Current Affairs

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   UKRAINE LAUNCHES ITS BIGGEST DRONE ATTACK ON MOSCOW SINCE START OF WAR Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Ukraine attacked Moscow on Sunday with at least 34 drones, the biggest drone strike on the Russian capital since the start of the war in 2022, forcing flights to be diverted from three of the city’s major airports and injuring at least five people. Background: – The barrages come amid expectations that US president-elect Donald Trump may put pressure on both sides to end the conflict. Key takeaways Moscow and its surrounding region, with a population of at least 21 million, is one of the biggest metropolitan areas in Europe, alongside Istanbul. The 2-1/2-year-old war in Ukraine is entering what some officials say could be its final act after Moscow’s forces advanced at the fastest pace since the early days of the war and Donald Trump was elected 47th president of the United States. Kyiv, itself the target of repeated mass drone strikes from Russian forces, has tried to strike back against its neighbour with repeated drone strikes against oil refineries, airfields and even Russian strategic early-warning radar stations. Moscow and Kyiv have both sought to buy and develop new drones, deploy them in innovative ways, and seek new ways to destroy them – from using farmers’ shotguns to advanced electronic jamming systems. Russia has developed a series of electronic “umbrellas” over Moscow, with additional advanced internal layers over strategic buildings, and a complex web of air defences to shoot down the drones before they reach the Kremlin in the heart of the capital. Additional Information: As the Russia-Ukraine war continues to rage, newer weapons of destruction have come into play. Recently, both sides have posted visuals of drones appearing to rain down fire — earning this weapon the moniker of “dragon drone”. Dragon drones essentially release a substance called thermite — a mixture of aluminium and iron oxide — developed a century ago to weld railroad tracks. When ignited (usually with the help of an electrical fuse), thermite triggers a self-sustaining reaction that is quite difficult to extinguish. It can burn through almost anything, from clothes to trees to military-grade vehicles, and can even burn underwater. Source: BBC REGIONAL COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP (RCEP) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: India should be a part of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, Niti Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam said recently. Background: – Subrahmanyam emphasised that India will have to get into the global value supply chain as 70 per cent of the world’s trade happens through the global supply chain. Key takeaways The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a significant free trade agreement among 15 Asia-Pacific nations: Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.  Collectively, these countries account for approximately 30% of the world’s GDP, trade, and population, making RCEP the largest trading bloc globally. Key Features of RCEP: Trade Liberalization: RCEP aims to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers, facilitating smoother trade flows among member countries.  Market Access: The agreement enhances market access for goods and services, promoting increased economic integration in the region.  Investment Opportunities: By creating a more predictable and transparent investment environment, RCEP encourages cross-border investments among member states.  Economic Cooperation: The partnership fosters collaboration in areas such as intellectual property, e-commerce, and competition policy, aiming to harmonize standards and regulations.  India’s Position on RCEP: Initially, India participated in RCEP negotiations but decided to withdraw in 2019, citing concerns over trade deficits and the potential impact on domestic industries. Despite its absence, RCEP remains open to India’s future participation, should it choose to reconsider its position. Source: Business Standard SUTLEJ RIVER Syllabus: Prelims –  GEOGRPAHY Context: Local residents of Sri Ganganagar district,Rajasthan held protests against alleged pollution in the river Sutlej, which they blame on factories in the neighbouring Punjab. Background: The National Green Tribunal had imposed a fine of Rs 50 crore on the Punjab government in 2018 for “uncontrolled industrial discharge” into Sutlej and Beas. The tribunal once again pulled up the state in 2021, ordering it, as well as Rajasthan, to submit quarterly compliance reports to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti (water resources) about the measures taken to curb the inflow of effluent discharge into the two rivers. About Sutlej River The Sutlej River is the longest river among the five rivers of the Punjab region. The other four rivers that flow through the Punjab region are the Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum.  It originates from the Rakshastal Lake near Mount Kailash in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. From Tibet, it flows through Himachal Pradesh, enters the Punjab plains in India, and then moves into Pakistan, where it merges with the Chenab River to form the Panjnad River, which ultimately joins the Indus River. Tributaries: Major tributaries include the Baspa and Spiti rivers. Hydroelectric and Irrigation Projects: Bhakra Nangal Dam: One of India’s largest dams, providing hydroelectric power and irrigation. Nathpa Jhakri Dam: A major hydroelectric project in Himachal Pradesh. Indira Gandhi Canal: One of the longest irrigation canals in the world, transporting Sutlej water to Rajasthan for agricultural purposes. Indus Waters Treaty (1960): The Sutlej River is allocated to India under the Indus Waters Treaty, signed between India and Pakistan. The treaty divides the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries, ensuring the Sutlej, along with the Ravi and Beas rivers, are under India’s control for usage. Important Places Along the River: Ropar Wetland: A recognized Ramsar site in Punjab that is ecologically important. Harike Wetland: Another Ramsar site where the Sutlej meets the Beas River. Source: Indian Express HOKERSAR WETLAND Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Lack of water due to excess deficit rainfall at the Hokersar wetland in the Kashmir Valley in recent years has impacted the arrival of migratory bird populations in the region. Background: – According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kashmir is

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   TADOBA-ANDHARI TIGER RESERVE Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT  Context: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has directed the Maharashtra government to address complaints of “non-recognition of forest rights and forced eviction” raised by families living in Rantalodhi village inside the core area of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve. Background: – Under the Wildlife Protection Act, tribal communities and forest dwellers living inside national parks and tiger reserves can be relocated only after obtaining informed consent from the Gram Sabha and after establishing that human presence will harm wildlife.  Key takeaways The Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) is located in Maharashtra. Tadoba became one of India’s earliest national parks when it was so notified in 1955. In 1986, 506.32 sq km of forest land adjoining the national park was notified as the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary. The national park and the wildlife sanctuary were finally merged in 1993 when Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR), spanning 622.87 sq km, was established. Biodiversity: Flora: The reserve is rich in dry deciduous forests with teak as the dominant tree species. It also has bamboo thickets and patches of grasslands, which support diverse wildlife. Fauna: TATR is famed for its high tiger population. Alongside tigers, it is home to other predators like leopards, wild dogs (dhole), sloth bears, and various species of deer, such as sambar, spotted deer, and barking deer. The park also has a variety of reptiles, including marsh crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Tiger Population: Tadoba is one of India’s prominent tiger reserves due to its healthy tiger population and relatively high sighting rates. Tourists flock to the reserve for a chance to see tigers in their natural habitat, making it a significant wildlife destination. Conservation Initiatives: The reserve falls under Project Tiger, a nationwide initiative for tiger conservation, helping to protect and boost the tiger population through anti-poaching measures, habitat improvement, and tourism regulation. Source: Indian Express TRUMP’S RE-ELECTION Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 Context: With Trump’s reelection as the United States’ President, companies will have to contend with a new reality. Background: – Silicon Valley workers and leaders have traditionally leaned towards the Democratic Party, and Trump 2.0 could pose a difficult balancing act for them. Key takeaways Under Trump’s first tenure saw the beginning of antitrust action against companies like Meta, Google Apple and Amazon; the trade war with China among others. In his reelection bid, Trump spoke against the Biden administration’s move to breakup Google, even though the investigation into the company started in his term. Elon Musk’s support for Trump could lead to tech-friendly government positions for him or similar figures, influencing the regulatory landscape. AI Regulation: Biden’s AI Order: The Biden administration introduced an order requiring AI companies to disclose their training and security practices. Trump’s Stance: Trump has promised to repeal this order, aiming for less regulation in AI, aligning with allies like Marc Andreessen who oppose heavy AI regulation. Expected Outcome: Minimal regulatory interference in AI development during Trump’s term, potentially favoring rapid AI advancements without stringent oversight. China Trade and Tariff Policies: Protectionism: Trump’s proposed 60% tariffs on Chinese goods and potential 20% tariffs on other imports could challenge tech giants like Apple, which relies on Chinese manufacturing. Apple’s Supply Chain: With a significant production base still in China, Apple may face supply chain disruptions under new tariffs. Musk’s Position: Tesla’s manufacturing in China could also be impacted, though Trump might modulate policies due to his alliance with Musk. Uncertain Stance: Trump’s past stance on banning TikTok if not sold to a U.S. company remains unclear; however, he joined TikTok recently, hinting at mixed views. Indian IT Sector and H1-B Visa Policies: Increased Spending: Analysts predict increased U.S. tech spending may benefit Indian IT companies. H1-B Visa Concerns: While Trump has advocated for tougher H1-B policies, analysts suggest the impact on Indian IT services might be less significant than feared. Overall Impact on Tech Industry: Deregulation Trend: Trump’s administration may continue a deregulatory approach, particularly in emerging sectors like AI. Strategic Realignments: The tech sector may see shifts to adjust for Trump’s protectionist policies and antitrust approaches, particularly with new international trade constraints and evolving China policies. Source: Indian Express DESPITE SELL-OFF, MORE FOREIGN PORTFOLIO INVESTORS SET TO ENTER INDIAN MARKET Syllabus: Prelims & Mains –  ECONOMY Context: The sustained sell-off by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) since October this year hasn’t deterred new FPIs from seeking permission to invest in Indian markets. Applications of about 40-50 new FPI registrations have come to the market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) during the month. Background: The number of FPIs registered with the Sebi was 11,219 as of March 2024. Only 138 FPIs had registered with the Sebi in full fiscal 2023-24. This means an average of 12-13 FPI registrations every month. Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPI) FPIs are investors from foreign countries who invest in a country’s financial assets, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, without obtaining control over the companies in which they invest. FPIs can be institutional investors like mutual funds, hedge funds, pension funds, and insurance companies, as well as individual investors. Key Characteristics: Portfolio Investments: FPIs invest in securities and other financial assets, not in physical assets or direct ownership. Short-term Focus: FPIs typically focus on short-to-medium term returns, unlike Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which is more long-term. High Liquidity: FPIs can be quickly liquidated, which makes them sensitive to market volatility. FPI Regulations in India: Regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) under the SEBI (FPI) Regulations, 2019. FPIs must register with SEBI to invest in Indian markets. Reasons for FPI Optimism Towards India: SEBI has recently relaxed norms for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), allowing up to 100% participation and simplifying entry and operational procedures, boosting FPI interest in Indian markets. Political Stability: Long-term political certainty supports investor confidence. Economic Growth Potential: India offers attractive long-term growth prospects and yields. Capex Spending: Significant capital expenditure by the Indian government is expected to fuel growth. RBI’s Vigilant Approach: The central bank’s

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   MAHARAJA RANJIT SINGH Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: November 13 marks the birth anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab. Background: – He was born on November 13, 1780 in Gujranwala, now in Pakistan, and ruled Punjab for almost four decades (1801-39). At the time of his death, he was the only sovereign leader left in India, all others having come under the control of the East India Company in some way or the other. Key takeaways In 1799, Ranjit Singh established a unified Sikh empire after conquering Lahore. He overthrew chieftains who had divided the territory into Misls. He was given the title Sher-e-Punjab because he stemmed the tide of Afghan invaders in Lahore, which remained his capital until his death. Ranjit Singh’s empire included the former Mughal provinces of Lahore and Multan besides part of Kabul and the entire Peshawar. The boundaries of his state went up to Ladakh — Zorawar Singh, a general from Jammu, had conquered Ladakh in Ranjit Singh’s name — in the northeast, Khyber pass in the northwest, and up to Panjnad in the south where the five rivers of Punjab fell into the Indus. During his regime, Punjab was a land of six rivers, the sixth being the Indus. Ranjit Singh struck balance between his role as a faithful Sikh ruler and his desire to act as friend and protector of his empire’s Muslim and Hindu people. He embarked on a campaign to restore Sikh temples – most notably rebuilding the Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple, at Amritsar in marble (1809) and gold (1830) – while also donating a tonne of gold to plate the Hindu Kashi Vishwanath temple. Ranjit Singh began to modernise his army along the line of European armies. He hired French and Italian mercenaries who had fought for Napoleon until the mighty French General’s defeat in 1815. The new Fauj-i-khas (‘special army’) brigade was led General Jean-Baptiste Ventura and General Jean-Francois Allard, who were given generous salaries. They were later joined by Auguste Court and Paolo Avitabile. These generals settled down in Lahore, and adapted to Indian culture. Immediately after Ranjit Singh’s death in 1839, the British East India Company began to bolster its military presence in regions adjacent to Punjab. Inevitably, conflict arose between the Khalsa (the Sikh army) and the British, leading to the Anglo-Sikh Wars.  The first Anglo-Sikh War occurred from late 1845 to early 1846. This conflict led to the defeat and partial subjugation of the Sikh empire, resulting in the cession of Jammu and Kashmir as a separate princely state under British suzerainty. The Company inflicted a decisive and final defeat on Sikhs in 1849, after which 10-year-old Maharaja Duleep Singh became a pensioner of the British, and was exiled to London for the rest of his life. Source: Indian Express WAR EMISSIONS ON TABLE AS COP29 KICKS OFF Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Besides resulting in human tragedy and largescale destruction, the two ongoing wars (gaza war & russia ukraine war) have also been exacerbating the climate change problem, adding significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.  Background: – Wars and armed conflicts generate pollution, exacerbate climate change, damage ecosystems, and cause health issues among local communities that are felt across generations. Key takeaways Emissions from conflicts is an issue that has largely been overlooked in the climate change conversation. Latest estimates suggest that the first two years of Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022, would have contributed over 175 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent of emissions, including projected emissions estimated from reconstruction.  The conflict in West Asia could have added at least another 50 million tonnes. Together, emissions from these two wars are comparable to annual emissions from Ukraine, Italy or Poland. Wars have a significant emissions footprint, not just from the explosives being used, but also from the military supply chains that are extremely energy intensive. Reconstruction has large emissions implications as well. Emissions from the weapons that cause damage — artillery, shells, mortars, missiles, rockets — constitute only a tiny fraction, just about 1.5%, of emissions from the warfare activities.  Warfare itself comprises only about 29% of the emissions if the full impacts of the conflict, including manufacturing of weapons, iron and steel production and supply chains, rebuilding and reconstruction, are taken into account. The bigger sources of warfare emissions are fuels burnt in airplanes or tanks, and the manufacturing of weapons. Even when a war like that in Ukraine or Gaza is not on, the carbon footprint of the world’s military is immense. Source: Indian Express THE TRADE DEBATE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: Niti Aayog CEO’s recent comment on Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)  has reignited debates around trade agreements and its pros and cons. Background: India should be a part of RCEP and CPTPP, Niti Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam recently commented. India pulled out of the RCEP in 2019 after entering negotiations in 2013. Key takeaways Many experts had argued back in 2019 itself that withdrawing from RCEP was an opportunity lost. Staying out of trade agreements like RCEP and not being deeply integrated with the global value chains that run through RCEP countries, was difficult to reconcile with the objective of becoming a global manufacturing hub, capturing export opportunities and foreign capital.  As per a recent report by Oxford Economics, while India has “benefited from US trade rerouting away from China”, the gains have been to “a much lesser extent” when compared to other Asian countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia. Further, the report points out that the country has not been able to attract a notably greater portion of global foreign direct investment, even as FDI flows to China plummeted.  In this context, the recent comments by the CEO of Niti Aayog, BVR Subrahmanyam on trade agreements, are welcome. Subrahmanyam has said that India is missing out on the “China plus one” opportunity and that it should consider joining agreements such as

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   WIND ENERGY GENERATION Syllabus: Mains – GS 3   Context: Wind energy generators has obtained a stay from the Madras High Court against “Tamil Nadu Repowering, Refurbishment and Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects” released by Tamil Nadu government. Background: – Tamil Nadu, which is a pioneer in wind mill installations, has wind turbines that are over 30 years old.  Key takeaways India has a wind power potential of 1,163.86 GW at 150m above ground level (National Institute of Wind Energy – NIWE). At 120m, typical turbine height today, potential is 695.51 GW, with 68.75 GW in Tamil Nadu. Only about 6.5% of this wind potential is used at the national level and nearly 15% in Tamil Nadu. Installed Capacity: India is ranked 4th globally in installed wind capacity. Key states: Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh, providing 93.37% of the country’s wind installations. Tamil Nadu has 10,603.5 MW of installed capacity, the second-highest in India. How are wind turbines maintained? Wind turbines that are more than 15 years old or have less than 2 MW capacity, can be completely replaced with new turbines, which is known as repowering.  They can also be refurbished by increasing the height of the turbine, changing the blades, installing a higher capacity gear box, etc., to improve the energy generated. When wind energy generators take up safety measures in the old turbines and extend its life, its called life extension. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) released the “National Repowering & Life Extension Policy for Wind Power Projects -2023”. The NIWE estimates the repowering potential to be 25.4 GW if wind turbines of less than 2 MW capacity are taken into consideration. What does repowering and refurbishing entail? Wind energy generators say that when turbines were installed in the 1980s, potential wind sites were mapped and the mandatory gap required between two wind mills were determined based on the technology available then. Sources in the industry point out that a 2 MW wind turbine is usually 120 metres high and requires 3.5 acres of land. It can generate upto 65 lakh units of power. A 2.5 MW turbine, which is available now, is 140 metres high and can generate 80 lakh units. It requires five acres. So, when an existing wind turbine is to be repowered by replacing it with a high capacity turbine, more land is required. In Tamil Nadu, wind mills installed after 2018 do not have banking facility. When a turbine is repowered, it will be treated as a new installation and the generator cannot bank the energy generated. This impacts the financial viability of the project. Source: The Hindu CENTRE NOTIFIES NEW WATER ACT RULES Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Union Environment Ministry notified new rules for holding inquiry and imposing penalties for violations of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act. Background: – The new Rules – Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) (Manner of Holding Inquiry and Imposition of Penalty) rules, 2024, will come into effect immediately. Key takeaways The Rules come in the backdrop of the amendments made to the Water Act earlier this year, wherein offences and violations of the Act were decriminalised, replacing them with penalties instead. The amendments had also allowed the Centre to appoint officers to adjudicate offences, and violations and determine penalties. According to the Rules, the adjudication officer then has powers to issue notice to persons against whom complaints have been filed, detailing the nature of contravention alleged or committed.  The adjudication office then considers the explanation provided and if needed, holds an inquiry into the complaint. The alleged violator could defend themselves or through a legal representative. The whole process has to be completed within six months from issuance of notice to the opposite party, the Rules state. Source: Indian Express CLIMATE GOVERNANCE: KEY THINGS TO KNOW Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) kicked off on November 11 in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. Background: In the midst of the expectations and demands surrounding various agendas at the ongoing conference, understanding the history of climate governance is crucial.  Key takeaways United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) UNFCCC is an international treaty, signed in 1992, that has provided a basis for climate negotiations.  UNFCCC was opened for signature on 19 June 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), also known as the Rio Earth Summit. The Framework Convention entered into force on 21 March 1994.  The most remarkable feature of the UNFCCC is that it was a framework convention that provided a base upon which the infrastructure of climate governance has been built. It allowed and accommodated an extensive system of rules, mechanisms, processes, multiple actors and systems within it.  The ultimate objective of the UNFCCC is to ‘stabilise greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic (human-caused) interference with the climate system’. The UNFCCC established foundational principles that guide international climate action. Chief among these principles is “common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities” (CBDR-RC). Conference of Parties or COP Over time, the Framework Convention paved the way for the development of institutions, processes and structures, aimed at enhancing global cooperation, such as the establishment of the Conference of the Parties (COP), which serves as the convention’s governing body.  Conference of the Parties or COP is the world’s only multilateral decision-making forum that brings together almost every country on the planet to formulate and implement policy responses to climate change collectively. Currently, there are 198 parties (197 countries plus the European Union) to the UNFCCC.  The first COP, held in Berlin, Germany, in 1995, is notable for the Berlin Mandate, which marked a significant step forward. During this meeting, the need for legally binding commitments for developed nations was agreed upon.  Kyoto Protocol  The Berlin Mandate set the groundwork for the adoption

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   INDIA’S TEA, SUGAR EXPORTS RAISE SUSTAINABILITY CONCERNS Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: The Indian agricultural export is valued at $53.1 billion in 2022-2023, up from $8.7 billion in 2004-2005, a six-fold increase in less than two decades. But the rapid surge in exports poses multiple challenges related to sustainability. Tea and sugar, two prominent commodities, offer good examples to illustrate the problems herein. Background: – For an economically developing economy like India, exports play a significant role in strengthening the economy by increasing revenue, foreign exchange, and transactional options Key takeaways Tea India is the world’s fourth-largest tea exporter and second largest producer and makes up 10% of global exports. The total value of Indian tea exports for 2022-2023 was $793.78 million. There is growing evidence of stresses being imposed on production systems across the tea value chain. Three major challenges in the tea industry are the management of human-wildlife interactions, burgeoning chemical use, and labour concerns.  More than half of tea plantation workers are women and they are often underpaid.  There is a critical need for better management practices in and around tea estates in India, stricter monitoring of the maximum residue limits for pesticides, and better enforcement of existing labour regulations. Sugar India is the world’s second-largest sugar producer, with 34 million metric tonnes of production, about a fifth of the global production. India’s sugar exports grew by 291% from $1,177 million in FY 2013-2014 to $4,600 million in FY 2021-22 and 64.90% in 2021-2022.  About 50 million farmers depend on sugarcane cultivation in India. An additional half million depend on sugar and allied factories. Sugarcane is well-known for requiring a lot of water to cultivate. On average, 1 kg of sugar requires between 1,500 and 2,000 kg of water. Natural ecosystems like grasslands and savannahs in these states have also been converted to plant sugarcane. Along with the ensuing biodiversity loss, this change has increased the pressure on water resources and increased the need for alternate cropping patterns. The social dynamics of sugar industries narrate another story. Media reports have unearthed poor working conditions, including long working hours. Rising temperatures in peninsular India acts as a threat multiplier. Workers trapped in vicious debt cycles incur even more stress. Millets Even as the sustainability challenges of these commodities persist, there are some others that promote long-term ecological and socio-economic sustainability. One prime example is millets, a sustainable option with which to increase domestic consumption as well as exports. Millets are resilient to harsh conditions and don’t require more inputs to weather resource constraints. They preserve soil health and ensure nutritional security. In FY 2022-2023, the country shipped 169,049.11 metric tonnes of millets and millet-related products worth $75.45 million. The rising demand highlights their potential as a sustainable agricultural commodity contributing to growth and environmental resilience. Agricultural production in India lives in a unique context: a large domestic consumption base and now a rapidly growing export base. These dynamics may benefit producers but they could also yield a paradox: whereby increasing dependencies between different actors in the supply chain compromise ecological and social sustainability concerns. Source: The Hindu MAKERS OF ‘MAGIC’ WEIGHT-LOSS DRUG SEMAGLUTIDE WANTS COPIES BANNED Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company that manufactures the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy and diabetes medication Ozempic, has asked authorities in the United States to stop the compounding of these products saying that this could pose safety risks. Background: – Wegovy and Ozempic, both of which contain semaglutide, have been in heavy demand for months, and many compounding pharmacies in the US have created their own versions to cope with this. Key takeaways US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations allow human drug compounding — in which licensed pharmacists or physicians can combine, mix, or adjust the ingredients of a medication — to meet patient needs when popular branded formulations are in short supply. Concerns over semaglutide Over the past year, Novo Nordisk has filed at least 50 lawsuits against clinics and pharmacies that have produced compounded versions of its drugs. On October 22, Novo Nordisk asked USFDA to put semaglutide on the Demonstrable Difficulties for Compounding (DDC) list, which restricts pharmacies from compounding a drug. The FDA considers a drug for the DDC list if factors such as its stability, dosage requirements, bioavailability, or necessary sterile handling make it difficult to create a safe and effective compounded version. Source: Indian Express STATE FINANCE COMMISSIONS (SFCs) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: After being nudged by the Fifteenth Finance Commission, all states, except Arunachal Pradesh, have State Finance Commissions (SFCs) in place, the latest being Gujarat. Background: The 15th Finance Commission, formed in 2017, took serious note of the delay over constituting state finance commissions in its report in 2020, and recommended that those states which did not comply with the Constitutional provisions in respect of the SFCs — constitutional bodies at the state-level — would not be released grants after March 2024. Key takeaways Under Article 243 I of the Constitution, “the Governor shall, as soon as may be within one year from the commencement of the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992, and thereafter at the expiration of every 5th year, constitute a Finance Commission to review the financial position of the panchayats, and to make recommendations to the Governor as to the principles which should govern the distribution between the State and the panchayats of the net proceeds of the taxes, duties, tolls and fees leviable by the State.” Key Functions: Recommend principles for: Distribution of the net proceeds of taxes, duties, tolls, and fees between the State and local bodies. Allocation of funds to Panchayats and Municipalities from the State’s Consolidated Fund. Suggest measures to improve the financial position of Panchayats and Municipalities. Consider the taxes, duties, tolls, and fees assigned to or appropriated by local bodies. Significance: Strengthens fiscal federalism at the state level. Ensures adequate funding for local self-governance institutions. Promotes accountability and transparency in financial management. Challenges: Implementation delays: Recommendations often not implemented fully or on time.

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus)   GENDER MAINSTREAMING AND GLOBAL EFFORTS Syllabus: Mains – GS 3 Context: Recently, a two-day National Consultation on Revisiting and Re-envisioning the Beijing Declaration was organised by National Alliance for Women’s Organization. Background: – Thirty years after the historic Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing (September 4–15, 1995), where the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was adopted and women’s rights were unanimously recognised as human rights, the global community continues to reflect on the progress. Historical roots of women’s movements  Women’s movements have built on events like the Seneca Falls Convention and the Suffragette movement. The 1848 Seneca Falls Convention was a historic meeting in New York where the “Declaration of Sentiments” was adopted. The document declared “that all men and women are created equal”.  The Suffragette movement of the 19th and 20th century was a long-drawn fight by women globally to gain their right to vote.  Afterwards, women’s movements expanded their demands. Simone de Beauvoir’s The Second Sex (1949) challenged the traditional notion of gender by asserting that “one is not born, but rather becomes, a woman”, postulating that gender identities are not biologically determined but socially constructed.  By 1970, women’s movements had gathered momentum. Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique (1963) became a bestseller as it brought the private “problem that has no name” till then into the public domain. Friedan initiated discussion around devalued domestic work and critiqued the way it was romanticised. Women’s movement received further impetus from events like ‘The Women’s Strike for Equality’ in 1970. The strike was part of the second wave of feminism in the 1960s and 1970s. The “Wages for Housework” campaign, organised by the International Feminist Collective in 1972, mobilised women internationally to urge governments to recognise household and care work. However, the fight for women’s rights was not always on equal grounds. The exclusion of black women and women of colour from a predominantly white, middle-class dominated women’s movement meant that issues of race and class were not seen as women’s issues.  Women of colour, immigrants, and other marginalised women face intersection of multiple issues of gender, race and class and this theory of intersectionality expanded the scope of  feminist movement.  Unified global framework on women’s rights  The First World Conference on Women (1975), emerged from various women’s movements underlining the growing need for a unified global framework for addressing women’s rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), affirmed equality in principle but lacked specific measures to address gender disparities. The Declaration on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (1967) lacked legal enforcement mechanisms. The 1975 conference laid the groundwork for the declaration of 1976–1985 as the ‘International Decade of Women’. The conference recognised gender equality as fundamental for development, sustainable peace and stability. The Second World Conference on Women The Second Conference on Women in 1980 shifted focus to more specific areas of women’s development, especially in education, employment and healthcare. It led to the ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). CEDAW, referred to as the International Bill of Rights for Women, is a core international human rights treaty. It redefined ‘discrimination’ to include not only legal inequalities but also social and cultural barriers. The Nairobi Forward-looking Strategies for the Advancement of Women, adopted at the United Nations World Conference on Women in 1985, outlined a visionary framework that integrated women’s perspectives into all aspects of development and governance, and made women essential stakeholders in all aspects of societal progress. The Nairobi Strategies set specific goals for advancing women’s rights globally. The four World Conferences on Women between 1975 and 1995 provided global platforms to advance women’s rights issues, culminating in the landmark Beijing Declaration, which remains a testament to the sustained fight for gender equality. Source: Indian Express BIRSA MUNDA Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY  Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the commencement of 150th Birth Anniversary Year celebration of Birsa Munda. Background: – The Centre had in 2021 decided to celebrate November 15, the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. Key takeaways Born: November 15, 1875, in Ulihatu, present-day Jharkhand. Belonged to the Munda tribal community, which practiced their distinct socio-cultural traditions. Role as a Tribal Leader: Birsa Munda was a prominent freedom fighter, religious leader, and tribal reformer. He led the Munda Rebellion (also known as the Ulgulan or “The Great Rebellion”) against the oppressive British colonial system and zamindari system. Ulgulan Movement (1899–1900): The movement sought to protect tribal lands and rights from the Dikus (outsiders) like landlords, moneylenders, and the British. Focused on restoring tribal autonomy, ending forced labor (beth begari), and ensuring land ownership for tribal people. Religious and Social Reforms: Advocated for monotheism and rejected superstitions, idol worship, and the influence of Christian missionaries. Encouraged the Munda community to reclaim their cultural and spiritual identity. Declared himself as “Dharti Aba” (Father of the Earth) and urged people to worship a single god and follow tribal traditions. Arrest and Death: Arrested by British forces in 1900 during the rebellion. Died on June 9, 1900, in Ranchi Jail, under mysterious circumstances, at the young age of 25. Jharkhand State was established on his birth anniversary in 2000 as a tribute. Source: The Hindu BASIC COUNTRIES Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: BASIC countries have been complaining against the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) introduced by the EU. Background: On the opening day of the COP29 meeting, China, on behalf of the BASIC countries, had moved a proposal to include a discussion on “unilateral restrictive trade measures” — without mentioning CBAM — in the formal agenda of the COP meeting Key takeaways The BASIC countries (Brazil, South Africa, India, and China) are a group of four large, newly industrialized nations that formed an agreement on November 28, 2009. Purpose: The BASIC countries were formed to act jointly at international climate change negotiations, particularly at the Copenhagen Summit (COP15). They aimed to present a united front on climate change issues and advocate for the interests of developing

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) SAFE HARBOUR CLAUSE Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The government recently reiterated its stance to revisit the safe harbour clause for social media intermediaries such as X, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, etc, amid an increase in instances of misinformation and fake news over these platforms. Background: – Currently under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the platforms have the immunity against legal prosecution for content posted by users. In case of removal of safe harbour clause or changes in its contours, such platforms will themselves become directly accountable for the user content and won’t be able to enjoy legal immunity. Key takeaways Section 79 of the IT Act says any intermediary shall not be held legally or otherwise liable for any third party information, data, or communication link made available or hosted on its platform.  This protection, the Act says, shall be applicable if the said intermediary does not in any way, initiate the transmission of the message in question, select the receiver of the transmitted message and does not modify any information contained in the transmission. The protection accorded under Section 79, however, is not granted if the intermediary, despite being informed or notified by the government or its agencies, does not immediately disable access to the material under question.  The intermediary must not tamper with any evidence of these messages or content present on its platform, failing which it lose its protection under the Act. The government talked about reconsidering the safe harbour clause last year during consultations on the Digital India Act, which once implemented will replace the decades old IT Act, 2000. However, the government is yet to issue a draft of the Digital India Bill for public consultation. Source: Indian Express   3ZERO CLUB Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Recently, Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Pope Francis jointly launched a ‘Pope Francis Yunus 3Zero Club’ in Rome in an effort to “usher in a transformative and inclusive future for humanity”. Background: – Yunus, a Nobel laureate had in 2017 penned a book ‘A World of Three Zeroes: the new economics of zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions’. Key takeaways The Pope Francis Yunus 3Zero Club is an initiative launched by Professor Muhammad Yunus and Pope Francis in Rome on November 16, 2024.  According to the latest counts, there are at least 4,600 Three Zero clubs across the globe, all inspired by Prof Yunus’s vision. Many of the clubs are set up in universities. The club aims to create a transformative and inclusive future for humanity by focusing on three main goals: zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions. Objectives: Zero Poverty: Eradicating poverty and ensuring that everyone has access to basic needs and opportunities. Zero Unemployment: Creating sustainable job opportunities and promoting economic growth. Zero Net Carbon Emissions: Reducing carbon emissions to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability. Key Features: Youth Empowerment: The 3Zero Club provides a platform for young people, especially those from marginalized communities, to develop innovative ideas and create concrete and sustainable solutions. Collaborative Efforts: The initiative encourages collaboration across countries, generations, and sectors to achieve its goals. Source: PTI INEFFECTIVENESS OF CARBON CREDITS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Carbon trade, being relied upon to accelerate emission cuts around the world, has been largely ineffective till now, and only a very small number of projects have resulted in real emissions reductions, a new study published in Nature journal has found.  Background: The study looked at thousands of projects that together generated carbon credits worth one billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, and found that only 16 per cent of these credits represented actual reductions in emissions.  These credits were generated mostly by a mechanism created under the Kyoto Protocol, the 1997 climate agreement that was replaced by the Paris Agreement in 2015. Key takeaways Carbon markets allow for trade in carbon credits by incentivising emissions reductions.  An industrial unit which outperforms its emission standards, meaning that it produces less emissions than it is mandated to, can earn carbon credits. Another unit, which is struggling to meet its emissions standards, can buy these credits.  Credits can be generated by any activity that can show an additional reduction or avoidance of emissions beyond what is prescribed or would have happened in business-as-usual scenario. The Nature study found that the most effective emissions reductions happened in projects that involved the abatement of HFC-23 chemicals. Credits generated from projects that facilitated the elimination of HFCs, and their replacement with substitutes, used to dominate carbon trade about a decade ago. Carbon credits generated under the Kyoto Protocol mechanisms were often criticised for not being robust enough. The carbon market mechanism being created under the Paris Agreement seeks to address those weaknesses. The creation of a carbon market is the last remaining part of the 2015 Paris Agreement yet to be operationalised. This time, rules and procedures are being prepared meticulously to ensure that the integrity of credits is maintained. Source: Indian Express HOW THE SUPREME COURT CLAMPED DOWN ON ‘BULLDOZER’ DEMOLITIONS Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 Context: The Supreme Court recently underscored that it is unconstitutional to demolish a person’s property without adhering to the due process of law, simply on the grounds of their alleged involvement in a crime.  Background: – The court issued a slew of guidelines to prevent illegal and retributive bulldozing of homes and private properties of accused persons by States. Earlier, the top court had extended its interim order halting demolitions across the country without express permission except for encroachments on public land or unauthorised structures. Key takeaways Over the last few years, there has been an advent of communal and retributive bulldozing of homes and private properties of accused persons by States. Demolitions have been justified on account of action against encroachment or under the pretext of unauthorised construction. What began with the bulldozer demolitions in Delhi’s Jahangirpuri following communal violence rapidly escalated and spread to other parts. The violence

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.