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  • SC refuses to issue Interim order on Voter data     

    Why in the news?

    On May 24, the Supreme Court rejected an [Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)] NGO’s request for the Election Commission of India to upload authenticated, scanned, and legible copies of Form 17C, which details the booth-wise account of votes recorded after each phase of Lok Sabha elections.

    About the Application Filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR):

    • ADR sought an order directing the Election Commission of India (ECI) to upload authenticated, scanned, and legible copies of Form 17C, which shows the account of votes recorded booth-wise after each phase of polling in Lok Sabha elections.
    • ADR highlighted concerns regarding the delay in publishing final voter turnout data and the significant revisions in voter turnout percentages, which raised public suspicions and apprehensions about the accuracy of the data.

    Why did the Supreme Court refuse to issue interim order on voter data?

    • Timing of the Elections: The Supreme Court refused the plea on May 24, stating that the nation was in the middle of the General Elections and at the moment of the sixth phase of polling.
    • Diverting the attention: The court acknowledged the mammoth nature of the elections, which require vast human resources. Diverting the attention of the Election Commission during this critical period was not deemed appropriate.
    • Ongoing Petition: The interim relief sought by ADR was already part of a relief sought in a petition pending since 2019. Granting interim relief at this stage would effectively mean providing final relief in the ongoing writ petition.
    • Already decided in previous judgments: Senior advocate Maninder Singh for the EC argued that ADR’s application was unfounded.
      • It aimed at discrediting the EC, invoking the concept of constructive res judicata, implying that issues already decided in previous judgments (like EVM-VVPAT case) cannot be re-litigated in the middle of an election process.

    About the Role of the Judiciary During Election Polls:

    • Non-Interference During Elections: The Supreme Court emphasized that it should not interfere with the conduct of elections, which are managed by the Election Commission, during the polling process.
    • Enhancing Conduct of Polls: The judiciary’s role is to enhance the conduct of elections rather than interrupt or interfere in ongoing electoral processes.
    • Ground Reality Awareness: The judiciary must be conscious of the practical realities and complexities involved in the conduct of elections, ensuring that its actions do not disrupt the democratic process.

    Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s refusal to entertain ADR’s application highlights the judiciary’s cautious approach in intervening in electoral processes, especially during ongoing elections, to maintain the integrity and smooth functioning of the democratic exercise. The court seeks to balance the need for transparency and fairness in elections with the practicalities and operational challenges faced by the Election Commission.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • Reading the lower voter turnout scenario

    Why in the News?

    Low voter turnout has been a notable trend in the initial phases of the ongoing 2024 general elections in India which reflects the shift in dynamics of democratic politics.

    American Scenario during Past Elections:

    • Conventional Wisdom: In the U.S., increased voter turnout is traditionally believed to benefit Democrats. For example, it was argued that higher voter turnout could have altered the outcome in favour of Hillary Clinton in states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
      • According to Daron R. Shaw and John R. Petrocik in “The Turnout Myth” (2020), Hillary Clinton’s support did not significantly vary with voter turnout.
    • Class Cleavages: The advantage Democrats gained from higher turnout has decreased since 1960 due to the erosion of class-based voting patterns.
    • Simulation Studies: Research by Michael D. Martinez and Jeff Gill, and later by Spencer Goidel, Thiago Moreira, and Brenna Armstrong, used simulations to predict how changes in turnout would affect election outcomes. In recent studies, the impact of increased turnout on party advantage has varied over time.

    Perception About the Party’s Prospects:

    • High confidence in a party’s victory can deter voters from participating, thinking their vote is unnecessary.
    • Polls showing Bill Clinton’s like victory during the 1996 US Elections,  led to low voter turnout, with some Clinton supporters abstaining because they believed his win was assured.
    • While both Clinton and Dole supporters showed reluctance to vote due to predicted outcomes, it led to higher abstention to vote for them.

    Indian Scenario:

    • Class and Caste based: The 2019 Indian election saw a significant jump in the SC vote for the BJP, from 24% in 2014 to 34% in 2019, indicating a shift in voting patterns among Scheduled Castes. The Upper Caste Poor voted 49% BJP and 9% Congress, while Poor OBCs and Poor STs also followed a similar pattern. Poor Muslims, however, voted 8% BJP and 30% Congress.
    • Religion and Language-based: Religion is a significant factor, with political parties often indulging in communal propaganda to exploit religious sentiments. Language also plays a role, with parties arousing linguistic feelings to influence voter decisions.
    • Region and Personality based: Regionalism and sub-regionalism are important, with regional parties appealing to regional identities and sentiments. The charismatic personalities of party leaders, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Narendra Modi, have significantly influenced voter decisions.
    • Voter turnout trends in India have fluctuated, with no consistent correlation to incumbent advantage or disadvantage.
    • It is generally believed that higher voter turnout is detrimental to incumbents, though recent elections (2014 and 2019) saw high turnout with incumbent victories.
    • The voting patterns of habitual versus non-habitual voters likely vary significantly, influenced by the diverse and multi-party nature of Indian politics.
    • Decreased turnout in the 2024 general elections could be due to factors like weather, COVID-19, economic issues, and voter apathy, potentially impacting different parties in varied ways.

    Conclusion

    The role of non-habitual voters in Indian elections adds an element of unpredictability, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions until election results are finalised.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Individual Parliamentarian’s role as the national law maker is on a decline, which in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • Oldest Known Human Viruses Discovered In 50,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Bones

    Why in the News?

    • Researchers found traces of many present-day viruses in the bones of two Neanderthals who lived 50,000 years ago, providing a new perspective on their extinction.

    Breakthrough Study on Neanderthals 

    • Ancient viruses in Neanderthal DNA samples from skeletons found in Russia’s Chagyrskaya cave.
    • The study detected fragments resembling three modern viruses: adenovirus (common colds), herpesvirus (cold sores), and papillomavirus (genital warts).

    Health Impacts Inherited in Modern Human Beings:

    Modern humans inherit various health impacts from Neanderthals, including skin conditions, allergies, metabolism, nicotine addiction, mood disorders, sleep patterns, blood clotting, sense of smell, and UV radiation response.

    Who were the Neanderthals?

      • Neanderthals were a distinct species of hominins that lived in Europe and parts of Asia around 400,000 to 40,000 years ago during the Middle to Late Pleistocene Epochs.
      • Their evidence was first found in 1856 in the Neander Valley in present-day Germany.
    • Physical Features:
        • Neanderthals were robustly built, with a stocky and muscular frame adapted to cold climates.
        • They had large brains, comparable in size to modern humans, indicating advanced cognitive abilities.
        • Distinctive features included a prominent brow ridge, large nose, and a receding chin.
    • Social Life:
        • Neanderthals were skilled hunters and gatherers, using tools such as stone flakes, scrapers, and spears for hunting and butchering animals.
        • They utilized fire for cooking, warmth, and protection, as evidenced by the presence of hearths in their archaeological sites.
        • Evidence suggests they had complex social structures and engaged in rituals and symbolic behaviours, including burying their dead with grave goods.
    • Habitat and Distribution:
    • Neanderthals inhabited a wide range of environments, including open grasslands, forests, and even cold tundra regions.
        • Their range extended from Western Europe to Central Asia, with evidence of populations in regions such as Spain, France, Germany, Croatia, and the Middle East.
    • Interactions with Modern Humans:
      • Neanderthals coexisted with early modern humans (Homo sapiens) for thousands of years in Europe and Asia.
      • There is evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans, with genetic studies indicating that non-African humans carry about 1-2% Neanderthal DNA.

    PYQ:

    [2019] The word ‘Denisovan’ is sometimes mentioned in media in reference to

    (a) Fossils of a kind of dinosaurs

    (b) An early human species

    (c) A cave system found in North-East India

    (d) A geological period in the history of Indian subcontinent

  • Ferroptosis Cases in Severe Covid Patients

    Why in the News?

    Columbia University study on COVID-19 fatalities found ferroptosis as the main cause of lung cell death, advancing understanding of lung disease development.

    What is Ferroptosis?

    • Ferroptosis is a type of regulated cell death characterized by the iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides to lethal levels.

    Other forms of cell death: 

    1. Apoptosis (highly regulated process that occurs in multicellular organisms to eliminate unwanted or damaged cells without causing inflammation),
    2. Necrosis (cell death characterized by rapid and uncontrolled cell lysis, often accompanied by inflammation and tissue damage).
    3. Autophagy (involves the degradation and recycling of cellular components through lysosomal machinery).

    Mechanism of Ferroptosis:

    The precise molecular mechanism underlying ferroptosis is still being elucidated, but it involves the deregulation of iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation. Here’s a simplified overview of how ferroptosis occurs:

    1. Iron Accumulation: Ferroptosis is characterized by the accumulation of iron within cells, particularly in the form of labile iron pools. Excess iron can lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through Fenton chemistry.
    2. Lipid Peroxidation: ROS generated from excess iron promotes lipid peroxidation, particularly of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within cell membranes. Lipid peroxides accumulate and propagate, leading to membrane damage and loss of membrane integrity.
    3. Glutathione Depletion: Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant that helps to neutralize ROS and prevent lipid peroxidation. In ferroptosis, there is a depletion of cellular GSH levels, which impairs the cell’s ability to counteract oxidative stress.
    4. GPX4 Inhibition: Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is an enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of lipid hydroperoxides to their corresponding alcohols, thereby protecting cells from lipid peroxidation. In ferroptosis, GPX4 activity is inhibited, leading to the accumulation of lipid peroxides and cell death.
    5. Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Ferroptosis is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, including alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and morphology, as well as disruption of mitochondrial metabolism and bioenergetics.
    6. Cellular Consequences: The accumulation of lipid peroxides and mitochondrial dysfunction ultimately leads to cellular damage, loss of cell membrane integrity, and cell death by ferroptosis.

    Significance of the Study

    • Targeting and preventing ferroptosis could offer novel treatment avenues for COVID-19 lung disease and its possible future mutations.
    • Inhibiting this form of cell death may help improve the treatment outcomes for severe cases of COVID-19.

    PYQ:

    [2020] COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic.

  • Cyclone Remal to make landfall

    Why in the News?

    • Cyclone Remal is forecasted to make landfall between Sagar Island in West Bengal and Bangladesh’s Khepupara on Sunday midnight.
    • The name ‘Remal’ originates from Oman and means ‘sand’ in Arabic.

    What are Cyclones?

    • Cyclones are wind systems rotating inwardly towards an area of low atmospheric pressure. They are categorised into Tropical (Temperature-induced) and Temperate (extra-tropical) cyclones(airmass-induced).
    • Formation Conditions: Tropical cyclones originate in warm regions, requiring conditions such as
    1. Warm sea surface (> 27°C),
    2. Coriolis Force,
    3. Pre-existing low-pressure systems,
    4. Small vertical wind speed differences, and
    5. Upper air divergence.

    Characteristics of Tropical Cyclones:

    • They form over warm water bodies due to energy derived from the condensation of warm water within cumulonimbus clouds.
    • Wind rotation is influenced by the Coriolis force, resulting in anti-clockwise rotation in the northern hemisphere and clockwise in the southern hemisphere.

    Regional Movement of Cyclones:

    • In the northern hemisphere, cyclones initially move westward under earth rotation and the Easterlies.
    • As they progress towards higher latitudes, the Coriolis force deflects them rightward, towards north and later east.
    • By 30° latitude, the diminished warmth halts cyclone activity.

    Naming of Cyclones: 

    • Responsibility of RSMCs and TCWCs: The naming of cyclones that form in every ocean basin across the world is carried out by the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centres (RSMCs) and Tropical Cyclone Warning Centres (TCWCs).
    • Procedure in the North Indian Ocean: For north Indian Ocean including Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, the RSMC, New Delhi assigns the name to tropical cyclones following a standard procedure.
    • Agreement by WMO/ESCAP Panel: The WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones in 2000 agreed in principle to assign names to the tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea.
    • Selection Process: Each country would sent their suggestions, based on which the Panel would finalise a list.
    • Retirement of Names: Generally, names of some storms that cause widespread damage and deaths are usually retired and are not brought back or reused later, at least for 10 years. These names are then replaced with new names.
    • Unique Policy for North Indian Ocean: Unlike in other regions, the names of tropical cyclones over the north Indian Ocean once used, will cease to be used again.

    Destruction Caused by Cyclones:

    • Strong Winds/Squall: Cyclones cause infrastructure damage through high-speed winds.
    • Torrential Rains and Inland Flooding: Heavy rainfall leads to floods, soil erosion, and embankment weakening.
    • Storm Surge: Abnormal sea level rise inundates coastal regions, causing floods, erosion, and destruction.

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the South Atlantic and South Eastern Pacific regions in tropical latitudes, cyclone does not originate. What is the main reason behind this?

    (a) Sea Surface temperature are low

    (b) Inter Tropical Convergence Zone seldom occurs

    (c) Coriolis force is too weak

    (d) Absence of land in those regions

  • Arab League demands UN Peacekeepers in Palestine

    Why in the News?

    The Arab League called for UN peacekeeping forces in the Palestinian territories during a summit in Bahrain’s Manama. The “Manama Declaration” issued by the league sought UNPKF in the occupied Palestinian territories” until a two-state solution is implemented.

    Back2Basics: United Nations Peacekeeping

    • UN Peacekeeping is a collective effort by the international community, led by the United Nations, to maintain peace and security in regions affected by conflict.
    • UN peacekeepers are often referred to as Blue Berets or Blue Helmets because of their light blue berets or helmets) can include soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel.

    History:

    • The concept of UN peacekeeping emerged in the aftermath of World War II, with the establishment of the United Nations in 1945.
    • The first UN peacekeeping mission was established in 1948, following the Arab-Israeli War, to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and its Arab neighbours.
      • This mission, known as the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), set the precedent for future peacekeeping operations.
    • Since then, the scope and complexity of UN peacekeeping have evolved significantly, with operations conducted across the globe in regions affected by conflict, civil war, and humanitarian crises.

    Operations:

    • UN Peacekeeping is guided by three basic principles:
    1. Consent of the parties
    2. Impartiality
    3. Non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the mandate
    • UN peacekeeping operations are deployed with the consent of the main parties to the conflict. It can be deployed at the request of the parties involved in a conflict or with the authorisation of the UN Security Council.
    • The objectives may vary depending on the specific context but often include monitoring ceasefires, disarming combatants, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, promoting human rights, and supporting the establishment of democratic governance structures.
    • UN peacekeeping operations operate under the principles of impartiality, consent of the parties, and non-use of force except in self-defence and defence of the mandate.

    India’s Role:

    • India has been one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping operations since their inception.
    • India has contributed nearly 195,000 troops, the largest number from any country, and participated in more than 49 missions and 168 supreme sacrifices while serving in UN missions.

    About Arab League

    Details
    Establishment Founded on March 22, 1945, in Cairo, Egypt.
    Founding Members Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria.
    Objective Promote economic, cultural, political, and military cooperation among member states. Safeguard independence and sovereignty.
    Functions 
    1. Operates on consensus among member states. Decisions are made through consultations and discussions.
    2. Regular meetings among Arab leaders to address regional issues, formulate policies, and coordinate actions.
    3. Specialised committees and councils address specific areas of cooperation, such as economic affairs, social affairs, and defence.
    Member States Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Kuwait, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Somalia, Sudan, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
    Observer Nations
    • Non-Arab countries with observer status include Brazil, Eritrea, India, Venezuela, and others.
    • No voting rights are accorded to Observer nations.
    Important Achievements
    • Proposal of the Arab Peace Initiative in 2002.
    • Coordination of military efforts in various conflicts.
    • Promotion of economic cooperation through initiatives such as the Arab Free Trade Area.
    • Facilitation of cultural and educational exchange programs among member states.
    Challenges Internal divisions, Differences of opinion over the Palestinian-Israeli conflict etc.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Recently, a series of uprisings of people referred to as ‘Arab Spring’ originally started from

    (a) Egypt

    (b) Lebanon

    (c) Syria

    (d) Tunisia
  • [25 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The missing links in IMEC, as shown by the Gaza war

    [25 May 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The missing links in IMEC, as shown by the Gaza war

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (150 Words, 10 Marks). (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Q) What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem. (UPSC CSE 2019)

    Prelims:

    ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of (UPSC CSE 2016)
    (a) African Union
    (b) Brazil
    (c) European Union
    (d)China

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: Global Issues; West Asia; East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC);

    Mains: Global Security Issues; West Asia; Trades;

    Mentor comment: In a world of shifting geopolitical landscapes, India embarked on a grand vision to reshape its economic and strategic ties with the world. At the heart of this vision lay the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a path-breaking initiative that promised to transform the way India engaged with its partners across the Eurasian landmass. The story began in September 2023, when India, along with the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States, signed an agreement to bring IMEC to life. This ambitious project, designed under the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), aimed to stimulate economic development through enhanced connectivity and integration between Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe. For India, IMEC represented a strategic opportunity to assert its presence on the global stage and counter the growing influence of its rival, China.

    Let’s learn.

    –

    Why in the News?

    After India signed a landmark 10-year bilateral contract with Iran (Chabahar Port), the U.S. State Department has warned of potential sanctions for any entity considering business deals with Iran.

    • In the past, American sanctions had delayed the project, which was conceived in 2003.
    • Practically, the signing of a long-term agreement marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure and trade partnership with Iran. 
    • However, considering US sanctions, India also needs to focus on the next upcoming IMEC Project which is stalled due to West Asian tensions. 
    mundra port
    How IMEC is countering the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?:

    IMEC has two corridors – the East corridor (India to Arabian Gulf) and the North corridor (Arabian Gulf to Europe).

    1. The East Corridor connects the Indian ports of Kandla, Mumbai, and Mundra to UAE’s ports like Fujairah, Jebel Ali, and Abu Dhabi by sea.
    2. The North Corridor link is the Railroad link through Saudi Arabia, and Jordan to European regions like Haifa, Marseille, Messina, and Piraeus.The Railway network for cross-border ship-to-rail transit is based on electricity, digital connectivity, and clean hydrogen export infrastructure.

    Significance of IMEC over BRI:
    It secures regional supply chains by overcoming Pakistan’s obstacle to overland access.

    It increases Trade Accessibility and Facilitation which will be effective in countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as it will reduce time by 40% and cost by 30% of transporting goods from India to Europe. Hence, the U.S. is also a major stakeholder.

    What is the impact of the recent Gaza War on IMEC? (Challenges faced)

    • War in Gaza led to project stall; in fact, Iran is threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz.
      • For example, Adani Group’s plans for Haifa port expansion halted.
    • The present Gulf region is facing trade and security issues due to ‘Houthis’ blocking Red Sea access for Israel and its allies.
    • Due to increased shipping time and insurance costs (due to unsafe routes), the trade barriers and eventually inflation have also being increased.

    The Role of Oman and Egypt in Strengthening IMEC: (Way Forward)

    • Oman as an Alternative: Oman’s ports in the Arabian Sea, away from Iranian influence which is the closest and most direct link to Indian ports. Secondly, Oman also has good relations with all its stakeholders
    • Extending to Egypt: Egypt can act as an alternate spur through Egypt to Mediterranean ports in Europe. This will provide a safe and direct sea route to Europe. Secondly, Egypt’s inclusion balances regional dynamics and has good relations with Israel, Europe, and the U.S.

    Conclusion: Today, as the world watches with bated breath, IMEC stands as a testament to India’s vision and determination. It is a story of how a nation, once constrained by geography and politics, found a way to break free and forge its path in the global arena. And as the story continues to unfold, one thing is certain: IMEC will forever change the way India engages with the world, and the world engages with India.

  • Southeast Asia origin of at least 45% cyber frauds targeting Indians

    Why in the News?

    Over 5,000 unemployed/employed Indians are reportedly trapped in Cambodia and forced to work into cyber fraud, resulting in an estimated Rs 500 crore loss in India over six months.

    Present Cybersecurity Status of India:

    • India has secured 10th rank in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2020 by ITU (International Telecommunication Union) by moving up 37 places.
    • The US topped (1st), followed by the UK (United Kingdom) and Saudi Arabia tied for the second position together.
    • India secured the fourth position in the Asia Pacific region.

    What is the Budapest Convention? Is India a party to it?

    • The Council of Europe’s (CoE) Cybercrime Convention, commonly known as the Budapest Convention, was opened for signature in 2001 and came into force in 2004.
    • It is the only legally binding international multilateral treaty on cybercrime, coordinating investigations between nations and criminalizing specific cybercrime activities.
    • Budapest Convention is supplemented by a Protocol addressing xenophobia and racism committed through computer systems.
    • As of now, the Convention has 56 member countries, including the US and UK. However, India is not a party to the Budapest Convention.

    Indian Nationals vs. Organised Crimes in the South Asian Region:

    • Most web applications use the Chinese language to perform financial fraud, thereby not ruling out the Chinese connection.
    • Financial crimes such as digital arrest, stock market scams, investment scams, and romance or dating scams account for a loss of over ₹1,776 crores in 89,054 cases in the first four months of the year spurt in organized crime from Southeast Asia.
    • Numerous Indian nationals employed within a suspected fraudulent operation based in Sihanouk City, Cambodia, have voiced their grievances against their employers.

    What are the causes of the increase in Organized Financial Fraud?

    • Weak Prevention Measures:  Online Platforms in India at present account for 89% of all fraud incidents, with 40% of companies losing over $1 million.
    • Rapid Digitization and Payment Systems: After the pandemic, there was a massive shift, with the average Indian company now operating at least more than two online platforms in the normal course of business.
      • This has made it easier for fraudsters to operate anonymously and target a large number of victims.
    • Informal Investigation and Prosecution: India lacks the standardized data formats protocol system from the core banks itself. This makes it difficult to track devices and jurisdictional issues in interstate cases.
    • Lack of Deterrence: With only 26% of victims able to recover lost funds, fraudsters are encouraged to target individuals and organizations. The total value of frauds reported in 2021-22 was a staggering ₹60,414 crore.
    • Lack of Awareness: Sharing sensitive financial details with others or storing them insecurely it makes a common man vulnerable to fraud.

    What are the Initiatives taken by the government to tackle cyber crimes in India?

    • National Cyber Security Strategy 2020: Currently being formulated to enhance cyber awareness and strengthen cybersecurity through more rigorous audits.
    • Draft Personal Data Protection Bill, 2018: Based on the recommendations of the Justice BN Srikrishna Committee, this bill aims to secure citizens’ data.
    • Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): Approved in October 2018, this initiative addresses all types of cybercrimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.
    • National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In): Functions as the nodal agency for coordinating all cybersecurity efforts, emergency responses, and crisis management.
    • National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC): Established to protect and ensure the resilience of critical information infrastructure.

    Way Forward:

    • Update and Enforce Laws: Regularly update the Information Technology Act and other relevant laws to address emerging cyber threats and ensure strict enforcement.
    • Upgrade Cyber Defense Systems: Invest in advanced cybersecurity technologies and infrastructure to protect critical information systems.
    • Training Law Enforcement: Provide specialized training for law enforcement agencies to equip them with the skills needed to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes.
    • Collaborate with Industry: Foster partnerships between the government and private sector to share threat intelligence and best practices.

    Mains question for practice:

    Q Discuss the current challenges of cybersecurity in India, citing examples of recent trends in cybercrime. What measures have been taken by the Indian government to address these challenges? 15M

    Mains PYQ

    Q What are the different elements of cyber security? Keeping in view the challenges in cyber security, examine the extent to which India has successfully developed a comprehensive National Cyber Security Strategy.(UPSC IAS/2022)

  • What is La Nina, expected to set in later this year, and how it could impact global weather

    Why in the news?

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has recently forecasted that La nina will affect the Indian monsoon in August and September.

    What are El nino and La nina?

    • El Nino and La Nina are climate phenomena resulting from ocean-atmosphere interactions in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, significantly influencing global weather patterns.
    • El Nino (meaning “little boy” in Spanish) occurs when weak trade winds allow warm surface waters to accumulate near South America, reducing the usual upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water. This leads to warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures.
    • La Nina (meaning “little girl” in Spanish) involves strong trade winds pushing warm water towards Asia, increasing upwelling and resulting in cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures along South America.
    • Together with a neutral phase, they form the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle.

    How could the incoming La Nina impact global weather?

    • Temperatures
        • Global temperatures are likely to decrease compared to the recent record-breaking heat during the 2023-2024 El Nino event.
        • However, despite the cooling effect of La Nina, temperatures will still be higher than in previous decades due to the long-term warming trend from greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Rainfall
        • La Nina typically brings drier conditions to parts of Southeast Asia, Australia, and the southern United States.
        • Wetter than normal conditions are expected in parts of South America and eastern Africa.
    • Tropical Storms
        • La Nina is associated with increased tropical storm activity in the Atlantic Ocean and fewer storms in the Pacific.
        • The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season could see more intense storms due to La nina conditions.
    • Economic Impacts
      • Droughts and floods linked to La nina can negatively impact agriculture, food security, and infrastructure in affected regions.
      • Fishing communities in the eastern Pacific may face reduced catches due to cooler ocean temperatures.

    La nina’s impact on India

    • Positive Impact on Monsoons
        • La Nina generally leads to above-average monsoon rainfall in India. Since 1950, out of the 13 droughts India faced, only one was during a La nina year.
        • The extended La Nina event in 2022 led to a change in wind patterns, with winds blowing from north to south instead of the usual northwesterly direction.
        • This caused pollutants from agricultural burning in northern states to bypass Delhi and reach southern regions like Mumbai.
    • Negative Impacts
      • La Nina can sometimes lead to heavy rains and floods in some parts of India, while the Western Ghats may receive average or below-average rainfall.
      • Winter rainfall is less than normal in north India, and snowfall over the Western Himalayas is also lower than usual during La Nina years.
      • Farmers may be at risk of losing their standing Kharif crops if heavy rains occur during this period.

    Is climate change affecting EnSO?

    • El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a global climate phenomenon that emerges from variations in winds and sea surface temperatures over the tropical Pacific Ocean.
      • Climate change is likely impacting the ENSO cycle, potentially altering the frequency and intensity of El Nino and La Nina events.
      • Studies suggest that global warming may change mean oceanic conditions in the Pacific, possibly leading to more frequent or intense El Nino events.
    • The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has indicated that climate change is expected to influence extreme weather events associated with EnSO, including more severe droughts, floods, and heatwaves.

     Way Forward:

    • Develop more accurate climate models for better prediction of EnSO events and their impacts.
    • Foster international collaboration to share data, resources, and strategies for managing EnSO-related challenges.

    BACK2BASICS

    India Meteorological Department (IMD)

    • The India Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, serves as the national Meteorological Service and is the principal government agency responsible for meteorology and related subjects in India.
    • Operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, IMD is headquartered in New Delhi.
    • IMD is one of the six Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres of the World Meteorological Organization.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the El-nino effect. Do you agree? (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • BIMSTEC acquires ‘legal personality’ after charter comes into force

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that with the establishment of its inaugural charter on May 20th, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will now accept new members and observers.

    About BIMSTEC: 

    • The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) formed in 1997 is a multilateral regional organization comprising seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Thailand, Myanmar, and India.
    • Aim: To promote technical and economic cooperation among its member countries, particularly in sectors such as security, connectivity, trade, agriculture, environment, science and technology, and people-to-people contact.

    Adoption of the Charter:

    • After years of deliberation, the BIMSTEC leaders adopted the organization’s first charter during their 5th summit.
    • This charter provides a legal framework for the group, granting it a “legal personality” and enabling the structured diplomatic dialogue with other countries and regional groupings.
    • In the context of international organizations like BIMSTEC, obtaining legal personality means that the organization is recognized as a legal entity in its own right, separate from its member states.

    Significance of BIMSTEC for all member countries:

    The charter’s implementation enhances cooperation and deeper integration within the Bay of Bengal region, benefiting all member states economically and strategically.

    • Enhanced Cooperation: With the charter in place, member countries can engage in more structured and organized cooperation across various sectors such as security, connectivity, trade, agriculture, environment, science and technology, and people-to-people contact.
    • Strengthened Regional Integration: The charter facilitates deeper integration within the Bay of Bengal region. By establishing common goals and mechanisms for cooperation, it promotes economic growth, social development, and cultural exchange among member countries.
    • Diplomatic Dialogue: The charter enables BIMSTEC to enter into structured diplomatic dialogue with other countries and regional groupings. This opens up avenues for broader engagement and partnership, enhancing the geopolitical significance of the BIMSTEC platform.

    Challenges in the present world context: 

    • Historical Discord: Long-standing historical discord between member states, such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, presents a challenge to cohesive cooperation within BIMSTEC. These tensions can hinder progress on joint initiatives and impede the organization’s effectiveness.
    • Geopolitical Complexities: Geopolitical complexities, exacerbated by events like the Rohingya refugee crisis and the coup in Myanmar, add layers of complexity to regional dynamics.
      • These complexities can strain relationships between member states and complicate efforts to foster collaboration and integration within BIMSTEC.
    • Stagnation of SAARC: While BIMSTEC offers an alternative platform for regional cooperation, the near stagnation of SAARC underscores the challenges faced by regional organizations in fostering meaningful collaboration.

    Way forward:

    • Need a Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Implement effective conflict resolution mechanisms to address historical discord and tensions between member states.
    • High Diplomatic Engagement: Encourage regular diplomatic engagement and dialogue between member states to address geopolitical complexities and build trust.

    Mains PYQ

    Q Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organization like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organization? (UPSC IAS/2022)

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