards: 5G technology incorporates strong encryption standards that make it extremely difficult for attackers to access and use any information they might obtain. Even if an attacker manages to obtain some information, it will be in an unusable format.
    • Interconnected Device Protection: 5G technology also includes protocols that protect the confidentiality of interconnected devices. These protocols prevent unauthorized access and ensure that data transmitted between devices remains secure and private.

    5G

    What are the Concerns?

    • Inheriting past vulnerabilities: The initial wave of 5G will be built on existing 4G infrastructure, therefore, it will inherit vulnerabilities of the past.
    • Multiplying privacy concerns: More devices connected to the internet increase the scope of cyber-attacks. In a connected network, such attacks can spread like wildfire if not contained in time. Privacy concerns are bound to multiply as the number of devices increases.
    • Concerns about pre-ban imported equipment: A bulk of 5G network components have been imported and manufactured in factories based in China. Imports of such equipment have been banned. However, concern remains about the use of the equipment that was imported before the ban came into effect.
    • For instance, concerns over user privacy: Many countries including the USA and Canada have expressed concerns over protocols used by Huawei and ZTE that compromise the privacy of users.

    What can be done to Ensure 5G Security

    • Collaborative efforts between government, academia, and businesses: Governments should work with industry experts and academia to develop comprehensive security measures and policies that align with the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
    • Ongoing security testing: Telecom companies should perform regular security testing of their 5G infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities and address them before they can be exploited by attackers. Telecom companies and ethical hackers can be invited to test infrastructure.
    • For instance: C-DOT’s 5G alliance focuses on security aspects, it needs to be scaled up as a Center of Excellence involving IITs and CERT-In.
    • Reward mechanisms: Offering incentives to 5G service providers who adhere to high security standards can promote better security practices across the industry.
    • Consumer education: Government agencies like CERT-In can publish easy-to-understand advisories to educate end-users on best practices to protect themselves and their devices from potential security breaches.
    • Greater responsibility: All stakeholders must assume greater responsibility to protect the 5G ecosystem from cyber threats.
    • International cooperation: International cooperation between governments and organizations can help establish global standards and guidelines for 5G security, promoting greater consistency and transparency in security practices.

    Conclusion

    • Consumers are at the heart of the 5G ecosystem and need to be aware of the security challenges. Exciting times await us in 2023. All stakeholders need to prepare for the security challenges of the 5G package.

    Mains Question

    Q. Technology upgrade comes with advantages and challenges. In this light discuss security features concerns related to the implementation of 5G technology?

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