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  • Maldives decides to end Hydrographic Survey Pact with India

    Hydrographic Survey

    Central Idea

    • The Maldives government has chosen not to renew a hydrographic survey agreement with India, marking a significant change in bilateral relations.

    Hydrographic Survey Pact: A Backgrounder

    • Nature of Hydrographic Surveys: These surveys involve mapping water bodies to facilitate safe and efficient maritime transportation.
    • 2019 Agreement: During Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to the Maldives in June 2019, an MoU was signed for cooperation in hydrography between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

    Activities under the Pact

    • Joint Hydrographic Surveys: Three joint surveys were conducted in 2021, 2022, and 2023, involving Indian Naval Ships like INS Darshak and INS Sutlej.
    • Survey Objectives: The surveys aimed to update navigational charts and support sectors like tourism and fisheries. They also involved tidal observations and identifying new shoals.
    • Support to MNDF: India provided hydrographic equipment and training to MNDF personnel, aligning with its policy of supporting the Maldives in establishing hydrographic capabilities.

    India’s Hydrographic Survey Agreements with Other Countries

    • Global Hydrographic Efforts: India has conducted hydrographic surveys in various countries, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
    • International Cooperation: The National Hydrographic Office highlights the potential for international cooperation in hydrography, especially in regions with limited capabilities.

    Reasons behind Maldives’ Decision   

    • Regime Change: The election of Mohamed Muizzu of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), seen as more pro-China, contrasts with his predecessor President Solih’s India-friendly stance.
    • Geopolitical Dynamics: China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean region, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has impacted India’s traditional sphere of influence in the Maldives.
    • ‘India Out’ Campaign: Allegations of Indian military presence and the new administration’s emphasis on national security and self-reliance in hydrographic capabilities have influenced this decision.

    Possible outcomes

    • Changing Geopolitical Landscape: The Maldives’ decision reflects the shifting geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean, with growing Chinese influence challenging India’s traditional role.
    • Impact on India-Maldives Relations: This development could signify a recalibration of the Maldives’ foreign policy, potentially impacting India’s strategic interests in the region.

  • COP28 : Understanding CCS and CDR

    ccd ccs

    Central Idea

    • At the COP28 climate talks in Dubai, discussions have centered on carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon-dioxide removal (CDR) technologies.
    • The interpretation of ‘abatement’ is crucial in understanding the role and limitations of CCS and CDR in climate action.

    Understanding CCS and CDR

    • CCS: This involves capturing CO₂ emissions at their source, such as in the fossil fuel industry and industrial processes, and storing them to prevent atmospheric release.
    • CDR: Encompasses natural methods like afforestation and technological approaches like direct air capture for absorbing and storing atmospheric CO₂.
    • COP28 Discussions: The term “unabated fossil fuels” in the draft texts refers to fossil fuel combustion without CCS. The texts advocate phasing out such fuels and enhancing emission removal technologies.

    Scale and Efficacy of CCS and CDR

    • IPCC’s AR6 Report: Heavily reliant on CDR for meeting the 1.5 degrees C temperature limit, assuming significant CO₂ sequestration by 2040.
    • Challenges: Direct mitigation to reduce emissions is daunting, making CDR crucial.
    • CCS Limitations: Effective CCS requires high capture rates, permanent storage, and minimal methane leakage from upstream processes.

    Concerns and Implications of CCS and CDR

    • Land Use for CDR: Large-scale CDR methods, especially technological ones, require significant land, raising equity, biodiversity, and food security concerns.
    • Impact on the Global South: CDR projects in the Global South could infringe on indigenous land rights and compete with agricultural land use.
    • Financial and Ethical Questions: The cost and responsibility of implementing CDR at scale raise questions about who should bear these burdens.

    Pitfalls of CCS and CDR

    • Potential for Increased Emissions: CCS and CDR could inadvertently create leeway for continued or increased greenhouse gas emissions.
    • IPCC Emission Scenarios: To limit warming to 1.5 degrees C, significant reductions in coal, oil, and gas use are required by 2050, with or without CCS.
    • Gas Emissions Pathways: Higher reliance on CCS and CDR could lead to emission pathways with a greater contribution from gas.

    Conclusion

    • Critical Decade Ahead: The next decade is pivotal in determining the viability and scalability of CDR methods.
    • Balancing Act: While CCS and CDR offer potential solutions for emission reduction, their implementation must be carefully managed to avoid unintended consequences and ensure equitable and effective climate action.
    • Future of Climate Negotiations: The discussions and decisions at COP28 regarding CCS and CDR will significantly influence the trajectory of global climate action and the pursuit of the 1.5 degrees C target.

  • Dubai Consensus for ‘transition away’ from Fossil Fuels

    dubai consensus

    Central Idea

    • The Dubai Consensus, a significant resolution towards reducing fossil fuel dependency, was adopted in COP 28, Dubai.

    Dubai Consensus

    • Key Clause: The resolution emphasizes transitioning away from fossil fuels to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, aligning with scientific recommendations to limit global temperature rise.
    • Balance between Countries: The text reflects a compromise between developed and developing nations on climate action and responsibility.
    • Dilution of Language: Earlier drafts with terms like ‘phase-out’ were softened due to opposition from oil-dependent countries.
    • Coal Usage: The final text moderated its stance on coal, crucial for countries like India, calling for a phase-down rather than a rapid phase-out.
    • Methane Emissions: The consensus introduces a focus on reducing methane emissions by 2030, a potent greenhouse gas.
    • Natural Gas as a ‘Transition Fuel’: The text’s reference to natural gas as a transitional fuel could favor gas-producing countries and overlook the need for developed countries to close the finance gap in climate adaptation.

    New Funding Commitments and Future Goals

    • Diverse Opinions: While some nations expressed dissatisfaction with the agreement’s scope, others highlighted the lack of financial support for developing countries.
    • Financial Pledges: COP 28 saw commitments to the Loss and Damage Fund and pledges to decarbonize the global economy.
    • Focus on Renewable Energy: The resolution signals a move towards phasing out fossil fuels and boosting renewable energy and efficiency.

    India’s Historical Position on Climate Change

    • Emission Statistics: India, a major developing country, has historically contributed 3% of greenhouse gases (1850-2019), compared to higher percentages from the US and EU.
    • Per Capita Emissions: India’s per capita emissions are below the global average, but its development needs and population growth have made it the third-largest emitter.
    • Balancing Development and Emissions: India has been navigating the pressure to reduce emissions while addressing its developmental needs, particularly its reliance on coal.

    India’s Commitments and Challenges

    • Net Zero by 2070: India has committed to achieving a net-zero state by 2070, alongside expanding its renewable energy capacity.
    • Glasgow COP 2021 Agreement: Under pressure, India agreed to a ‘phase-down’ of coal use, highlighting the need for equitable treatment of all fossil fuels, including oil and gas.
    • Import Dependency: As a net importer of oil and gas, India has raised concerns about the focus on coal while other fossil fuels remain under-addressed.

  • [pib] Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit

    gpai

    Central Idea

    • The Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit began in New Delhi on December 12, inaugurated by Prime Minister.
    • India, along with 28 member countries, is working towards a consensus on a declaration document focusing on the proper use of AI, establishing guardrails for the technology, and its democratization.

    GPAI and India

    • Founding Member: India joined GPAI as a founding member in June 2020, aiming to bridge the gap between AI theory and practice.
    • International Collaboration: The initiative fosters collaboration among scientists, industry professionals, civil society, governments, international organizations, and academia.
    • Previous Summits: Prior GPAI summits were held in Montreal, Paris, and Tokyo.
    • India’s Stance: IT Minister highlighted India’s focus on sustainable agriculture and collaborative AI, building on the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) approach used in Aadhaar and UPI systems.

    Content of the Proposed Declaration

    • Themes and Focus: The declaration is expected to cover AI’s use in sustainable agriculture, healthcare, climate action, and building resilient societies.
    • Regulatory Aspects: It will align with past agreements and global ideas on AI regulation.
    • India’s Contribution: India’s emphasis is on evaluating AI in sustainable agriculture and promoting collaborative AI.

    Global Conversation on AI Regulation

    • EU’s AI Act: The European Union passed the AI Act, introducing safeguards and guardrails for AI use, especially in law enforcement, and setting up mechanisms for complaints against violations. It imposes strong restrictions on facial recognition and AI’s potential to manipulate human behavior.
    • AI Safety Summit in the UK: Major countries agreed on a declaration for global action to address AI risks, acknowledging the dangers of misuse, cybersecurity threats, biotechnology, and disinformation risks.
    • US Executive Order: The Biden Administration issued an order to safeguard against AI threats and oversee safety benchmarks for generative AI bots like ChatGPT and Google Bard.

  • 75 Years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

    human rights

    Central Idea

    • 75th Anniversary: December 10 marked the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UN General Assembly in Paris.
    • Foundation of International Order: Post-World War II, this declaration laid the groundwork for the international order, aiming to prevent future atrocities.

    Understanding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

    • Document Structure: Comprising a preamble and 30 articles, it outlines fundamental rights and freedoms.
    • Key Provisions: Articles emphasize equality in dignity and rights, non-discrimination, the right to life and liberty, prohibition of slavery and torture, fair trial rights, asylum rights, and freedoms of religion, opinion, expression, and assembly.
    • Right to Education: The declaration also enshrines the right to education for all.

    Origins and Development

    • Post-War Sentiment: Born from the “never again” resolve after the world wars and the Holocaust, it served as a “road map” for individual rights.
    • Drafting Process: Chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt, the drafting committee represented diverse geographical regions, with over 50 countries contributing to the final draft.
    • Global Participation: Despite being drafted during widespread colonial rule, the declaration represented a collective effort, ensuring rights for all, including gender equality.

    Impact and Legacy

    • Non-Binding Nature: While not a treaty or legally binding, its principles have influenced national laws and international human rights treaties.
    • Inspiration for Movements: It spurred decolonization, anti-apartheid, and various human rights movements globally.
    • Universal Standard: Despite criticisms, it remains a universal human rights standard, influencing various subsequent human rights agreements.

    Current Challenges and Relevance

    • Contemporary Conflicts: The declaration’s anniversary comes amid ongoing human rights challenges in conflicts like Israel-Hamas, Russia-Ukraine, and internal strife in Myanmar and Sudan.
    • U.N. Secretary-General’s Concerns: Antonio Guterres noted the misuse and abuse of the declaration, with some governments undermining it.
    • Amnesty International’s View: The organization sees the declaration as a testament to the feasibility of a global human rights vision.
    • Volker Türk’s Perspective: The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasizes the declaration’s enduring relevance, urging the world to recognize its successes and learn from its shortcomings.

    Conclusion: Upholding the Universal Declaration

    • Inherent Human Rights: The declaration underscores that human rights are intrinsic to every individual.
    • Leaders’ Responsibility: Leaders are reminded of their duty to uphold these rights, essential for the well-being of the people they serve.

  • In news: Operation Storm Makers II

    Central Idea

    • The Interpol operation Storm Makers II against fraud schemes fuelled by victims of human trafficking has unearthed further evidence that the trend is expanding beyond the Southeast Asian region.

    About Operation Storm Makers II

    • This operation was a special mission organized by Interpol Headquarters in Lyon, France.
    • The operation took place from October 16 to 20.
    • It involved law enforcement in 27 countries across Asia and other regions.

    The operation targeted human trafficking and cyber scams. It resulted in:

    1. Rescue of 149 human trafficking victims
    2. Hundreds of arrests
    3. More than 270,000 inspections and police checks

    Back2Basics: INTERPOL

    Details
    Full Name International Criminal Police Organization
    Member Countries Comprises 195 member countries
    Function Facilitates coordination among police forces globally; shares data on crimes and criminals
    Headquarters Located in Lyon, France
    Global Complex Has a Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore
    Satellite Offices Several regional offices in different parts of the world
    India’s Membership Joined in June 1956
    National Central Bureau (NCB) Each member country has an NCB; in India, it’s under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

    NCBs are the contact points for Interpol’s General Secretariat and other NCBs; run by police officials of the country
    Databases Manages 19 police databases with real-time access to information on crimes and criminals
    Investigative Support Provides forensic, analysis, and assistance in locating fugitives globally
    Red Notice (RN) Issued to alert police worldwide about fugitives wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence; for provisional arrest pending extradition or similar legal action

  • Article 99 of the UN Charter

    Central Idea

    • The UN General Secretary wrote under Article 99 about the escalating threats to peace and security due to the situation in Gaza.
    • He mentioned the human suffering, deaths, and destruction in Israel and the Occupied Palestine Territory, emphasizing the need for a humanitarian ceasefire.

    Understanding Article 99

    • Charter as an International Treaty: The UN Charter, the founding document of the United Nations, functions as an international treaty binding member states.
    • Article 99’s Provision: It allows the Secretary-General to bring any matter to the UNSC that may threaten international peace and security.
    • Discretionary Power: This article is seen as a discretionary power, requiring the Secretary-General to exercise political judgment, tact, and integrity.

    Historical Invocation of Article 99

    • Rare Usage: Article 99 has been seldom invoked, with notable instances including the Congo upheaval in 1960 and Tunisia’s complaint against France in 1961.
    • Current Context: It is indicated that Guterres’ invocation of Article 99 over Gaza is a significant constitutional move.
    • Details of the Crisis: He mentioned the human suffering, deaths, and destruction in Israel and the Occupied Palestine Territory, emphasizing the need for a humanitarian ceasefire.

    Potential Impact

    • Draft Resolution by UAE: Following Guterres’ letter, the United Arab Emirates submitted a draft resolution to the UNSC demanding an immediate ceasefire.
    • Voting Dynamics: For the resolution to pass, it requires at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from the five permanent members.
    • Challenges in Reaching Consensus: The likelihood of unanimous support from permanent members is uncertain, given the US and Britain’s support for Israel’s military actions since October 7.

    Conclusion

    • Guterres’ appeal underscores the severity of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
    • The outcome of the UNSC’s actions, influenced by Guterres’ appeal, remains pivotal in addressing the ongoing conflict and humanitarian situation in Gaza.

  • Global Cooling Pledge at COP28 

    Global Cooling Pledge

    Central Idea

    • At the COP28 climate summit on November 6, 63 countries, including the US, Canada, and Kenya, signed the world’s first pledge to reduce cooling emissions.

    Global Cooling Pledge

    • Term: This pledge aims to cut cooling emissions by at least 68% by 2050, addressing a significant source of greenhouse gases.
    • Current Contribution to Global Emissions: Cooling emissions, primarily from refrigerants and cooling energy, currently constitute 7% of global greenhouse gases.
    • Projected Increase: These emissions are expected to triple by 2050 due to rising global temperatures and increased demand for cooling appliances like ACs and refrigerators.

    Role of Refrigerants in Global Warming

    • Transition from CFCs to HFCs and HCFCs: Initially, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were used in cooling appliances but were phased out by the 1987 Montreal Protocol due to ozone depletion concerns. They were replaced by hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).
    • Greenhouse Gas Potency: Although HFCs and HCFCs don’t harm the ozone layer, they are potent greenhouse gases, with some forms like HFC-134a having a global warming potential 3,400 times that of CO2.

    Sources and Effects of HFC and HCFC Emissions

    • Leakage from Appliances: These gases often leak from damaged appliances or car air conditioning systems, especially at the end of their life cycle.
    • Contribution to Warming: The leakage of these gases contributes significantly to global warming, with the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) highlighting their potency.

    Challenge of Cooling Energy

    • Electricity for Cooling: A significant portion of cooling emissions comes from the electricity used to power cooling appliances.
    • Fossil Fuel Dependence: Much of this electricity is generated from fossil fuels, particularly in developing countries, contributing to climate change.

    Vicious Cycle of Cooling Demand and Global Warming

    • Feedback Loop: Rising global temperatures increase the demand for cooling, which in turn contributes to more warming.
    • Growing Cooling Device Market: The number of cooling devices is expected to rise from 3.6 billion to 9.5 billion by 2050, with a potential need for 14 billion devices if cooling access is expanded globally.

    Solutions and Strategies

    • Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol: Over 150 countries agreed in 2016 to reduce HFC consumption by 80% by 2047, potentially avoiding over 0.4 degrees Celsius of global warming by 2100.
    • Promoting Climate-Friendly Refrigerants: The use of natural refrigerants with lower or zero global warming potential is being encouraged.
    • Proper Disposal and Management: Effective management and disposal of refrigerants could significantly reduce CO2 emissions.
    • Alternative Cooling Methods: Focusing on building designs that reduce the need for air conditioners, such as improved insulation and ventilation, is crucial.

    Conclusion

    • The Global Cooling Pledge represents a significant step in addressing a key contributor to climate change.
    • This initiative underscores the need for global cooperation in combating the escalating challenges posed by climate change.

  • INC-3: Global Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution

    Central Idea

    • The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) met in Nairobi for its third round of negotiations under the UN Environment Programme.

    About Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC)

    • INC is a committee that aims to develop a legally binding international instrument to end plastic pollution by 2025, as mandated by UNEA Resolution 5/14.
    • It began working in November 2022 at Punta del Este, Uruguay (INC-1).
    • The second meeting (INC-2) took place in May-June, 2023 at Paris, France.
    • INC is scheduled to complete its work by the end of 2024.

    Overview of INC-3

    • Event: The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) met in Nairobi for its third round of negotiations under the United Nations Environment Programme.
    • Objective: To develop an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution worldwide, as mandated by UNEA Resolution 5/14.
    • Deadline: The INC is tasked with delivering a global plastics treaty by 2025.

    Significance of INC-3

    • Critical Stage: INC-3 was pivotal in negotiating the ‘zero draft’ text, which offered various options for core obligations and control measures.
    • Progress: Compared to INC-2 in Paris, INC-3 made substantive discussions on the treaty’s content.

    Key Aspects of the ‘Zero Draft’

    • Initial Strength: The zero draft proposed strong options for a legally binding treaty.
    • Dilution of Obligations: During negotiations, member states weakened core obligations, especially on primary polymer production, chemicals of concern, and trade.
    • Controversial Elements: The draft faced controversy over its scope and objectives, particularly regarding the production of primary polymers and lifecycle definitions.

    Financial Mechanism Discussions

    • Proposals: The draft included options like a plastic-pollution fee and reducing financial flow into high carbon footprint projects.
    • Opposition: Some countries, particularly those with vested economic interests, opposed these financial provisions.

    Trade in Plastics

    • Trade Restrictions: The treaty aims to address gaps left by the Basel Convention, but faced opposition regarding trade restrictions.
    • Misinterpretation of WTO Rules: Some countries misconstrued WTO rules to oppose trade restrictions, despite legal allowances for health and environmental protection.

    Challenges in Negotiations

    • Advocacy for Strong Provisions: African countries and Small-Island Developing States advocated for binding provisions, representing marginalized voices and emphasizing human rights and public health.
    • Rules of Procedure: INC-2’s unresolved debate on rules of procedure continued, affecting decision-making at INC-3.
    • Industry Influence: The presence of industry lobbyists indicated significant industry influence on the negotiations.
    • Stalling Tactics: Some countries used stalling and blocking tactics, delaying progress and expanding the draft text with national interest-driven changes.

    Outcomes and Takeaways from INC-3

    • Lack of Consensus: The meeting ended without consensus on intersessional work, hindering progress towards INC-4.
    • Exposure of Opposition: INC-3 highlighted the countries and industries opposed to a strong binding treaty.
    • Future Challenges: The lack of mandate adoption for the first draft development indicates significant challenges ahead in achieving a robust and effective global treaty on plastic pollution.

    Conclusion

    • INC-3’s outcomes underscore the complexities and challenges in formulating a global treaty on plastic pollution.
    • The divergent interests of member states, influenced by economic and industry considerations, pose significant hurdles.
    • The upcoming negotiations will be crucial in balancing these interests with the urgent need for effective global action to tackle the plastic pollution crisis.

  • Gujral Doctrine of Foreign Policy and its Significance

    Gujral Doctrine

    Central Idea: Remembering IK Gujral

    • Date: November 30 marks the 11th death anniversary of IK Gujral, India’s 12th Prime Minister.
    • Tenure: Gujral’s tenure as Prime Minister was less than a year, often overshadowed in discussions about India’s heads of government.
    • Unique Contribution: He is notably recognized for the ‘Gujral Doctrine’, a distinctive foreign policy approach named after him.

    Understanding the Gujral Doctrine

    • Background: Before becoming Prime Minister, Gujral served as the External Affairs Minister twice, during which he formulated his foreign policy approach.
    • Five Principles: Outlined in a speech at Chatham House, London, the doctrine emphasized-
    1. Non-reciprocity in relations with neighbors like Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, and Sri Lanka,
    2. Non-use of territory against each other,
    3. Non-interference in internal affairs,
    4. Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and
    5. Peaceful bilateral negotiations for dispute resolution.
    • Exclusion of Pakistan: Notably, Pakistan was not included in the list of countries for non-reciprocal relations.
    • Philosophy: The doctrine was based on leveraging India’s size and influence in South East Asia through a non-domineering attitude and continuous dialogue, even with Pakistan.

    Successes of the Gujral Doctrine

    • Strengthening Regional Trust: The doctrine enhanced trust and cooperation with India’s neighbors.
    • Key Achievements: Notable successes include the signing of a 30-year water treaty with Bangladesh and positive developments in relations with Bhutan and Nepal.
    • Legacy: Successive Prime Ministers, despite differing political ideologies, continued to follow aspects of this doctrine.

    Criticism and Limitations

    • Perceived Leniency: Gujral faced criticism for being too lenient, particularly towards Pakistan, potentially leaving India vulnerable to future threats.
    • Perception in Pakistan: Some in Pakistan viewed the doctrine as an Indian strategy to isolate Islamabad.

    Gujral’s Personal Influence on the Doctrine

    • Background: Born in undivided Punjab and a participant in the freedom struggle, Gujral was known for his politeness and firmness in politics.
    • Stance during the Emergency: As Information Minister, he reportedly resisted Sanjay Gandhi’s orders to stifle the press.
    • International Relations Stance: Gujral was outspoken in his views, notably critiquing Britain’s suggestion to mediate over Kashmir.

    Legacy in India’s Foreign Policy

    • Impact on India’s Foreign Policy: Gujral’s approach left a lasting influence on India’s foreign policy, particularly in its relations with neighboring countries.
    • Recognition and Remembrance: His doctrine is remembered as a significant contribution to India’s diplomatic strategy, reflecting his understanding of regional dynamics and India’s role in South East Asia.

    Conclusion

    • The Gujral Doctrine stands as a testament to IK Gujral’s diplomatic acumen and his vision for India’s role in its immediate neighborhood.
    • His approach, emphasizing cooperation, non-reciprocity, and dialogue, continues to influence India’s foreign policy decisions and its relationships with neighboring countries.