09-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

SAMAGRA SHIKSHA FUND DELAY: A PUNISHMENT FOR ROLE-MODEL STATES

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN SOCIETY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Samagra Shiksha scheme (SSA) is a comprehensive program for school education in India. However, the Centre’s decision to withhold funds to Opposition-ruled states has raised concerns.

Key Findings:

• Political Motivation: The Centre’s decision to withhold funds is primarily linked to the states’ unwillingness to accept the PM Shri scheme and, in some cases, the National Education Policy in its entirety.
• Impact on Education Outcomes: The delay in funds has negatively affected the educational outcomes in these states. It has hindered efforts to bridge social and gender gaps, ensure equity and inclusion, promote vocational education, and improve school infrastructure.
• Financial Burden on States: The states affected by the fund delay have faced financial burdens, leading to salary delays for teachers and increased fees for students.
• Punishment for High-Performing States: The Centre’s action is particularly concerning as it penalizes states that have achieved significant progress in implementing the SSA’s objectives.

SAMAGRA SHIKSHA:

Samagra Shiksha is an integrated program covering school education from pre-school to class 12, aiming to enhance school effectiveness and equitable learning outcomes. Launched in 2018, it subsumes SSA, RMSA, and Teacher Education.

Objectives:

• Provide quality education and improve learning outcomes.
• Bridge social and gender gaps in education.
• Ensure equity and inclusion at all education levels.
• Maintain minimum standards in schooling provisions.
• Promote vocational education.
• Support the implementation of the RTE Act, 2009.
• Strengthen teacher training institutions like SCERTs and DIETs.

Major Features:

• Holistic Education: A single scheme for classes I to XII, including pre-primary and senior secondary education.
• Administrative Reform: Unified structure with flexibility for states to prioritize interventions.
• Enhanced Funding: Increased budget with grants based on learning outcomes and quality improvements.
• Quality Education: Focus on teacher training and strengthening educational institutions like SCERTs and DIETs.
• Digital Education: Support for digital initiatives like ‘Operation Digital Board,’ smart classrooms, and digital teacher training platforms like DIKSHA.
• School Strengthening: Emphasis on consolidating schools, enhancing transport, and improving infrastructure with a focus on cleanliness and safety.
• Focus on Girl Education: Empowerment through the upgradation of KGBVs, self-defense training, and stipends for girls with special needs.

Conclusion:

The Centre’s decision to withhold Samagra Shiksha funds to Opposition-ruled states is a politically motivated move with serious consequences for education. It not only punishes high-performing states but also hampers their efforts to improve educational outcomes. This action undermines the principles of equity and fairness in education policy.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. With reference to the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, consider the following statements:
2. Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan aims to provide quality education and improve learning outcomes from pre-school to class 12.
3. The scheme promotes vocational education at all levels of school education.
4. It does not include provisions for bridging social and gender gaps in school education.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 1 and 3 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION:

Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan covers school education from pre-school to class 12 and focuses on providing quality education and enhancing learning outcomes.

The scheme includes promoting vocational education as part of its objectives.

One of the key objectives of Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan is to bridge social and gender gaps in education, ensuring equity and inclusion.

DEADLINE FOR FPI BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP DISCLOSURE: A REGULATORY CHALLENGE

TOPIC: (GS3) INDIAN ECONOMY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has mandated foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to disclose their beneficial owners by September 9, 2023. This move aims to enhance transparency and prevent potential regulatory circumvention. However, some FPIs, including those mentioned in the Hindenburg Report, have sought legal relief from complying with these norms.

Key Points:

• Deadline and Regulatory Requirements: The deadline for FPI beneficial ownership disclosure has passed. FPIs are required to provide granular details of all entities holding ownership, economic interest, or exercising control in the FPI.
• FPIs Seeking Relief: Two Mauritius-based FPIs, LTS Investment Funds and Lotus Global Investment, have challenged SEBI’s norms in the Securities Appellate Tribunal, arguing discrimination and seeking more time for compliance.
• Concerns Raised by SEBI: SEBI is worried that some foreign investors might be holding too much stock in a few specific companies. This could give these investors too much power and make it easier for them to cheat the rules.
• Impact on Markets: The deadline for FPI beneficial ownership disclosure has contributed to market volatility, with FPIs pulling out significant funds in August 2023.
• Regulatory Implications: Failure to comply with the disclosure requirements could result in FPIs being disqualified from investing in India and forced to liquidate their holdings.

FPI and Regulatory Measures in the Indian Economy

Understanding FPI

• Definition: Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) refers to the purchase of securities like stocks and bonds in a foreign country by investors.
• Impact on Indian Economy: FPIs can significantly impact the Indian economy by providing liquidity, boosting capital markets, and supporting economic growth.

Regulatory Measures

• SEBI Oversight: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the primary regulator of FPIs in India.
• KYC Norms: SEBI mandates Know Your Customer (KYC) norms for FPIs to ensure transparency and prevent money laundering.
• Investment Limits: There are specific investment limits for FPIs in different sectors to safeguard domestic interests. (Below 10%)
• Taxation: FPIs are subject to various taxes, including capital gains tax and dividend distribution tax.

Top FPI Sources

• United Kingdom: The UK is one of the largest sources of FPI to India.
• United States: The US is another significant contributor to FPI inflows.
• Mauritius: Mauritius has been a popular source of FPI due to its favorable tax treaty with India.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):Investment:

Acquisition of a controlling stake in a foreign company.

Control: Substantial control over the company’s operations. (Above 10%)

Ownership: Ownership stake in the company.

Investment Horizon: Long-term.

Holding Percentage: Typically, above a certain threshold, often around 10% or more.

Risks Associated with Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI)

• Market Volatility: FPIs are often driven by short-term market trends, leading to sudden inflows and outflows. This can create significant market volatility, especially in emerging economies. Eg whenever there is rise and fall in us federal reserve rates , there is a substantial outflow and inflow of FPI into country , which is why it is volatile
• Currency Fluctuations: Changes in exchange rates can impact the returns on FPI investments. If the local currency depreciates against the investor’s home currency, the returns may be reduced.
• Regulatory Risks: Governments can impose restrictions or regulations on FPI inflows or outflows, affecting the investment environment.
• Political Risks: Political instability, economic crises, or changes in government policies can create risks for FPI investors.
• Liquidity Risks: In some markets, it may be difficult to sell FPI investments quickly, especially during times of market stress, leading to potential losses.

Conclusion:

The deadline for FPI beneficial ownership disclosure has presented a regulatory challenge. While SEBI’s efforts to enhance transparency are commendable, the legal challenges posed by certain FPIs and the potential market implications highlight the complexities of regulating foreign investments. The outcome of these legal proceedings will significantly impact the future of FPI investments in India.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. With reference to Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), consider the following statements:
2. FPI involves the purchase of stocks, bonds, and other financial assets without any significant control over the companies, while FDI involves direct investment in a business or infrastructure.
3. FDI typically brings in long-term capital and technological expertise, whereas FPI is usually short-term and sensitive to market conditions.
4. FPI investors have a significant say in the management and operations of the companies they invest in, unlike FDI investors.

Multiple Choice Question:

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 1 and 3 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

ANSWER: A

EXPLANATION:

FPI involves investments in financial assets like stocks and bonds without significant control, while FDI involves direct investment in physical assets or businesses.

FDI is long-term, bringing in capital, technology, and management skills, whereas FPI is more short-term and influenced by market volatility.

FPI investors do not have significant control or influence over company management, unlike FDI investors who have a direct stake and control in the business operations.

PERIODIC RESET

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU

India’s engagement with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) is crucial for enhancing trade, security, and regional cooperation. However, India’s inconsistent approach towards ASEAN highlights the need for a strategic and continuous engagement.

Renewed Focus on Act East Policy

• Prime Minister Modi’s recent visits to Brunei and Singapore reflect a renewed focus on the “Act East” policy.
• This marks the first Indian PM visit to Brunei, emphasizing the need to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia.

Challenges in Trade Relations

• Despite doubling trade with ASEAN in the last decade, India’s trade with Brunei has declined, partly due to Brunei’s increased oil imports from Russia.
• India lacks a strategic partnership with Brunei; recent discussions included defense and space cooperation.

Opportunities in Technology and Investment

• Singapore, a key player in the electronics supply chain, offers opportunities for India in semiconductors, particularly in mitigating global supply risks.
• Strengthening ties with Singapore could help address declining FDI flows from Singapore into India.

Impact of India’s Exit from RCEP

• India’s withdrawal from the ASEAN-led RCEP in 2019 was a significant setback, excluding India from a major regional trade framework.
• There is a need to update existing trade agreements like the 2009 AITIGA and the 2005 CECA with Singapore.

Geopolitical Coordination

• India’s stance on ASEAN centrality in the Indo-Pacific is well-regarded, but greater coordination on geopolitical issues such as Myanmar, the South China Sea, and Quad engagement is required.

REGIONAL COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP (RCEP)

RCEP is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between ASEAN and six other nations: China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and initially India.

• Signed in November 2020 after eight years of negotiations; India opted out, leaving 15 participating countries.

Key Features of RCEP

• World’s largest trading bloc, comprising nearly one-third of the global population and 29% of global GDP.
• Aims to create a modern, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial economic partnership.

ASEAN Overview

• ASEAN is a regional group of 10 Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Myanmar, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
• India maintains an FTA and conducts an annual summit with ASEAN.

Reasons for India’s Withdrawal

• Import Surge Protection: India sought the right to impose safeguard duties to protect its domestic industry from potential import surges.
• Transparency and State Capitalism: Concerns over subsidies and state capitalism, particularly by China, which could disadvantage free trade.
• Rules of Origin: India demanded strict rules to prevent indirect Chinese exports through low-tariff nations.
• Free Trade in Services: India emphasized the inclusion of services, an area where it has a competitive advantage.
• Special Status for Non-Member Countries: India wanted the flexibility to negotiate separate trade deals without extending the same terms to RCEP members.

Importance of RCEP

• When fully realized, RCEP will be the largest trading bloc by population, covering about 40% of the world’s GDP and 30% of global trade.
• It brings together major Asian economies, providing significant growth potential due to the involvement of the world’s fastest-growing economies, including China and India.

Conclusion

India’s historical and strategic ties with ASEAN demand a sustained and strategic reset to enhance regional influence, address trade deficits, and strengthen geopolitical partnerships.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. With reference to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), consider the following statements:
2. RCEP includes all ASEAN member countries and six other nations, including India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.
3. RCEP aims to create a comprehensive economic partnership that includes trade in goods, services, investment, and dispute settlement among its members.
4. India is currently a member of RCEP but has raised concerns regarding issues related to rules of origin and protection of domestic industries.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 2 and 3 only

Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

Although RCEP originally included India in its negotiations, India decided to withdraw, leaving the agreement with 15 countries—10 ASEAN members and 5 other countries (China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand).

RCEP aims to establish a comprehensive economic partnership covering trade in goods, services, investment, economic cooperation, and dispute settlement.

India is not currently a member of RCEP; it withdrew due to concerns about the impact on domestic industries, rules of origin, and the need for greater safeguards against import surges.

UNCOMMON CYCLONES IN THE ARABIAN SEA:

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY – SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Indian Ocean, with its unique geographical features and monsoonal circulation, has historically seen fewer cyclones compared to other ocean basins. However, recent events, such as Cyclone Asna, have highlighted a growing trend of more frequent and intense cyclones in this region.

The Indian Ocean’s Unique Features

The Indian Ocean is distinct from other ocean basins due to several factors:

• Monsoonal Circulation: The region experiences dramatic seasonal wind reversals, influencing cyclone formation and patterns.
• Oceanic Tunnels: Connections to the Pacific and Southern Oceans through ‘oceanic tunnels’ transport warm and cool waters, affecting ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions.

Traditional Reasons for Fewer Cyclones

• Cooler Waters: The Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal generally have cooler temperatures compared to other cyclone-prone regions.
• Wind Shear: Strong vertical wind shear in the Indian Ocean can disrupt cyclone formation by stripping away energy from developing systems.
• Less Convective Activity: The Arabian Sea has relatively lower convective activity, reducing the likelihood of cyclonic formation.
• Monsoonal Influence: During the monsoon season, intense wind patterns and evaporation can affect cyclone development, particularly in the Arabian Sea.

Increasing Frequency of Cyclones: A Climate Change Impact

• Warming Oceans: Rising sea surface temperatures due to global warming provide more energy for cyclone formation.
• Climate Change Impacts: Increased heat from the Pacific and Southern Oceans can boost temperatures in the Indian Ocean, contributing to more frequent cyclones.
• Atmospheric Changes: Changes in wind patterns, humidity, and the weakening of monsoonal winds can alter cyclone dynamics.
• Extended Cyclone Seasons: Modified climate conditions can extend the duration of favorable cyclone formation periods.
• Enhanced Moisture Supply: Greater evaporation rates due to warmer waters can increase moisture availability, fuelling cyclone formation.

Cyclone Asna: A Case Study

Cyclone Asna, which formed in August 2023, is a prime example of the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones in the Indian Ocean. Its unusual formation and path highlight the changing nature of cyclonic activity in the region.

Conclusion

The increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones in the Indian Ocean are a clear indication of the impact of climate change on this region. The unique characteristics of the Indian Ocean, combined with rising sea surface temperatures and changes in atmospheric patterns, are contributing to these trends. As climate change continues to accelerate, it is likely that we will see even more extreme weather events in the Indian Ocean region.

HOW CHANGES IN ARCTIC SEA ICE AFFECT INDIA’S MONSOON

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY– SOURCE: THE HINDU

The Indian monsoon, a vital weather system, has become increasingly unpredictable due to climate change. A new study reveals a surprising connection: The declining Arctic Sea ice.

The Indian Monsoon

• The Indian summer monsoon (ISMR) is a complex system influenced by various factors.
• It brings significant rainfall to India, but its patterns have become erratic in recent years.

Indian Monsoon System

Seasonal reversal of winds:The monsoon is characterized by a dramatic change in wind direction and patterns.

• Southwest monsoon: Prevails from June to September, bringing abundant rainfall.
• Northeast monsoon: Prevails from October to December, generally bringing dry conditions.
• Influenced by temperature differences: The monsoon is driven by the temperature difference between the Indian landmass and the Indian Ocean.

Two branches: The southwest monsoon splits into two branches:

• Arabian Sea branch: Brings rainfall to western and central India.
• Bay of Bengal branch: Brings rainfall to eastern and northeastern India.

Crucial for agriculture: The monsoon is vital for India’s agriculture, as it provides most of the annual rainfall.

Arctic Sea Ice and the Monsoon

• A new study found a direct link between changes in Arctic Sea ice and the ISMR.
• Reduced sea ice in the central Arctic and Barents-Kara Sea regions can affect the monsoon’s onset, intensity, and regional rainfall patterns.

High Pressure, Low Pressure, and Rain Patterns

High Pressure Systems:

• Areas where atmospheric pressure is higher than the surrounding areas, because cool air has high density so high pressure is created over an area
• Weather Impact: Typically associated with clear skies, dry conditions, and stable weather because the sinking air prevents cloud formation.
• Effect on Rainfall: High-pressure areas usually lead to less rainfall and dry weather patterns.

Low Pressure Systems:

• Areas where atmospheric pressure is lower than the surrounding areas, means areas with a higher temperature leads to upwelling of winds leads to low pressure in an area
• Weather Impact: Associated with rising air, which cools and condenses to form clouds and precipitation.

Effect on Rainfall: Low-pressure systems are linked to cloudy, wet weather, and are often the main drivers of rainstorms and other precipitation events.

Rossby Waves and Their Effect

• Increase in Arctic Sea Ice: More sea ice in the Arctic makes heat move from the ocean into the atmosphere.
• Cyclonic Circulation: This heat movement creates rotating wind patterns in lower latitudes.
• Strengthened Rossby Waves: The changes in wind patterns make Rossby waves, which are large air currents, stronger.
• High Pressure Over Northwest India: The stronger Rossby waves increase high-pressure areas over northwest India. (Air moves from high-pressure to low-pressure areas.)
• Low Pressure Over the Mediterranean: Rossby waves also create low-pressure zones in the Mediterranean region.
• Impact on Subtropical Jet Stream: The changes in pressure affect the fast-moving air current (jet stream) over India.
• High Pressure Over Central Asia: This results in an unusual high-pressure system over Central Asia.
• More Rain in India: The high-pressure system leads to increased rainfall in western and southern parts of India.

PLEASE REFER STANDARD BOOKS OR NCERT TO GET MORE CLARITY ON WIND PATTERNS AND PRESSURE DIFFERENCES

Rossby Waves:

Rossby waves, also known as planetary waves, are large-scale atmospheric undulations that play a crucial role in shaping global weather patterns.

• They were first identified by Carl-Gustaf Arvid Rossby in the Earth’s atmosphere in 1939.

Key characteristics of Rossby waves:

• Large-scale: They span thousands of kilometres across the atmosphere.
• Slow-moving: Compared to other atmospheric waves, Rossby waves move relatively slowly, often taking weeks to cross an ocean basin.
• Meandering pattern: They are associated with the meandering patterns of the jet stream, particularly around the polar vortex.
• Influence on weather: Rossby waves can influence weather patterns on a regional and global scale, affecting temperature, precipitation, and storm tracks.
• Role in climate variability: They contribute to long-term climate variability, such as El Niño and La Niña events.

Formation:

• Rossby waves are formed due to the Earth’s rotation and the Coriolis effect.
• The Coriolis effect causes objects moving north or south to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. This deflection creates a wave-like pattern in the atmosphere.

Impact on weather:

• Blocking patterns: Rossby waves can create blocking patterns, which can lead to persistent periods of extreme weather, such as heatwaves, droughts, or heavy rainfall.
• Jet stream meandering: The meandering of the jet stream, influenced by Rossby waves, can affect the location and intensity of storms.
• Climate variability: Rossby waves can contribute to long-term climate variability by influencing ocean currents and atmospheric circulation patterns.

Climate Change

• Climate change is the primary driver of Arctic Sea ice decline.
• As sea ice continues to melt, the variability and unpredictability of the ISMR will likely increase.

Conclusion

The study highlights the intricate relationship between Arctic Sea ice and the Indian monsoon. Understanding this connection is crucial for improving climate models and predictions. Addressing climate change is essential for mitigating the impacts on India’s monsoon.

PLASTIC POLLUTION IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU

A recent study underscores India’s substantial contribution to global plastic pollution, accounting for 20% of the total, driven by high plastic waste generation and ineffective waste management systems.

About Plastic Pollution

• Global Crisis: Plastic pollution is a severe environmental issue affecting ecosystems, human health, and socio-economic stability. It disrupts habitats, affects climate adaptability, and impacts livelihoods, food production, and social well-being.
• Life-Cycle Approach: This approach evaluates the environmental impact of plastics from production to disposal, including raw material extraction, manufacturing, packaging, use, and end-of-life processes like recycling and disposal.
• Single-Use Plastics: Items such as plastic bags, food containers, and PET bottles are major pollutants. Annually, around 500 billion PET bottles are sold, with many ending up in oceans.
• Microplastics: These small plastic particles originate from sources like synthetic fabrics, tires, cosmetics, and industrial processes, contributing significantly to environmental pollution.

India’s Contribution to Global Plastic Pollution

• A study published in Nature reveals that India contributes nearly 20% to global plastic pollution.
• India annually burns 5.8 million tonnes of plastic and releases 3.5 million tonnes into the environment, surpassing countries like Nigeria, Indonesia, and China in terms of plastic waste emissions.
• This emphasizes India’s substantial impact on the global plastic pollution problem.

The Issue of Unmanaged Plastic Waste

• Globally, about 251 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated each year, with 52.1 million tonnes classified as “unmanaged” waste that is either left in the environment or burned openly.
• Unmanaged waste poses health risks by releasing harmful pollutants into the air, contributing to air quality degradation and associated health problems.

Global North vs. Global South Divide

• The study highlights a disparity between the Global North and Global South. Wealthier nations generate more plastic waste but manage it effectively, whereas countries in the Global South, including India, struggle with inadequate waste management systems, leading to open burning and environmental pollution.

Ongoing Treaty Negotiations and Criticism

• Ongoing global treaty negotiations on plastic pollution are contentious, with debates over prioritizing waste management versus reducing plastic production.
• Critics argue that focusing on waste management alone neglects the critical need to curb plastic production, which is essential for addressing the root cause of the pollution crisis.

PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT RULES, 2016

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers, importers, and brand owners are responsible for the collection, processing, and recycling of plastic waste generated by their products.
• Minimization of plastic waste: Generators of plastic waste are required to take steps to minimize its generation.
• Segregation of plastic waste: Plastic waste must be segregated at source.
• Prohibition of single-use plastic items: Several single-use plastic items, such as plastic bags, straws, and cutlery, are prohibited.
• Minimum thickness of plastic carry bags: The minimum thickness of plastic carry bags has been increased to reduce their environmental impact.
• Recycling and waste management: Recycled plastic material must be used in the manufacturing of plastic items. Local bodies are responsible for ensuring proper waste management and disposal.

Amendments and Updates

• Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021: Introduced additional restrictions on single-use plastic items and increased the minimum thickness of plastic carry bags.
• Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2022: Further tightened restrictions on single-use plastic items and introduced guidelines for extended producer responsibility.

Key Objectives

• Reduce plastic waste generation and pollution.
• Promote recycling and reuse of plastic materials.
• Protect the environment and public health.

Ways to Tackle Plastic Pollution in India

• Strengthen Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations: Implement stricter EPR regulations to hold producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their plastic products, including collection, recycling, and disposal.
• Promote Recycling and Waste Management: Invest in modern recycling infrastructure and incentivize recycling initiatives. Promote awareness about proper waste segregation and disposal practices.
• Ban or Restrict Single-Use Plastics: Impose bans or restrictions on single-use plastic items like bags, straws, and cutlery. Encourage the use of eco-friendly alternatives.
• Encourage Consumer Awareness and Behavior Change: Conduct public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the harmful effects of plastic pollution and promote sustainable consumption habits.
• Develop Sustainable Alternatives: Support research and development of biodegradable and compostable alternatives to plastic materials. Promote the use of reusable and refillable products.

Conclusion

India’s large contribution to plastic pollution, combined with insufficient waste management, highlights the urgent need for global cooperation to address both waste management and plastic production. The outcome of the ongoing treaty negotiations will be crucial in shaping global strategies to tackle this environmental challenge.

UKRAINE URGES INDIA TO JOIN SWISS PEACE PROCESS ON RUSSIA-UKRAINE CONFLICT

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU

Ukraine is urging India to reconsider its stance on joining the Swiss peace process for the Russia-Ukraine conflict, after India initially chose not to participate in the June summit.

Ukraine is seeking India’s involvement in peace-building efforts, with planned discussions and diplomatic visits aimed at boosting this engagement.

Swiss Peace Process:

• Definition: The Swiss peace process is a diplomatic initiative aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict through negotiations and dialogue, with Switzerland acting as a neutral facilitator.
• Initiation: Launched in June, the process aims to create a comprehensive peace agreement by involving key international stakeholders.
• First Summit: The inaugural summit in Switzerland resulted in a joint communique focusing on humanitarian access and nuclear safety. However, Russia and Ukraine were not directly involved in the summit.
• Second Summit: Scheduled for October or November, the upcoming summit seeks to expand on initial discussions, aiming to include broader support and contributions from influential countries, such as India.
• Objective: The overall goal of the Swiss peace process is to promote a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Ukraine shares its borders with the following countries:

• Russia (to the east and northeast)
• Belarus (to the north)
• Poland (to the west)
• Slovakia (to the west)
• Hungary (to the west)
• Romania (to the southwest)
• Moldova (to the southwest)

Additionally, Ukraine has coastlines along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov to the south.

PLANETARY PROTECTION: PREVENTING BIOLOGICAL CONTAMINATION IN SPACE MISSIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU

China’s decision to advance its Tianwen-3 Mars sample-return mission to 2028 underscores its commitment to planetary protection, which aims to prevent contamination between Earth and other celestial bodies. This commitment aligns with international space treaties and involves stringent sterilization of spacecraft.

Planetary Protection Principle:

Definition: Planetary protection involves measures and guidelines designed to prevent biological contamination of Earth and other celestial bodies during space missions.

Objective: It aims to preserve planetary environments by preventing the transfer of extraterrestrial life to Earth and stopping Earth-originating life from contaminating other planets.

Guidance: This principle is guided by Article IX of the Outer Space Treaty (1967), which requires space exploration to avoid harmful contamination and negative impacts on planetary environments.

Sterilization Procedures: To meet these standards, spacecraft are subjected to rigorous sterilization techniques, such as high-temperature baking, to reduce microbial contamination before embarking on interplanetary missions.

OUTER SPACE TREATY (1967)

• Date: Signed on January 27, 1967, and entered into force on October 10, 1967.
• Participants: Initiated by the United States, the Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom; later ratified by numerous other countries.
• Purpose: Provides the foundational framework for international space law and advocates for the peaceful use of outer space.

   Key Provisions:

• Non-Appropriation: Prohibits any country from claiming ownership of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies.
• Peaceful Use: Stipulates that outer space should be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and that space activities should benefit all humanity.
• No Weapons of Mass Destruction: Bans the placement of nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in outer space.
• International Cooperation: Promotes global cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful activities

These practices are essential to maintaining the scientific integrity of space missions and protecting extraterrestrial ecosystems from biological contamination.