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22-January-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

January 22 @ 7:00 am - 11:30 pm

IMPACT OF DONALD TRUMP’S PARIS AGREEMENT WITHDRAWAL (2025)

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Donald Trump, in his second term as U.S. President, has withdrawn the United States from the Paris Agreement, citing economic priorities. This move is expected to have far-reaching consequences on global climate action and America’s domestic energy policies.

Key Highlights of the Withdrawal

  • Background of the Paris Agreement: A global treaty aimed at limiting global temperature rise to below 2°C compared to pre-industrial levels.
  • The U.S., as the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, plays a critical role in achieving these goals.
  • Trump’s Decision and Justifications: Signed an executive order to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement. Claimed the agreement was unfair to the U.S. as it placed fewer restrictions on developing countries like China.
  • Focused on boosting domestic energy production, including fossil fuels, to achieve energy security and job creation.

Implications of the Withdrawal

  • Impact on Global Climate Action: Without U.S. participation, achieving global climate targets becomes difficult. The U.S. withdrawal could encourage other nations to reconsider their commitments.
  • Increased Fossil Fuel Production: Trump plans to expand drilling for oil and gas, potentially increasing greenhouse gas emissions by 4 billion tonnes over four years. Policies aimed at reducing regulations on coal, oil, and gas industries.
  • Reduction in Climate Finance: Revoked the U.S. International Climate Finance Plan, which pledged $11 billion annually for climate action by 2024. Private and international climate funding, heavily influenced by U.S. policy, is likely to decline.
  • Economic and Strategic Priorities: Tariffs on Chinese renewable energy equipment to encourage domestic production. Boosting fossil fuel production to reduce dependence on imports and create jobs.

Challenges for the U.S. and the World

  • The U.S. is already off-track to achieve its 2030 emission reduction target of 50-52% below 2005 levels. Trump’s policies make achieving these goals nearly impossible.
  • As the largest contributor to historical emissions, the U.S. has a greater responsibility to mitigate climate change.
  • Withdrawal undermines international trust and cooperation on climate efforts.

Conclusion

Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and focus on fossil fuels jeopardize global climate goals and diminish financial support for developing nations. This decision signals a setback for international climate collaboration.

Practice Question:

  1. Consider the following statements regarding the Paris Climate Agreement:
  1. The agreement aims to limit the global temperature increase to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
  2. Developed countries are legally obligated to provide financial support to developing countries for climate action.
  3. The United States has ratified and remained a party to the Paris Agreement since its inception.
  4. It operates under the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC).

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

  • The Paris Agreement aims to limit the global temperature rise to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
  • Financial support from developed countries to developing countries is a commitment but not legally binding under the agreement.
  • The United States withdrew from the agreement in 2017 and rejoined in 2021; it has now withdrawn again in 2025.
  • The agreement is based on the CBDR-RC principle, recognizing the differing responsibilities and capabilities of countries in addressing climate change.

INDUS WATERS TREATY (IWT) DISPUTE: NEUTRAL EXPERT UPHOLDS INDIA’S POSITION

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIOAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) is a key agreement between India and Pakistan on sharing the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries. A recent decision by the World Bank-appointed Neutral Expert has upheld India’s stance on resolving disputes over the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects.

Key Aspects of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)

  • Signed in 1960: The IWT was brokered by the World Bank between India and Pakistan to manage the water distribution of the Indus River and its five tributaries: Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab.
  • Cooperation Mechanism: It establishes procedures for cooperation, information exchange, and dispute resolution between both nations over water usage.
  • Dispute Resolution Mechanism: The treaty includes provisions for resolving disputes through a graded approach, with the Neutral Expert being the first line of resolution.

Neutral Expert’s Decision and India’s Position

  • Jurisdiction of the Neutral Expert: The Neutral Expert upheld that the issues raised in the dispute over the Kishenganga and Ratle projects fall under his jurisdiction, as per Paragraph 7 of Annexure F of the IWT.
  • India’s Consistent Stance: India has always asserted that only the Neutral Expert has the authority to address these issues, rejecting alternative dispute resolution methods outside the treaty framework.
  • Welcoming the Decision: India welcomed the decision, reinforcing its commitment to the sanctity of the IWT. India rejected Pakistan’s move to initiate proceedings through the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), calling it “illegally constituted.”

Pakistan’s Position and Shift in Approach

  • Request for Neutral Expert: Pakistan had initially requested a Neutral Expert in 2015 but later withdrew this request in 2016, opting for arbitration through the PCA. India views this shift as a violation of the treaty’s dispute resolution procedures.
  • Objections Over Hydroelectric Projects: Pakistan has raised technical objections regarding India’s Kishenganga and Ratle projects, alleging that they violate the terms of the IWT.

Implications of the Neutral Expert’s Decision

  • Reinforcement of the IWT Mechanism: The decision underscores the importance of the dispute resolution mechanism laid out in the treaty. It validates India’s adherence to the process.
  • Merits Phase: Moving forward, the merits phase will assess the technical details of the dispute and lead to a final decision on the issues.
  • Broader Implications for Indo-Pak Relations: The decision highlights the ongoing challenges in managing shared water resources and the importance of upholding international agreements for peaceful cooperation.

Conclusion

The decision by the Neutral Expert strengthens the legal framework of the Indus Waters Treaty, ensuring that disputes are resolved through the agreed-upon mechanisms. The outcome will have significant implications for water-sharing relations between India and Pakistan.

Practice Question:

  1. Consider the following statements regarding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) between India and Pakistan:
  1. The Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960 with the assistance of the United Nations.
  2. The treaty allocates the waters of the Indus River and its five tributaries—Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab—between India and Pakistan.
  3. The dispute resolution under the treaty involves arbitration by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in all cases.
  4. The Neutral Expert is a part of the dispute resolution mechanism under the treaty, focusing on specific technical issues related to water-sharing.

Which of the above statements are correct?

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

Answer: C

Explanation:

  • The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was signed in 1960 between India and Pakistan, but it was brokered by the World Bank, not the United Nations.
  • The IWT divides the waters of the six rivers (Indus, Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab) between India and Pakistan. India has control over the waters of the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi, while Pakistan has control over the Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus rivers.
  • The treaty lays out a graded dispute resolution mechanism, and arbitration by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) is an option only after the involvement of a Neutral Expert or the Permanent Indus Commission. The PCA can be approached only after these steps fail. The Neutral Expert is preferred for technical issues, as per the treaty.
  • The Neutral Expert is an important part of the IWT dispute resolution process. The expert’s role is to address technical disputes, such as those related to the design and construction of hydroelectric projects, without involving the broader political aspects of the treaty.

POLICY FOR AFFORDABLE BIOETHANOL IN INDIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

Bioethanol and renewable energy have the potential to help India achieve carbon neutrality. However, the high operational costs of bioethanol pose a major challenge to its widespread adoption.

Challenges and Solutions for Bioethanol Adoption

Need for Affordable Pricing

  • Bioethanol reduces carbon emissions but is costlier to use compared to conventional fuels.
  • Policy interventions are necessary to reduce its price and make it competitive with gasoline.
  • Reducing ethanol (E100) prices from ₹95 to ₹65 per liter could help lower vehicle operating costs.

Improving Fuel Efficiency

  • Automakers should enhance vehicle fuel efficiency to reduce the cost per kilometer for ethanol-powered vehicles.
  • Competitive running costs are essential to encourage bioethanol adoption over gasoline.

Economic and Rural Benefits

Benefits for Farmers

  • Promoting bioethanol production can boost rural incomes and support agricultural development.
  • Ethanol-based fuel policies can enhance socio-economic conditions in rural areas.

Accessibility and Infrastructure

  • Ethanol can be distributed through existing gasoline stations, ensuring easy availability.
  • Unlike CNG, which requires separate infrastructure, ethanol can utilize current fuel networks.

Environmental Impact

  • Bioethanol significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
  • Both ethanol and electric vehicles are necessary for achieving India’s carbon neutrality targets.

BIOETHANOL AND ITS USE AS FUEL

Bioethanol is a type of alcohol made from renewable biomass sources such as sugarcane, corn, and agricultural waste.

    • It is a type of biofuel, primarily used as an alternative to gasoline for vehicles.

Production Process:

  • Bioethanol is produced through the fermentation of sugars found in plants like sugarcane, corn, and wheat.
  • Yeast and enzymes are used to convert starches or sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide.

Environmental Benefits:

  • Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Bioethanol produces fewer greenhouse gases compared to conventional fossil fuels, making it a cleaner alternative.
  • Renewable Resource: As it is made from crops, bioethanol is a renewable source of energy, unlike fossil fuels, which are finite.
  • Biodegradable: In case of spills, bioethanol is biodegradable, which helps reduce environmental pollution.

Conclusion
To make bioethanol a viable fuel option, government support is crucial in pricing reforms and infrastructure development. Collaboration between policymakers, manufacturers, and farmers will ensure the success of bioethanol in India.

Practice Question:

  1. With reference to India’s Bioethanol Programme, consider the following statements:
  1. Bioethanol is produced from renewable biological sources such as sugarcane, corn, and agricultural waste.
  2. The Indian government has set a target of achieving 20% ethanol blending with petrol by the year 2025.
  3. Ethanol blending helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
  4. India imports all its bioethanol from other countries to meet blending targets.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

  • Bioethanol is derived from renewable sources like sugarcane, corn, and agricultural residues.
  • The Indian government aims for 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025.
  • Ethanol blending reduces carbon emissions and lessens reliance on fossil fuels.
  • India produces bioethanol domestically, mainly from sugarcane and agricultural waste, and does not rely entirely on imports.

DRAFT DATA PROTECTION RULES 2025

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

On January 3, 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology released draft rules for the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. These rules aim to enhance data privacy but have raised concerns regarding government overreach and operational challenges.

Key Features of Draft Rules

  • Draft rules introduced 16 months after the DPDP Act was notified in August 2023.The government seeks public feedback to finalize the rules.
  • There is a call for parliamentary scrutiny to ensure robust safeguards.

Data Localisation Provisions

Mandate and Scope

  • The draft proposes stricter data localisation requirements compared to the DPDP Act.
  • Data localisation restricts the transfer of certain types of data outside India.

Implementation

  • A government-appointed committee will decide the types of data that cannot be exported.
  • Significant Data Fiduciaries (SDFs), like large tech firms, will be affected.
  • The industry is given two years to comply with these localisation requirements.

Motivation

  • Data localisation aims to facilitate law enforcement access to cross-border data for investigations.
  • A similar precedent was set by the Reserve Bank of India’s 2018 mandate on payment data localisation.

Challenges

  • Compliance may be operationally and financially challenging, especially for start-ups and international companies.
  • Segregating and managing data for localisation adds complexity and costs.

Concerns Over Government Powers

  • Section 36 grants the government powers to demand data from fiduciaries in the name of national security.
  • Rule 22 prohibits companies from disclosing such government demands, citing security reasons.
  • These provisions raise concerns about potential misuse for surveillance or political control.
  • Critics fear a lack of transparency and proper accountability mechanisms.

Suggestions and Safeguards

  • The government should introduce safeguards similar to those under the IT Act, 2000, to protect citizens’ rights.
  • There is a need for checks and balances to prevent excessive government discretion.
  • The rules should ensure a balance between privacy protection and national security.

Conclusion

The draft rules aim to strengthen data protection but face criticism for operational challenges, potential overreach, and inadequate safeguards. Experts recommend further scrutiny and robust mechanisms to ensure privacy and transparency.

TRUMP’S WITHDRAWAL FROM WHO: FINANCIAL AND GLOBAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The decision of former US President Donald Trump to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted concerns about the global health body’s funding and its ability to address international health challenges. This move has significant implications for global health security and cooperation.

Reasons for Withdrawal

Criticism of WHO’s Pandemic Response:

  • Allegations of mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Perceived lack of independence and susceptibility to political influences.

Halting of US Funding and Support:

  • Cessation of financial contributions.
  • Recall of American personnel from WHO initiatives.
  • Withdrawal from negotiations on a global pandemic treaty.

Financial Implications

  • The US accounted for approximately 20% of WHO’s total funding, particularly in voluntary contributions.
  • This loss impacts programs in developing nations reliant on WHO assistance.
  • Countries like Australia and Indonesia are attempting to address the funding gap.
  • China’s financial contribution remains comparatively lower.

WHO’s Reaction and Challenges

WHO’s Concerns:

  • Regret over the withdrawal and its impact on health security.
  • Highlighting ongoing reforms for transparency and efficiency.
  • Strained collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), crucial for global health surveillance.

Impact on India and Global Health Programs

  • WHO supports India’s immunization initiatives and programs addressing diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria. Reduced funding may limit WHO’s ability to aid these efforts.
  • Potential delays in providing technical guidelines and assistance to developing nations.

Role of Global South and Way Forward

  • Nations like India and South Africa can step in to fill the leadership void.
  • India’s growing role in global health positions it as a key player in guiding health initiatives.
  • Increased contributions from philanthropic organizations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO):

The World Health Organization (WHO), established in 1948, is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It works to promote health, protect global health security, and ensure equitable access to healthcare worldwide.

Key Objectives of WHO

  • Promote Universal Health Coverage:
  • Focus on Disease Control and Prevention:
  • Technical Assistance to Countries:
  • Collaboration with Global Partners:
  • Address Health Emergencies:
  • Promote Health Equity:

The WHO plays a vital role in uniting nations to address global health challenges and achieve sustainable improvements in health outcomes worldwide.

Conclusion

The US withdrawal from WHO creates challenges for global health efforts, particularly in terms of funding and expertise. While nations like India and others in the global south can play a more significant role, the long-term impact on international health cooperation remains a critical concern.

INDIA’S PROGRESS IN SPACE, BIOMANUFACTURING, GOVERNANCE, AND CLIMATE ACTION

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

India is achieving remarkable advancements in space exploration, biomanufacturing, governance, and climate initiatives. These efforts reflect the country’s growing global leadership in innovation and sustainability.

India’s Space Sector Transformation

  • The space economy has grown to $8 billion and is projected to reach $44 billion by 2035.
  • Milestones include:
    • Gaganyaan Mission for human spaceflight.
    • Chandrayaan-4 (2027) and Shukrayaan (2028) for lunar and Venus exploration.
    • Development of an Indian Space Station by 2030.
  • Growth fuelled by increased private sector participation and startups, advancing missions like SPADEX and the Vyom Mitra robo mission for human space exploration.

Biomanufacturing and Bioeconomy Growth

  • India is emerging as a global leader in biomanufacturing, leveraging diverse natural resources.
  • Adopted a dedicated bio-economy policy, promoting innovation in recycling, startups, and manufacturing.
  • The BIO-E3 policy strengthens India’s bio-economy strategy and global standing in this sector.

Citizen-Centric Governance

  • Focus on digital and efficient governance through initiatives like Mission Karmayogi, enhancing bureaucratic efficiency with role-specific training.
  • Innovations include the digital life certificate using face recognition for easier access to services.

India’s Climate Commitment

  • India is leading climate action with Mission LiFE, promoting sustainable living practices.
  • Progress in preventive healthcare and environmental initiatives aligns with global climate goals.

Conclusion

India’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and reform is driving progress in space, bioeconomy, governance, and climate action, positioning the nation as a leader in sustainable and technological advancements.

U.S.-INDIA CIVIL NUCLEAR DEAL: PROGRESS AND CHALLENGES

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Deal, finalized in 2008, aimed to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on nuclear energy cooperation. Despite its strategic significance, there are still hurdles in terms of liability, technology, and costs that need to be addressed.

Key Aspects of the Deal:

  • Background: Signed in 2008, the deal ended India’s nuclear isolation following its 1974 nuclear tests.
  • Objective: To promote civilian nuclear energy cooperation while maintaining non-proliferation commitments.
  • NSG Waiver: India was granted a special waiver by the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) to engage in global nuclear trade, despite not being a member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Provisions of the Agreement:

  • Nuclear Fuel, Technology, and Reactors: The U.S. committed to providing nuclear technology, reactors, and fuel to India.
  • Separation of Civil and Military Facilities: India agreed to separate its civil and military nuclear facilities, with civil facilities placed under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.

Strategic Importance:

  • Enhanced U.S.-India Relations: The deal strengthened strategic ties, boosting defense, technological collaboration, and intelligence sharing.
  • Energy Security: It contributed to India’s growing energy needs and nuclear power capacity, positioning India as a responsible nuclear power.

Unrealized Expectations:

  • Energy and Commercial Sector Benefits: The deal had high expectations for the construction of nuclear plants and generation of clean energy, but these have not been fully realized.
  • Westinghouse’s Nuclear Plant Plans: The promise of building nuclear plants in India by Westinghouse, first announced in 2016, has not materialized yet.

Key Issues Hindering Progress:

  • Liability Concerns: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, places liability on suppliers, which has deterred major U.S. companies like GE and Westinghouse from participating. The insurance scheme created to address this issue has had limited success in attracting U.S. companies.
  • Technology and Cost Barriers: Rapid advancements in nuclear technology have made it challenging for U.S. firms to meet India’s expectations. The cost overruns in U.S. nuclear projects have led to concerns over the affordability of nuclear energy for Indian consumers.

Moving Forward:

  • Collaboration Required: To fully realize the deal’s potential, there is a need for cooperation between U.S. and Indian governments, nuclear companies, and other stakeholders.
  • Potential Benefits: Overcoming these challenges could lead to cleaner energy and further strengthen U.S.-India relations.

Conclusion:

The U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Deal holds immense potential for both countries, but several obstacles need resolution. Addressing liability, technology, and cost issues is crucial for the deal to reach its full potential and deliver lasting benefits.

IITM PUNE DEVELOPS DENGUE EARLY WARNING SYSTEM

TOPIC: (GS3) HEALTH: PIB

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, have developed a Dengue Early Warning System, capable of forecasting potential dengue outbreaks up to two months in advance. This breakthrough offers valuable insights for proactive health management and disease control.

Key Features of the System:

  • Climate-Based Predictors: The system uses climatic factors like temperature, rainfall, and humidity to predict dengue outbreaks. These variables interact with dengue transmission patterns, helping identify at-risk regions.
  • Advance Warning: The model provides early warnings, giving health authorities a crucial two-month window to prepare and implement preventive measures against outbreaks.

Research Highlights:

  • Study Publication: The study, published in Scientific Reports, highlights the relationship between climate factors and dengue transmission. Pune, a hotspot for dengue, was used as the primary research area.
  • Collaborative Research: The project involved collaborations between IITM, the University of Maryland, University of Pune, University of Nottingham, and health departments of Maharashtra and Pune.

Significance of the Study:

  • Proactive Outbreak Management: The system equips health authorities with timely information, allowing them to take targeted actions such as vector control programs and public awareness campaigns.
  • Climate-Dengue Link: The study explores how monsoon patterns and other climatic changes influence the spread of dengue, emphasizing the role of climate in disease prevalence.

Conclusion:

The Dengue Early Warning System developed by IITM has the potential to significantly improve disease management by providing early predictions of outbreaks. With its predictive capabilities, the system can assist in preventing the spread of dengue, especially in regions vulnerable to climate-related changes.

Details

Date:
January 22
Time:
7:00 am - 11:30 pm
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