Important topics and their relevance in UPSC CSE exam for November 25, 2024. If you missed the November 24, 2024 UPSC CSE exam key from the Indian Express, read it here

THE WORLD

Iran to hold nuclear talks with European powers in Geneva

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies II: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests

What’s the ongoing story: Iran will hold talks about its disputed nuclear programme with three European powers on Nov. 29 , the Iranian foreign ministry said on Sunday, days after the UN atomic watchdog passed a resolution against Tehran.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Discuss the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in ensuring global nuclear security.

• Examine the key issues surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and its implications for regional and global security.

• Highlight the role of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and the IAEA in addressing Iran’s nuclear program.

• Critically analyse the significance of the 2023 IAEA resolution on Iran’s nuclear program.

• Discuss the interrelationship between energy diplomacy and nuclear non-proliferation in the context of Iran’s global engagements.

Key Takeaways:

• Iran is scheduled to engage in discussions with France, Germany, and Britain on November 29 in Geneva, focusing on its disputed nuclear program. This meeting follows a resolution by the U.N. atomic watchdog criticizing Iran, leading Tehran to activate new advanced centrifuges for uranium enrichment.

• Deputy foreign ministers from Iran, France, Germany, and Britain will participate, addressing both the nuclear issue and regional matters such as Palestine and Lebanon.

• The talks are set ahead of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, with hopes of resolving the nuclear deadlock exacerbated since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear pact and the reimposition of sanctions in 2018.

• Iran emphasizes its belief in resolving the nuclear issue through diplomacy, stating it has never abandoned the talks.

• Indirect negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear pact have so far been unsuccessful, but Trump emphasized the necessity of reaching a deal during his campaign.

Do You Know:

• The U.N. atomic watchdog’s 35-nation Board of Governors passed a resolution on Thursday again ordering Iran to urgently improve cooperation with the agency and requesting a “comprehensive” report aimed at pressuring Iran into fresh nuclear talks.

• Britain, France, Germany and the United States, which proposed the resolution, dismissed as insufficient and insincere a last-minute Iranian move to cap its stock of uranium that is close to weapons-grade. Diplomats said Iran’s move was conditional on scrapping the resolution.

• The IAEA and Iran have long been locked in standoffs on a range of issues including Tehran’s failure to explain uranium traces found at undeclared sites, its barring last year of most of the agency’s top uranium-enrichment experts on the Iran inspection team, and its refusal to expand IAEA monitoring.

• In 2018, the then-Trump administration exited Iran’s 2015 nuclear pact with six major powers and reimposed harsh sanctions on Iran, prompting Tehran to violate the pact’s nuclear limits, with moves such as rebuilding stockpiles of enriched uranium, refining it to higher fissile purity and installing advanced centrifuges to speed up output.

• Indirect talks between President Joe Biden’s administration and Tehran to try to revive the pact have failed, but Trump said during his election campaign in September: “We have to make a deal, because the consequences are impossible. We have to make a deal”.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????Explained: Behind Iran’s nuclear defiance

Previous year UPSC Prelims Question Covering similar theme:

1. In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the ‘Additional Protocol’ with the ‘International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’? (UPSC CSE, 2018) (a) The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards. (b) The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA. (c) The country will have the privilege to buy uranium from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). (d) The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.

FRONT PAGE

Three shot dead in Sambhal clashes, team at mosque for second survey

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies I: Secularism

What’s the ongoing story: The death toll owing to violent clashes in western Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal after a survey team showed up at a mosque in the area went up to four as the police confirmed that a 19-year-old boy passed away because of gunshot wounds.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Who has filed the case?

• What does the petition say?

• The Jama Masjid in Sambhal-What you know about the same?

• Why Sambhal holds religious significance for Hindus?

• Why Court ordered survey at Sambhal shahi Jama masjid

• Discuss the socio-political and economic factors leading to communal violence in India, with special reference to the recent Sambhal clashes. How can such incidents be effectively managed and prevented?

• Communal violence not only disrupts law and order but also tears apart the social fabric of the nation. Critically examine the role of law enforcement agencies in controlling and preventing incidents such as the Sambhal clashes.

• What is Section 144? Does the Constitution of India provides the State with powers to impose curfews and Section 144 during communal violence?

• “Misinformation and poor governance often escalate communal tensions in India.” Analyze this statement in the context of the Sambhal clashes and suggest measures to address these issues.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of the existing legal framework in addressing communal violence in India. Suggest reforms in light of recent events such as the Sambhal clashes.

• How can community-driven initiatives and civil society organizations play a role in restoring peace and trust after incidents like the Sambhal clashes? Illustrate with examples.

• You are the District Magistrate of a region where communal clashes have erupted, leading to casualties and property damage. Media reports are escalating tensions further by spreading unverified claims. Discuss the ethical dilemmas you may face in such a situation and outline a step-by-step plan to restore peace and ensure justice for the victims.

Key Takeaways:

• Three individuals were shot dead during clashes in Sambhal, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing tensions in the region. The violent confrontation occurred near a mosque, which was central to the unfolding events.

• The conflict is linked to a sensitive survey being conducted at the mosque, which escalated into violence. Authorities had to return for a second survey at the mosque due to unresolved disputes from the initial attempt.

• Three people lost their lives in the clashes, and it is unclear if others were injured. The incident has likely exacerbated tensions between various groups in the area.

• A heightened security presence is expected in the region to prevent further violence. Investigation and Accountability: Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatalities and take appropriate measures.

• The survey at the mosque may be tied to larger, ongoing disputes over religious and historical claims. This incident could hinder dialogue and peace efforts between involved parties.

Do You Know:

• The Jama Masjid “is a protected monument”, notified on December 22, 1920 under Section 3, sub-section (3) of Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904. It has been “declared as Monument of National importance and figures on the website of ASI, Agra circle Moradabad division” in the list of centrally protected monuments.

• The plea claims there is a “centuries old Shri Hari Har Temple dedicated to Lord Kalki in the heart of city of Sambhal which is being used forcibly and unlawfully” by the Jama Masjid Committee. The petition says that “Sambhal is a historical city and holds unique significance deeply rooted in Hindu Shastras, according to which it is sacred site where an incarnation of Lord Vishnu known as Kalki manifest in the future, a Divine figure yet to make an appearance”.

• “Kalki is believed to be tenth and last incarnation of Lord Vishnu, destined to arrive in Kalyuga. His descent is believed to herald the end of the dark and tumultuous Kalyuga ushering in the next age, known as Satyuga,” says the plea under the heading “historical facts”.

• The petition says that that “Hindu scriptures confirm that in ancient times a unique ‘Vigrah’ consisting of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva emerged and due to this reason, it is called ‘Shri Hari Har’ temple. It says that “Shri Hari Har temple of Sambhal was made by Lord Vishwakarma Himself in the beginning of the universe”.

• It further says that Babar invaded India in 1526 AD and “destroyed a number of Hindu temples to show the might of Islam to make the Hindus feel that they are subjects of Islamic ruler”.

• The plea says that “in 1527-28 Hindu Beg, the Lieutenant of Babar Army partly demolished Shri Hari Har temple at Sambhal” and that “the Muslims occupied the temple building to use the same as mosque”.

• The petitioners say that the monument is protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 and under section 18 of the Act, the public has the “right of access to protected monument”.

• It says that the public “has right of access to the subject property in accordance with Rule 5 of The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Rules,1959.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????UP Sambhal violence: what is the row around the Shahi Jama Masjid

Previous year UPSC Prelims Question Covering similar theme: 2. Which of the following legal provisions in India are most commonly invoked during communal clashes? (a) Section 375 of the IPC (b) Section 144 of the CrPC (c) Article 370 of the Constitution (d) Article 356 of the Constitution

Adani power projects: Bangla hiring firm to aid review, Lanka to let Cabinet decide

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: 

• General Studies II: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

• General Studies IV: Corporate governance.

What’s the ongoing story: With US prosecutors indicting Adani Group chairman Gautam S Adani and seven others for allegedly offering bribes to Indian government officials, Bangladesh has decided to hire a “reputed legal and investigative firm” to assist its “review” of major power generation contracts including the Adani power trading pact.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Discuss the geopolitical and economic significance of Adani power projects in South Asia, particularly in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

• Examine the challenges faced by South Asian countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in balancing energy demands with foreign investments in large-scale power projects.

• Examine the implications of US prosecutors indicting a prominent Indian business leader on the India-US bilateral relationship. How can both countries manage potential diplomatic and economic fallout?

• Discuss the role of regulatory transparency and corporate governance in maintaining India’s global economic reputation. How can allegations against Indian companies affect India’s soft power and foreign policy?

• You are an Indian diplomat posted in the United States when a prominent Indian business leader is indicted by US authorities, leading to significant media scrutiny and public discourse. Your host country’s officials raise concerns about corporate governance in India. How would you address these concerns while safeguarding India’s diplomatic and economic interests? Outline your approach and ethical considerations in handling the situation.

Key Takeaways:

• The ongoing legal issues and governmental reviews in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka may impact the progress and viability of Adani’s power projects in these countries. —The Bangladeshi government has established a committee led by Judge Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury to reassess power generation contracts, including the one with Adani Power. —The committee has recommended that the interim government hire an international legal firm to thoroughly investigate these agreements, aiming to ensure adherence to international arbitration standards. —The review encompasses contracts signed between 2009 and 2024, scrutinizing both solicited and unsolicited agreements for financial, environmental, and sustainability concerns.

• Sri Lanka’s government has deferred the final decision on the Adani power project to the Cabinet, indicating a cautious approach in light of recent developments.

• Adani Green Energy is set to invest $442 million in a wind power project in Mannar and Pooneryn, aiming to generate 484 megawatts of wind power over 20 years.

• Gautam Adani and seven others have been indicted by a U.S. federal court on charges of fraud and corruption, accused of paying substantial bribes to secure favourable contracts in India’s solar energy sector.

• The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation is reassessing its involvement in Adani’s Sri Lanka project, reflecting the broader implications of the legal challenges on Adani’s international ventures.

Do You Know:

• The Bangladesh interim government, under Prof Muhammad Yunus, had formed a high-level inquiry committee, consisting of energy and legal experts, to re-examine the country’s power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Adani Group signed in 2017. This was in line with the direction of the Bangladesh high court. —On November 19, a two-judge bench, comprising Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Debasish Roy Chowdhury, asked the government to submit the committee’s report within two months, Bangladesh’s news agency UNB had reported. —Additionally, the HC had ordered the government to submit all documents related to the 25-year deal between the power division and Adani Group in a month’s time.

• In November 2017, Adani Power (Jharkhand) Ltd (APJL) signed a 25-year 1,496 MW (net) Power Purchase Agreement with the Bangladesh Power Development Board. Under this, Bangladesh would buy 100 per cent electricity produced by AJPL’s Godda plant. The unit, which runs on 100 per cent imported coal, was declared a Special Economic Zone by the Indian government in March 2019. —The Godda plant, fully commercially operational during April-June 2023, supplies 7-10 per cent of Bangladesh’s base load. In 2023-24, it exported about 7,508 million units of power, or almost 63 per cent of India’s total power exports of 11,934 million units to Bangladesh. —In value terms, India’s power exports to Bangladesh had crossed $1 billion, almost 10 per cent of India’s total exports to its neighbour.

• In the case of Sri Lanka, the new government led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake is yet to take a final decision regarding the Adani Green Energy Ltd. (AGEL) wind power project in Mannar and Pooneryn, among other ongoing investments in the country.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

???? Adani indictment in US damages global credibility of India Inc

Previous year UPSC Prelims Question Covering similar theme: 3. Which of the following is a major factor influencing Bangladesh’s decision to hire a firm to review Adani’s power project? (a) Growing electricity surplus in Bangladesh (b) Concerns over tariff rates and financial agreements (c) Disputes over project location (d) Political opposition to foreign investments

Abysmally low: India slams developed world’s finance deal at Baku

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies II: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

What’s the ongoing story: Completely ignoring the demands of the developing nations for mobilisation of at least 1.3 trillion dollars a year in climate finance, the developed countries managed to force an agreement at the COP29 meeting in Baku, promising to put together just 300 billion dollars a year, that too from 2035.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Discuss the significance of climate finance in addressing global climate change challenges. Why has India expressed disappointment with the outcomes of COP29?

• Evaluate the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC) in the context of India’s position on the increased climate finance commitments at COP29.

• “India’s disagreement at COP29 reflects the concerns of many developing nations regarding the inequity in climate negotiations.” Analyse this statement with reference to historical emissions and financial commitments of developed countries.

• What are the implications of tripling climate finance to $300 billion annually for developing countries? How can India ensure its concerns are addressed in future climate negotiations?

• Critically examine the challenges faced by developing countries in accessing and utilizing climate finance. Suggest measures to enhance the transparency and effectiveness of climate funding mechanisms.

Key Takeaways:

• India has formally opposed the climate finance agreement reached at the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, labelling it an “optical illusion” that fails to address the significant challenges posed by climate change.

• The Indian delegation criticized the $300 billion annual finance target as insufficient, emphasizing that it does not meet the needs of developing nations.

• Several developing countries, including Nigeria, Malawi, and Bolivia, have expressed dissatisfaction with the agreement, arguing that the financial commitments fall short of the $1.3 trillion they deem necessary to effectively combat climate change. These nations are concerned that the agreed-upon funds may not be sufficient to support their transition to renewable energy and to address the impacts of climate change.

• The agreement sets a target of mobilizing at least $300 billion annually by 2035 to assist developing countries in their climate efforts. The funds are intended to support the transition from fossil fuels, adaptation to climate impacts, and compensation for losses due to climate-related events.

• The agreement lacks clear commitments to phase out fossil fuels, with resistance from major oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia. Discussions highlighted the need for wealthier developing nations, such as China and Gulf states, to contribute to climate finance, a point of contention among negotiators.

• The outcomes of COP29 set the stage for further negotiations at the COP30 summit in Brazil, where nations aim to build upon the current agreement and address existing shortcomings. There is a recognized need for increased financial commitments and more decisive action to meet the accelerating challenges of climate change.

Do You Know:

• The 2015 Paris Agreement had asked that a new goal on finance (called New Cumulative Quantitative Goal or NCQG) be decided upon before 2025. It does not say from which year the new amount has to be mobilised. Based on a few assessments of their requirements, the developing countries had been asking for the NCQG to be set at 1.3 trillion dollars every year.

• India’s objections do not mean it has rejected the agreement. Stopping short of dissociating itself from it, India is still a part of the consensus agreement. Its objections were directed at the process followed for adopting the agreement, and to the 300-billion dollar figure.

• The main agenda of COP29 was to finalise this NCQG. After keeping their cards close to their chest through most of the two-week conference — and during the three year negotiations preceding that — the developed countries finally offered to raise the 100 billion dollar figure to just 250 billion dollars, a proposal that prompted angry responses from the developing countries, including a walk-out from the meeting by some of them on Friday. It had led to the suspension of talks at COP29, and pushed it into the extra day.

• Apart from agreeing, after much haggling, to raise the offer to 300 billion dollars and no more, the developed countries also rejected the other associated demands of the developing countries — for the amount to be largely financed from public sources and disbursed mainly in the form of grants or concessionary loans.

• The final agreement said the 300 billion dollars would be raised through a “variety of sources, public and private, bilateral and multilateral, including alternative sources”. There is no specific assurance the money would be disbursed in the form of grants or concessionary loans.

• The COP29 meeting finalised a few other agreements, most notably the one on the rules governing carbon markets. It paves the way for the operationalisation of carbon markets, allowing countries to trade in carbon credits.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????Disarray at COP29 as developing countries walk out, reject climate finance rough draft

Previous year UPSC Prelims Question Covering similar theme: 4. With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016)’ 1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN, and it will go into effect in 2017. 2. The Agreement aims to limit the greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2ºC or even 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels. 3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $ 1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

THE IDEAS PAGE

Three solutions for clean air

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.

What’s the ongoing story: Ashok Gulati, Reena Singh Writes: Better incentive for crop diversification, greater investment in switch to electric vehicles and other innovative technologies are needed to address the pollution crisis in Delhi. This is a matter of survival.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Discuss the role of agricultural practices in contributing to air pollution in North India?

• Analyse the economic and environmental implications of transitioning from paddy cultivation to less water-intensive crops in Haryana and Punjab, based on the recommendations in the article.

• Critically evaluate the feasibility of the central and state governments sharing the costs of crop diversification to reduce stubble burning, as suggested by the authors.

• Examine the potential challenges in implementing the “new deal” for farmers proposed by Ashok Gulati and Reena Singh to address air pollution.

• How can building trust among farmers contribute to the successful adoption of sustainable agricultural practices aimed at improving air quality, according to the article?

Key Takeaways:

• According to the University of Chicago’s Air Quality Life Index Report 2023, prolonged exposure to severe air pollution could reduce the life expectancy of Delhi residents by an alarming 11.9 years. In the meantime, our elected leaders are busy in a blame game rather than finding a sustainable solution.

• The strategic measures to combat air pollution in India is to address agricultural residue burning. Stubble burning in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh significantly contributes to air pollution, especially in the National Capital Region (NCR).

• Promote the use of machines like the Happy Seeder, which allows farmers to sow wheat without removing paddy stubble, thereby reducing the need for burning. Encourage the collection and utilization of crop residue for producing bioenergy or as raw material in industries, providing farmers with an additional income stream.

• Rapid urbanization has led to increased vehicular emissions, contributing to deteriorating air quality in cities. Expand and modernize public transportation systems to offer efficient and affordable alternatives to private vehicles. Develop infrastructure for walking and cycling to reduce reliance on motorized transport. Encourage the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and implement stricter emission norms for conventional vehicles.

• Despite having environmental regulations, enforcement remains weak, leading to continued pollution from industries and other sources. Engage citizens in monitoring air quality and reporting violations, fostering a culture of accountability. Provide incentives for industries and businesses that adopt cleaner technologies and adhere to environmental standards.

Do You Know:

• As winter sets in, the wind velocity slows down in the Himalayan shade, and pollutants (PM 2.5) hang in the air. As per the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, during the first half of November 2024, the relative contribution from stubble burning (particularly from Punjab and Haryana) peaked at approximately 35.18 per cent on November 1 (Figure 1). This was followed by Delhi’s transport sector, contributing around 19 per cent. Other sources impacting particulate matter (PM 2.5) included residential areas (3.9 per cent), industries (4.6 per cent), construction (2.4 per cent), road dust (1.4 per cent), and other sources (1.2 per cent).

• A quarter-century ago, over 200 scientists from the US, Europe, the Maldives, and India came together to study the haze over the Indian Ocean. Led by atmospheric scientist V Ramanathan of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in California, the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX) undertook intensive field observations using aircraft, ships, surface stations, and satellites. —They discovered a giant brown layer of cloud hanging over much of the Indian Subcontinent and the Indian Ocean between October and February, which they termed the Indian Ocean Brown Cloud or Asian Brown Cloud. —INDOEX revealed that this layer was primarily created by the burning of biomass in fields and homes, as well as fossil fuels like coal in industries, and that it travelled thousands of kilometres. —The study also found that the haze significantly affected regional temperatures, precipitation patterns, and ground-level pollution, reducing agricultural productivity and causing widespread respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

???? We knew what caused air pollution 25 years ago – but governments still won’t act

Previous year UPSC Mains Question Covering similar theme: ????Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three megacities of the country but the air pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two. Why is this so? (2015)

ECONOMY

‘Weak industrial activity, sluggish urban consumption may drag Q2 GDP to 6.5%’

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies III: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.

What’s the ongoing story: Slow pace of industrial activity, especially in manufacturing, mining and electricity sectors, amid prolonged rainfall along with tepid consumption growth, mainly in urban areas, is likely to have resulted in a slower economic growth rate in the July-September quarter.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Examine the role of industrial activity and urban consumption in driving India’s economic growth.

• What are the key factors affecting India’s GDP growth in the second quarter of the financial year 2024?

• Evaluate the impact of subdued urban consumption on India’s overall economic performance.

• How can the government and policymakers stimulate urban demand in the short and long term?

• “Weak industrial activity is often a reflection of deeper structural issues within the economy.” Critically evaluate this statement in light of the recent GDP projections.

• Discuss the importance of balanced growth across the industrial, agricultural, and service sectors for sustaining India’s economic momentum.

Key Takeaways:

• India’s GDP growth for the July-September quarter of 2024 is expected to decrease to 6.5%, marking the slowest pace in one and a half years. Elevated food prices have reduced household spending, significantly impacting private consumption, which constitutes about 60% of India’s GDP.

• Sales across various sectors, including automobiles and consumer goods, have declined. Notably, passenger vehicle sales recorded their first drop in ten quarters. The manufacturing and mining sectors have shown slower growth, contributing to the overall economic deceleration.

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projects a rebound to 7.6% growth in the current quarter, driven by festival-related consumption. However, economists consider this forecast overly optimistic. Economists have adjusted the growth forecast for the fiscal year to 6.8%, with the next year’s projection lowered to 6.6%

• Sustained economic growth above 8% is deemed necessary to generate sufficient employment for India’s growing youth population. The current slowdown raises concerns about meeting this employment demand.

• The anticipated decline in GDP growth to 6.5% in Q2 reflects challenges such as high food inflation, reduced consumer spending, and weakened industrial activity. Addressing these issues is crucial to revitalize economic growth and meet employment needs.

Do You Know:

• The GDP data for July-September is scheduled to be released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) on November 29 at 1600 IST. The GDP growth estimates range between 6.2 to 6.9 per cent for July-September.

• While one of the biggest concerns is regarding the slow pace of capex by both states and Centre, a pickup in rural demand and agricultural growth is seen supporting growth going ahead.

• The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation came into existence as an Independent Ministry on 15th Oct 1999, after the merger of the Department of Statistics and the Department of Programme Implementation. —The Ministry has two wings, one relating to Statistics and the other Programme Implementation. —The Statistics Wing called the National Statistical Office (NSO) consists of the Central Statistical Office (CSO), the Computer centre and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). —The Programme Implementation Wing has three Divisions, namely, (i) Twenty Point Programme (ii) Infrastructure Monitoring and Project Monitoring and (iii) Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme. —Besides these two wings, there is National Statistical Commission created through a Resolution of Government of India (MOSPI) and one autonomous Institute, viz., Indian Statistical Institute declared as an institute of National importance by an Act of Parliament.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????India’s growth outlook supported by robust domestic engines: RBI article

EXPLAINED

Why Shia vs Sunni clashes continue in Pakistan’s Kurram

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies II: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests,

What’s the ongoing story: Sectarian violence is sweeping through the picturesque Kurram district in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after more than 45 Shia travellers were massacred by militants in Bagan town on November 21.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Map Work- Kurram district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province

• Shia and Sunni-Know in detail

• “Sectarian violence is not just a religious issue but a geopolitical and socio-political challenge.” Discuss this statement in the context of Shia-Sunni conflicts in Pakistan, with a focus on the Kurram district.

• Examine the historical and geopolitical factors that have intensified Shia-Sunni sectarian violence in Pakistan.

• Discuss the role of external actors in fuelling sectarian violence in regions like Kurram.

• How do Iran and Saudi Arabia’s interests influence Shia-Sunni dynamics in Pakistan?

• Analyze the impact of sectarian violence on social cohesion and economic development in conflict-prone regions like Pakistan’s Kurram district.

• The Kurram district in Pakistan has been a flashpoint for sectarian violence for decades. Discuss the socio-political and geographical reasons for its vulnerability to conflict.

Key Takeaways:

• Kurram district, situated in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, shares a border with Afghanistan, making it geopolitically significant. Unlike much of Pakistan, Kurram has a substantial Shia Muslim population, leading to a unique sectarian dynamic within the region.

• More than 99% of Kurram’s 7.85 lakh population (2023 census) are Pashtuns belonging to the Turi, Bangash, Zaimusht, Mangal, Muqbal, Masuzai, and Parachamkani tribes. The Turi and some Bangash are Shia, the rest are Sunni.

• The district has a history of sectarian violence, with periodic clashes between Shia and Sunni communities over the years. Proximity to Afghanistan has exposed Kurram to spill over effects from regional conflicts, exacerbating local sectarian tensions.

• In November 2024, a deadly attack on a convoy of Shia Muslims resulted in significant casualties, marking one of the deadliest sectarian incidents in recent years. The initial attack led to retaliatory violence between Shia and Sunni groups, further escalating the conflict and resulting in additional deaths and injuries.

• Long-standing land disputes between tribal groups have often served as flashpoints for sectarian violence in the region. The presence of militant groups exploiting sectarian divides has intensified conflicts, with external actors sometimes providing support to these factions.

Do You Know:

• According to a presentation made before Pakistan’s Election Commission in 2018, Shias make up around 45% of the district’s population, more than thrice their 10-15% share in Pakistan’s population as a whole. The majority of Shias live in Upper Kurram tehsil; Sunnis dominate Lower and Central Kurram.

• Upper Kurram has far better literacy and economic development indicators than the Sunni-dominated tehsils. Bagan, on the route from the district headquarters of Parachinar to the Peshawar provincial headquarters, is in Lower Kurram.

• The Shia Turi once controlled much of the land in what is now Upper and Lower Kurram, but are now mostly restricted to Upper Kurram. According to some estimates, as much as 83% of the tehsil’s population is Shia (Turi and some Bangash).

• Sectarian tensions are often an extension of persistent tribal rivalries and competition for resources in a region not blessed with abundance. The use of patronage and bribery by the British to “control” the north-western frontier benefitted certain tribes and clans at the cost of others, which led to deep-seated grievances that continue to surface in the form of land disputes.

• Even after the British left, not much changed in the way the region was ruled. Kurram became part of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), where early 20th century laws applied until as recently as 2018, when FATA was merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????Rather than shoring up national identity, religion creates schisms

Treaty to tackle plastic pollution

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies III: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.

What’s the ongoing story: Starting Monday, more than 170 countries will converge in Busan, Republic of Korea, to negotiate a new legally binding global treaty to end plastic pollution, including marine pollution. 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.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Why is a global plastic treaty required?

• What is on the negotiating table?

• What is India’s position?

• Discuss the challenges faced by global leaders in drafting a legally binding treaty to address plastic  pollution.

• What is the role of major petrochemical-producing countries in the Global Plastic Treaty negotiations?

• Evaluate the significance of the Global Plastic Treaty in the context of international environmental agreements.

• Examine the perspectives of consumer-facing companies in the Global Plastic Treaty discussions.

Key Takeaways:

• Plastic production has surged from 2 million tonnes in 1950 to 348 million tonnes in 2017, with projections indicating a potential doubling by 2040. The proliferation of plastic waste has led to significant environmental challenges, including marine pollution and adverse effects on wildlife.

• In March 2022, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) adopted a resolution to develop a legally binding treaty addressing plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle. The proposed treaty aims to encompass measures from plastic production and design to waste management, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to tackling pollution.

• Developing countries advocate for financial and technical support to manage plastic waste, while developed nations emphasize reducing plastic production and promoting recycling. Some corporations support the treaty, focusing on recycling and waste management, whereas others express concerns about potential economic impacts and regulatory constraints.

Do You Know:

• India contributes to a fifth of global plastic pollution, according to a study published in the journal Nature in September. It accounts for 20% of the world’s global plastic pollution with emissions 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.

• 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.”

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????India generates highest plastic pollution in world: what a new study found

Previous year UPSC Prelims Question Covering similar theme: 5. Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment? (2019) (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems. (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children. (c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields. (d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants.

WHY SATELLITE SPACE JUNK MAY BE BAD NEWS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Syllabus:

Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international importance.

Main Examination: General Studies III: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, biotechnology and issues relating to intellectual property rights.

What’s the ongoing story: More than 10,000 active satellites are in orbit around the planet today. This number is estimated to shoot up to more than 100,000 by the 2030s, and possibly half a million in the decades to follow.

Key Points to Ponder:

• Discuss the environmental concerns associated with satellite space junk, with a focus on the pollutants released during atmospheric re-entry. Suggest measures to address this issue.

• The increasing number of satellites in Earth’s orbit has raised concerns about environmental pollution due to space debris. Critically evaluate the implications and suggest policy interventions for sustainable space exploration.

• Analyse the role of international collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by satellite space junk. How can global efforts ensure both the safety of space operations and environmental protection?

Key Takeaways:

• When satellites re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up, releasing various materials. This process can introduce pollutants into the atmosphere, potentially affecting air quality and contributing to ozone layer depletion.

• The accumulation of debris in orbit increases the risk of collisions, leading to more fragments and exacerbating the space junk problem. This can hinder future space missions and pose threats to existing satellites.

• While most debris burns up upon re-entry, larger fragments can reach the Earth’s surface, posing risks to human life and property. Incidents of space debris crashing into inhabited areas, though rare, have been documented.

• Monitoring smaller debris is challenging, making collision avoidance and debris management complex. Addressing space debris requires global cooperation, as debris from one nation’s satellites can affect others. Establishing and enforcing international guidelines is essential for effective mitigation.

• Technologies such as laser brooms and satellite nets are being explored to actively remove debris from orbit. These methods aim to reduce the amount of space junk and prevent future collisions.

Do You Know:

• Daniel Murphy, an atmospheric scientist at the US National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and others presented definitive evidence that “10% of the aerosol particles in the stratosphere contain aluminium and other metals that originated from the burn-up of satellites, and rocket stages during re-entry”(‘Metals from spacecraft re-entry in stratospheric aerosol particles’, 2023).

• Connor Barker, an atmospheric chemist from the University College of London, and others found that emissions of aluminium and nitrogen oxides from satellite re-entries significantly increased from 3.3 billion grams in 2020 to 5.6 billion grams in 2022.

• Scientists are particularly concerned about the impact of this pollution on the ozone layer in Earth’s stratosphere. This layer absorbs up to 99% of ultraviolet rays from the Sun, which would otherwise harm living organisms on Earth’s surface.

Other Important Articles Covering the same topic:

????Burnt-up rockets, satellites are polluting Earth’s atmosphere, with unknown consequences

 

For any queries and feedback, contact priya.shukla@indianexpress.com

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Priya Kumari Shukla is a Senior Copy Editor in the Indian Express (digital). She contributes to the UPSC Section of indianexpress.com and started niche initiatives such as UPSC Key, UPSC Ethics Simplified, and The 360° UPSC Debate. The UPSC Key aims to assist students and aspirants in their preparation for the Civil Services and other competitive examinations. It provides valuable guidance on effective strategies for reading and comprehending newspaper content. The 360° UPSC Debate tackles a topic from all perspectives after sorting through various publications. The chosen framework for the discussion is structured in a manner that encompasses both the arguments in favour and against the topic, ensuring comprehensive coverage of many perspectives. Prior to her involvement with the Indian Express, she had affiliations with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) as well as several coaching and edutech enterprises. In her prior professional experience, she was responsible for creating and refining material in various domains, including article composition and voiceover video production. She has written in-house books on many subjects, including modern India, ancient Indian history, internal security, international relations, and the Indian economy. She has more than eight years of expertise in the field of content writing. Priya holds a Master's degree in Electronic Science from the University of Pune as well as an Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management (EPPPM) from the esteemed Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, widely recognised as one of the most prestigious business schools in India. She is also an alumni of Jamia Milia Islamia University Residential Coaching Academy (RCA). Priya has made diligent efforts to engage in research endeavours, acquiring the necessary skills to effectively examine and synthesise facts and empirical evidence prior to presenting their perspective. Priya demonstrates a strong passion for reading, particularly in the genres of classical Hindi, English, Maithili, and Marathi novels and novellas. Additionally, she possessed the distinction of being a cricket player at the national level.   Years of Experience/ Industry Experience: 8+ Qualification, Degrees / other achievements: Master's degree in Electronic Science from University of Pune and Executive Programme in Public Policy and Management (EPPPM) from Indian Institute of Management Calcutta Follow her on Twitter @peru_priya ... Read More