10-February-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

GLOBAL RISE OF TERRORISM AND EVOLVING THREATS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The world today is grappling with unpredictable conflicts and increasing violence. In particular, the resurgence of Islamist terrorism poses significant threats to global security.

Decline of Global Morality and the Failure of International Institutions

• The current world order has fractured post-1945, with no clear global moral compass.
• Key institutions like the United Nations Security Council and the International Court of Justice have failed to address ongoing violence, particularly in Ukraine and West Asia.
• The principles of Hugo Grotius have largely become irrelevant, and the world now faces a “wasteland of morality.”

Evolving Nature of Islamist Terrorism

• Islamist terrorism has evolved into a multifaceted and decentralized threat, bolstered by digital tools and social media.
• Despite setbacks for groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS, terrorism 3.0 is still alive, with terrorism adapting to the digital era.
• The rise of online radicalization and lone-wolf attackers continues to pose challenges to global security.

Revival of Terrorist Organizations and Regional Tensions

• Al-Qaeda and ISIS are experiencing a revival, with al-Qaeda operating training camps in Afghanistan, and ISIS expanding its activities in Afghanistan and beyond.
• Attacks by these groups are not limited to West Asia but have been seen in Russia, Iran, and Europe, highlighting a broader threat.

New Terrorism Trends: Vehicle and Cyber Attacks

• Recent incidents in the U.S., including vehicle attacks and explosions, point to an emerging wave of IS-style terrorism.
• Security agencies have heightened concerns about a resurgence of terror tactics using modern technologies like AI.
• The new terrorist recruits often have military backgrounds, making these attacks more calculated and dangerous.

The Need for Heightened Global Preparedness

• Counter-terrorism experts emphasize the importance of staying alert to the evolving terror tactics and the growing use of AI in terrorism.
• Proactive measures and increased intelligence gathering are essential to prevent a new wave of attacks.
• The revival of radicalization through digital platforms requires immediate attention to safeguard global security.

conclusion

terrorism is not only resurfacing in new forms but is also evolving in ways that require global cooperation and swift action to prevent further escalation.

Mains Practice Question:

1. Discuss the role of modern technologies, including social media and AI, in shaping the strategies of terrorist organizations. Also, examine the implications of this evolving threat on global security and the need for international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.”
   (150 WORDS)

INDIA’S ROLE IN SHAPING GLOBAL AI GOVERNANCE AT THE AI ACTION SUMMIT

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

India’s participation in co-chairing the AI Action Summit in Paris offers a valuable opportunity to represent the Global South’s concerns in AI governance. The summit, set for February 10-11, 2025, provides India with a platform to influence global AI policies and ensure equitable development in AI technologies.

India’s Global Engagement on AI Safety

• Previous Global Forums: India has been actively involved in AI safety discussions at international platforms, including the U.K. and South Korea meetings.
• Advocacy for the Global South: India has championed the Global South’s cause, emphasizing equitable access to AI technologies and advocating for a balanced approach between innovation and safety.

India’s Strategic Priorities at the Paris Summit

• Democratizing AI Resources: India should push for broader access to AI tools, such as data sets, cloud infrastructure, and AI models. Its initiative of providing computing resources with subsidies sets a positive example.
• Open-Source AI Models: Promoting open-source AI is crucial, as it reduces the constraints imposed by export controls. India should advocate for more flexible global AI technology transfers.

AI Use-Cases for the Global South

• Contextualizing AI Solutions: India should stress the need for AI solutions tailored to the specific needs of the Global South. This includes AI-driven health, education, and agriculture applications that are region-specific.
• AI Use-Case Repository: Creating a central repository of AI applications for the Global South could guide future AI development based on regional priorities.

Contextualizing AI Risks

• Addressing Unique Risks: India must highlight the distinct AI risks faced by the Global South, including cultural impacts and data biases. It should call for evidence-based strategies to mitigate these risks.
• AI Harm Repository: Establishing a repository for AI-related harms in the Global South would help design informed risk management strategies.

Conclusion

India’s leadership in the AI Action Summit can strengthen its position as a bridge between developed and developing nations in the global AI discourse, paving the way for more inclusive and equitable AI policies.

CHINA’S SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO U.S. IMPORTS AND ITS TRADE IMPLICATIONS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

In the backdrop of escalating trade tensions between the U.S., China, Canada, and Mexico, a considerable share of U.S. imports comes from these countries. This has sparked discussions on trade tariffs and the broader impact on global supply chains, especially with China’s dominant role in various imported goods and services.

U.S. Trade Tariffs and Recent Developments

• President Trump’s Tariffs Announcement: In a recent move, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed additional tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico, citing a national emergency related to “illegal aliens and drugs” entering the U.S.
• Retaliation from China: In response, China announced its plans to enforce counter tariffs, escalating the trade conflict further.

U.S. Imports and China’s Role

• China’s Contribution to U.S. Imports: China has consistently been the largest contributor to U.S. imports in terms of share. From 2018 to 2023, China accounted for 18% of the U.S.’s total imported services, the highest percentage among its trading partners.
• Top U.S. Trading Partners: Following China, the U.S. imports significant amounts from Mexico (14%) and Canada (13%). These three countries make up a substantial share of U.S. imports.

Breakdown of U.S. Imports (2018-2023)

• Total Imports of the U.S.: Between 2018 and 2023, the U.S. imported goods worth $17 trillion.

Top Categories of Imports:

• Electrical Machinery and Equipment: 15% of all U.S. imports were related to electrical machinery and equipment.
• Vehicles and Parts: 11% of imports comprised vehicles and their parts.
• Nuclear Machinery and Appliances: 9% of imports were nuclear machinery and appliances.

China’s Dominance in U.S. Imports by Category

• China has the highest share in eight out of the 15 leading items imported by the U.S. This includes critical sectors such as electrical and nuclear machinery.
• China has a dominant role in the import of various items, including:
  • Iron or Steel: 20-30% share of imports.
  • Plastics and Clothing: 20-30% share, making China a key supplier of these materials.
  • Furniture: China accounts for around 40% of U.S. furniture imports.
  • Toys: Nearly 80% of U.S. toy imports come from China.
• Other Key Imports from China: China is also the second-largest supplier for items like measuring instruments, organic chemicals, and rubber.

Role of Mexico in U.S. Imports

• Vehicle Imports: Mexico holds the highest share in U.S. vehicle imports. It is also a significant exporter of measuring instruments to the U.S.
• Contribution to Electrical and Nuclear Machinery: Mexico contributes to the U.S. imports of electrical machinery, nuclear machinery, and several other goods like furniture, iron or steel, and rubber.

Role of Canada in U.S. Imports

• Mineral Imports from Canada: Canada is a major supplier of mineral imports to the U.S., contributing to almost half of these imports.
• Contribution to Plastic, Vehicles, and Iron/Steel Imports: Canada plays an essential role in the supply of plastics, vehicles, and iron/steel to the U.S.

Implications of Trade Tariffs

• Impact on U.S.-China Trade: The imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports will likely have a far-reaching effect on industries reliant on Chinese goods, such as electronics, furniture, and toys.
• Effects on the Global Supply Chain: The tariffs may disrupt established supply chains, forcing businesses to explore alternatives to Chinese-made products.
• China’s Counter-Tariffs: China’s retaliatory tariffs could impact U.S. exports to China, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, vehicles, and machinery.

Trade Relations between U.S., China, Mexico, and Canada

• Importance of Bilateral Trade: Despite the tariffs, the U.S. continues to have significant trade relations with China, Mexico, and Canada, with a large volume of goods exchanged annually.
• Trade Balance Issues: The U.S. has historically had a trade deficit with China, meaning it imports more from China than it exports to it. This has been a point of contention in trade talks and tariff disputes.

Strategic Response and Future Outlook

• Diversification of Imports: In response to tariffs, the U.S. may explore diversifying its import sources to reduce dependence on China, Mexico, and Canada. This could lead to stronger trade ties with other countries in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
• Impact on U.S. Industries: Sectors like electronics, automotive, and consumer goods are likely to feel the most significant impact from these tariffs, especially with the increased costs of imported raw materials and finished products.
• Global Trade Shifts: Other countries may capitalize on the shifting global trade landscape, with nations like Vietnam, India, and other Southeast Asian countries poised to benefit from this trade disruption.

Conclusion

The U.S.’s imports from China, Mexico, and Canada represent a significant portion of its total imports, reflecting the deep interconnectedness of global supply chains. While trade tensions and tariffs are reshaping these relations, the broader impact on industries, consumers, and international trade dynamics remains a critical area of focus for policymakers.

Mains Practice Question:

1. “Discuss the trade implications of the U.S.’s reliance on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada, especially in light of the recent trade tensions and tariff impositions. How might these trade disruptions affect global supply chains and U.S. industries?” (150 WORDS)

AERO INDIA 2025: A KEY MILESTONE IN INDIA’S AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE GROWTH

TOPIC: (GS3) SEQURITY: THE HINDU

Aero India 2025, held in Bengaluru from February 10-14, marks a significant step in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in aerospace and defence manufacturing. This exhibition showcases India’s growing technological prowess, fostering international collaborations and self-reliance in the sector.

Evolution of Aero India

• Foundation and Growth: The event, first held in 1996, has evolved from a modest aviation show to a prestigious global defence exhibition.
• Global Participation: Aero India 2025 will feature 106 original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), with notable participation from 55 foreign manufacturers representing countries like Brazil, France, Israel, and the United States.
• Domestic Strength: India’s defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs) and top private companies such as Bharat Forge, Adani Defence, and BrahMos Aerospace will showcase their innovations.

Key Highlights of the Expo

• Advanced Aircraft Displays: For the first time, the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35 fighter jets will be on display, providing a rare opportunity to assess their technological features.
• AMCA Model: India’s indigenous development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) will be highlighted, showcasing the nation’s capabilities in building fifth-generation stealth fighter jets with 75% domestic content.
• Innovation and Start-Ups: The ‘Manthan’ platform will promote innovation, featuring pioneering advancements from Indian start-ups and the iDEX pavilion. This will reinforce India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.

Visitor Experience and Infrastructure

• Enhanced Facilities: With over seven lakh expected visitors, significant improvements in traffic management, shuttle services, and security have been made to ensure smooth and secure access to the event.
• Exhibition and Interactive Events: In addition to static aircraft displays, there will be live technology demonstrations, aerospace seminars, and an exciting aerial show, providing insights into India’s defence capabilities.

Conclusion

Aero India 2025 is a defining event in India’s defence sector, serving as a platform for showcasing indigenous technological advancements and strengthening global partnerships. It underscores India’s commitment to becoming a self-reliant, innovative leader in aerospace and defence.

SIGNIFICANCE OF POTASH RESERVES DISCOVERY IN PUNJAB

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The discovery of potash reserves in Punjab marks a potential shift in India’s mineral resource management, particularly in reducing dependence on potash imports for fertilizer production. This finding has significant implications for the domestic fertilizer industry, although there are some concerns regarding land acquisition and environmental impact.

What is Potash?

Potash refers to potassium-based minerals, essential for producing fertilizers. It is one of the three primary nutrients required for plant growth, alongside Nitrogen and Phosphorus.

Uses: Over 90% of potash is used in fertilizers to enhance plant health and increase crop yield.

• Sulphate of Potash (SOP): A high-quality fertilizer free from harmful chloride, used for high-value crops like fruits and vegetables.
• Muriate of Potash (MOP): Contains chloride and is used mainly for carbohydrate crops like wheat.

Potash Reserves in Punjab and Rajasthan

• Reserves in Punjab: Recently, significant potash reserves were discovered in Punjab’s Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib districts. These reserves are spread over 18 square kilometers, with three mining blocks identified in Fazilka and Muktsar Sahib.
• Rajasthan’s Role: Rajasthan is the leading state in India for potash reserves, particularly in the Nagaur-Ganganagar basin. Extensive exploration has confirmed large deposits in both Rajasthan and now Punjab.

Potential Benefits of Potash Mining

• Reduced Import Dependence: India currently imports around 5 million tonnes of potash annually, mainly used for fertilizers. Domestic mining would reduce reliance on these imports.
• Boost to Fertilizer Industry: Locally sourced potash could support India’s growing fertilizer needs and reduce costs associated with imports.
• Economic Development: Potash mining could stimulate regional economic growth, creating jobs and fostering local infrastructure development.

Concerns Surrounding Potash Mining

• Land Acquisition Issues: Some farmers are concerned about their land being acquired for mining activities. However, the government has assured that advanced drilling techniques will be used, avoiding the need for land acquisition.
• Environmental and Social Impact: The Punjab government is conducting a thorough environmental and social impact assessment before starting mining operations to ensure minimal disruption to local communities.

Current Status and Future Prospects

• Progress in Punjab: The Kabarwala block in Punjab is at the auctioning stage, with the state government approving mining. However, the final approval will depend on resolving farmers’ concerns and completing the necessary environmental studies.
• Challenges in Mining: Despite substantial potash reserves, delays in extraction are primarily due to protests and regulatory processes, though the potential for local mining remains high.

Conclusion

The discovery of potash reserves in Punjab presents an opportunity for India to reduce its import dependence and enhance the domestic fertilizer industry. However, the successful implementation of mining projects will depend on addressing farmers’ concerns and ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Practice Question:

1. With reference to the nutrient requirements of crops in India, consider the following statements:

1. NPK stands for Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, which are the three primary nutrients essential for plant growth.
2. Nitrogen is primarily used by plants for root development and flowering.
3. Potassium plays a crucial role in increasing crop resistance to diseases and enhancing drought tolerance.
4. Phosphorus is responsible for enhancing the quality of grains and fruit development.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Answer: A

• NPK stands for Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K), which are the three primary macronutrients essential for plant growth.

• Nitrogen is mainly responsible for leaf and vegetative growth, as it is a key component of chlorophyll and amino acids.
• It does not primarily aid in root development or flowering. Instead, phosphorus plays a crucial role in root growth and flowering.

• Potassium (K) enhances disease resistance, drought tolerance, and overall plant health by regulating water balance, enzyme activation, and strengthening plant cells.

• Phosphorus (P) is essential for energy transfer (ATP), root development, and fruit/grain formation. It helps improve the quality of grains and fruit development.

LAND ACQUISITION AND RIGHT TO PROPERTY IN SOUTH AFRICA, THE US, AND INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The concept of land acquisition and the right to private property has evolved differently in South Africa, the US, and India, influenced by their respective histories and legal frameworks.

Origins of Land Acquisition and Eminent Domain

• The principle of eminent domain, or compulsory land acquisition by the state, was first introduced by the Dutch scholar Hugo Grotius in the 17th century.
• The idea that the state can acquire private property for public use without the owner’s consent was widely adopted during European colonial rule, affecting countries like South Africa, India, and the US.

Right to Private Property: Historical Context

• Magna Carta (1215): The English document marked the first mention of property rights, stating that citizens’ property could not be taken without due legal process.
• US Constitution (1791): The Fifth Amendment guarantees no person shall be deprived of their property “without due process of law,” ensuring compensation when property is acquired for public use.
• Indian Constitution (1950): Initially recognized the right to property as a fundamental right under Articles 19 and 31, but later replaced it with Article 300A (1978), stating property can only be acquired with legal authority.

Evolution of Land Acquisition Laws in These Countries

India

• Land Acquisition Act, 1894: Initially allowed the government to acquire land for public purposes, offering compensation to landowners.
• 2013 Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency Act: This modern law ensures a transparent process, including Social Impact Assessments (SIA) to assess the broader effects of land acquisition. It also covers compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement for affected families.

USA

• Kelo v. City of London (2005): This Supreme Court ruling expanded the definition of “public use” to include private economic development, which led to controversy and legal reforms in several states restricting eminent domain.
• Private Investment Focus: Over time, the US has used land acquisition primarily to boost economic growth, facilitating infrastructure projects and urban expansion.

South Africa

• Post-Apartheid Land Redistribution: After the end of apartheid, the South African government initially pursued a “Willing Seller, Willing Buyer” approach to redistribute land, which faced criticism for its slow progress.
• Expropriation Act (2024): The new law allows for expropriation without compensation in certain cases, but it ensures “just and equitable” compensation if expropriation is in the public interest. It includes provisions for “urgent expropriation” for public purposes.

Conclusion

The evolution of land acquisition laws reflects the historical, social, and political contexts of each country, with an ongoing balancing act between public interests and private property rights.

WHAT INDIAN BUDGET OFFER TO RAILWAYS

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Indian Railways (IR) Budget for 2024-25 shows a lack of significant financial progress despite ongoing modernization efforts. The capital expenditure (capex) remains stagnant, signalling a pause in expansion plans as the government reassesses its approach.

Key Observations from the Budget:

• No Major Capital Expenditure Increase: Despite expectations of a capex push, the budget allocation for Indian Railways remains at ₹2.62 lakh crore, unchanged from the previous year, signalling a pause in ambitious expansion plans.
• Infrastructure Development Focus: The railway minister emphasized continued investment in infrastructure development, including new tracks, station modernization, and increased connectivity. An average of 150 km of tracks have been added annually since 2014, a positive sign for improving connectivity.
• Safety and Passenger Comfort: A significant allocation of ₹1,16,514 crore is set for safety initiatives. However, the progress on key safety projects like Kavach (automatic train collision avoidance system) has been slow, with no new coverage announced for 2025-26.

Key Initiatives and Progress:

• Electrification and Vande Bharat Trains: The focus on electrification continues, with India aiming for a 100% electrified rail network. This will make India’s railways the world’s “greenest.” However, questions arise about the underutilization of diesel locomotives. Additionally, the introduction of 200 Vande Bharat trains has been announced, but no timeline was provided.
• Station Redevelopment: The redevelopment of stations under the Amrit Bharat project has made limited progress. While stations like Gandhinagar and Habibganj have seen improvements, stations like New Delhi remain stuck in re-tendering cycles.

Concerns and Challenges:

• Execution and Oversight: Many projects, particularly those related to station redevelopment, continue to face delays and poor execution. The Railway Minister’s grand announcements lack tangible progress on the ground.
• Lack of Clear Strategy for High-Speed Rail: The proposal for a 7,000 km high-speed rail network by 2047 seems distant and lacks a clear strategy, raising doubts about its feasibility.

Conclusion:

Despite substantial investments and promises, Indian Railways continues to face significant execution challenges, with the current budget failing to provide a transformative vision or address core issues. The focus remains on incremental progress rather than revolutionary change.

HOW HAS THE BUDGET ALLOCATED FUNDS FOR URBAN DEVELOPMENT?

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Union Budget for urban development has allocated ₹96,777 crore, reflecting a rise from last year’s allocation. However, the funds are primarily focused on capital-intensive projects, with limited attention to urban local bodies (ULBs) and sustainable development.

Key Highlights of the Urban Development Budget:

• Increase in Urban Development Outlay: The total allocation for urban development has been increased to ₹96,777 crore for FY 2024-25, compared to ₹82,576 crore in the previous year. However, after adjusting for inflation, the effective outlay has declined.
• Underutilisation of Funds: The Revised Estimate (RE) suggests only ₹63,669 crore will be spent by March 2025, indicating a shortfall of 22.9%. A significant reduction is seen in the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) (PMAY(U)) allocation, from ₹30,170 crore to ₹13,670 crore.
• Focus on Capital-Intensive Projects: The budget prioritizes large-scale infrastructure projects rather than addressing pressing needs like employment generation, sustainable development, and bridging infrastructure gaps in cities.

Allocation Breakdown:

• Transfers to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs): Direct transfers to ULBs have declined from ₹26,653 crore to ₹26,158 crore. This reduction is a result of the abolition of octroi and a fall in ULB revenues due to the introduction of GST. This puts additional pressure on cities to generate their own revenues.
• Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS): Important urban programs under CSS like PMAY, Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) have seen reduced allocations. PMAY’s CSS component saw a 30% decrease, and SBM’s budget remains static despite a significant underutilisation of funds.
• Capital-Intensive Metro Projects: Metro rail and Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) projects have received increased funding, with the 2024-25 budget allocation for metro projects at ₹21,335 crore, rising to ₹24,691 crore in the Revised Estimate, and ₹31,239 crore for 2025-26. This reflects a 46% increase.

New Developments:

• Urban Challenge Fund: A new fund of ₹10,000 crore has been introduced for urban development projects, with the government aiming to raise ₹1 lakh crore for urban redevelopment. However, half of this funding is expected to come from private investments, which may be unrealistic given the sector’s limited contribution to the Smart Cities Mission.

Concerns and Future Outlook:

• Neglect of Social Equity: While capital-intensive infrastructure projects like metro rails are important, the lack of focus on sustainable, inclusive urban development and employment generation raises concerns about widening social and economic disparities in urban areas.

Conclusion:

The Union Budget reflects a heavy focus on capital-intensive infrastructure development, especially metro projects, while the need for comprehensive urban mobility, social equity, and sustainable urban growth is underrepresented.