19-November-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

INDIA’S PATH TO NET-ZERO: CHALLENGES AND SUSTAINABILITY

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

India aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, a commitment made at previous COP conferences. Achieving this goal is crucial to mitigating climate change impacts but is fraught with challenges like increasing energy demand, resource constraints, and the need for sustainable development.

Why Net-Zero Matters

• Climate Change Impacts: Rising global temperatures pose severe risks to ecosystems, food security, and livelihoods. The current global temperature increases stand at 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels, nearing the critical 1.5°C threshold.
• Carbon Budget: The UN IPCC estimates a remaining carbon budget of 400-500 billion tonnes to have a 50-67% chance of limiting warming to 1.5°C. With global annual emissions at 40 billion tonnes, urgent action is needed.

India’s Unique Challenges

Energy Demand

• By 2070, India’s energy demand is projected to increase by 9-10 times.
• Achieving this entirely through renewable energy would require over 5,500 GW of solar and 1,500 GW of wind energy. Current capacities stand at 70 GW (solar) and 47 GW (wind).
• Expanding renewable energy must also align with food security, biodiversity preservation, and increasing forest cover, creating significant trade-offs.

Resource Constraints

• Land: Renewable energy projects, particularly solar and wind, require vast tracts of land. Meeting energy targets without disrupting ecosystems will be a major hurdle.
• Water: India faces water scarcity, which may worsen with expanding energy and industrial needs.

Is Net-Zero Equitable?

• Global Responsibility: Developed nations, having historically contributed more to emissions, are expected to reach net-zero before 2050. However, their pace of action and financial support to developing countries remain inadequate.
• India’s Low Per-Capita Emissions: Despite being the world’s third-largest emitter, India’s per-capita emissions are among the lowest. However, the richest 10% of Indians emit 20 times more than the poorest 10%.
• Inequalities: Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, making equitable action essential.

Demand-Side Measures

• Energy Efficiency: Use of energy-efficient appliances.

• Building designs incorporating passive cooling to reduce air-conditioning reliance.

• Sustainable Transport: Promoting public transport and non-motorised transport in cities. Shifting intercity travel to railways.
• Sustainable Consumption: Encouraging local production to reduce long-haul freight needs. Promoting mindful dietary choices with lower environmental footprints.

Supply-Side Measures

• Decentralised Energy: Expanding rooftop solar installations. Using solar pumps in agriculture.
• Nuclear Energy: Increasing nuclear energy capacity to provide a stable, low-carbon energy source. Reducing dependence on intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar.
• Energy Mix Diversification: Complementing renewables with nuclear power for a balanced and reliable energy grid.

Challenges in Economic Models

• Kuznets Curve Limitations: The idea that economic growth eventually decouples from emissions is largely unproven, as most wealthy nations shift emissions to developing countries.
• Unsustainable Aspirations: Adopting western lifestyle standards is not feasible for India’s large population and limited resources.

Way Forward

• Sustainable Planning: Integrate land, water, and biodiversity conservation with energy planning.
• Demand Management: Encourage energy efficiency, sustainable consumption, and lifestyle changes.
• Global Cooperation: Push developed nations to meet financing commitments. Advocate for equitable global climate action.
• Focus on Innovation: Invest in advanced renewable technologies. Expand nuclear and decentralised energy solutions.

Conclusion

India’s journey to net-zero by 2070 is both challenging and essential. Balancing developmental needs with climate goals requires innovative strategies, global cooperation, and domestic reforms. Achieving a sustainable consumption model and adopting equitable practices will be pivotal in ensuring that India contributes meaningfully to the global fight against climate change.

FAILURE OF CONSTITUTIONAL MACHINERY IN MANIPUR: A CASE FOR ARTICLE 356

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

The ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur since May 2023 has highlighted a failure of constitutional governance in the state. Article 356 of the Indian Constitution, which allows the President to impose President’s Rule when a state government cannot function according to constitutional provisions, is being debated as a necessary step.

Background on Article 356

• Provision: Empowers the President to take over state administration if the government cannot function per constitutional norms.
• Historical Context: B.R. Ambedkar introduced this clause, citing it as essential for maintaining constitutional order during a breakdown of governance.
• Constituent Assembly Debate:
  • Opposed by H.V. Kamath as a potential “constitutional crime.”
  • Ambedkar clarified it would be used cautiously and only when necessary.

Why Manipur is Different

• Unprecedented Violence: Ethnic clashes in Manipur have led to the death of over 250 people and displaced more than 1 lakh individuals.
• Nature of Conflict: Unlike past insurgencies in Nagaland and Mizoram or terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, this conflict involves ordinary citizens turning to violence for self-defense.
• Impact on Civilians: Fundamental rights, including life, liberty, and dignity, are severely compromised.

Supreme Court’s Role and Observations

• Initial Response: In May 2023, the Supreme Court emphasized maintaining law and order and providing relief but noted that violence was gradually decreasing.
• Incident of May 4, 2023: The Court took suo motu notice of a horrific incident where women were paraded naked and emphasized the need for accountability and prevention of such atrocities.
• Slow and Ineffective Intervention: Despite 27 hearings, the violence continued unabated. Recent incidents, such as the rape and murder of a woman on November 9, highlight the inadequacy of judicial intervention.

Role of the Union Government

• Inaction and Criticism: The Prime Minister has been criticized for failing to act decisively to stop the carnage.

• Calls for immediate intervention to ensure justice, peace, and rehabilitation remain unaddressed.

Need for President’s Intervention

• Constitutional Duty: Article 355 mandates the Union to protect states from internal disturbances.

• The President can act even without a Governor’s report if satisfied about the situation.

• Justification for Article 356: While its misuse in the past has raised concerns, its invocation in Manipur is justified due to the scale of violence and breakdown of governance.

• Immediate intervention is critical to restoring constitutional order and protecting citizens’ rights.

CONSEQUENCES OF APPLYING ARTICLE 356 IN A STATE

• President’s Rule Imposed: The state government is dissolved or suspended, and the President assumes control of the state through the Governor. The state’s legislative powers are exercised by the Parliament during this period.
• Loss of State Autonomy: The state loses its authority to function independently as governance shifts to the central government.
• Impact on Governance: Administration is directly managed by the Governor, which may lead to centralized decision-making. In some cases, this could delay local decision-making due to the absence of an elected government.
• Potential for Abuse: Article 356 has historically been criticized for being misused by the central government for political gains.
• Judicial Oversight: The Supreme Court and High Courts can review the imposition of Article 356 to check misuse. If found unconstitutional, the courts can strike down the proclamation.

Conclusion

The persistent violence in Manipur reflects a complete collapse of governance, necessitating the invocation of Article 356. Both the Union and judiciary have failed to address the crisis effectively, leaving the President’s intervention as the last resort. Implementing President’s Rule would ensure restoration of peace and justice, reaffirming constitutional values.

DECLINING GREEN COVER: GLOBAL FOREST WATCH REPORT AND INDIA’S RESPONSE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

The Global Forest Watch (GFW) reported a significant decline in India’s green cover, stating a loss of 2.33 million hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2023 However, the Union Environment Ministry and Forest Survey of India (FSI) have contested these findings, asserting that GFW’s methodology is not aligned with internationally accepted criteria.

Global Forest Watch (GFW) Report

• GFW data, derived from satellite imagery, claims India lost 2.33 million hectares of tree cover, primarily in five Northeastern states.
• It attributes 18% of the loss to a decline in humid primary forests, which shrank by 4.14 lakh hectares.
• GFW also estimates 51 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year are released due to this loss.

India’s Response

• The Union Environment Ministry and FSI filed a joint affidavit before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) refuting GFW’s findings.
• They argued that the report is “devoid of facts, ground reality, and internationally accepted norms.”
• ISFR 2021, India’s official forest report, records a net gain in forest and tree cover over the last two decades.

ISFR Methodology

• The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) uses standardized criteria to assess forest cover, considering:
• Lands larger than one hectare with more than 10% tree canopy.
• Tree patches smaller than one hectare outside forest areas.
• Orchards, bamboo, and palm plantations.
• ISFR data from 2001 to 2021 indicates an increase of 74,168 sq km in combined forest and tree cover.

Differences in Methodologies

• GFW adopts the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s biophysical criteria, focusing on tree height, canopy cover, and land use.
• ISFR includes plantations and tree-lined avenues in its definition of forest cover, which some experts criticize as inflating figures.
• GFW does not distinguish between natural forests and areas under different land uses, which may lead to discrepancies.

National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) Role

• The NGT took suo motu cognizance of the GFW report following its publication in The Indian Express.
• Notices were issued to the Environment Ministry, FSI, and CPCB to address the report’s concerns.
• The affidavit filed by the Ministry and FSI emphasized the reliability of ISFR data and disputed GFW’s emission estimates.

Concerns and Way Forward

• Accuracy in Reporting: GFW’s reliance on uniform definitions may not account for India’s unique conditions. Standardizing methodologies globally could help reconcile differences in forest cover assessments.
• Protecting Northeastern Forests: The majority of the reported tree cover loss is in ecologically sensitive Northeastern states. Focused conservation efforts and monitoring systems are necessary to protect these regions.
• Enhancing Data Transparency: Collaboration between international agencies and Indian authorities can ensure transparency and reliability in forest assessments.

• Satellite imagery and ground-based surveys should complement each other for better accuracy.

Conclusion

The Global Forest Watch report has highlighted critical issues regarding forest and tree cover loss in India. However, the Union government contests its findings, asserting that ISFR data reflects a net gain in green cover. Addressing methodological differences and implementing robust conservation strategies are essential to balance ecological sustainability with developmental goals.

FOSSIL FUEL NON-PROLIFERATION TREATY (FF-NPT)

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FF-NPT) is an initiative proposed by governments and civil society to regulate fossil fuels similarly to nuclear weapons. It aims to phase out fossil fuel production, ensure a just transition to renewable energy, and address the climate crisis.

What is the FF-NPT?

• Purpose: Legally binds nations to end fossil fuel extraction, reduce current production, and manage a shift to renewable energy.

• Non-Proliferation: Stop the expansion of coal, oil, and gas production through global cooperation.
• Fair Phase-Out: Equitably reduce fossil fuel production, prioritizing nations with higher historical emissions.
• Just Transition: Accelerate renewable energy adoption and economic diversification to ensure no community or worker is left behind.

Background and Rationale

• Fossil fuel emissions in 2024 are projected to be 8% higher than in 2015, despite the Paris Agreement.
• Current policies are predicted to lead to a 3°C temperature rise, far exceeding the 1.5°C limit needed to avoid catastrophic climate change.
• The Paris Agreement does not specifically mention fossil fuels, leaving a critical gap in addressing their role in global warming.

Support for FF-NPT

• Endorsements:
  • Supported by civil society groups, academics, indigenous communities, and former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon.
  • Backed by 13 Pacific Small Island Developing States (e.g., Vanuatu, Fiji) and Colombia, a major coal producer.
  • Recently endorsed by 25 sustainable banks under the Global Alliance for Banking on Values.
• Global Recognition:
  • Discussions at COP29 included participation from 10 additional countries.
  • Emphasized as a complementary framework to the Paris Agreement to promote climate action.

Challenges

• Financial Constraints: Poorer nations require climate finance to transition from fossil fuels and adapt to climate impacts.

• The initiative calls for financial support through mechanisms like the New Collective Quantified Goal and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

• Engagement with Major Economies: While smaller nations are the focus, large fossil fuel-dependent countries like India and Indonesia are critical for broader adoption.

Conclusion

The FF-NPT proposes a comprehensive framework to address the climate crisis by regulating fossil fuels. While it has gained notable support, challenges in financing and engaging major economies must be overcome to ensure its success. This treaty has the potential to complement existing climate agreements and advance global efforts toward sustainability.

PM INTERNSHIP SCHEME PILOT PROJECT

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: PIB

The PM Internship Scheme aims to provide on-the-job training to one crore unemployed youth over five years. Its pilot phase has attracted significant participation from companies and applicants, offering a platform to enhance employability and gain practical experience in diverse sectors.

Key Highlights

• Objective: To provide internships to unemployed youth aged 21-24 years for skill development and job readiness.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must not have a family member earning over ₹8 lakh per annum. Full-time students are not eligible.
• Application Overview: A total of 6.5 lakh applications were received for 1.27 lakh internships offered. Each applicant could apply for up to five internships.
• Timeline: Companies began registering on October 3, and applicants could create profiles starting October 12.

• The application period extended from November 10 to November 15 to accommodate more applicants.

Internship Details

• Companies Participating: 280 major firms, including Tata Steel, ITC, ICICI Bank, and Mahindra Group, have offered internships.
• Geographical Distribution: Highest offers in Maharashtra (14,694) and Tamil Nadu (13,263); lowest in Lakshadweep (2). Delhi provided 3,543 internship opportunities.
• Selection and Joining: Selected interns are expected to begin their one-year internships on December 2.

Benefits and Challenges

• Stipend and Support: Companies contribute ₹500 per month from CSR funds, and the government provides ₹4,500 via direct benefit transfer.

• A one-time grant of ₹6,000 is provided for joining expenses.

Concerns:

• While the ₹5,000 monthly stipend is appreciated by many, others worry it may not cover living costs.

Conclusion

The PM Internship Scheme has garnered a strong response, indicating high interest among youth and companies. While its financial sustainability for interns is debated, the program is a significant step toward addressing unemployment through skill development.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDINGS (HPBS) AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

High-performance buildings (HPBs) represent the future of sustainable construction, addressing challenges like energy efficiency, resource conservation, and climate resilience. These buildings are designed to consume less energy, conserve resources, and endure unpredictable weather conditions.

Key Features of High-Performance Buildings

Integrative Design Approach

• Integrative design involves collaboration among architects, engineers, sustainability experts, and building owners.
• It sets measurable goals, such as maximizing natural light or optimizing cooling systems for energy efficiency.
• Digital modeling and simulations are used to predict outcomes, refine strategies, and ensure efficient system integration.
• Example: Passive design strategies like maximizing daylight and using heat-retaining materials reduce energy demands and allow for optimized equipment sizing.

Sustainable Materials

• Durable, energy-efficient materials with low embodied carbon and high recycled content are prioritized.
• Life-cycle assessments help evaluate materials for minimal environmental impact.
• Low-emission materials enhance indoor air quality by reducing harmful volatile organic compounds.
• Example: The IIHS Bengaluru campus uses life-cycle cost analysis to choose materials that balance cost, durability, and energy efficiency over 50 years.

Energy Efficiency

• Buildings consume 40% of total energy, mostly for operational needs. HPBs reduce this through:
  • Passive Strategies: Using natural light, proper orientation, and thermal mass to minimize reliance on mechanical systems.
  • Active Strategies: Installing energy-efficient HVAC systems, lighting, and appliances integrated with smart technologies like sensors for energy optimization.
• Net-zero energy goals are achieved through renewable sources like solar and wind energy.
• Example: Infosys Hyderabad campus features radiant cooling systems and advanced lighting controls.

Water Conservation

• Water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater recycling are key.
• Systems like aerobic bioreactors treat wastewater for reuse, achieving zero-discharge status.
• Example: Infosys campuses recycle 100% of their wastewater, contributing to sustainable water management.

Performance Monitoring

• Real-time tracking of energy, water, and air quality helps ensure efficiency and informs corrective actions.
• Example: IIHS Bengaluru uses AI-based monitoring for thermal regulation.

Climate Resilience

• HPBs incorporate site-specific features, durable materials, and renewable energy for structural and operational resilience.
• They ensure passive survivability during power outages through features like backup systems and rainwater harvesting.
• Example: The Infosys Crescent building uses advanced cooling and energy systems, significantly reducing energy consumption.

Conclusion

High-performance buildings set benchmarks for sustainable and climate-resilient construction. Their adoption can significantly reduce environmental impacts while enhancing long-term efficiency and real estate value.

ONE DAY ONE GENOME’ INITIATIVE

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE SAND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative focuses on highlighting India’s rich microbial diversity and its significance in areas like the environment, agriculture, and human health. It aims to sequence bacterial genomes to advance research, innovation, and public access.

What is the Initiative?

• Launched By: Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) on its foundation day.
• Purpose: To explore and document unique bacterial species across India.
• Focus Areas:
  • Environmental conservation
  • Agricultural sustainability
  • Human health advancements

Importance of Microorganisms

• Environmental Benefits: Microbes contribute to biogeochemical cycles and soil formation. Help in breaking down organic waste and reducing pollution.
• Agricultural Contributions: Aid in nitrogen fixation, maintaining soil fertility. Support pest control and help plants respond to environmental stress.
• Health Benefits: Vital for digestion, immunity, and mental health. Non-pathogenic microbes help prevent infectious diseases.

How the Initiative Works

• Genome Sequencing: Sequencing bacterial genomes to identify their potential, including enzymes, antimicrobial resistance, and bioactive compounds. Provides insights into microbial roles in various fields.

• Public Access: Fully annotated genomes will be shared openly. Includes visual summaries and genome assembly details for public and research use.

Expected Impact

• Scientific Advancements: Encourages research and innovation.
• Environmental Gains: Supports sustainable practices for environmental conservation.
• Agricultural Growth: Enhances farming techniques and soil health.
• Health Improvements: Helps develop new treatments and improves overall health.
• Public Awareness: Increases understanding of microbial importance.

Conclusion

The ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative highlights India’s microbial wealth, providing significant benefits for research, innovation, and public health while promoting sustainability in agriculture and environmental conservation.

DEAD SEA

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPY: THE HINDU

Researchers have recently found tall chimneys on the floor of the Dead Sea, formed by the spontaneous crystallization of minerals from highly saline groundwater rising from beneath the lakebed.

About the Dead Sea:

Location:

• The Dead Sea, also called the Salt Sea, is a hypersaline lake in southwestern Asia, bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel to the west.
• The southern part of the western shore is in Israel, while the northern section is located in the West Bank, a disputed area between Israel and Palestine.
• Positioned to the east of the Mediterranean Sea and south of the Sea of Galilee.

Geography:

• It sits at 430.5 meters below sea level, making it the lowest point on Earth’s land surface.
• The Dead Sea spans about 605 square kilometers, stretching 50 kilometers in length and 15 kilometers in width at its widest point.

Salinity:

• Known for its extremely high salinity, the Dead Sea’s salt content is approximately 34.2%, nearly ten times saltier than most ocean waters.
• It is the fourth saltiest water body globally, following Antarctica’s Don Juan Pond and Lake Vanda, and Djibouti’s Lake Assal.

Water Source and Evaporation:

• The Dead Sea has only one primary water source, the Jordan River, and no outlet. Consequently, it loses water mainly through evaporation.
• The intense salinity and dry climate make it an inhospitable environment for most forms of life, though some algae and microorganisms manage to survive.

Density and Floating:

• The lake has a density of 1.240 kg/L, which allows people to float effortlessly in its waters, making swimming here a unique experience.