18-November-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

NEW INFECTIOUS DISEASES AMONG BEES THREATEN WORLD’S ECONOMIES

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Pollinators, especially insect species, play a critical role in global agricultural productivity, with over 75% of crops relying on them. However, factors such as habitat loss, climate change, and emerging diseases are threatening the survival of both managed and wild pollinators, particularly in regions like India.

Importance of Pollinators

• Dependence on Pollinators: Over 75% of food crops and flowering plants require insect pollinators such as bees, wasps, beetles, flies, moths, and butterflies for successful production.
• Threats to Pollinators:
  • Pesticides and Pollution: Widespread chemical use impacts pollinator health.
  • Climate Change: Alters habitats and affects pollination patterns.
  • Habitat Loss: Reduces spaces for pollinators to thrive.
  • Emerging Diseases: Infectious diseases are causing significant declines in pollinator populations, threatening agricultural economies globally.

Role of Wild Bees and Pathogen Spillover

• Wild Bee Efficiency: Wild bees often serve as more effective pollinators compared to managed western honey bees (Apis mellifera).
• Pathogen Spillover: Diseases like deformed wing virus and black queen virus spread between managed honey bees and wild pollinators.
• Research Insights: Studies in Switzerland show shared habitats increase viral loads in wild pollinators by up to 10 times, highlighting the risks of overlapping ecosystems.

Pollinator Diversity and Habitat Overlap

• India’s Pollinator Diversity: India is home to over 700 bee species, including indigenous honey bees like the Asiatic honey bee, giant rock bee, dwarf honey bee, and stingless bee.
• Habitat Pressure: Habitat loss forces pollinators to coexist in smaller spaces, elevating the risk of disease transmission between managed and wild species.

Case Study: Thai Sacbrood Virus

• Initial Outbreak: The Thai sacbrood virus outbreak during 1991–1992 wiped out 90% of Asiatic honey bee colonies in South India.
• Reemergence: The recent resurgence of this virus demonstrates the ongoing vulnerability of native bee populations to infectious diseases.
• Research Gaps: Lack of understanding about the virus’s transmission pathways presents a significant challenge for disease management.

Migration and Competition for Resources

• Disruption by Managed Bees: Migrations of managed honey bees disturb local ecosystems and compete with native pollinators for resources.
• Impact on Honey Production: In Maharashtra, diseases linked to introduced honey bees have severely impacted forest honey production.

Need for Focused Research

• Emerging Disease Studies: Dedicated research on diseases like the Thai sacbrood virus is essential for early detection and effective prevention.
• Disease Monitoring: Regular monitoring and management of diseases in managed colonies can reduce spillover risks, helping protect wild pollinators, biodiversity, and agricultural productivity.

INDIA AND BANGLADESH HAVE SUSTAINED STRONG BILATERAL RELATIONS DESPITE POLITICAL INSTABILITY

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

India and Bangladesh continue to maintain and strengthen their bilateral relations despite recent political instability in Bangladesh, including the removal of its Prime Minister. Cooperation in trade, energy, and counter-terrorism remains strong, although concerns about minority safety persist.

Overview of India-Bangladesh Bilateral Relations

• India and Bangladesh have upheld strong relations despite political changes and challenges in Bangladesh.
• Political unrest, including the removal of the Prime Minister, has not disrupted ongoing cooperation between the two nations.

Key Bilateral Developments

• Multifaceted Relations: India and Bangladesh collaborate closely in areas like trade, energy, and transport connectivity.
• Power Supply Line: A significant achievement is the recent inauguration of a power supply line connecting Nepal and Bangladesh through India, emphasizing energy and infrastructure cooperation.
• Trade Momentum: Despite political uncertainty in Bangladesh, trade and people-to-people exchanges remain positive, reflecting the resilience of their partnership.

Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

• Both nations have strengthened cooperation against terrorism, particularly since 2009.
• Bangladesh’s “zero-tolerance” policy on terrorism has fostered regional stability and improved ties with India.
• Collaborative efforts contribute to peace and prosperity in South Asia.

Concerns Over Minority Safety

• Safety of Minorities: India has expressed concerns about the safety of minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh.
• Incidents in Chittagong: Reports of attacks on Hindus have led India to urge Bangladesh to take stronger measures to protect vulnerable communities.
• High-Level Discussions: The issue has been raised in virtual summits, though leaders of both countries have not met in person recently.

Ongoing Diplomatic Engagements

• Economic Interdependence: India has reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s economic development, with Bangladesh being India’s largest trading partner in South Asia.
• Steady Progress: Despite minor diplomatic challenges, both nations recognize the importance of their partnership and continue to advance relations.

NEW SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING FACILITY

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

India is accelerating its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities with a new facility in Morigaon, Assam, developed by Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd. This project aligns with the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) to reduce dependency on imports and establish India as a global leader in semiconductor production.

Key Highlights

Morigaon Semiconductor Facility

• Developer: Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT).
• Investment: ₹27,000 crore.
• Production: Up to 48 million semiconductor chips daily using advanced technologies like Flip Chip and Integrated System in Package (ISIP).
• Target Sectors: Automotive, electric vehicles, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.
• Timeline: Facility expected to be operational by mid-2025.

Socio-Economic Benefits

• Job Creation:
  • 15,000 direct jobs.
  • 11,000–13,000 indirect jobs.
• Economic Growth:
  • Boosts regional development in Assam and nearby areas.
  • Contributes to India’s competitiveness in the global semiconductor market.
• Market Impact: Daily production will cater to domestic and global demand.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

Mission Goals

• Build a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in India.
• Reduce dependence on imports.
• Position India as a global leader in electronics manufacturing and semiconductor design.

Government Support

• Launch Year: 2021 under the Semicon India program.
• Budget: ₹76,000 crore.
• Focus Areas: Semiconductor fabrication (fabs), packaging, Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Testing (OSAT), and sensors.
• Collaborations: Partnerships between government, industry, and academia.

Future Developments

New Facilities

• Gujarat: Tata Electronics in Dholera.
• Mohali: Additional semiconductor facility planned.

Impact

• Strengthens India’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain.
• Supports the growth of India’s digital economy.

Conclusion

The Morigaon semiconductor facility is a significant step toward India’s ambition of becoming a global semiconductor hub. Through ISM and government-backed initiatives, the country is building a strong foundation for technological innovation, economic growth, and reduced reliance on imports.

INDIA’S FOSSIL FUEL-BASED CO2 EMISSIONS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

India’s fossil fuel-based CO2 emissions are expected to rise by 4.6% in 2024, the highest among major economies, against the backdrop of record global emissions of 37.4 billion tonnes. This highlights the urgent challenge of reducing CO2 emissions, which are the primary contributors to global warming.

Understanding Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)

• GHGs trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating the greenhouse effect, which helps sustain life on Earth.
• They absorb and re-emit heat (infrared radiation), preventing it from escaping into space.

Key Greenhouse Gases

• Naturally Occurring: Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), water vapour.
• Man-made: Industrial gases like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

• Issue: Rising GHG levels since the Industrial Revolution have intensified the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming.

Why CO2 Drives Global Warming

Dominance of CO2

• Contribution to Warming: CO2 accounts for 70% of global warming due to its abundance and long-lasting presence in the atmosphere.
• Radiative Forcing (RF): CO2 has the highest RF among climate factors, meaning its heating effect is stronger than other GHGs.

Comparison with Other GHGs

• Methane (CH4): 80 times more potent than CO2 but has a shorter lifespan (~10 years).
• HFCs: Extremely powerful but present in very low concentrations.
• Water Vapour: Most abundant GHG, but its short atmospheric cycle (~10 days) limits its direct warming impact.

• Persistence of CO2: CO2 remains in the atmosphere for centuries, with some effects persisting for thousands of years.

India’s Contribution to Emissions

Key Drivers

• Industrialization and increasing energy demands have led to a rise in India’s CO2 emissions.
• India’s emissions growth underscores the need for sustainable strategies.

Global Implications

• Continued CO2 increases could lead to breaching the 1.5°C global warming threshold in six years, triggering severe climate impacts.

Initiatives to Reduce Emissions in India

Bharat Stage-VI (BS-VI) Emission Norms

• Skipping BS-V, India adopted BS-VI in 2020.
• Reduced vehicle emissions by 80% for particulate matter (PM) and 70% for nitrogen oxides (NOx).

UJALA Scheme

• Distributed over 36 crore LED bulbs by 2021.
• Saved 47 billion kWh annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 38 million tonnes.

International Solar Alliance (ISA)

• Co-founded by India in 2015 to mobilize $1 trillion for solar projects by 2030.
• Promotes solar energy to reduce fossil fuel dependency.

National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)

• Launched in 2008 with eight missions, including National Solar and Enhanced Energy Efficiency Missions.
• Aims for sustainable development and GHG reduction.

Ethanol Blending

• Target: Achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025.
• Expected to save 27 lakh tonnes of CO2 annually and reduce reliance on imported oil.

Updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)

• Reduction of emissions intensity by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030.
• Achieve 50% of electric power from non-fossil sources.

Conclusion

India’s rising CO2 emissions highlight the challenge of balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability. Implementing ambitious emission reduction strategies like renewable energy adoption, efficiency improvements, and carbon capture is essential to mitigate climate change and meet global climate goals.

PM MODI WAS HONOURED WITH NIGERIA’S SECOND-HIGHEST NATIONAL AWARD

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria marks a significant moment in strengthening India-Nigeria relations. PM Modi was honoured with Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, during his first visit to the country in 17 years.

Current State of India-Nigeria Relations

• Trade and Investment: India is Nigeria’s second-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at $7.9 billion. Over 150 Indian companies have invested $27 billion in Nigeria.
• The Indian diaspora, about 50,000 strong, contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy.
• Energy Partnership: India is a major buyer of Nigerian crude oil but lacks upstream hydrocarbon assets in the country.
• Development Assistance: India provides support to Nigeria via the African Union, focusing on capacity-building programs.
• Challenges: Decline in bilateral trade, which is now half of its peak value from a decade ago.

Key Highlights of the Visit

• Recognition and Awards: PM Modi received Nigeria’s prestigious national award, highlighting the depth of bilateral relations. The contribution of the Indian expatriate community was also acknowledged.
• Strategic Talks: Discussions focused on defence, energy, trade, technology, and education. Agreements were signed in areas like cultural exchange, customs, and surveys.
• Security Cooperation: Joint efforts to tackle terrorism, piracy, and radicalization were emphasized.The Strategic and Counter-Terrorism Dialogue reinforced mutual security commitments.
• Development Cooperation: India extended concessional loans worth $100 million.Indian companies remain significant contributors to Nigeria’s economy.

Significance of the Visit

• Strategic Partnership: Strengthened cooperation in defence and security aligns with shared goals of combating extremism and piracy. Enhanced economic ties in energy, manufacturing, and trade.
• Global Leadership: India’s advocacy for Africa’s development was emphasized, following the African Union’s inclusion in the G20 during India’s presidency.
• Humanitarian and Cultural Connections: PM Modi announced 20 tonnes of flood relief supplies for Nigeria. Cultural exchanges were highlighted to deepen people-to-people ties.

How India Can Help Nigeria

• Defence Cooperation: India can provide defence supplies, training, and technology to address challenges like terrorism and piracy. Many Nigerian leaders have received defence training in India.
• Economic Stabilization: Collaborations in hydrocarbons and infrastructure development can support Nigeria’s economy. Exploring barter arrangements could address Nigeria’s foreign exchange shortages.
• Boosting Trade: Expanding exports of pharmaceuticals, food products, and textiles can enhance bilateral trade. Promoting rupee-based trade could ease trade imbalances.
• Capacity Building: Sharing expertise in IT, healthcare, and education to support Nigeria’s development needs.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s visit has opened a new chapter in India-Nigeria relations, focusing on strategic, economic, and humanitarian collaboration. Strengthening these ties will not only foster bilateral growth but also contribute to stability and progress in Africa and the global context.

ISRAEL POSES SERIOUS THREATS TO LEBANON’S RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel poses serious threats to Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like Baalbek and Tyre. Cultural experts are urging the United Nations to take immediate action to protect these historic treasures.

Threats to Heritage:

• Recent Israeli strikes near Baalbek and Tyre have endangered ancient Roman ruins.
• Lebanon’s cultural landmarks, including sites of global significance, are at risk due to escalating violence.

Call for Action:

• Over 300 archaeologists and academics have signed a petition urging UNESCO to safeguard Lebanon’s heritage.
• Recommendations include creating “no-target zones,” deploying international observers, and enforcing the 1954 Hague Convention on cultural heritage protection.
• The petition seeks influential states to advocate for military restraint and, if needed, impose sanctions.

Significant UNESCO Sites in Lebanon:

• Baalbek: Famous for grand Roman temples, including the Temple of Jupiter.
• Tyre: A historic Phoenician city with Roman ruins like a hippodrome and necropolis.
• Byblos: Among the oldest continuously inhabited cities, key to Phoenician culture and early alphabet development.
• Anjar: An Umayyad city known for early Islamic architecture, with palaces and mosques.
• Qadisha Valley and Cedars of God: A sacred Christian valley with ancient monasteries and Lebanon’s iconic cedar trees.

• Global Importance:
  • Lebanon’s cultural sites represent diverse civilizations, including Roman, Phoenician, Islamic, and Christian heritage.
  • Their protection is crucial not only for Lebanon but for preserving shared human history.

Conclusion

The destruction of Lebanon’s heritage during conflict highlights the urgent need for global action. UNESCO and international stakeholders must prioritize safeguarding these irreplaceable sites to protect humanity’s collective cultural legacy.

LONG-RANGE HYPERSONIC MISSILE

TOPIC: (GS3) SEQURITY: THE HINDU

India successfully conducted its first test of a long-range hypersonic missile with a range of 1,500 km, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This achievement enhances India’s defence capabilities and places the country among a select group of nations with advanced hypersonic technology.

Details of the Missile Test

• Conducted by DRDO at Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.
• The missile is designed for use by all branches of the Indian armed forces.
• Equipped to carry various types of payloads.
• The test demonstrated the missile’s successful terminal manoeuvres and high-accuracy impact.
• Multiple range systems were used to track its performance.

What is a Hypersonic Missile?

• Definition: A missile that travels at speeds greater than Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound, over 6,174 km/h).
• Features:
  • Highly manoeuvrable.
  • Difficult to detect and intercept.

Advantages of Hypersonic Missiles

• Speed: Extremely fast, allowing strikes on targets within minutes. Reduces reaction time for adversary defence systems.
• Evasion: Can manoeuvre at high speeds, making them harder to track. Bypasses current missile defence systems effectively.
• Precision: Delivers accurate strikes on strategic targets.
• Surprise Element: Rapid deployment leaves opponents with minimal time to respond.
• Global Reach: Capable of covering long distances in a short time.
• Versatility: Can be used for conventional and nuclear missions.

Significance for India

• Enhances India’s strategic defence capabilities.
• Strengthens national security by countering emerging global threats.
• Positions India among a few countries possessing advanced hypersonic technology.

Conclusion

The successful test of a hypersonic missile marks a significant milestone for India’s defence advancements, bolstering the country’s security and global standing in missile technology.