21-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

BOMBAY HIGH COURT STRIKES DOWN CENTRE’S AMENDED IT RULES

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The Bombay High Court recently invalidated the Centre’s 2023 amendments to the Information Technology (IT) Rules. These amendments sought to establish a Fact Check Unit (FCU) to monitor “fake” or “misleading” news about the government on social media. The Court’s decision was based on concerns about fundamental rights such as equality, free speech, and expression.

Amended IT Rules (2023):

• Empowered the Centre to set up a Fact Check Unit (FCU).
• Purpose of the FCU was to identify and act against “fake, false, and misleading” information about the government on social media.

Petitions and Challenges:

• April 2023: Satirist Kunal Kamra, along with media organizations like the Editors Guild of India and the Internet Freedom Foundation, filed petitions against the amended IT rules.
• Petitions claimed the rules were “vague,” violated fundamental rights (Articles 14, 19(1)(a), and 19(1)(g) of the Constitution), and had a chilling effect on freedom of speech.

Court Proceedings:

• January 2024: A split verdict was delivered by Justices Patel and Gokhale, leading to further review.
• April 2024: Justice Chandurkar delivered the deciding judgment, striking down the amendments on the grounds that they violated the right to equality and free speech.

Fact Check Unit (FCU)

• Established: November 2019, to prevent the spread of fake news and misinformation about the Government of India.
• Purpose: Counter false information on government policies, schemes, and initiatives. It acts either on its own or through public complaints.

Functioning:

• Provides a simple way for the public to report suspicious information via WhatsApp, email, or a web portal.
• Only queries related to the Government of India are processed and addressed.
• Organization: Managed by senior officers from the Indian Information Service (IIS), the Unit reports to the Principal Director General, PIB. Monitors and counters disinformation campaigns to maintain accurate communication regarding government actions.

Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India (COI)

• Freedom of Speech and Expression: Guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution (1950).
• Essence: Enables individuals to think, speak, and access information freely through publications or discourse, without fear of government repression.

Key Aspects of Article 19(1)(a)

• Freedom of the Press
• Freedom of Commercial Speech
• Right to Broadcast
• Right to Information
• Right to Criticize
• Right to Expression Beyond National Boundaries
• Right to Silence or Not to Speak

Essential Elements

• Citizenship: Applicable only to Indian citizens, not foreign nationals.
• Medium of Expression: Includes oral, written, printed, or visual forms of expression (e.g., films, pictures).
• Limitations: The right is not absolute; the Government can impose reasonable restrictions.

Article 19(2): Reasonable Restrictions

• The right to freedom of speech can be restricted under Article 19(2) in the interests of:
  • Sovereignty and Integrity of India
  • State Security
  • Friendly Relations with Foreign States
  • Public Order
  • Decency or Morality
  • Contempt of Court
  • Defamation
  • Incitement to an Offense

Significance of Article 19(1)(a)

• Societal Good: Facilitates the development of society by encouraging free discussion and exchange of ideas.
• Self-Development: Enhances personal growth by allowing free expression and exploration of ideas.
• Democratic Value: Essential for democracy as it enables criticism of the government and free discussion of issues.
• Pluralism: Promotes diversity, validates different lifestyles, and reinforces societal pluralism.

Recent Developments

• S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994): The Court emphasized that the freedom of speech is essential for a democratic society and that restrictions on this right must be narrowly construed.
• Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017): The Court recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right, which has implications for the right to speech, as privacy often involves the protection of personal information and communication.
• Ramji Lal Yadav v. Union of India (2019): The Court emphasized the importance of the right to protest and expression, even in the face of restrictions. However, it also recognized the state’s right to regulate public gatherings in the interest of law and order.

Key Considerations

• Reasonable Restrictions: Article 19(2) allows the state to impose reasonable restrictions on the right to speech in the interest of public order, decency, or morality, among other grounds. The courts have consistently held that these restrictions must be necessary and proportionate to achieve a legitimate state interest.
• Balancing Act: In cases where the right to speech conflicts with other fundamental rights, such as the right to privacy or the right to dignity, the courts must strike a balance between these competing interests.
• Evolving Interpretation: The interpretation of Article 19(1)(a) has evolved over time. As society changes and new challenges arise, the courts may continue to refine their approach to this fundamental right.

Conclusion:

The Bombay High Court’s decision safeguards the right to free speech and expression by preventing arbitrary regulations on social media content. The ruling emphasizes the importance of clear, well-defined laws to protect constitutional freedoms.

Multiple Choice Question

1. Consider the following statements regarding Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution:

1. The right to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a) is available only to Indian citizens and not to foreign nationals.
2. The right to freedom of speech includes the right to remain silent and the right to express opinions beyond the territorial boundaries of India.
3. Reasonable restrictions on freedom of speech can be imposed by the State in the interest of public order, morality, and friendly relations with foreign states, as per Article 19(2).
4. The right to form political parties and associations is protected under Article 19(1)(a).

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Article 19(1)(a) is available only to Indian citizens.
• Statement 2 is correct: The right includes both the right to remain silent and the right to express opinions beyond national borders.
• Statement 3 is correct: Restrictions can be imposed under Article 19(2) for reasons such as public order, morality, and foreign relations.
• Statement 4 is incorrect: Right to form associations is covered under Article 19(1)(c), not 19(1)(a).

STARLINK SATELLITES AND THEIR IMPACT ON ASTRONOMY

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Starlink satellites, launched by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, are creating challenges for astronomers by disrupting their observations. This interference is due to light pollution and unintended electromagnetic noise caused by the satellites.

Overview of Starlink Satellites:

• Number of Satellites: Over 6,300 currently operational, orbiting at 550 km above Earth.
• Purpose: These satellites deliver high-speed internet to remote areas that previously had no access.

Present Usage of Internet from Geo-Stationary Satellites

• Space-Based Internet Usage: Space-based internet systems have been in use for several years, primarily serving a small number of users.
• Geostationary Orbit: Most existing internet systems use satellites placed in geostationary orbit, which is at an altitude of 35,786 km above the Earth’s surface, directly above the Equator.
• Satellite Movement: Satellites in this orbit travel at speeds around 11,000 km per hour, matching the Earth’s rotational speed, making them complete one revolution of the Earth in 24 hours.
• Stationary Appearance: For ground observers, a satellite in geostationary orbit appears stationary because it moves at the same rate as the Earth’s rotation.

Impact on Astronomy:

• Radio astronomers detect radio waves, which have lower frequencies than visible light.
• Starlink satellites create “radio noise,” or unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR), that interferes with these observations.
• This interference makes it difficult for astronomers to detect faint objects in space.

Blinding Effect:

• The satellites’ brightness and emissions overwhelm sensitive telescopes, blocking out signals from celestial objects.
• This “blinding” hampers astronomers’ ability to study distant stars and galaxies.

Future Growth Concerns:

• With plans to launch up to 100,000 more satellites by 2030, the issue is expected to worsen.
• Calls for regulations are growing as the increasing satellite count poses a long-term threat to astronomy.

Starlink Project Overview

• Launched by SpaceX (2019): Aimed at creating a global broadband network using a large constellation of satellites.
• Objective: To provide low-cost, high-speed internet access globally, especially to underserved regions.
• Satellite Constellation: Thousands of satellites placed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at altitudes between 350 km and 1,200 km.

Key Benefit:

Reduced Latency: Shorter distance between satellites and Earth reduces the time taken for data transfer between users and servers, improving speed for internet-based services.

Impact of Solar Storms

Definition: Solar storms occur when the Sun emits bursts of energy, including solar flares and coronal mass ejections, sending high-speed streams of electrical and magnetic charges toward Earth.

Positive Effect:

• Northern Lights (Auroras): Visible in Arctic regions as a result of charged particles from solar storms interacting with Earth’s magnetic field.

Negative Effect:

• Satellite Disruption: Solar storms can interfere with satellite operations and disrupt global communications and electronic systems.

Conclusion:

The rapid expansion of Starlink satellites presents significant challenges to astronomical research, necessitating global regulatory efforts to mitigate their impact on scientific observations.

Multiple Choice Question

1. With reference to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, consider the following statements:

1. Satellites in Low Earth Orbit are typically placed at altitudes between 300 km and 2,000 km above the Earth’s surface.
2. LEO satellites experience reduced latency in communication compared to satellites in higher orbits, making them suitable for internet services.
3. Solar storms have no significant impact on the operation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: LEO satellites are placed at altitudes between 300 km and 2,000 km.
• Statement 2 is correct: LEO satellites have lower latency due to their proximity to Earth, making them ideal for services like broadband internet.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Solar storms can affect the operation of LEO satellites, causing disruptions in communications and electronics.

INDUS WATERS TREATY DISPUTE: INDIA-PAKISTAN TENSIONS

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960, is a water-sharing agreement between India and Pakistan. Recently, tensions have arisen as both countries adopt rigid positions on its terms.

Recent Developments

India’s Call for Renegotiation (2023):

• India has demanded the renegotiation of the treaty and suspended all meetings of the Permanent Indus Commission (PIC).
• The demand stems from unresolved disputes over projects like the Kishenganga and Ratle dams.

Previous Dispute Resolutions

• India and Pakistan resolved earlier issues like the Baglihar Dam (2007) and the Neelum project (2013) within the treaty framework.

Current Stalemate

• Breakdown of Dialogue: Since 2016, the two countries have been at an impasse. India favors neutral expert intervention, while Pakistan insists on the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). Political tensions have worsened after incidents like the 2016 Uri attack.

Possible Resolution

• New Talks Opportunity: Pakistan has invited India to discuss the issue at the SCO Heads of Government Climate change and renewable energy concerns may also require the treaty to be updated.

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is a landmark agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960 to share the waters of the Indus River system. The treaty was mediated by the World Bank and has been instrumental in maintaining peace and cooperation between the two countries.

Here are 5 key points about the Indus Waters Treaty:

1. Water Allocation: The treaty divides the Indus River system into three rivers (Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum) allocated to Pakistan and three rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) allocated to India.
2. Reservoirs: India is allowed to construct reservoirs for irrigation and hydroelectric power on the rivers allocated to it, but these reservoirs must not impede the flow of water to Pakistan.
3. Dispute Resolution: The treaty establishes a mechanism for resolving disputes between India and Pakistan. If a dispute cannot be resolved bilaterally, it can be referred to a neutral expert or a court of arbitration.
4. Monitoring and Measurement: The treaty requires both countries to maintain monitoring stations to measure the flow of water in the rivers. This helps to ensure compliance with the treaty’s provisions.
5. Impact on Agriculture: The Indus Waters Treaty has had a significant impact on agriculture in both India and Pakistan. It has helped to ensure a reliable supply of water for irrigation, which has led to increased agricultural productivity.

Indus River System: Key Facts

• Overview: One of the major river systems of the Himalayan drainage, flowing through the western part of the Indian subcontinent. It sustains various ecosystems and has a total length of over 3,000 km.

Origin and Course

Originates near Bokhar Chu Glacier in Tibet, close to Mansarovar Lake in the Kailash Mountain Range.

• In India: Flows through Ladakh between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges, known as Singi Khamban in Tibet.
• Course: Joined by the Zaskar at Leh and Shyok River, then receives five eastern tributaries (Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Satluj) near Mithankot.
• End: Forms the Indus River Delta in Sindh, Pakistan, before emptying into the Arabian Sea.

Tributaries: Left-bank Tributaries: Zaskar, Suru, Soan, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Satluj, Panjnad.

Wildlife: Unique Species: The Blind Indus River Dolphin, found only in the Indus River.

Significance: Geography: The river flows through Leh in Ladakh (India) and contributes to the agriculture and livelihoods of Pakistan.

Conclusion

The survival of the IWT depends on both countries coming together to resolve current disputes and adapt the treaty to modern challenges. Diplomatic dialogue is essential.

Multiple Choice Question

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Indus River system:

1. The Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Satluj are the main tributaries that join the Indus River from the left bank.
2. The Indus River flows through the Union Territory of Ladakh in India and forms the Indus River Delta in the Sindh Province of Pakistan.
3. The Baglihar Dam and the Kishenganga project are hydropower projects located on the Chenab and Jhelum rivers, respectively.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: D

Explanation:

The Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Satluj are all left-bank tributaries of the Indus River. These rivers join the Indus in the Punjab region of Pakistan, forming the Panchnad before the river continues its course towards the Arabian Sea.

The Indus River flows through the Union Territory of Ladakh in India and later enters Pakistan, where it flows through the Sindh Province, forming the Indus River Delta near Karachi, before draining into the Arabian Sea.

The Baglihar Dam is located on the Chenab River in the Jammu and Kashmir region, while the Kishenganga project is located on the Jhelum River, also in Jammu and Kashmir. These are major hydropower projects under the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan.

DELAYS IN THE APPOINTMENT OF JUDGES

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concerns over delays in the appointment of judges, particularly in cases where names reiterated by the Collegium have not been acted upon.

It highlighted the vacancies in High Courts and their impact on judicial efficiency and independence.

Concerns Raised by the Supreme Court:

• Delay in Appointments: The Supreme Court noted that the government has delayed action on several Collegium-recommended names, with some pending for extended periods.
• Undermining Judicial Independence: Ignoring reiterated names undermines the independence of the judiciary, which was affirmed in the Second Judges case.
• Collegium Status: The Supreme Court clarified that the Collegium cannot be treated as a mere “search committee,” and its recommendations should not be selectively disregarded.
• Pending High Court Vacancies: Many High Courts are operating under Acting Chief Justices, impacting the overall administration of justice.

Potential Harms:

• Judicial Delays: Prolonged vacancies contribute to delays in hearings and increase the burden on the already overworked judiciary.
• Erosion of Trust: Government inaction on appointments may reduce public trust in the judicial appointment process and undermine the independence of the judiciary.
• Administrative Inefficiency: The absence of permanent Chief Justices impairs the effective functioning of the High Courts.
• Impact on Justice Delivery: Vacancies in the judiciary contribute to the backlog of cases, slowing down the delivery of justice.
• Diminished Collegium Authority: Ignoring reiterated recommendations undermines the authority of the Collegium, the constitutionally mandated body responsible for judicial appointments.

Present System of Judicial Appointment in India

Collegium System:

• Judicial appointments and transfers in the Supreme Court and High Courts are conducted through the Collegium system.
• The Collegium consists of the Chief Justice of India and the 4 senior-most judges of the Supreme Court. It recommends candidates for judicial appointments.

Executive’s Role:

• The government performs background checks through agencies like the Intelligence Bureau (IB).
• The government may raise objections and return recommendations for reconsideration, but must accept them if reiterated by the Collegium.

Benefits of the Collegium System

• Ensures Judicial Independence: The Collegium limits executive interference, preserving judicial independence.
• Historical example: Executive interference during the Emergency disrupted established conventions.
• Avoids Bias: Since the government is a major litigant (~50% of cases), limiting its role in appointments ensures impartiality.
• Judiciary Expertise: Judges are better suited to assess the qualities required for judicial positions than the executive.
• Protects Constitutional Principles: Independence is vital for safeguarding constitutional rights such as the right to life and privacy.

Concerns with the Collegium System

• No Constitutional Backing: The Collegium is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution. Article 124 refers to consultation, which was reinterpreted as concurrence in the Second Judges Case (1993).
• Lack of Transparency: The process lacks a formal procedure or written guidelines, and decisions are not publicly disclosed.
• Accountability Issues: The system is considered undemocratic, with judges appointing judges and no external oversight, potentially leading to arbitrary decisions.
• Allegations of Nepotism: Critics argue that the system has fostered nepotism, with relatives of sitting judges being appointed, creating “Uncle Judges.”

Way Forward:

• Time-Bound Process: The government should adhere to a time-bound schedule for clearing or responding to Collegium recommendations to ensure timely appointments.
• Transparent Mechanism: Enhanced transparency and communication between the government and the Apex Court can help resolve the current deadlock.
• Deemed Acceptance: If the government does not act on a recommendation within a specific time frame (e.g., six weeks), the recommendation should be considered accepted.
• Permanent Chief Justices: The government must prioritize filling High Court vacancies, particularly by appointing permanent Chief Justices to ensure efficient judicial administration.

INDIGENOUS HEAVY WATER REACTOR ATTAINS CRITICALITY

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Unit 7 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP), Rawatbhata, Rajasthan, achieved criticality, marking the transition from construction to operation.It is the third indigenous 700 MW pressurised heavy water reactor (PHWR) in India to reach this milestone.

Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)

• Definition: A PHWR uses heavy water (D2O) as both a coolant and a neutron moderator.
• Fuel Type: Utilises natural uranium, allowing more efficient fission reactions without the need for fuel enrichment.
• Sustainability: Capable of using various fuels, including thorium, enhancing long-term fuel sustainability.
• Operation Principle: Maintains high pressure to prevent heavy water from boiling, facilitating efficient heat transfer to steam generators.
• Efficiency: PHWRs have high fuel efficiency and can operate for extended periods between refuelling.
• Design Features: Incorporates a robust safety design with multiple barriers to prevent radioactive material leakage.

Criticality of a Nuclear Reactor

• Definition: Criticality occurs when a controlled fission chain reaction is sustained in a nuclear reactor.
• Process: Achieved when the neutrons produced in fission reactions equal the number lost through absorption or leakage.
• Significance: Criticality allows the reactor to operate at a stable power level, essential for efficient energy generation.
• Milestone: Achieving criticality is a key step in commissioning a nuclear reactor for energy production.

EXPLODING DEVICES IN LEBANON: A NATION ON EDGE

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: ECONOMIC TIMES

Recent pager blasts in Lebanon, linked to rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, have worsened the trauma from the 2020 Beirut port explosion. With significant casualties and growing fear, these incidents underscore Lebanon’s ongoing instability and the mental health strain on its population.

Key Issues in Lebanon Amid Ongoing Crisis

• Economic Collapse: Lebanon is in the midst of a severe economic crisis, worsened by the 2020 Beirut port explosion and ongoing financial instability.
• Political Paralysis: The country has been without a functioning government or president for over two years, leading to governance challenges and stagnation in decision-making.
• Security Threats: Continuous hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, including recent attacks on civilian areas, are intensifying fear and instability.
• Mental Health Crisis: The population is grappling with psychological trauma from past explosions and ongoing violence, resulting in heightened anxiety, stress, and paranoia.
• Public Safety Concerns: Recent explosions have triggered widespread fear, prompting parents to keep their children away from schools and communities to take safety measures.
• Healthcare Strain: Lebanon’s healthcare system is under immense pressure, ill-equipped for a potential large-scale conflict, and facing challenges in responding to emergencies.

INDIA JOINS INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: INDIAN EXPRESS

IBCA was launched by the Indian Prime Minister in Mysuru on April 9, 2023, during an event marking 50 years of Project Tiger in India. The alliance aims to strengthen global cooperation for the conservation of seven big cat species: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma, along with their habitats.

Member Nations: As of now, India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia have joined IBCA, working together to address shared conservation challenges and protect big cats and their habitats.

• India’s Contribution: India is home to five of the seven big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah.
• Global Reach: IBCA plans to engage 97 range countries that cover the natural habitats of these big cat species.
• Structure and Purpose: Conceived as a multi-country, multi-agency coalition, IBCA aims to enhance global cooperation, mobilize financial and technical resources, and support ecosystem conservation related to big cats and their habitats.
• Role: IBCA will act as a platform for knowledge exchange, best practices, and capacity building, while offering direct support to conservation recovery efforts in potential range habitats.
• Approach: It adopts a multi-pronged strategy, fostering collaboration across areas like advocacy, networking, capacity-building, finance, and resource support.
• Governance: IBCA governance includes an assembly of members, a standing committee, and a secretariat, with its headquarters based in India.
• Financial Support: The Indian government has committed an initial support of ₹150 crore over five years (2023-24 to 2027-28).

Importance of India Joining the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

• Leadership in Global Conservation: India’s active involvement in IBCA enhances its role as a global leader in wildlife conservation, especially given its success with Project Tiger and efforts to conserve other big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
• Protecting Key Species: India is home to five of the seven big cats (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, and cheetah). Joining IBCA helps reinforce the country’s efforts to conserve these species and their habitats.
• International Cooperation: Through IBCA, India can strengthen ties with other nations, allowing for shared knowledge, resources, and expertise in conservation. This collaboration enhances efforts to address common challenges, such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
• Financial and Technical Support: The alliance provides a platform to mobilize financial and technical resources globally, which can support India’s conservation initiatives and help in the recovery of big cat populations.

CONCLUSION:

Joining IBCA is a strategic move that allows India to expand its conservation efforts on a global scale while securing international support to safeguard its rich biodiversity.

INDIA ACHIEVES TIER 1 STATUS IN GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY INDEX (GCI) 2024

TOPIC: (GS3) SECURITY: PIB

India’s top-tier achievement in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024 highlights its leadership in cybersecurity. Published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the GCI evaluates global cybersecurity efforts.

Everything You Need to Know About GCI 2024

• Tier 1 Status: India achieved Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024 with a score of 49/100, placing it among ‘role-model’ countries for cybersecurity.
• GCI Publisher: The GCI is published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), assessing the cybersecurity measures and preparedness of countries.

Five Evaluation Pillars:

• Legal: Strength of legal frameworks to combat cybercrime.
• Technical: Deployment of technical measures to address cybersecurity threats.
• Organisational: Policies and strategies to manage cybersecurity across sectors.
• Capacity Development: Efforts to build cybersecurity skills, education, and research.
• Cooperation: National and international collaboration in cybersecurity efforts.

Comprehensive Questionnaire: The evaluation uses an 83-question survey, covering:

• 20 Indicators
• 64 Sub-Indicators
• 28 Micro-Indicators

Country Classification: Countries are classified into tiers based on performance, with Tier 1 representing those setting global standards in cybersecurity.

Key Focus Areas:

• Cybercrime Legal Frameworks: Emphasizes the importance of strong legal measures to prevent and address cybercrime.
• Sectoral CSIRTs: Recognizes countries with established Computer Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) for managing cyber incidents across sectors.
• Capacity Building: Encourages the development of cybersecurity education, skills, and research to foster national resilience.
• Cooperation: Evaluates bilateral and multilateral collaborations and initiatives for information-sharing and cooperation on cybersecurity.

Global Cybersecurity Standards: The GCI promotes the adoption of international benchmarks for cybersecurity preparedness, fostering a globally resilient cyber ecosystem.

By achieving Tier 1 status, India demonstrates its commitment to robust cybersecurity measures, including legal frameworks, capacity development, and international cooperation.