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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.

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) GREENWASHING Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), under the Consumer Affairs Ministry, has issued guidelines for ‘Prevention and Regulation of Greenwashing and Misleading Environmental Claims’ to address greenwashing and misleading environmental claims. Background: – The move is part of the government’s crackdown on misleading advertisements. Key takeaways Greenwashing refers to the growing tendency of companies, organisations, or even countries to make dubious or unverifiable claims about their activities, products, or services being environment-friendly or climate-friendly.  Greenwashing presents a false picture of the progress being made on the climate change front while at the same time rewarding entities for irresponsible behaviour. The 2015 Volkswagen scandal, in which the German car company was found to have been cheating in emissions testing of its supposedly green diesel vehicles, is one of the headline-grabbing examples of greenwashing. Several other big corporations, including Shell, BP, and Coca Cola have faced accusations of greenwashing. Countries too, are sometimes accused of greenwashing, for example, when they exaggerate the impact of  new regulation on carbon emissions. Guidelines on preventing greenwashing Use of misleading words, symbols, or imagery, emphasizing positive environmental attributes while downplaying or concealing negative aspects would constitute greenwashing. If a company, for example, makes the statement that its growth is based on “sustainable principles”, it would not be treated as a misleading environmental claim for the purposes of these guidelines. However, if the company claims that all its products are manufactured sustainably, then it will be examined for greenwashing. The Generic terms like “clean”, “green”, “eco-friendly”, “good for the planet”, “cruelty-free”,  “carbon neutral”, “natural”, “organic”, “sustainable”, or similar other descriptions for a product would be allowed only if the company is able to substantiate these with evidence. The company will also have to use “adequate and accurate” qualifiers and disclosures while advertising such descriptions. When more technical terms such as “environment impact assessment”, “greenhouse gas emissions”, or “ecological footprint”, are used to advertise a product or service, the companies would be mandated to explain their meaning and implications in a “consumer-friendly” language. The guidelines will apply to all environmental claims made by manufacturers, service providers, or traders whose goods, products, or services are the subject of an advertisement, or to an advertising agency or endorser whose service is availed for the advertisement of such goods, products, or services. Types of Greenwashing Greenhushing: When a company or firms underreport or withhold information about their sustainability goals and progress. Green-crowding: It involves hiding in a group or crowd to avoid their unsustainable practices to be spotted. Greenshifting: It is an act of the company to shift the responsibility of adopting sustainable measures on consumers or individuals rather than having to take meaningful action at the corporate or brand level. Greenlighting: It occurs when a company spotlights a specific sustainability initiative undertaken by it to distract attention away from damaging activities. Greenlabelling: It is a marketing tactic adopted by companies to label their products something green or sustainable, but closer examination reveals this to be misleading. Source: Indian Express   AUSTRALIA PASSES SOCIAL MEDIA BAN FOR CHILDREN UNDER 16 Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENET EVENT Context: A social media ban for children under 16 passed the Australian Senate recently and is set to become a world-first law. Background: – Countries including France and some U.S. states have passed laws to restrict access for minors without a parent’s permission, but the Australian ban is absolute. Key takeaways The online safety amendment (social media minimum age) bill will make platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and Instagram liable for fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars (£26 million) if they fail to prevent children under 16 from creating accounts. A trial of enforcement methods will start in January, with the ban to take effect in a year. Critics argue the government is using the policy to convince parents that it is protecting their children ahead of the general election. The government hopes voters will reward it for responding to concerns about children’s addiction to social media. Critics of the law fear that banning children under 16 from social media may negatively impact the privacy of users who must prove they are older than 16. Academics, politicians and advocacy groups have warned that the ban could backfire, driving teenagers to the dark web, or making them feel more isolated. Additional Information One of the biggest challenges in implementing such bans is age verification. While platforms like Instagram have age limits at present, they simply ask users about their date of birth and do not require verification. As a result, many children enter false information to access platforms.  Country-specific age requirements can also be bypassed through Virtual Private Networks (VPN), which can show the Internet being accessed from a different domicile. Source: Reuters DIGITAL BHARAT NIDHI Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: Minister of State for Communications, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar addressed question regarding Digital Bharat Nidhi in Lok Sabha. Background: Of the more than ₹1.6 lakh crore collected by the central government under the Digital Bharat Nidhi (earlier known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund) until March 31 this year, only 51.4% allocated by the finance ministry has been fully utilised until September 30 this year. About Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is an initiative by the Indian government aimed at enhancing telecom connectivity across rural and underserved areas in the country. Background: Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF): DBN replaces the erstwhile USOF, which was established to provide telecom services in remote and rural areas at affordable prices through a universal access levy. Telecommunications Act, 2023: The DBN was established under this act, which replaced the Indian Telegraph Act. Objectives: Enhanced Connectivity: To provide widespread and non-discriminatory access to quality ICT services at affordable prices in rural and remote areas. Targeted Access: To ensure equitable access to telecommunication services for underserved groups such as women, persons with disabilities, and economically and socially weaker sections. Research and Development:

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) HORNBILL FESTIVAL Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Nagaland government is all set to organise the popular Hornbill festival, which will take place from December 1 to December 10, 2024. Background: – Referred to as the “Festival of Festivals,” the Hornbill Festival is one of the most iconic cultural events in Nagaland. Key takeaways The Government of Nagaland organises the Hornbill Festival every year, usually between 1st and 10th December. The first festival was held in December 2000. The main venue is at the Kisama Heritage Village located in the Southern Angami region of Kohima District which is about 12 km from Kohima. Named after the revered Hornbill bird, the festival showcases the culture, heritage, food and customs of Naga tribes and people from these tribes come together to celebrate their traditions with colourful dance performances. The annual programme brings all the 17 tribes of the state on a platform. The festival is vibrant with warriors dressed in full ceremonial attire performing traditional dances and war cries. Each performance tells a story—of victories, harvests, love, and tribal legends. The warriors, adorned with distinctive headgear decorated with hornbill feathers, boar tusks, and colorful woven sashes, create an unforgettable spectacle. Source: Indian Express   HUMAN-LION CO-EXISTENCE IN GUJARAT Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: Asiatic Lions – whose entire population numbering 674 is in Gujarat – co-exist with humans through mutual adaptation, enforced legal protection, economic drivers, and government compensation for livestock, among others, revealed new research.  Background: – Analysing data on over 14,000 livestock depredations and 11,000 compensation claims, attacks on humans, and surveys across 277 villages, the research attempted to find out the reasons behind human-lion co-existence. Key takeaways It was found that economic drivers, such as earnings from regulated and unregulated wildlife tourism on private lands, and sociocultural acceptance, were key drivers for higher tolerance of the predator among humans.  As per the study, regulated tourism happens in and around protected areas such as Gir National Park while there is unregulated tourism on private land and this also includes offering livestock as bait, illegally. Lions, on the other hand, have benefitted on two key counts. With greater human acceptance, they can move around outside Gir’s protected areas. Second, owing to legal and cultural practices, old cattle are abandoned, which forms a big chunk of the big cat’s diet in the form of old livestock or carrion. The co-existence comes in the backdrop of the geographic range of lions rising by 36 per cent between 2015 and 2020 and population increasing at 6 per cent per annum. Since economic drivers played an important role in co-existence, the researchers recommended that the livestock compensation scheme should be revised regularly and said that a livestock insurance scheme should be explored. To reduce attacks on humans and livestock, the study prescribed that lion prides in risk hotspots should be monitored proactively, using radio collars that have virtual geofences that can trigger warning signals. Source: Indian Express LOTHAL Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: Recently, near the Harappan site of Lothal, a 23-year-old researcher from IIT Delhi lost her life while trying to collect soil samples from a trench that collapsed. She was part of ongoing research on the impact of climate change on the Indus Civilisation. Background: Lothal stands out for its engineering marvels, including the world’s oldest dockyard, with an innovative water-locking mechanism. Artefacts such as bead necklaces, axes and fish-hooks of copper or bronze point to maritime trade with ancient civilisations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Persia. Key takeaways Lothal was one of the southernmost sites of the Indus Valley civilization, located in the Bhāl region of what is now the state of Gujarat. It is situated between the Sabarmati and Bhogavo rivers in Saurashtra region. The port city is believed to have been built in 2,200 BC. The meaning of Lothal in Gujarati is “the mound of the dead”. Incidentally, the name of the city of Mohenjo-daro (also part of Indus Civilisation, now in Pakistan) means the same in Sindhi. Lothal was first discovered in 1954 by Archaeologist SR Rao, who discovered over 30 Harappan sites. It is he who identified the excavated Lothal structure as a dockyard. According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Lothal had the world’s earliest known dock, connecting the city to an ancient course of the Sabarmati River. Other evidence that Lothal served as a hub for maritime commerce came from the presence of seals — that were likely used to seal documents or mark packages, the discovery of various items that were likely traded, a warehouse, and what Rao referred to as stone anchors for ships. But not everyone was convinced. In 1968, anthropologist Lawrence S Leshnik posited the “port” was actually a reservoir for drinking water and irrigating crops. He held that the dimensions of the inlet for ships to dock were inadequate to support seafaring vessels. As was the depth of the “dock”. He also questioned the inlet’s orientation. These doubts have been addressed by a study by the Indian Institute of Technology-Gandhinagar that has found fresh evidence that can confirm the dockyard’s existence. The study has revealed that the Sabarmati River used to flow by Lothal (currently, it flows 20 km away from the location) during the Harappan Civilisation. Lothal’s archaeological record indicates its settlements were rebuilt multiple times. Rao identified five distinct phases in the site’s stratigraphic record dated circa 2400-1900 BCE. At its peak, late 3rd millennium BCE, Lothal may have been home to 15,000 people. The decline, and eventual destruction of Lothal, occurred due to catastrophic flooding, and the Sabarmati changing course. Source: Indian Express GDP GROWTH RATE SLUMPS TO NEAR TWO-YEAR LOW OF 5.4% IN JULY-SEP Syllabus: Prelims & Mains  – ECONOMY Context: India’s Real Gross Domestic Product growth slumped to a seven-quarter low of 5.4 per cent in July-September 2024. Background: – A 5.4% growth rate in Q2 has set alarm bells ringing in the government. The key question going forward is, has India entered a cyclical growth slowdown phase. Key takeaways GDP was pulled down by “sluggish growth” in manufacturing and a deceleration in mining and quarrying. Manufacturing, which accounts for over

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) TRUMP THREAT TO BRICS: GIVE UP IDEA OF REPLACING DOLLAR OR FACE 100% TARIFFS Syllabus: Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Setting the stage to counter any challenge to the dollar’s domination in global trade, US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened the BRICS grouping with “100 per cent tariffs” if they moved to create a new currency or back any other option as the world’s reserve. Background: – BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the original five members. This year, the group admitted four new members — Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and UAE — and now represents almost half the world’s population and almost one quarter of its economy. Key takeaways USD accounts for over 90 per cent of global transactions. Trump’s latest remarks come amid divergent views on the issue at the BRICS summit in October. Russian President Vladimir Putin had warned that the “dollar is being used as a weapon”. But Prime Minister Modi had cautioned that the grouping should not acquire the image of one that is trying to replace global institutions. Several countries have been looking at other “mechanisms” after the US “weaponised the global financial infrastructure” by throwing Iran and Russia out of the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT), which is the key to international transactions. IMF’s Currency Composition of Official Foreign Exchange Reserves (COFER) has pointed to a gradual decline in the dollar’s share of central bank and government foreign reserves. But the reduced role of the US dollar over the past two decades has not been matched by corresponding increases in the shares of the other “big four” currencies, the euro, yen and pound. Rather, this has been accompanied by a rise in the share of what we refer to as non-traditional reserve currencies, including the Australian dollar, Canadian dollar, Chinese renminbi, South Korean won, Singaporean dollar, and the Nordic currencies. Significantly, the IMF also said that one non-traditional reserve currency gaining market share is the Chinese renminbi, whose gains match a quarter of the decline in the dollar’s share.  The Chinese government has been advancing policies on multiple fronts to promote renminbi internationalization, including the development of a cross-border payment system, the extension of swap lines, and piloting a central bank digital currency. In India, an effort to reduce reliance on the US dollar and internationalise the rupee saw the RBI allowing invoicing and payments for global trade in rupees in 2022 after sanctions were imposed on Russia amid the Ukraine war. According to the BIS Triennial Central Bank Survey 2022, foreign exchange market turnover — daily averages — shows that the US dollar accounted for 88 per cent of the global forex turnover while the rupee accounted for 1.6 per cent. The survey stated that if rupee turnover rises to equal the share of non-US, non-Euro currencies in global forex turnover of 4 per cent, it will be regarded as an international currency. Source: Indian Express   THE TOXINS OF THE BHOPAL DISASTER Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: Forty years after the Bhopal disaster on December 2-3, 1984, several hundred tonnes of toxic waste still remain around the ill-fated Union Carbide plant. Background: – Despite pleas from locals and activists — bolstered over the years by orders from the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court — to dispose of the waste, the Madhya Pradesh government has only been able to get rid of a small fraction. Key takeaways Union Carbide India, Ltd. (UCIL) built the Bhopal plant in the 1960s to manufacture an insecticide called carbaryl using a reaction of methyl isocyanate (MIC) with 1-naphthol.  MIC is a highly toxic compound. It reacts with water at high temperatures and its reaction with water also releases heat. On the night of December 2, 1984, a large quantity of water entered a tank storing MIC at the plant such that the MIC was soon boiling. Facilities at the plant to cool the tank were otherwise diverted, leaving MIC vapours to escape to the environment and spread. MIC doesn’t have a particular smell at concentrations at which other gases may become noticeable but it can irritate the eyes. However, given the hours, most of the people exposed to the gas were asleep. The Union Carbide Corporation has never officially specified which gases were leaked from the plant, including MIC. This decision also compromised health workers’ ability to respond effectively to the hordes of people who showed up in clinics and hospitals in Bhopal that night and the next day.  Some visual cues, including the blood-red colour of the viscera of those who died, also raised concerns that hydrogen cyanide was present in the fumes. What are the toxins at the plant? A report by Greenpeace released in 1999, based on analyses of samples collected at the site reported the presence of mercury, chromium, copper, nickel, and lead. The report also noted the presence of hexachlorobutadiene, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and trichlorobenzene, among other compounds. How toxic are heavy metals? Chromium, copper, lead, mercury, and nickel are classified as heavy metals because their density is at least 5x that of water.  Mercury has been known to damage multiple organs even at low concentrations by accumulating in soft tissue and preventing normal cellular function. There is evidence for arsenic and its compounds being able to cause cancers of the urinary bladder and the lungs; for hexavalent chromium to cause cancers of the lungs; and for nickel and its mixtures to cause cancers of the lungs, nose, nasal cavity, and the paranasal sinuses. Chromium is an essential nutrient required by the human body to promote the action of insulin for the utilisation of sugars, proteins and fats. But high doses of chromium and long exposure can give rise to various cytotoxic and genotoxic reactions that affect the immune system of the body. Lead is capable of damaging chlorophyll and disrupting photosynthesis in plants and rendering structural damage to cells and hampering their ability to produce energy in animals. How are organic compounds harmful? Hexachlorobutadiene is a possible carcinogen. When inhaled, ingested, or

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) NANDALAL BOSE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ART & CULTURE Context: 3rd December marked the birth anniversary of Nandalal Bose, who is recognized as one of the pioneers of modern Indian art and a prominent figure in the neo-Bengal school. Background: – Bose played a significant role in training generations of artists. He was greatly admired by his contemporaries and inspired his students to draw inspiration from both nature and various art traditions, just as he did. Key takeaways Born in Munger, Bihar, on December 3, 1882, Bose was one of the greatest exponents of modern art.  He was mentored by Abanindranath Tagore and was renowned for his distinctive “Indian style” of painting. In 1922, he became the principal of Kala Bhavan in Santiniketan. His influences encompassed many styles, including Japanese Nihonga traditions, Mughal and Rajasthani miniatures, palm-leaf manuscripts, and murals found in the Ajanta Caves. Notable Works: Some of his famous works include “Yama and Savitri” (1913) and “Kirat-Arjuna”. During a period when India’s artistic traditions had significantly diminished due to years of British colonial rule, Nandalal Bose played a pivotal role in the cultural regeneration and independence of the nation through his contributions in art and education. Nandalal Bose passed away in 1966, in Santiniketan, West Bengal. He received numerous accolades including the Padma Vibhushan. The National Gallery of Modern Art houses over 6,800 of his works in its collection. Archaeological Survey of India has recognised the works of Nandalal Bose as “art treasures” under the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act of 1972.  Source: Indian Express   RATAPANI TIGER RESERVE Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: The Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh was declared a tiger reserve following in-principle approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change through the National Tiger Conservation Authority. Background: – This development comes against the backdrop of Madhav National Park (Madhya Pradesh) also receiving approval to be declared a tiger reserve.  Ratapani is the 57th tiger reserve in India, marking a significant step in tiger conservation efforts Key takeaways The notification delineates the core and buffer areas, making Ratapani the eighth tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh.  The core area spans 763.8 square kilometers, while the buffer area covers 507.6 square kilometers, making the total area of the Ratapani Tiger Reserve 1,271.4 square kilometers. The notification was issued under Section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, acknowledging the core area as a critical tiger habitat.  Sitting in the lap of the Vindhya hills, the sanctuary encompasses a World Heritage Site – the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters – and many historical and religious destinations. The reserve is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including teak forests, bamboo, and a diverse range of wildlife. Source: Indian Express LAND DEGRADATION IS THREATENING EARTH’S CAPACITY TO SUSTAIN HUMANITY Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: Land degradation is undermining Earth’s capacity to sustain humanity, and failure to reverse it will pose challenges for generations to come, a new United Nations report found. Background: The analysis has been carried out by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) — a legally binding framework to address desertification — in collaboration with Germany’s Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. Key takeaways According to UNCCD, land degradation is the reduction or loss of the biological or economic productivity and complexity of rainfed cropland, irrigated cropland, or range, pasture, forest and woodlands resulting from a combination of pressures, including land use and management practices. A million sq km of land is getting degraded each year, with an estimated 15 million sq km already impacted — more than the entire continent of Antarctica — by land degradation, the report titled Stepping back from the precipice: Transforming land management to stay within planetary boundaries said. What is causing land degradation? Unsustainable agricultural practices such as the heavy use of chemical inputs, pesticides, and water diversion are the foremost drivers of land degradation, the report said. That is because such practices lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution. Another factor is climate change. Global warming has worsened land degradation by increasing frequency, intensity and/ or amount of heavy precipitation, and increased heat stress. Then there is rapid urbanisation, which has intensified land degradation by contributing to habitat destruction, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Impacts of Land Degradation Human Health and Nutrition Reduces the quality and quantity of food production, increasing the risk of malnutrition. Contributes to water- and food-borne diseases due to poor hygiene and scarcity of clean water. Causes respiratory diseases from soil erosion. Impact on Marine and Freshwater Systems Eroded soil carrying fertilizers and pesticides contaminates water bodies. Harms aquatic fauna and affects local communities dependent on these ecosystems. Contribution to Climate Change Degraded soil releases carbon (CO2 and nitrous oxide), intensifying global warming. Soil, a major terrestrial carbon sink, loses its ability to sequester carbon. Reduced Carbon Absorption by Ecosystems Land ecosystems’ capacity to absorb human-caused CO2 has declined by 20% in the last decade. Previously, these ecosystems absorbed nearly one-third of human-caused emissions. Source: Indian Express WORLD WILDLIFE CONSERVATION DAY Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Let’s have a look at India’s wildlife on World Wildlife Conservation Day. Background: – World Wildlife Conservation Day is observed annually on December 4th. The day highlights the critical challenges facing wildlife populations, including extinction, endangerment, and illegal wildlife trade. Key takeaways Despite possessing only 2.4% of the world’s land area, India accounts for 7-8% of all recorded species, which includes 45,000 species of plants and 91,000 of animals. This rich biodiversity is one of the reasons that it has been identified as a megadiverse country. India has 10 biogeographic zones and is home to 8.58% of the mammalian species documented so far, with the corresponding figures for avian species being 13.66%, for reptiles 7.91%, for amphibians 4.66%, for fish 11.72% and for plants 11.8%. Four of the 34 globally identified biodiversity hotspots, namely the Himalayas, Indo-Burma, the Western Ghats-Sri Lanka and Sundaland, are located in India. Risk

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PRODUCTION-LINKED INCENTIVE (PLI) AND JOB CREATION Syllabus: Mains – ECONOMY Context: The Government’s flagship Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost domestic manufacturing has been a mixed bag so far in terms of job creation. Background: – Data obtained through RTI reveals that sectors such as textiles and advanced chemical cells are yet to make a mark, some others such as mobile phones, food processing and pharma have done very well, and some like auto, IT hardware and specialty steel are slow to gain momentum. Key takeaways The PLI scheme aims to boost domestic manufacturing and generate employment across 14 sectors, including textiles, advanced chemical cells (ACC), solar modules, auto and auto components, IT hardware, specialty steel, mobile phones, telecom, medical devices, white goods, pharmaceuticals, food processing, drones, and drug intermediates. Job Creation under PLI Scheme Overall Performance: The scheme has created 5.84 lakh direct jobs till June 2024. This constitutes 36% of the total 16.2 lakh direct jobs targeted over the next five years or so across the 14 sectors. Sector-Wise Contribution: Just three sectors – food processing, pharmaceuticals, and mobile phones (large-scale electronics manufacturing) – accounted for over 75% (4.47 lakh) of the total jobs created. Performance of sectors under PLI: Mobile Phones (Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing): Created 1.22 lakh jobs, establishing a strong assembly base in India. Companies like Apple have contributed significantly via contract assemblers such as Foxconn, shifting production from China to India. Food Processing Sector: Created 2.45 lakh jobs (against a target of 2.5 lakh jobs by 2026-27). Pharmaceuticals Sector: Performed well, contributing significantly to job creation. Underperforming Sectors an slow moving sectors: Automobiles and Auto Components: Created 32,081 jobs against a five-year target of 1.45 lakh jobs. Solar Modules: Created 9,521 jobs against a target of 1.95 lakh over five years. Textiles: Target: 2.5 lakh jobs by 2026. Actual: Only 12,607 jobs created over two years and three months till June 2024. Stakeholders cite difficult eligibility criteria for smaller entities. Advanced Chemical Cell (ACC) Battery Storage: Aims to establish giga-scale battery facilities. Actual: Only 802 jobs created as production has not yet commenced. Selected Bidders: Ola, Reliance Industries, etc. Specialty Steel and IT Hardware: Progress is slow, with employment targets yet to be met. Source: Indian Express   ICJ BEGINS HEARING ON CLIMATE CHANGE CASE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The International Court of Justice (ICJ) began hearings in a landmark climate change case, examining what countries worldwide are legally required to do to combat climate change and help vulnerable nations fight its devastating impact. Background: – Lawyers and representatives from more than 100 countries and organisations will make submissions before the ICJ in The Hague. What are the hearings about? The two central questions asked of the Court are as follows:  What are the obligations of States under international law to ensure the protection of the climate system and other parts of the environment from anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases for States and for present and future generations; What are the legal consequences under these obligations for States where they, by their acts and omissions, have caused significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment, with respect to: States, including, in particular, small island developing States, which due to their geographical circumstances and level of development, are injured or specifically affected by, or are particularly vulnerable to, the adverse effects of climate change? Peoples and individuals of the present and future generations affected by the adverse effects of climate change?  How did this case come to the ICJ?  In September 2021, the Pacific island of Vanuatu announced its intention to seek an advisory opinion from the ICJ on climate change. Vanuatu then lobbied other countries and formed the core group of UN Member States to take the initiative forward. The discussions within the core group led to resolution A/RES/77/276, which was adopted by the General Assembly on 29 March 2023. The resolution drew upon “particular regard” to the UN Charter, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Paris Agreement, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and rights recognised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, “the principle of prevention of significant harm to the environment and the duty to protect and preserve the marine environment”.  Who is authorised to request advisory opinions ?  Advisory proceedings are only open to five organs of the United Nations and 16 specialised agencies of the UN.  While the UN General Assembly and Security Council may request advisory opinions on “any legal question”, the other UN organs and specialised agencies can only do so with respect to “legal questions arising within the scope of their activities”.  Why is this case so significant? This case is the largest ever seen by the world court. Significantly, they are taking place a week after developing nations criticised a deal at COP29 to provide $300 billion a year in climate finance by 2035, calling the agreement “insulting” and arguing it did not give them the resources they require to address the climate crisis. With small island developing states already facing impacts of climate change, these hearings are vital to establish a stronger framework of accountability that sets clear international legal obligations for climate action. What effect can an advisory opinion have?  Court’s advisory opinions are not binding. They clarify legal questions. The requesting organ, agency or organization – the General Assembly in this particular case – remains free to decide, as it sees fit, what effect to give to these opinions.   Advisory opinions carry great moral authority by what is considered the world’s highest court and the principal judicial body of the UN.  This opinion on climate change can help inform subsequent judicial proceedings such as domestic cases, influence the diplomatic process and will likely be cited in thousands of climate-driven lawsuits around the world. Source: UN News ARAVALI GREEN WALL PROJECT (AGWP) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: At United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) CoP16, India

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) AFRICA IN THE SPOTLIGHT Syllabus: Mains – GS 1 & GS 2 Context: During his recent visit to Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised India’s increasing engagement with the African continent. Background: – The Prime Minister highlighted Nigeria’s potential as a major hub for Africa’s development. He also noted that in the last five years, India has opened 18 new embassies across Africa, reflecting its commitment to fostering deeper ties. Key takeaways Africa is the world’s second-largest continent, covering about 20 per cent of Earth’s land area and 6 per cent of its total surface area.  As the second-most-populous continent, Africa’s population of approximately 1.52 billion accounts for about 18 per cent of the world’s population. Algeria is Africa’s largest country by area, and Nigeria is its largest by population. Notably, Africa’s population is the youngest, with a median age of 19.2 years, in comparison to the global average of 30.6 years.  Moreover, urbanisation is occurring at a rapid rate in Africa, reflecting on the trend of urban migration driven by economic opportunities and population growth.  Several factors such as geographic challenges, climate change, colonialism, the Cold War’s lingering impacts, neocolonialism and corruption contribute to Africa’s economic miseries. Despite challenges, Africa hosts some of the fastest-growing economies such as Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Ghana.  Economic expansion, vast natural resources (like oil, gas, minerals, and arable land), and the young population make Africa a vital region for the world.   Africa is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. However, this rich biodiversity is under threat due to various environmental issues such as desertification, deforestation, water scarcity, and pollution. Climate change further amplifies these concerns.  The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has identified Africa as the most vulnerable continent due to its low adaptive capacity, economic reliance on climate-sensitive sectors, and widespread poverty. Scramble for Africa The transatlantic slave trade between 15th and 19th centuries transported an estimated 7–12 million Africans to the New World (the Americas). Africans were primarily transported to work as laborers in mines or fields or on plantations (sugar, tobacco, and cotton).  Driven largely by the economic demands of the Second Industrial Revolution during the 19th and 20th centuries, rapid conquest and colonisation of most of the African continent by seven Western European powers occurred, often referred to as the “Scramble for Africa”.  The phenomenon resulted in nearly 90 per cent of Africa falling under European control by 1914, drastically reshaping the continent’s political, economic, and social landscapes. In 1870, only about 10 per cent of the continent was formally under European control (primarily coastal regions). The 1884 Berlin Conference, organised by Otto von Bismarck, regulated European colonisation and resulted in the “scramble” by dividing African territories among European powers and drawing arbitrary borders. Current challenges The continent currently faces multiple challenges like poverty, deprivation, epidemics, control of natural resources, conflict, civil strife and insurgencies. It is also becoming a battleground for global power struggle.  Almost every global and emerging power has established institutional mechanisms to regularly engage the continent, like FOCOC (Forum on China-Africa Cooperation) by China, TICAD (Tokyo International Conference on African Development) by Japan and IAFS (India-Africa Forum Summit) by India.  Source: Indian Express   MAURYAN EMPIRE Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has resumed excavations at Kumhrar Park in Patna. It hides an ancient architectural marvel – stumps and pits where 80 sandstone pillars once stood, holding up what was possibly a Buddhist assembly hall from the Mauryan era. Background: – In 2004-2005, ASI had covered up the area with soil after the rising water table submerged the pillar stumps. Now, 20 years later, the ASI has decided to uncover the pillars that are a key part of the evidence linking Pataliputra, the seat of the Mauryan empire, to present-day Patna. Historians believe that it was here, in this open-air hall, with its 80 pillars standing on a wooden floor and holding up a wooden ceiling, that Emperor Ashoka, who ruled between 268 and 280 BCE, called a decisive meeting of the third Buddhist Council to unify the faction-ridden Buddhist sangha. Key Milestones and Rulers of Mauryan Empire Chandragupta Maurya (322 BCE – 297 BCE) Established the Mauryan Empire after overthrowing the Nanda Dynasty with the help of Chanakya (Kautilya). United most of India under one centralized administration, creating the first pan-Indian empire. Defeated Seleucus Nicator (305 BCE) in the northwest and signed a treaty, receiving territories like Afghanistan and Baluchistan. Retired and became a Jain monk in his later years. Bindusara (297 BCE – 273 BCE) Expanded the empire further into southern India (except Tamil Nadu and Kerala). Maintained diplomatic relations with the Hellenistic world. Known as Amitraghata (Slayer of Enemies) in Greek accounts. Ashoka the Great (268 BCE – 232 BCE) Consolidated and expanded the empire to its greatest extent, covering almost all of the Indian subcontinent. Famous for the Kalinga War (261 BCE), after which he embraced Buddhism due to its horrors. Promoted Buddhism across Asia and sent missionaries to Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. Convened the Third Buddhist Council at Pataliputra. Issued Edicts of Ashoka inscribed on pillars and rocks, spreading messages of Dhamma (righteousness). Administrative and Economic Features Capital: Pataliputra (modern-day Patna). Centralized Administration: A highly organized bureaucracy with provincial governors. Revenue System: Land revenue as the main source of income. Army: A large standing army and a well-organized spy system. Economic Growth: Encouraged trade and commerce; the empire had a well-maintained road system like the Grand Trunk Road. Decline of the Mauryan Empire Weak successors after Ashoka led to decentralization. The empire collapsed in 185 BCE after the assassination of the last ruler, Brihadratha, by his general Pushyamitra Shunga, who established the Shunga Dynasty. Source: Indian Express AKAL TAKHT Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Sukhbir Singh Badal faced an attempt on life at the entrance of the Golden Temple where he was on guard duty (as punishment). Background: The former Deputy