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Type: Explained

These Newscards correspond to the explained section of various newspapers. They become immensely important for both prelims and mains and special attention needs to be paid to them

  • Centre and Manipur signs Peace Agreement with UNLF

    UNLF

    Central Idea

    • The Union and Manipur governments have signed a peace agreement with the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), a banned Meitei extremist organisation.
    • UNLF is the oldest armed group based in the Manipur valley, marking this agreement as a notable event in the region’s history.

    Understanding the UNLF

    • Formation: Established on November 24, 1964, under Arembam Samarendra Singh‘s leadership, the UNLF is the oldest valley-based insurgent group in Manipur.
    • Diverse Leadership: Initially led by a mix of ethnicities, including Naga and Kuki leaders.
    • Armed Wing and Activities: The Manipur People’s Army, formed in 1990, and has been responsible for multiple attacks against Indian security forces.
    • Current Status: The UNLF, now split into two factions, is estimated to have 400-500 cadres, operating primarily in the valley areas of Manipur and some Kuki-Zomi hill districts.
    • Base of Operations: Largely operating from Myanmar, the group has faced setbacks due to conflicts with the Myanmar military and other Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs).

    Precedent for the Peace Agreement

    • Historical Context: This is a significant development as Meitei Extremist Organisations (VBIGs) have traditionally not engaged in peace talks with the Centre.
    • Previous Instances: Smaller groups like UPPK, KCP, and Maoist Communist Group have disbanded or diminished in influence, but the terms of their agreements are unclear.
    • UNLF’s Internal Dynamics: The group underwent splits in the mid-1990s and 2021, leading to the formation of factions under different leaders. The faction led by Khundongbam Pambei has been open to negotiations since 2020.

    Status of Other Insurgent Groups

    • Broader Insurgency Landscape: The UNLF is one of several Meitei insurgent groups and is among the seven banned by the Union government.
    • Opposition to Talks: The UNLF faction under NC Koireng remains opposed to peace talks.
    • Agreements with Other Groups: A Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement was reached in 2008 with Kuki-Zomi insurgent groups, but the Manipur government withdrew from agreements with some groups in 2022.

    Conclusion

    • The peace agreement with the UNLF marks a critical step in addressing the long-standing insurgency in Manipur.
    • It reflects a shift in the approach of Meitei insurgent groups towards dialogue and potential reconciliation.
    • The success of this agreement could pave the way for further peace initiatives in the region, contributing to stability and development in Manipur.

  • US Allegations on India in Terrorist Execution Plot

    terror

    Central Idea

    • US Allegations: The US has implicated an Indian official in a plot to assassinate a Khalistani terrorist, raising serious concerns for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
    • Indian Government’s Stance: While the MEA acknowledges the gravity of the situation, it refutes the claims of the Indian diplomat’s involvement.

    Backdrop and Timing of the Allegations

    • Concurrent Events: The indictment period coincided with PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the G7 and Quad leaders’ summit and the India-US Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap’s conclusion.
    • Profile of the Accused Official: Described as a “Senior Field Officer” with a background in security management, intelligence, and military training, the official is also noted to have served in the Central Reserve Police Force.

    terror

    Pre-Indictment Measures by India

    • Proactive Steps: Anticipating the indictment, India formed a high-level inquiry committee on November 18.
    • Committee Composition: Likely includes officials from intelligence, investigative, law enforcement agencies, and the MEA.
    • Prior Diplomatic Engagements: The indictment followed months of diplomatic and intelligence discussions between the US and India, including meetings between US NSA Jake Sullivan and NSA Ajit Doval, and CIA Director William Burns’ visit to India.

    India’s Diplomatic Response

    • Contrast with Canada’s Allegations: India’s response contrasts with its reaction to Canada’s allegations regarding the killing of another Khalistani separatist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, where it accused Canada of being a “safe haven” for extremists.
    • Previous Incident with the US: Recalls the 2013 incident involving Devyani Khobragade (IFS), which led to diplomatic tensions but was later resolved.
    • Current Approach: India is showing restraint, prioritizing its relationship with the US, and aiming to prevent the situation from escalating into a diplomatic crisis.

    US-India Relations: A Complex Dynamic

    • Strategic and Values-Based Partnership: The relationship has evolved over decades, marked by significant trade and strategic interests, and a debate over shared values versus strategic interests.
    • Historical Perspective: The relationship has weathered various challenges, including the Nixon-Kissinger era, nuclear tests sanctions, and the Indo-US nuclear deal.

    Way Forward

    • Commitment to Investigation: India’s thorough investigation is crucial for maintaining its credibility and managing its relationship with the US.
    • Extradition Considerations: India must question why the US is not keen on extraditing a man facing terror charges to India.
    • Global Diplomatic Impact: The outcome will affect India’s relations with the “Five Eyes” intelligence partner countries.
    • India’s reputation: India’s reputation as a consistent and credible power is at stake, necessitating a wise and principled approach.

    Conclusion: Navigating a Diplomatic Tightrope

    • The Indian government faces a delicate diplomatic challenge in addressing the US allegations.
    • Balancing national integrity with maintaining robust international relations, especially with a key partner like the United States, is crucial for India’s diplomatic posture and global standing.

  • How UAPA has become more draconian over the years?

    Central Idea

    • Students in Jammu & Kashmir were booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) after allegations of abuse and threats during the World Cup final, along with raising pro-Pakistan slogans.
    • Jammu & Kashmir police invoked a ‘softer provision’ of UAPA, citing the act of ‘terrorizing’ others with pro-India or anti-Pakistan sentiments.

    What is UAPA?

    • Purpose: UAPA empowers the government to investigate and prosecute acts of terrorism, and to designate entities as “unlawful” or “terrorist” organizations or individuals.
    • Enactment: Introduced in 1967, based on recommendations from the National Integration Council to counter national divisiveness. Initially focused on secessionist activities without explicit mention of terrorism.
    • Evolution of UAPA:
    1. Introduction of Terrorism (2004): Post-repeal of POTA, UAPA was amended to include terrorism. It defined terrorism, associated punishments, and introduced provisions for seizing ‘proceeds of terrorism’.
    2. Post-26/11 Amendments (2008): Expanded the definition of terrorism, introduced stringent bail conditions, and extended police and judicial custody durations. It also made bail more difficult to obtain and shifted the burden of proof to the accused in certain cases.
    3. Economic Security (2012): Included economic security under terrorism, categorizing activities like counterfeiting currency as terrorist acts. It also increased the duration for which an organization could be declared unlawful.
    4. Individual Designation (2019): Allowed the government to designate individuals as terrorists and expanded the NIA’s powers.

    The ‘Softer’ Provision: Section 13

    • Section 13 of UAPA: Deals with punishment for ‘unlawful activities’ rather than ‘terrorist activities’. It includes imprisonment up to seven years for participating in, advocating, abetting, or inciting unlawful activities.
    • Implications: Although termed ‘softer’, this section still carries significant penalties and makes bail challenging to obtain.

    Criticism and Concerns

    • Vague Definitions: The act’s broad and vague definitions, especially post-2008 amendments, allow for a wide interpretation of what constitutes terrorism or unlawful activities.
    • Human Rights Concerns: The act has been criticized for potentially violating human rights, including the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial.
    • Use against Dissenters: There have been instances where UAPA has been used against activists, journalists, and protestors, raising concerns about its use to suppress dissent.

    Conclusion: Balancing Security and Rights

    • Need for Scrutiny: The use of UAPA, especially its ‘softer’ provisions, requires careful scrutiny to ensure it doesn’t infringe on fundamental rights while addressing security concerns.
    • Debate on Amendments: Ongoing debates about UAPA focus on finding a balance between national security needs and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.

  • Understanding Rat-Hole Mining

    rat-hole

    Central Idea

    • The rescue operation in Uttarakhand using rat-hole mining, a method banned for its hazardous nature and environmental impact, brings to light the complexities and challenges of mining practices in India.

    What is Rat-Hole Mining?

    • Description: A primitive and hazardous method of mining involving digging small tunnels, just large enough for a person to crawl through, to extract coal.
    • Types:
      • Side-Cutting: Following a visible coal seam on hill slopes.
      • Box-Cutting: Involves digging a pit and then creating horizontal tunnels.
    • Irony: Thecued workers from Assam, a region that lost lives to rat-hole mining in Meghalaya, were ironically saved using the same method.

    Why is Rat-Hole Mining Banned?

    • Location: Prevalent in Meghalaya, a Sixth Schedule State where central mining laws don’t apply.
    • Risks: Asphyxiation, mine collapse, flooding, and severe environmental impacts.
    • NGT Ban (2014): Due to safety hazards and environmental degradation, including river pollution.
    • Continued Illegal Mining: Despite the ban, illegal mining and transportation persist, with significant loss of lives (e.g., 17 miners drowned in 2018 in East Jaintia Hills).

    Factors Leading to the NGT Ban

    • Activism: Environmental and human rights groups highlighted the dangers for two decades.
    • Child Labor: Reports estimated around 70,000 children, mostly from Bangladesh and Nepal, were employed in these mines.
    • Official Acknowledgment: Under pressure, the State admitted to child labor in 2013, leading to the NGT ban in 2014.

    Feasibility of such mining

    • Economic Viability: Thin coal seams in Meghalaya make rat-hole mining more economically feasible than open-cast mining.
    • Coal Reserves: Meghalaya has significant coal reserves dating back to the Eocene age.
    • Government Action: Meghalaya announced the approval of mining leases for ‘scientific’ mining in 2023.
    • Concerns: Skepticism remains among anti-mining activists about the implementation of sustainable and legal mining practices.

    Conclusion

    • While the approval of ‘scientific’ mining offers a legal and potentially safer avenue, it remains to be seen how effectively it will replace the dangerous and unregulated rat-hole mining, especially in regions with unique geological and socio-political contexts like Meghalaya.

     

  • Does the Indian Judiciary have a ‘Patriarchy Problem’?

    Central Idea

    • India’s judiciary has long grappled with gender disparity, and the recent passing of Justice Fathima Beevi, the country’s first female Supreme Court judge, has brought attention to this issue.
    • Despite incremental progress, women continue to be underrepresented in both the Supreme Court and High Courts, highlighting the need for comprehensive reform.

    About Justice Fathima Beevi

    • Justice Fathima Beevi, India’s first woman Supreme Court judge, passed away at the age of 96 in Kollam, Kerala.
    • She made history as the first Muslim woman judge of the Supreme Court, as well as the first woman Supreme Court Justice in Asia.

    Gender Disparity in Indian Judiciary

    [A] Supreme Court

    • Current Scenario: Of the 34 incumbent Supreme Court justices, only three are women: Justices Hima Kohli, Bela Trivedi, and BV Nagarathna.
    • Historical Perspective: India has had a total of 11 women judges in the Supreme Court’s history, since Justice Beevi’s appointment in 1989.
    • Low Representation: This translates to approximately 4% representation of women judges out of a total of 268 judges in the apex court’s history.
    • Recent Appointments: The current collegium, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, has made 14 appointments but is yet to appoint a woman judge to the Supreme Court.

    [B] High Court

    • High Court Scenario: As of March 2022, India has 25 high courts with 1,114 sanctioned judge positions.
    • Working Judges: However, only 785 judges are currently working, with 329 positions remaining vacant.
    • Female Judges: Out of the working judges, only 107 are women, constituting 13% of the total.
    • Women Chief Justices: Only one of the country’s 25 high courts currently has a woman chief justice.

    Efforts to Address Gender Disparity

    • Legal Perspective: The Union Law Minister stated that the Constitution’s Articles 124, 217, and 224 do not provide for caste or class-based reservations in higher judiciary appointments.
    • Recommendation for Diversity: Nevertheless, the Centre encouraged high court chief justices to consider suitable candidates who are women, minorities, scheduled castes, or tribes to ensure social diversity in the appointment process.

    Challenges in Lower Judiciary and District Courts

    • Higher Representation: Women constitute approximately 27% of judges in the lower judiciary, but gender disparities persist in higher appointments such as district judges and high courts.
    • Regional Disparities: A study revealed that only a few smaller states like Goa, Meghalaya, and Sikkim had over 60% women judges, while others remained below 40%.
    • Reservation: Some states have introduced quotas for women in the lower judiciary, providing between 30% and 35% reservation for direct appointments.

    Way forward

    • In April 2021, Chief Justice SA Bobde emphasized that capable candidates were required for greater women representation, rather than an attitudinal change.
    • His statement sparked controversy as female advocates challenged the assumption that women refused judgeships solely due to domestic responsibilities.
    • Advocates argued that men also decline judgeships for various reasons without hindering their appointment.

    Conclusion

    • The gender disparity in India’s judiciary remains a persistent challenge, with slow progress towards equal representation.
    • It is imperative to address this issue comprehensively, from the highest courts to the lower judiciary, by promoting diversity and equal opportunities, ultimately strengthening the justice system and upholding gender equality.

  • President bats for All India Judicial Service (AIJS)  

    Central Idea

    • On Constitution Day, President emphasized the need for an All-India Judicial Service (AIJS) to reflect India’s diverse fabric in the judiciary.
    • Designed to streamline the recruitment process for judges, particularly at the levels of additional district judges and district judges across all states, the AIJS concept has been the subject of longstanding debate and contention within legal circles.

    All India Judicial Service (AIJS): Overview

    • Objective: To select and nurture talented individuals nationwide, ensuring representation from underrepresented social groups.
    • Current Recruitment: Under Articles 233 and 234 of the Constitution, states manage district judge appointments. State Public Service Commissions conduct recruitment, supervised by High Courts.
    • Rationale: AIJS aims to enhance judicial efficiency, standardize compensation, expedite recruitment, and ensure uniform training.

    Historical Context

    • 1958: The Law Commission first proposed a centralized judicial service.
    • 1978: The Law Commission revisited the idea amid concerns about delays and case backlogs.
    • 2006: A Parliamentary Committee supported a pan-Indian judicial service, drafting a bill.

    Judiciary’s Stance

    • 1992: The Supreme Court directed the Centre to establish AIJS (All India Judges’ Assam vs. Union of India case).
    • 1993: The Court permitted the Centre to initiate AIJS independently.
    • 2017: The Supreme Court suggested a “Central Selection Mechanism” for district judge appointments.

    Necessity of AIJS

    • Challenges: The lower judiciary faces about 5400 vacancies and a backlog of 2.78 crore cases.
    • Quality Concerns: The declining quality of judicial officers necessitates high-caliber recruitment.
    • Financial Incentives: State services often fail to attract top talent due to lower salaries.
    • Training and Subjectivity: State-run institutions lack adequate training resources; current appointments are marred by subjectivity and nepotism.

    Criticism and Concerns

    • Federalism: AIJS is seen as infringing on states’ powers.
    • Language and Representation: Centralized recruitment might impact the use of regional languages.
    • Equality and Education: A national exam could disadvantage less privileged candidates; law education standards are inconsistent.
    • Structural Issues: AIJS may not address systemic problems like low pay and inadequate infrastructure.
    • Bureaucratization: Centralizing recruitment doesn’t inherently guarantee efficiency.

    Government’s Motivation

    • Business Environment: Reforming the lower judiciary is aligned with improving India’s Ease of Doing Business ranking.
    • Dispute Resolution: Efficient dispute resolution is crucial for business rankings.
    • IAS Inspiration: The government views the IAS system as a model for enhancing judicial services.

    Way Forward

    Niti Aayog’s ‘Strategy for New India @75’ report recommends:

    • Examination: An all-India judicial services exam to maintain high standards.
    • Technology: Implementing video-conferencing to expedite justice and reduce logistical issues.
    • Independence: AIJS cadre should report to the Chief Justice in each High Court to preserve judicial independence.

  • Bangladesh’s Elections: Concerns for India

    Bangladesh

    Central Idea

    • In recent months, Western nations, including the US, UK, and EU have been urging Bangladesh to hold free, fair, and participatory elections.
    • These calls have been accompanied by pressure on the Sheikh Hasina government to step down and allow a neutral caretaker administration to oversee the upcoming parliamentary elections in January.
    • While the US has eased its stance under Indian intervention, the EU continues to exert pressure.

    This article explores the intricate dynamics of Bangladesh’s political landscape, the potential consequences of fair elections, and the global interests at stake.

    Fair Elections vs. Radical Islamists

    • Opposition Demands: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demands elections under a caretaker government, which the government has rejected.
    • Potential Outcome: With the BNP unlikely to participate, the elections may result in a one-sided contest favoring the Awami League, returning Sheikh Hasina to power for the fourth time.
    • Anti-Incumbency: After 15 years in power, the Awami League faces significant anti-incumbency, exacerbated by record-high inflation and economic challenges.
    • Economic Crisis: Falling forex reserves, currency depreciation, and mounting external debt have created a looming debt crisis.
    • Chinese Loans: Much of the infrastructure development relies on high-interest loans from China.

    Authoritarianism and Islamist Influence

    • Authoritarian Practices: The Awami League’s authoritarian measures, including arrests and harassment of opposition leaders, have fueled resentment among the masses.
    • Corruption and Nepotism: Perceived corruption and nepotism within the Awami League have widened the gap between the government and the impoverished population.
    • Islamist Influence: The Awami League’s encouragement of Islamist groups like Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has created a toxic environment within the ruling party.
    • Radicalization: Islamist organizations, through religious schools and mosques, have radicalized a significant portion of the population, especially the youth.
    • Islamist Opposition: The Islamist parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, Hefazat, and Islami Oikyo Jote, now fill the opposition space.
    • Political Analyst’s Perspective: Political analysts argue that the Awami League’s crackdown on the BNP has inadvertently strengthened Islamist parties, which seek to implement strict Sharia laws and turn Bangladesh into an Islamic state.

    Potential Outcomes of Equitable Elections

    • Rise of Jihad: Fair and equitable elections may pave the way for radical Islamist parties to come to power.
    • Jamaat-e-Islami: Despite being banned from contesting elections, Jamaat nominees may run as Independents or on tickets from other parties, potentially leading to their victory.
    • Radicalists Victory: Political observers suggest that non-partisan elections would likely result in Islamist parties sweeping the polls and gaining power.
    • Impact on India: The rise of Islamists in Bangladesh could negatively affect India, potentially aligning Bangladesh with Pakistan and China, and posing a threat to India’s interests.
    • Global Concerns: An Islamist-controlled Bangladesh could become a breeding ground for jihadis and a potential failed state, posing a danger to global security.

    World’s Interest in the Election Process

    • Global Implications: Given the far-reaching consequences of Islamist rule in Bangladesh, the world has a vested interest in allowing the election process to proceed with limited interference.
    • Focus on Future Actions: While the elections may be flawed or unfair, the priority should be to ensure that after returning to power, the Awami League commits to keeping China at bay, curbing Islamist forces, allowing a responsible and secular opposition to thrive, and cleansing the party of Islamist elements.
    • Securing Bangladesh’s Future: Striking a balance between a flawed elections and securing Bangladesh’s democratic and secular future is essential for the world’s stability and security.

    Conclusion

    • The upcoming elections in Bangladesh present a complex dilemma for both the nation and the world.
    • While free and fair elections could bring radical Islamists to power, their absence could lead to continued authoritarianism.
    • Striking the right balance and securing Bangladesh’s future as a democratic and secular nation is paramount to global stability and peace.

  • How Racism overshadowed India-Taiwan Co-operation

    taiwan

    Central Idea

    • Recent reports of India and Taiwan considering a MoU to facilitate Indian workers’ employment in Taiwan have revealed underlying issues of racism and stereotypes.
    • These negative perceptions have implications for both countries and the need for addressing such biases is paramount.

    Racism in Taiwan and Stereotypes

    • MoU Announcement: Reports of a MoU between India and Taiwan sparked racism in Taiwan towards Indian men.
    • Negative Stereotypes: Taiwanese netizens labeled Indian men as dirty, uneducated, and even used derogatory terms like ‘rapists.’
    • China-Backed Media: China-backed media amplified stereotypes, perpetuating narratives about women’s safety in India.
    • Taiwan’s Response: Taiwan clarified that the news of Indian workers’ arrival was ‘inaccurate’ but acknowledged ongoing talks with India.

    Reality of Indian Workers Globally

    • Worldwide Presence: Indian workers, both blue-collar and white-collar, are present globally, contributing significantly to economies.
    • Remittances: According to a World Bank report, Indian laborers remittances abroad reached a record USD 100 billion in 2021, highlighting their global acceptance.

    Misconceptions and Global Gender Issues

    • Misplaced Blame: Associating crimes and issues with specific nationalities hinders cooperation.
    • Global Gender Inequality: Issues such as unequal pay, workplace harassment, and unfair work burdens affect women worldwide.

    India-Taiwan Cooperation: Mutual Benefits

    • Taiwan’s Aging Population: Taiwan faces an impending ‘super-aged’ society by 2025 and requires a younger workforce.
    • India’s Labor Force: India can provide a youthful and skilled workforce to fill Taiwan’s labor gap.
    • Economic Benefits: Such cooperation benefits both countries by addressing unemployment and boosting foreign remittances for India and supporting Taiwan’s economy.

    Taiwan’s Focus on India

    • Historical Perspective: Taiwan has traditionally focused on Europe and the US for economic growth, trade, and funding.
    • Need for Attention: India, as an economic and strategic partner, deserves more attention for stronger ties.

    Taiwan’s Racism Problem

    • Past Instances: Taiwan has faced criticism for discriminatory policies against Southeast Asian workers during the COVID-19 outbreak.
    • Exploitative Practices: Some foreign workers in Taiwan experience exploitative practices bordering on forced labor.

    Taiwan’s Reputation and India’s Support

    • Positive Image: Taiwan’s democratic credentials and resistance to China’s influence have earned it a positive image among Indians.
    • India’s Support: India’s support for Taiwan enhances its international standing and challenges China’s efforts to isolate it.

    Conclusion

    • Addressing racism, stereotypes, and discriminatory policies is essential for nurturing the growing strategic and economic ties between India and Taiwan.
    • Both nations must work towards fostering a friendly and inclusive environment to protect the investment made in their relationship and counteract divisive narratives.

  • 1962 India-China War: Sudden Ceasefire and Withdrawal Explained

    1962 India-China War

    Central Idea

    • On November 21, 1962, in a surprising move, China declared a ceasefire in a war against India, a conflict it seemed to be winning.
    • This war was a critical event for both countries, impacting India’s Prime Minister Nehru and showcasing China’s military strength.

    Origins of the 1962 India-China War

    • India’s ‘Forward Policy’: India’s strategy of establishing outposts in contested areas is often seen as a trigger for the war. Critics suggest that these moves by an underprepared Indian Army might have forced China’s hand.
    • Sheltering the Dalai Lama: India’s choice to offer refuge to the Dalai Lama, fleeing from Chinese rule in Tibet, was another significant factor. China saw this as a chance to assert its dominance in Asia.
    • China’s Internal Struggles: Inside China, there was growing dissatisfaction with Mao Zedong’s Great Leap Forward, a policy aimed at rapid modernization. A successful war could help improve Mao’s standing.

    Ceasefire and Withdrawal

    • Stretched Chinese Supply Lines: China’s quick advance stretched its supply lines thin. With the Indian Army putting up a strong defense and the harsh winter setting in, the situation became more favorable for India. The difficult mountainous terrain also posed a challenge for China.
    • International Involvement: Nehru’s call for help to the US and UK led to quick support. President Kennedy sent weapons and supplies to India, and the Royal Air Force joined in. This global response hinted at a possible escalation of the conflict, which China might have wanted to avoid.
    • Changing Global Opinion: China’s capture of Tawang could have been a strategic stop, but its further advance into Indian Territory after October 24, 1962, shifted global opinion. Western powers started to view the situation more seriously, putting pressure on China.

    Understanding China’s Strategy

    • A Tactic for Negotiation: Chinese scholar Hong Yuan suggested that China’s involvement in the war was not for conquest but for negotiation. The PLA’s military actions, reaching as far as New Delhi, were meant to facilitate peace talks.
    • Ensuring Long-Term Peace: The victory secured a peaceful border for China for the next fifty years. It showed that while war was a means to an end, it wasn’t the ultimate goal.

    Conclusion

    • The 1962 India-China war, marked by China’s ceasefire and strategic retreat, is a complex and layered part of Indian history.
    • This ceasefire, though temporary, has a profound impact on the geopolitical landscape of the region and the world even today.

  • Explained: Coal isn’t Easy to Exclude from Sustainable Development

    coal

    Central Idea

    • Globally, 80% of energy comes from fossil fuels like oil, coal, and gas. In contrast, renewable sources like solar and wind contributed only 2.4% in 2022.
    • India, with its energy supply per capita well below the global average, faces the dual challenge of meeting growing energy demands and pursuing sustainable development.

    Need for Electricity Security

    • Stable and Affordable Power: Ensuring a reliable electricity supply that meets increasing demands at an affordable cost is crucial.
    • Renewables’ Minor Role: Despite India’s significant potential for renewable energy, it made up only a small portion of the energy mix in 2022.
    • Coal’s Predominance: In FY 2022-2023, coal-fired thermal power plants (TPPs) generated 74.3% of India’s electricity, driven by escalating demand and the need to support major industries.

    Balancing Emissions and Development

    • India’s Global Emission Share: India’s cumulative emissions from coal-fired power plants and followed by industry account for just 3.3% of the global total (US-EPA), highlighting its role in global development.
    • Sustainable Development Imperative: Catering to the energy needs of 17% of the world’s population, India must ensure that sustainable development is more than a slogan.

    Challenges and Strategies

    • Dependency on Critical Battery Materials: Most materials for grid-scale battery storage are controlled by a few countries, posing energy security risks. Cost-effective batteries are expected post-2030.
    • Efficiency and Nuclear Expansion: India needs to improve TPP efficiency, expand nuclear energy, and enhance pumped storage to integrate more renewables.

    Coal’s Role in Electricity

    • Future Projections: India’s national grid could absorb more renewable electricity by 2031-2032, but cost differences with coal-fired TPPs pose challenges.
    • Domestic Coal Dependence: With 96% of coal for TPPs sourced domestically, coal capacity in India is expected to grow significantly.

    Concerns of Coal Transport

    • High Ash Content: Indian coal’s high ash content causes erosion and performance issues in TPPs.
    • Transportation Issues: Long-distance transport of unwashed coal strains transportation systems and raises environmental concerns.
    • Coal Washing: Requiring miners to supply only washed coal to TPPs over 500 km away can reduce emissions and pollution.

    Flue-Gas Desulphurisers (FGDs) Dilemma

    • Sulphur Emissions: Despite Indian coal’s lower sulphur content, tall stacks and weather conditions lead to sulphur dioxide emissions.
    • Climate and Cost Implications: Installing FGDs in TPPs increases coal consumption, reduces efficiency, and requires significant investment.

    Way forward

    • Advanced Technologies: Supercritical and Ultra-Supercritical technologies can lower carbon emissions.
    • IGCC for Carbon Capture: Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) plants can capture CO2, aiding in low-carbon electricity generation.
    • Government Incentives: Promoting IGCC or Advanced Ultra-Supercritical Technology (AUSC) before 2030 can foster low-carbon initiatives.

    Conclusion

    • The challenge of global warming arises from all fossil fuels, not just coal.
    • The principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities” should guide global climate change efforts.
    • India’s journey towards low-carbon development is essential.