Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) INDIA’S ROAD TO NET-ZERO Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: Climate action and plans of action by various countries is drawing significant attention as United Nations’ annual meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COPs) progresses in Baku. Background: – A few COPs ago, India committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. Since then, it has implemented several policies while others are in the works to support this transition. It is widely acknowledged that this journey will not be without challenges. Why net-zero at all? The scientific consensus is that to avoid devastating and irreversible consequences, the world must keep the global average annual surface temperature rise to within 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. The current increase is at least 1.1 °C over that in 1880. The Sixth Assessment Report of the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimated that from 2020, the remaining (cumulative) global carbon budget for limiting temperature rise to 1.5 °C is 400-500 billion tonnes (Gt) of CO2. Currently, annual global emissions are around 40 GtCO₂. This means net global emissions must drop drastically to stay within the carbon budget. Is net-zero equitable? The developed world, having caused the problem of climate change in the first place, is expected to reach net-zero emissions well before 2050, allowing more time for developing countries to balance their development goals with climate action. These expectations aren’t being met, however. Developed countries are also expected to help finance climate action, but this hasn’t materialised at the required scale. Developing countries, especially those that are small islands, are bearing more than their fair share of the brunt of climate change. So overall, neither climate change nor climate action is currently equitable. A new consumption corridor India’s lifestyle aspirations could easily become unsustainable in the long run, jeopardising our access to basic needs. In a scenario where consumption rises unchecked and India electrifies all end-use applications, the power demand could increase nine- to tenfold by 2070. Meeting it entirely via renewable energy will require more than 5,500 GW of solar and 1,500 GW of wind. This target is achievable if India’s only priority is to expand renewable energy generation capacity. But if India is to maintain food and nutritional security, increase forest cover, and preserve biodiversity as well, these energy targets will become challenging. Going beyond 3,500 GW solar and 900 GW wind will demand considerable land trade-offs. India has a tough balancing act to pull off: availing good quality of life to a large share of its population (which has significant material and energy implications) while working towards its climate adaptation and mitigation goals. To this end, it is important to recognise the pitfalls of economic models. For example, the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesises that beyond a threshold, economic growth can be decoupled from carbon emissions. In reality, even the richest countries haven’t achieved this decoupling. India need to envisage a long-term strategy incorporating ‘sufficiency consumption corridors’, with a floor well suited to meeting our developmental goals and a ceiling of excess that will help avoid unsustainable growth. Equally important are demand-side measures to help maintain this corridor of consumption that will keep us on a sustainable pathway. Demand and supply measures Some of the demand-side measures include the use of better construction materials and passive design elements to provide thermal comfort that doesn’t require air-conditioning, energy-efficient appliances, public and/or non-motorised transport, local products to reduce the demand for long-haul freight, mindful dietary choices, and alternative fuels in industries. On the supply side as well, India needs to further decentralise energy production (including by the use of rooftop solar cells and of solar pumps for agriculture). Finally, it should continue to expand its nuclear power generation capacity. Source: The Hindu   MEDIA LITERACY Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 & GS 4 Context: National Press Day is celebrated annually on 16 November. The expansion of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and the rapid spread of information highlights the growing significance of media literacy in ensuring responsible journalism and countering misinformation.  Background: – It is time to pause and understand our information needs, digital rights, and the algorithms shaping how information is presented and disseminated, and finally explore how to navigate the turbulent sea of information. Building resilience against misinformation  Information is increasingly weaponised to breed mistrust, division and intolerance, and its unhindered proliferation jeopardises the larger goal of the well-being of an open and plural society.  In today’s media-saturated culture, truth has become the first casualty. It sets the seal on what Jonathan Swift, the outstanding Anglo-Irish satirist, asserted centuries ago, “Falsehood flies, and the truth comes limping after it”. Develop a way with media literacy In an era where truth often takes a backseat, facts get smothered by emotional responses, primarily fuelled by social media. Information seekers ought to understand who creates the message, what purposes it serves, and what creative techniques are used to make lies indistinguishable from the truth.  Developing a distinct ability to analyse how political, religious, commercial, and ethnic allegiances affect human sensitivity is essential. This urgently needed skill can only be acquired if one understands and develops a way with media literacy – a widely used but least understood term.  Media literacy equips individuals to critically evaluate what is presented by the media as objective truth. It empowers us to find meaning between the lines, not on them.  Media literacy emphasises cultivating critical thinking, enabling individuals to resist being swayed by rhetorical flourishes or polemics (biased arguments). It exposes how both print media and digital platforms have the potential for manipulative persuasion and are often used to further vested interests.  To make us sensitive to religious, social, cultural and racial prejudices, media literacy harps on critical thinking so that one can realise that all beliefs and ideologies – whether rooted in religion, nationalism or other belief systems – often carry inherent biases.   Four dimensions of media literacy  Renowned media scholar W. James Potter aptly asserted that all media messages include four

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) 4B MOVEMENT Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: In the aftermath of Donald Trump’s victory, the 4B movement, which originated in South Korea, became one of the most searched topics online. Many American women took to social media to announce that they are adopting it in their lives. Background: – The movement started in South Korea around 2016, when a woman was murdered in a Seoul subway station. Her killer said he had “felt ignored by women”. This was also the time when multiple women in South Korea reported having been filmed by spycams. This movement belongs to the strain of radical feminism that believes that heterosexual relationships at their heart remain structures of oppression, and women need to break free of them to be truly independent and happy so they adopt  “Four Nos” — no dating, no sex, no marriage, and no childbearing. Key takeaways 4B stands for four bis, or no in the Korean language: bihon, bichulsan, biyeonae, and bisekseu, meaning the refusal of (heterosexual) marriage, childbirth, romance, and sexual relationships, respectively. In the Indian context, consider this — marriage often involves dowry, the burden of running the married home and raising the child is disproportionately on women, many women are penalised at their workplaces for motherhood duties, and intimate partner violence is common. While women are supposed to endure all this for the sake of love and duties, there are very little expectations from men. The proponents of the 4B movement believe that unless men work more actively for a gender-just society, women should not reward them with children, love, and emotional and other forms of labour. Essentially, the movement wants women to imagine more roles for themselves than just wives and mothers.  Women not bogged down by domestic duties and not being controlled by a man can focus on their own aims, hobbies, comfort, and happiness, the movement believes. It also advocate women building strong solidarities with other women. Why is it gaining popularity in America now? The US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade in 2022, taking away the constitutional right to abortion. As of November this year, 21 states have banned abortion or restricted the procedure earlier in pregnancy than what was granted in Roe v Wade. After the election, pro-Trump social media influencers trended a misogynist campaign called “Your body, My choice” which normalises rape and forced pregnancy. Undoubtedly, the slogan was an antithesis of the feminist slogan “My body, My Choice”. The 4B is a response to the happenings. Why do some non-sexist people also oppose 4B? Some point out that just cutting off contact with men is not a solution — this puts the onus of staying away from men on the woman, instead of demanding change and accountability from men.  Believing men as incapable of reform can play into the ‘boys will be boys’ school of thought, it is argued. Meaningful change can come by raising awareness and a sense of responsibility among men, and this can happen by pushing back from within relationships. Others point out that such totalising movements can be exclusionary of transgender rights. Another criticism is that these movements rob women of choice: one can be frustrated with inequality but still want children, or in the case of heterosexual women, sexual pleasure. Source: Indian Express   COP MUST NOTE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF UNILATERAL TRADE MEASURES: INDIA Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 & GS 3 Context: Reacting strongly to suggestions that principles of ‘Just Transition’ be used to draw up climate action plans in the future, India said “prescriptive top-down approaches” were violative of provisions of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. Background: – Insisting that development was the “overriding priority” of countries in the Global South, India said if the developed countries indeed wanted to discuss ‘just transition’, they should be willing to discuss it in the broader sense including the inequities in the global climate discourse, and not just in the NDCs and the National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). Key takeaways In the climate change context, ‘just transition’ refers to a shift to low-carbon economies in a fair, equitable and inclusive manner which does not put any segment of people at any particular disadvantage.  India was not objecting to the principles of just transition, but the fact that countries were being asked to prepare their climate action plans in a certain way. Under the Paris Agreement, the climate action plans, called Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), are supposed to be “nationally-determined” and not forced upon by others. India said provision of climate finance was one of the most critical enablers for just transition, and developed countries had failed in their responsibility of putting adequate money on the table. Intellectual property rights on green technologies are hindering free and scalable access for developing countries, India stated. India raised the issue of unilateral coercive measures restricting trade flows and denying countries access to equitable development opportunities. Though it did not single it out, India was referring to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) introduced by the European Union.  CBAM seeks to impose a tax on a certain class of goods imported in the EU, if the production of those goods had an emission footprint higher than the emission standards in EU.  Ostensibly a step to control emissions, CBAM has the effect of making the goods from developing countries like China or India non-competitive in the European markets. The developing countries complain that the costs of emissions reductions are in a way getting shifted to them. Source: Indian Express ONE DAY ONE GENOME INITIATIVE Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) have launched the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative. Background: The initiative is led by BRIC in collaboration with the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG), an institute under the DBT. Key takeaways The One Day One Genome Initiative is a transformative project launched by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Research

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION AND URBAN POVERTY Syllabus: Mains – GS 1 & GS 2 Context: The Indian Government recently announced a door-to-door survey to identify the various vulnerabilities of urban poverty, especially among low-income households. The survey aims to target six specific groups, including domestic workers and gig workers. Background: – NITI Aayog’s discussion paper on multidimensional poverty in India has underlined that rural poverty has reduced faster than urban poverty. Key takeaways In India, the understanding of poverty has a rural bias, and urban poverty is often considered a consequence of rural distress.  Following liberalisation in the 1990s, rapid growth increased the demand for skilled labour in urban areas. However, uneven growth and concentration of economic benefits in certain states and regions accentuated disparities. This led to the migration of people from less developed regions to more prosperous regions, contributing to the rise of urban poverty.  As of 2020-21, about one-third of India’s total population is migrants, with migrants forming 34.6% of the total population in urban areas.  As people move from rural areas to cities, the urban population grows along with the physical expansion of cities. This process is called urbanisation. Rapid urbanisation exerts pressure on housing, resulting in overcrowding and the proliferation of informal settlements, which contribute to the “urbanisation of poverty” Hence, urban poverty refers not only to the state of poverty or income deprivation but also to a lack of access to essential services such as housing, water, sanitation, health, education, livelihoods, and social security.  Urban poverty and slums Another important aspect of urban poverty in India is its relation to slums. There is a tendency to equate slum populations with large and metropolitan cities. Notably, around 62 per cent of the slum population in India is concentrated outside of big cities.  Experts have argued that clusters with fewer than 60 households, excluded from the definition of slums, often house some of the most vulnerable residents. This exclusion results in a significant undercounting. Moreover, these excluded clusters also tend to be located in environmentally hazardous areas. Consequently, the urban poor are more likely to be exposed to environmental disasters as well as to the impact of climate change.  Urban poverty and informality Urban poverty is also closely related to the kind of jobs the urban poor do. According to a 1972 ILO report, which popularised the concept of “informal sector”, migrant and urban dwellers are often absorbed in small-scale activities when the modern sector cannot create enough jobs. The informal sector is characteristised by easy entry, small-scale operations, labour-intensive tasks, use of local and adapted technology, skills acquired outside the formal education system, and unregulated, competitive markets. An estimated 80 per cent of all workers in urban areas are employed in the informal sector. These jobs are mostly low-paying, insecure, and without benefits like insurance or pensions. These activities are not regulated by the government. In addition, these jobs also have many caste, religion, and gender dimensions.  Policy suggestions  There are schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban, Jal Jeevan Mission – Urban, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission, etc designed for the urban poor.  These initiatives aim to address issues like housing, drinking water, sanitation as well as gainful self-employment. The difficulty of estimating the informal sector as well as slums becomes an in capturing urban poverty. Therefore, the expansion of social protection and safety nets may need to be prioritised.  Further, studies have often found that households registered under the schemes often do not get the benefits or are not aware. Hence, adopting a broader perspective in policy execution might help ensure that urban poverty alleviation efforts are inclusive and effective. Source: Indian Express   CLOUD SEEDING Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: The Delhi government’s appeal to the Centre to permit cloud-seeding and induce artificial rain as a means to tackle the capital’s ongoing air pollution crisis is misplaced, scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Management, Pune, said. Background: – Delhi’s Environment Minister suggested that artificial rain could help settle airborne pollutants and improve visibility. What is Cloud Seeding? Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique aimed at inducing or enhancing precipitation by dispersing substances into the atmosphere. Substances used: Silver iodide, potassium iodide, dry ice (solid CO₂), or liquid propane. How it Works Process: Tiny particles act as cloud condensation nuclei or ice nuclei. They encourage water droplets to condense and form larger droplets, eventually falling as rain or snow. Methods: Aerial Spraying: Using aircraft to disperse seeding agents. Ground-Based Release: Releasing agents through generators on the ground. Why cloud seeding may not work in Delhi? During winter, Delhi often experiences temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the surface. These stable atmospheric conditions do not favor the development of clouds that could be seeded.  Cloud seeding requires the presence of moisture-laden clouds. The scale of Delhi’s pollution problem is vast, requiring massive, continuous rain over a large area to have a measurable impact. Source: Indian Express SABARMATI RIVER Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: The Sabarmati Riverfront development project, which aims to transform around 38 kilometres of riverbanks from Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar across seven phases, has begun monetising its first phase, covering around 11 kilometres on either side of the river. Background: The riverfront was one of the pet projects of Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. Key takeaways The Sabarmati River is one of the major west-flowing rivers in India, originating in the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan and flowing through Gujarat before emptying into the Gulf of Khambhat in the Arabian Sea. Tributaries: Wakal, Harnav, Hathmati, Watrak (left bank); Sei (right bank) Course: Rajasthan: The river travels 48 kilometers (30 miles) in Rajasthan before entering Gujarat. Gujarat: It flows through the states of Gujarat, passing through cities like Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, and finally reaches the Gulf of Khambhat. Agriculture: The Sabarmati basin is primarily agricultural, with 74.68% of the basin area dedicated to farming. Monsoon-Dependent: The river is monsoon-fed, with flows dominated by the monsoon season.

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) STALEMATE IN BAKU Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: As the stalemate over climate finance negotiations continues at COP29 in Azerbaijan’s Baku, a group of developing countries expressed “concern” and complained that their needs were not being given attention while the interests of the developed countries were being sought to be protected. Background: – Speaking on behalf of the Like Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs), a group that also includes India and China, Bolivia complained of “imbalance” in the discussions and the negotiating process. Key takeaways The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) is a climate finance target set to replace the previous commitment of $100 billion per year by developed countries to support climate action in developing countries. The NCQG is a central theme at the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, where countries are negotiating the exact target amount. Developing countries are advocating for a substantial increase in climate finance, proposing a target of at least $1.3 trillion annually from developed nations to support climate action. Developed nations emphasize the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities,” asserting that developed countries, having historically contributed more to greenhouse gas emissions, should bear a greater financial burden. Developed Nations’ Position: Developed countries suggest that wealthier developing nations also contribute to climate finance, arguing that the current economic landscape has evolved since the original agreements. Key Points of Contention: Disagreements persist over what constitutes climate finance, including the balance between grants and loans, and the sources of these funds. Developing nations express concerns that stringent emission reduction targets could hinder their economic growth, advocating for flexibility in commitments. Current Status: Negotiations remain at an impasse, with both blocs holding firm on their positions. The outcome of these discussions is crucial for establishing a new global climate finance goal and determining the future framework for international climate action. Source: Indian Express   GUYANA Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: India and Guyana sealed 10 agreements to strengthen cooperation in hydrocarbons, digital payment systems, pharmaceuticals, and defence after bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Background: – Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Guyana marked a significant milestone in strengthening India-Guyana relations. This visit was notable as it was the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Guyana in over 50 years. Key takeaways Location: Northeastern part of South America, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean (north), Venezuela (west), Brazil (south), and Suriname (east). Capital: Georgetown. Major Rivers: Essequibo, Demerara, Berbice. Climate: Tropical, with rainy and dry seasons. Population: ~800,000 (2023 estimate). Ethnic Groups: Indo-Guyanese (descendants of Indian laborers), Afro-Guyanese (African descendants), Indigenous peoples. Language: Official language is English. Religion: Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam are predominant. Guyana is home to a part of the Amazon rainforest, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world Economy Natural Resources: Bauxite, gold, diamonds, timber, and recently discovered offshore oil reserves (2015). Key Sectors: Agriculture (sugar, rice), mining, and oil. Oil Boom: Significant oil discoveries by ExxonMobil; Guyana is emerging as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Independence: Gained from the United Kingdom on May 26, 1966. Member: CARICOM (Caribbean Community), UN, Commonwealth. Source: Indian Express CARICOM Syllabus: Prelims – INTERNATIONAL Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed seven key pillars to strengthen ties between India and ‘CARICOM’. Background: – Modi made the remarks as he joined leaders from CARICOM countries for the second India-CARICOM Summit in Guyana. About CARICOM The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is an intergovernmental organization that promotes economic integration and cooperation among its 15 member states and 5 associate members throughout the Caribbean region. Purpose: Economic Integration: Promote economic integration and cooperation among member states. Equitable Benefits: Ensure that the benefits of integration are equitably shared among member states. Coordination: Coordinate foreign policy and regional security among member states. Key Objectives: Trade: Facilitate the free movement of goods, services, and capital among member states. Development: Promote sustainable development and reduce poverty in the region. Security: Enhance regional security and stability. Member States: Full Members: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago. Associate Members: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Turks and Caicos Islands Source: Indian Express IN – SPACe Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: After satellites and launch vehicles, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is looking at ways for entry of private players in ground segments, according to a consultation document prepared by it. Background: Ground stations are essentially ground-based antennas that help in communicating with the satellites. Offering ground station as a service (GSaaS) such as satellite control, telemetry and tracking, space data reception, and space situational awareness on pay-per-use basis, the sector has been envisioned to grow 30% by 2033 — from $0.14 billion to $2.5 billion, according to the document. About IN-SPACEe The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) is a single-window, autonomous agency under the Department of Space (DOS) of the Government of India.  It was established in June 2020 to facilitate and promote private sector participation in the Indian space sector. Purpose: Promote Private Participation: Enable and nurture non-governmental entities (NGEs) to accomplish their ventures in the space sector. Authorize and Supervise: Authorize space operations and services in the country through a well-defined framework. Boost Space Economy: Accelerate the development of the Indian space ecosystem and boost the space economy. Share Space Infrastructure: Allow NGEs to share space infrastructure and premises under the control of DOS/ISRO. Establish New Infrastructure: Support the establishment of new space infrastructure and facilities. Source: Indian Express INDIA’S UNDERTRIAL PRISONERS Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 Context: Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently said that undertrials who have spent more than a third of the maximum prescribed sentence for the crime they are accused of committing should be released before Constitution Day (November 26). Background: – Home minister highlighted the new relaxed provisions on bail for first-time offenders in the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) DELHI’S POLLUTION CASE Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: Delhi is witnessing poor air quality prompting questions regarding the future of city. Background: – Delhi is perhaps going to become, if it has not already, an uninhabitable city for two different reasons. In winters (October-February), pollution levels peak, while during summers (April-June), the heat waves are unbearable, both affecting Delhi’s poor disproportionately Why is Delhi’s air quality so poor? The government often tells that stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and U.P. is responsible for Delhi’s pollution. It’s a half-truth. A 2023 report prepared by IIT Kanpur, IIT Delhi, TERI New Delhi, and Airshed Kanpur shows that, even during winter months, when sources of pollution external to Delhi are at their peak, half of the PM2.5 levels can be apportioned to Delhi itself . Vehicles alone contribute 58% to this total. The only realistic solution to air pollution is a massive shift in the way Delhi travels, that is, from private (cars and motorcycles) to public transport running on cleaner energy, with last mile connectivity, a step which will bring the number of vehicles on the road down significantly. Why are the winters so much worse? The concentration of pollutants in the air depends not just on emissions but also on many meteorological factors — temperature, wind direction/speed, and rain, among other things.  Hot air, being lighter, moves up (thereby carrying the pollutants with it), whereas cold air traps pollutants and keeps them closer to the ground. Similarly, wind can disperse the pollutants, while rain can force the most common air pollutants, like PM2.5 and PM10, to the ground. Cold air with slow wind speed and no rains make Delhi a pot of pollution with a lid on. Evidence shows that for the months which have a moderate AQI, either the wind speed is relatively higher (February-June) or rainfall is greater (July-September) than the rest of the year. Both these factors, aided by warmer air, lift the air quality of Delhi from poor/severe to moderate.  Given that Delhi’s own emissions are not winter-specific, its air quality would have been poor throughout the year but for these favourable factors from March through September. Source: The Hindu   ICC ISSUES ARREST WARRANTS FOR NETANYAHU Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defence minister Gallant, and a Hamas leader, Ibrahim Al-Masri, also known as Mohammed Deif, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. Background: – In granting the warrants, ICC judges stated there were reasonable grounds to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant bore criminal responsibility for the starvation of Gaza and the persecution of Palestinians. Key takeaways Israel, which does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction, has condemned the warrants, with Netanyahu labeling them as false and unjust.  The United States, also not a member of the ICC, has criticized the court’s decision, expressing concerns over its implications for international relations. The warrants obligate the 124 ICC member states to arrest the individuals if they enter their territories, potentially restricting their international travel.  However, enforcement remains uncertain, as the ICC lacks its own police force and relies on member states for execution. About International Criminal Court The ICC, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, was established under a 1998 treaty called the “Rome Statute”. It investigates and, where warranted, tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern to the international community: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression. At present, 124 countries are party to the Rome Statute, including Britain, Japan, Afghanistan, and Germany. India is not a member, nor are China and the US. Unlike the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which deals with countries and inter-state disputes, the ICC prosecutes individuals. Additionally, the offences should be committed either in a country that ratified the agreement or by a national of a ratifying country. The ICC can also practise its jurisdiction over cases referred by the UN Security Council to it. Israel is not party to the Rome Statute, but Palestine is. Source: Indian Express GLOBAL STOCK TAKE Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: A day before the scheduled close of talks, the COP29 meeting in Azerbaijan stared at a major crisis with almost every country and bloc rejecting the latest draft negotiating text. Background: Several countries, including India and Saudi Arabia, objected to references being made to one particular paragraph in Global Stock Take (GST) which had asked all countries to transition away from fossil fuels, triple renewable energy by 2030, reduce emissions of non-CO2 gases including methane, and phase-down coal, among other things. Key takeaways The Global Stocktake (GST) is a key mechanism under the Paris Agreement (2015) to assess the world’s collective progress toward achieving the Agreement’s goals, particularly limiting global warming to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels. Key Objectives: Review Climate Actions: Assess the implementation of countries’ climate action plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Evaluate Support: Examine the support provided to developing countries, including finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building. Promote Transparency: Enhance transparency and accountability in reporting climate actions and support. Process and Timeline Periodicity: The GST is conducted every five years, with the first stocktake completed in 2023 and the next one scheduled for 2028. Source: Indian Express COLD WAVE Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Days after night temperatures dipped across Telangana, a public advisory has been issued for cold wave conditions. Background: – The advisory has been issued by the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, for Telangana and 16 other states and Union Territories about cold wave conditions. Key takeaways The cold wave conditions signify a certain amount of fall of temperature at a given place with respect to normal climatological value. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, a cold wave occurs when the minimum temperature is 10°C or less for plains and 0°C or less

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) THE TRUMP EFFECT ON INDIA Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 Context: Mr. Donald Trump has not yet assumed the office of President of the United States. With seven weeks remaining until the inauguration, discussions worldwide are centered on the potential impact of his presidency. Background: – Mr Trump’s ‘Make America Great Again’ is not likely to make the planet a better or safer or more prosperous place. It is, according to Mr Trump, in America’s self-interest. Core Trump ideas Trump, the Mercantilist and the impact Belief in High Tariffs: Advocates high tariffs to protect U.S. interests, particularly targeting imports from China. Impact on U.S. Economy: High tariffs likely to increase costs for industries and consumers, leading to inflation. Inflation could prompt the Federal Reserve to raise policy rates, reversing earlier cuts. Higher interest rates will reverse the flow of capital and developing countries like India will witness outflow of funds. Against a stronger dollar, the Indian rupee will lose value. China may redirect exports to other countries, increasing dumping. India already imposes significant anti-dumping duties on Chinese goods. High U.S. tariffs may trigger retaliatory measures, disrupting world trade. Trump, the Protectionist Industrial Policies: Plans to incentivize domestic manufacturing may hamper foreign direct investments in countries like India. Immigration and Deportation: Promised to deport up to one million illegal immigrants in the first hundred days. Indian deportations could impact bilateral ties. Possible tightening of H1B1 visa regulations, conflicting with U.S. industry needs for skilled Indian professionals. Trump, the Climate Sceptic Energy Policy: Nominated Chris Wright, a proponent of fracking and drilling, as Energy Secretary. Denial of climate crisis likely to hinder COP efforts on Climate Change. Aligns with India’s position for slower COP implementation. Pharmaceutical Industry: Anticipation of deregulation and higher drug prices, which may affect global healthcare affordability. Source: Indian Express   LACHIT BORPHUKAN Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: Every year, 24th November is celebrated as the ‘Lachit Diwas’ to mark the birth anniversary of the Assamese folk hero Lachit Borphukan. Background: – He is considered one of the greatest of Assamese heroes, symbolising the valour, courage, and intelligence that defines the Assamese self-identity. Key takeaways Lachit Borphukan was a legendary army commander of the Ahom kingdom. He defeated the Mughal forces, led by Raja Ramsingh-I, in the ‘Battle of Saraighat’, and thwarted a drawn-out attempt by them to take back Assam. Lachit was born on November 24, 1622, and grew up during a turbulent period of Assam’s history. He was chosen as one of the five Borphukans of the Ahom kingdom by king Charadhwaj Singha, and given administrative, judicial, and military responsibilities. Battles of Alaboi and Saraighat Between 1615 and 1682, the Mughal Empire made a series of attempts, under Jahangir and then Aurangzeb, to annex the Ahom kingdom.  In 1662, Mughal Governor of Bengal Mir Jumla’s forces engaged with the Ahom army and went on to occupy part of the territory under Ahom rule. Between 1667 and 1682, the Ahoms under a series of rulers, launched a counter-offensive to reclaim lost territories. In 1669, Aurangzeb dispatched the Rajput Raja Ram Singh I to recapture territories won back by the Ahoms. The battle of Alaboi was fought on August 5, 1669 in the Alaboi Hills near Dadara in North Guwahati. While the Mughals preferred an open battle, Borphukan relied on his knowledge of the territory and engaged in guerrilla warfare, which provided an edge to his smaller, but fast moving and capable forces. After initial setbacks, Ram Singh sent his entire battery of Rajput soldiers and Mughal veterans and turned the tide of the battle. Unlike in Alaboi, where he was forced to fight on land instead of a naval battle, Lachit in Saraighat enticed the Mughals into a naval battle. Ahom forces combined a frontal attack and a surprise attack from behind. They lured the Mughal fleet into moving ahead by feigning an attack with a few ships from the front. The Mughals vacated the waters behind them, from where the main Ahom fleet attacked and achieved a decisive victory. Lachit died a year after the Battle of Saraighat from a long festering illness. In fact he was very ill during the Battle of Saraighat, as he heroically led his troops to victory. This only added to his legend. The battle of Saraighat proved that Lachit Barphukan was a master strategist who can be compared with the great generals in any part of India. Aptly, the Lachit Barphukan gold medal, instituted in 1999, is given to the best cadet from the National Defence Academy. Source: Indian Express ARGENTINA CONSIDERS PARIS TREATY PULLOUT Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Argentina’s far-right President Javier Milei is considering withdrawing his country from the Paris Climate Agreement. Background: The speculation surfaced after Milei’s government asked its negotiators to leave the ongoing COP29 climate summit last week. Key takeaways The Paris Agreement is an international accord that was adopted by nearly every country in 2015 to address climate change and its adverse effects. Its primary goal is to substantially reduce GHG emissions in a bid to limit global warming in this century to “well below” 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, while pursuing the means to curb warming to 1.5 degrees. The treaty requires all Parties (countries which have joined the agreement) to state every five years what they are doing to tackle climate change — what is known as their nationally determined contribution (NDC).  Each successive NDC is meant to reflect an increasingly higher degree of ambition compared to the previous version, according to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). How does a country withdraw from the Paris Agreement? Article 28 of the Paris Agreement lays out the procedure and timeline for a country’s withdrawal from the treaty. It says, “at any time after three years from the date on which this Agreement has entered into force (this happened in 2016) for a Party, that Party may withdraw from this Agreement by giving written

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) TREATY TO TACKLE PLASTIC POLLUTION Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: More than 170 countries are converging in Busan, Republic of Korea, to negotiate a new legally binding global treaty to end plastic pollution, including marine pollution. Background: – This is the fifth (and final) round of talks since 2022, when the UN Environmental Assembly (UNEA) agreed to develop such a by the end of 2024. Why is a global plastic treaty required? The annual global production of plastic doubled from 234 million tonnes (mt) in 2000 to 460 mt in 2019. Nearly half of this was produced in Asia, followed by North America (19%) and Europe (15%).  Plastic production is expected to touch 700 mt by 2040, according to a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Plastic takes anywhere from 20 to 500 years to decompose, and less than 10% has been recycled till now, according to a 2023 study published by The Lancet. Much of the plastic waste leaks into the environment, where it breaks down into smaller particles (microplastic or nanoplastic). Studies have found that exposure to chemicals in plastic can cause endocrine disruption and a range of diseases including cancer, diabetes, reproductive disorders, and neurodevelopmental impairment. Plastic also harms species inhabiting marine, freshwater, and land ecosystems. Plastic contributes to climate change also. In 2020, it generated 3.6% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with 90% of those  emissions coming from plastic production, which uses fossil fuels as raw material. The remaining 10% of emissions were released during plastic waste management and treatment. India accounts for 20% of the world’s global plastic pollution with release of 9.3 mt, which is significantly more than the countries next in the list — Nigeria (3.5 mt), Indonesia (3.4 mt) and China (2.8 mt), the study said. What is on the negotiating table? Negotiations pertain to formulating a global set of rules that will address plastic pollution through its life cycle, from fossil-fuel based production, and the challenges of managing plastic disposal and waste.  The final rules may also ban particular types of plastic, products and chemical additives used in plastics, and set legally binding targets for recycling and recycled content used in consumer goods. There will be talks on ‘just transition’ for workers and communities whose livelihoods would be affected by the elimination of certain items and a move away from plastic production. However, countries have been unable to converge on agenda items. Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia, Kazakhstan, Egypt, Kuwait, Malaysia, and India have resistance to stricter mandates and have instead proposed downstream measures such as innovative waste management and sustainable plastic use. Countries have also not been able to agree on the subject of finance. What is India’s position? India has made it clear that it does not support any restrictions on the production of polymers. Any restrictions are beyond the mandate of the UNEA’s resolution adopted at Nairobi in 2022, according to India. The country has also sought the inclusion of financial and technical assistance, and technology transfer in the substantive provisions of any final treaty. On the exclusion of harmful chemicals used for plastic production, India has said that any decision should be based on scientific studies, and the regulation of such chemicals should be regulated domestically. India banned the use of single-use plastics covering 19 categories in 2022. However, the country has said that a decision on the issue of including certain plastic items for phase-out in the final treaty should be pragmatic and regulation should be nationally driven taking into account national circumstances. Source: Indian Express   GLOBAL MATCHMAKING PLATFORM (GMP) Syllabus: Prelims – INTERNATIONAL Context: United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Climate Club launched the Global Matchmaking Platform (GMP). Background: – The initiative focused on accelerating decarbonisation in heavy-emitting industries was launched in the presence of partner countries, key donor and partner organisations.  Key takeaways The Global Matchmaking Platform (GMP) is an initiative designed to accelerate the decarbonization of heavy-emitting industries in emerging and developing economies. Purpose and Objectives: Decarbonization: The primary goal of the GMP is to fast-track the decarbonization of industries that are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Technical and Financial Solutions: The platform connects countries with technical and financial solutions to reduce emissions in energy and emissions-intensive industrial sectors. How It Works: Single-Point Gateway: The GMP acts as a single-point gateway for governments in emerging and developing economies to raise customized requests and identify globally leading technical and financial solutions. Matchmaking Process: The platform facilitates a matchmaking process where countries’ specific needs are matched with appropriate technical and financial support from partner organizations. Pilot Projects: Pilot project discussions are already underway in countries such as Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Egypt, Indonesia, Kenya, Morocco, and Cambodia. Support and Partnerships: Climate Club: The GMP is a support mechanism of the Climate Club, with the secretariat hosted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Delivery Partners: Key delivery partners include Climate Investment Funds, the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), UNIDO, and the World Bank. Initial Funding: The platform received initial funding from the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Climate Action (BMWK). Source: Down To Earth MICRO, SMALL, AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (MSMES) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) have added nearly 10 crore new jobs over the past 15 months, according to official data from the Udyam portal. Background: According to the figures, the number of registered MSMEs has now gone up to 5.49 crore from 2.33 crore in August last year while the number of jobs reported by these enterprises has shot up to 23.14 crore from 13.15 crore during this period. Definition and Classification Micro Enterprises: Investment in plant and machinery or equipment up to ₹1 crore and annual turnover not exceeding ₹5 crore. Small Enterprises: Investment in plant and machinery or equipment up to ₹10 crore and annual turnover not exceeding ₹50 crore. Medium Enterprises: Investment in plant and

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) INDIA’S FEDERAL VISION Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26  November 1949 (it came into effect on 26 January 1950). This day, celebrated as the constitution day is an apt moment to reflect on one of the most defining features of the Indian Constitution — its federal structure. Background: – Indian federalism represents a deliberate constitutional choice by the framers aimed at balancing unity and diversity, decentralisation, and democratic decision-making. Unique features of India’s federalism  India is called a ‘quasi-federal’ republic as it has the characteristics of both federal and unitary systems. While India adopted a federal structure that divides power between the central/federal government and its member states, it also incorporates unitary features, allowing for flexibility in governance. Thus, some of the major federal features put in place by the framers of the Constitution include: Dual polity: With the Union government at the center and state governments at the periphery, India has a dual governance system. Constitutional supremacy: All laws enacted by legislatures at various levels must conform to the Constitution. Rigid amendment procedures: The Constitution of India protects its federal structure by adopting rigid procedures for amendments. Division of power: A transparent system of division of powers between central and state governments is enshrined in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, which classifies subjects into three lists, i.e. Union List, State List and Concurrent List. The three lists  Union List: Subjects belonging to the Union List exclusively fall under the legislative authority of Parliament, and examples include defence and foreign affairs.  State List: The State List is a list of subjects that come under the authority of state legislatures, and some examples of the subjects include police, public health, and agriculture.  Concurrent List: The Concurrent List was inspired by the Australian Constitution. The list enumerates subjects on which both the Union and state governments can legislate, with Union laws prevailing in the event of a conflict. Examples of subjects include education and marriage. This system ensure that there is no concentration of power at any level of government. Changes made to the three lists  Over time, modifications to the three lists have been undertaken to address the evolving governance needs and public policy priorities. At the time of its adoption, the Constitution allocated 98 subjects to the Union List, 66 to the State List, and 47 to the Concurrent List.  Currently, the numbers stand at 100 subjects in the Union List, 59 in the State List, and 52 in the Concurrent List, reflecting the significant shifts over the decades.  Among these changes, the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 introduced the most substantial changes to the Seventh Schedule. This amendment transferred key subjects such as education, forests, protection of wild animals and birds, and administration of justice from the State List to the Concurrent List.  These amendments reflect a broader trend toward increased centralisation within India’s federal structure.  Examples of subjects moved to Concurrent List  The shifting of education to the Concurrent List helped to ensure uniformity in educational standards across the country. It enabled the Union government to introduce national policies like the Right to Education Act, 2009 and the National Education Policy, while allowing states to address region-specific educational needs. Similarly, the Constitution granted states exclusive control over forest management and conservation. The 42nd Amendment moved forests to the Concurrent List in view of the growing concerns about environmental degradation, deforestation, and the global importance of biodiversity. This shift enabled the Union government to enact legislation such as the Forest Conservation Act, 1980. Contemporary challenges  The division of powers articulated in the three lists of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution exemplifies its adaptability, effectively balancing centralisation and regional autonomy to meet the nation’s governance needs. New challenges such as “climate change, artificial intelligence and cybercrime transcend territorial boundaries which form the basis of federal units.” The Indian federal structure, with its dynamic allocation of powers, can address these challenges through collaborative efforts between the states and the centre. Source: Indian Express   ONE NATION ONE SUBSCRIPTION Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Union Cabinet approved a budgetary allocation of Rs 6,000 crore for an initiative called ‘One Nation One Subscription’ (ONOS).  Background: – Aiming to centralise journal subscriptions for nearly 6,300 government-run institutions, ONOS seeks to provide equitable access to 13,000 scholarly journals under a single platform. Current system Higher education institutions (HEIs) can access journals through 10 different library consortia. A library consortium is a group of two or more libraries that have agreed to cooperate to fulfil certain similar needs, usually resource sharing.  For instance, INFLIBNET Centre (Information and Library Network Centre) in Gandhinagar is an Inter-University Centre of the University Grants Commission which oversees the UGC-Infonet Digital Library Consortium, providing access to selected scholarly electronic journals and databases in different disciplines. Apart from this, HEIs also subscribe to several journals individually. What does the ONOS scheme offer? Through the ONOS scheme, the Centre aims to consolidate the disaggregated approach to journal access. ONOS will enable state and central government HEIs to access thousands of journals on one platform, which will be active from January 1, 2025. This common platform will host 13,000 journals published by 30 international publishers. All institutions will only need to register on the platform to access these journals.  INFLIBNET has been designated as the implementing agency for this initiative. The central government negotiated one subscription price for each of the 30 different publishers and approved Rs 6,000 crore for three calendar years — 2025, 2026 and 2027. What is the need for ONOS? First, it would expand access to the best scholarly journals for 55 lakh to nearly 1.8 crore students, faculty, and researchers across roughly 6,300 government universities, colleges, research bodies, and Institutions of National Importance (INIs), including those in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Second, it would avoid duplication of journal subscriptions across different library consortia and individual higher education institutions and hence reduce excess expenditure. Third, a single subscription for all central

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PAN 2.0 Syllabus: Prelims –  CURRENT EVENT Context: The Cabinet approved the PAN 2.0 Project of the Income Tax Department (ITD), with a cost of Rs 1,435 crore. Background: – The project aims to streamline and modernise the process of issuing and managing PAN and TAN, making it more user-friendly and efficient. Key takeaways PAN 2.0 Project is an e-Governance project of ITD for re-engineering the business processes of taxpayer registration services.  Under the project, the existing PAN system will be upgraded completely, the IT backbone will be revamped and PAN will be made as a common business identifier for all digital systems of specified government agencies. How PAN 2.0 will be different from existing setup? Integration of Platforms: Currently, PAN-related services are spread across three different platforms: the e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL Portal, and Protean e-Gov Portal. With the implementation of PAN 2.0, all these services will be integrated into a single, unified portal. This one-stop platform will handle comprehensively issues/matters related to PAN and TAN, including application, updates, corrections, Aadhaar-PAN linking, re-issuance requests, and even online PAN validation.  Comprehensive use of technology for paperless processes: Complete online paperless process as against prevailing mode Taxpayer facilitation:  Allotment/updation/correction of PAN will be done free of cost and e-PAN will be sent to the registered mail id. For physical PAN card, the applicant has to make a request along with the prescribed fee About PAN and TAN A 10-digit alphanumeric number, PAN, enables the Income Tax Department to link all transactions of a person with the department. These transactions include tax payments, Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) / Tax Collected at Source (TCS) credits, returns of income, specified transactions. Once PAN is allotted, it remains the same forever. It is mandatory to quote PAN on filing of income tax return. TAN stands for Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number, which is a 10-digit alphanumeric number issued by the Income Tax Department. TAN needs to be obtained by all persons responsible for deducting or collecting tax at source.It is compulsory to quote TAN in TDS/TCS return, any TDS/TCS payment challan, TDS/TCS certificates. Source: PIB   CYCLONE DEVELOPING IN BAY OF BENGAL, HEADING TOWARDS TAMIL NADU Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently announced intensification of the existing deep depression into a cyclone and the chances of the storm hitting the Tamil Nadu coast. Background: – Flanked by the sea on three sides, India’s east and west coasts are affected by cyclones, annually. Key takeaways The storm will be identified as Fengal, a name proposed by Saudi Arabia.  This is the second cyclone in the post-monsoon season to affect the Indian coast after Cyclone Dana, which crossed Odisha as a ‘severe’ category storm in late October. Climatologically, about five cyclones develop in the North Indian Ocean basin — comprising the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea — each year. Of these, an average of four cyclones develop over the Bay of Bengal and one over the Arabian Sea. This basin is most prone to cyclone development during the pre-monsoon season (April – June) and post-monsoon season (October – December) months. About Tropical Cyclones A “Cyclonic Storm’ or a “Cyclone” is an intense vortex or a whirl in the atmosphere with very strong winds circulating around it in anti-clockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere and in clockwise direction in the Southern Hemisphere.  Tropical cyclones are those which develop in the regions between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer. They are the most devastating storms on Earth. Tropical cyclones are also referred to as ‘Hurricanes’ over Atlantic Ocean, ‘Typhoons’ over Pacific Ocean, ‘Willy-Willies’ over Australian Seas and simply as ‘Cyclones’ over north Indian Ocean (NIO). Structure: Eye: Calm, cloud-free center. Eye Wall: Region of strongest winds and rainfall around the eye. Rain Bands: Spiral bands of thunderstorms extending outward. Favourable Conditions for Formation Warm Ocean Waters: Sea surface temperatures >26.5°C provide the energy source. Coriolis Effect: Ensures rotation; absent at the equator. Low Wind Shear: Allows vertical development of storm clouds. Pre-existing Disturbance: Initial low-pressure zone. Cyclone Formation Process (Cyclogenesis): Warm ocean heats the air above, causing it to rise and create a low-pressure zone. Moist air from surrounding areas rushes in, rises, and condenses, releasing latent heat. The Coriolis effect initiates rotation, forming a spiraling system. The cyclone intensifies as it absorbs more heat and moisture. Source: Indian Express HIGH SEAS TREATY Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: India’s recent signing of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement — better known as the High Seas Treaty — has drawn both praise and scepticism from maritime observers Background: – So far, 105 countries have signed the treaty which is ratified by 14 countries. The High Seas treaty would come into force 120 days after at least 60 countries submit their formal ratification documents. About High Seas Treaty  The high seas comprise 64 percent of the ocean surface and about 43 percent of the Earth. They belong to no one, and everyone enjoys equal rights for navigation, overflight, economic activities, scientific research, and the laying of infrastructure like undersea cables. As high seas are no one’s responsibility this has led to the overexploitation of resources, biodiversity loss, pollution, including dumping of plastics, ocean acidification, and many other problems. The High Seas Treaty has four main objectives: Demarcation of marine protected areas (MPAs), rather like there are protected forests or wildlife areas; Sustainable use of marine genetic resources and equitable sharing of benefits arising from them; Initiation of the practice of environmental impact assessments for all major activities in the oceans; and Capacity building and technology transfer. Marine-Protected Areas: MPAs are where ocean systems, including biodiversity, are under stress, either due to human activities or climate change. Activities in these areas will be highly regulated, and conservation efforts similar to what happens in forest or wildlife zones will be undertaken. Marine Genetic Resources: Oceanic life forms can be useful for humans in areas like drug development. Genetic information is already being extracted, and their benefits are being investigated. The treaty seeks to ensure that

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) JYOTIRAO PHULE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – HISTORY Context: November 28 marks the death anniversary of Jyotirao Phule. Background: – He, along with Savitribai Phule, worked as a social reformer, fighting against social evils like untouchability and promoting women’s education. Key takeaways Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, also known as Jyotiba Phule, was born on April 11, 1827, and belonged to the Mali caste of gardeners and vegetable farmers. Despite the societal norms of his time, Phule received an education at the Scottish Mission High School in Pune. He was a talented student and later became a teacher himself Phule along with his followers formed Satyashodhak Samaj which meant ‘Seekers of Truth’ in order to attain equal social and economic benefits for the lower castes in Maharashtra.  He was married off when he was only 13, and was personally rebuked in 1848, while attending the wedding of a Brahmin friend. With time, he realised the state of women in society and challenged it by first educating his wife Savitribai, and then starting an indigenously-run school for girls in Pune. The couple went on to open a school for girls in Bhidewada, Pune, in 1848. This became the country’s first girls’ school. Many more such schools were opened for girls, Shudras and Ati-Shudras (the backward castes and Dalits, respectively) in Pune, leading to discontent among Indian nationalists like Bal Gangadhar Tilak.  They opposed the setting up of schools for girls and non-Brahmins, citing a “loss of nationality”, and believing not following the caste rules would mean a loss of nationality itself. Authored several works highlighting social issues: Gulamgiri (1873): Critique of Brahmanical hegemony and social exploitation. Shetkarayacha Asud (The Cultivator’s Whipcord): Highlighted the exploitation of farmers by landlords and moneylenders. He was bestowed with the title of Mahatma in 1888 by a Maharashtrian social activist Vithalrao Krishnaji Vandekar. Source: Indian Express   EIGHT CARMAKERS LIKELY TO FACE EMISSION PENALTIES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: The centre has found out that eight carmakers including Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, and Honda have higher than mandated fleet emission levels in financial year 2022-23, which could mean penalties of around Rs 7,300 crore. Background: – For 2022-23, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, under the Union Ministry of Power, required car companies of all units sold during the year to achieve India’s Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms. Key takeaways The CAFE norms were tightened in the beginning of financial year 2022-23.  The quantum of penalties has become a point of contention between the Centre and the auto industry.  In 2022-23, models and variants of 18 automobile manufacturers were tested at accredited laboratories by simulating actual driving conditions. When the results for a set of cars did not conform to specified CAFE standards, then penalties were calculated for the total number of cars sold in the full year. Those penalised include Hyundai (Rs 2,837.8 crore), Mahindra (Rs 1,788.4 crore), Kia (Rs 1,346.2 crore), Honda (Rs 457.7 crore), Renault (Rs 438.3 crore), Skoda (Rs 248.3 crore), Nissan (Rs 172.3 crore), and Force Motor (Rs 1.8 crore). About Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFÉ) norms were first notified by the Government in 2017, under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 to mitigate fuel consumption by lowering CO₂ emissions; aiming to reduce oil dependency and air pollution.  Applicability: These norms apply to passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of less than 3,500 kg, including petrol, diesel, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), compressed natural gas (CNG), hybrid, and electric vehicles manufactured or imported for sale in the country. It may be noted that the standards apply to the Corporate Average Fuel Consumption i.e. the average of the standards fuel consumption of all vehicles sold by the manufacturers in the fiscal year, and not to the fuel consumption of an individual model. Phase I (2017-2022): The first phase of CAFE norms was implemented from April 1, 2017. The average fuel consumption target was set at less than 5.49 liters per 100 km, with an average kerb weight of 1,037 kg. Phase II (2022 onwards): The second phase came into effect from April 1, 2022, with stricter targets. The average fuel consumption target was reduced to less than 4.78 liters per 100 km, with an average kerb weight of 1,082 kg. Calculation Method: Corporate Average Fuel Consumption (CAFC): The fuel consumption is measured in liters per 100 km and is calculated based on the corporate average curb weight of all vehicles sold by a manufacturer in a fiscal year. CO2 Emissions: The norms also set limits on CO2 emissions, with a target of less than 130 grams per km until 2022 and less than 113 grams per km from 2022 onwards. Source: Indian Express BALTIC SEA Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: The Swedish prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, has said the Baltic sea is now a “high risk” zone as he met Nordic and Baltic leaders days after a suspected sabotage attack on undersea cables. Background: – The Swedish PM declined to speculate on who may have been responsible for the severing of two fibre optic telecoms cables in the Baltic. A Chinese ship – the Yi Peng 3 – that sailed over the cables about the time they were severed has remained anchored in the Kattegat strait between Sweden and Denmark since 19 November. About Baltic Sea The Baltic Sea is an arm of the Atlantic Ocean, extending northward from southern Denmark almost to the Arctic Circle. It separates the Scandinavian Peninsula from the rest of continental Europe. Boundaries: West: Denmark and the Kattegat Strait connecting it to the North Sea via the Skagerrak. North: Sweden and the Gulf of Bothnia. East: Finland, Russia, and the Gulf of Finland. South: Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Countries Bordering the Baltic Sea: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, and Sweden. Brackish water due to limited exchange with the North Sea and high inflow of freshwater from rivers. Coastline: Rugged with numerous islands, peninsulas, and gulfs such as the Gulf of Bothnia and Gulf of Finland.