26-September-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

TREATY ON THE PROHIBITION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS (TPNW)

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The International Day for the Total Elimination of nuclear weapons on September 26 highlights the need for disarmament. The TPNW, effective since 2021, aims for the complete elimination of nuclear weapons, standing in contrast to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of nuclear weapons (NPT).

This year, discussions at the UN General Assembly will focus on how countries, including India, that have not joined the TPNW will engage with this important issue.

What is the TPNW?

• Legal Framework: The TPNW prohibits signatories from developing, testing, producing, stockpiling, transferring, using, or threatening to use nuclear weapons.
• Contrast with NPT: Unlike the NPT, which focuses on preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and allows for future disarmament discussions, the TPNW directly bans nuclear arms.

Background of the TPNW

• Humanitarian Initiative: The treaty emerged from efforts by UN agencies and NGOs to address the devastating impact of nuclear weapons.
• Adoption: It was established in 2017 after negotiations in the UN General Assembly, but major nuclear powers and their allies did not participate, viewing it as non-binding.

Current Status

• Support: As of July 2024, 70 countries are parties to the TPNW, with an additional 27 having signed but not yet ratified.
• Global Implications: This represents nearly 50% of countries involved with weapons of mass destruction treaties, signaling a shift in perspectives about nuclear deterrence.

Reactions to Nuclear Threats

• Recent Events: Russia’s actions in Ukraine and China’s increasing military capabilities have reignited concerns about nuclear risks.
• Call for Participation: Former NATO leaders have urged their countries to join the TPNW, advocating for nuclear weapons to be treated like chemical and biological weapons under international law.

India’s Position

• NPT Stance: India has not signed the NPT, viewing it as discriminatory and not conducive to disarmament. However, it has benefited from the NPT’s role in limiting nuclear proliferation.
• Potential for Neutrality: India could maintain its distance from the TPNW without actively opposing it, thus not undermining the treaty.

NUCLEAR TREATIES

Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)

• Definition: The TPNW is the first and only international treaty that comprehensively bans all nuclear-related activities, including threats, development, testing, possession, and use of nuclear weapons.
• Signatories: As of now, none of the recognized nuclear powers, including India, have signed the treaty.
• Current Support: Approximately 120 countries have signed the TPNW.

Partial Test Ban Treaty (PTBT)

• Signed: In 1963 by the USA, USSR, and UK.
• Prohibition Scope: The PTBT prohibits all nuclear weapon tests except those conducted underground.
• Testing Limits: It bans nuclear tests in the atmosphere, underwater, and in outer space.

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

• Purpose: The NPT is an international treaty aimed at nuclear disarmament, preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
• Signatories: Signed by 191 countries.
• Restrictions:
  • Nuclear non-weapon states (countries without nuclear weapons as of 1968) are prohibited from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons.
  • Nuclear weapon states are obligated to pursue disarmament and share benefits of peaceful nuclear technology with NPT signatories.
• Recognized Nuclear Powers: The five recognized nuclear-weapon states are the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and China.

Additional Information

• Export Controls: Countries receiving nuclear technology or fuel for civilian nuclear purposes are subject to controls by the Nuclear Suppliers Group and verification measures under the IAEA Additional Protocol.
• Non-Signatories: Four UN member states have never joined the NPT: India, Israel, Pakistan, and South Sudan.
• Iran’s Status: Although Iran is a signatory to the NPT, it was declared non-compliant by the IAEA in 2002 and again noted for non-compliance in 2020.

Conclusion

Normative Power of TPNW: While the TPNW has limitations, particularly regarding enforcement, its ability to delegitimize nuclear weapons is crucial. The ultimate goal is to achieve a world where nuclear arms are viewed as unacceptable, similar to chemical and biological weapons. This paradigm shift may take time but is essential for global safety.

Multiple choice question:

1. With reference to India’s nuclear disarmament policy, consider the following statements:

1. India is a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).
2. India follows a “No First Use” (NFU) policy concerning nuclear weapons.
3. India supports global, verifiable, and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament.

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: B

Explanation:

• India is not a signatory to the NPT (Statement 1 is incorrect).
• India has adopted a “No First Use” (NFU) policy (Statement 2 is correct).
• India advocates for global, verifiable, and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament (Statement 3 is correct).

IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING ON WEATHER FORECASTING

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Global warming has brought about significant changes in weather patterns and climate, posing challenges to forecasting systems. As the planet heats up, the accuracy of predicting natural phenomena like monsoons, hurricanes, and El Niño/La Niña events becomes more difficult. Recent weather extremes, coupled with rising global temperatures, highlight the need for better forecasting tools.

Key Challenges in Forecasting

• Increased Temperature Anomalies:
  Global temperatures have surpassed the 1.5ºC threshold, causing more frequent and intense extreme weather events like heatwaves, floods, and droughts. This rise complicates forecasts as models struggle to keep up with the unpredictability of these events.
• Unreliable Climate Models:
  Existing models cannot consistently replicate recent monsoon trends or accurately predict future climate conditions. This lack of reliability raises concerns about the effectiveness of current prediction methods, especially in a rapidly warming world.
• Natural Variability Uncertainty:
  Climate change influences natural variability, including phenomena like the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), El Niño, and La Niña. However, the exact impact of warming on these natural modes is unclear, making it difficult to predict their future behavior.
• Shortcomings in Monsoon Predictions:
  Recent monsoon patterns have been irregular, leading to flooding in some regions and droughts in others. Despite technological advances, meteorologists have struggled to accurately forecast monsoon intensity due to the effects of global warming.

The Role of Technology and Science

• Improving Models:
  Advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, offer hope for refining climate models. These tools can help meteorologists make more accurate predictions, especially at local levels.
• Data Collection Innovations:
  New data-gathering methods, like sensor-equipped drones, aim to improve forecasting accuracy. However, much work remains to be done to understand how global warming impacts natural climate modes and overall prediction reliability.

Global Warming and Rising Temperatures

Definition

• Global Warming: Refers to the long-term rise in Earth’s average temperature due to human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) like CO₂ and methane (CH₄).

Greenhouse Gases and Temperature Rise

• GHGs trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, preventing it from escaping into space.
• Increased concentrations of these gases intensify the greenhouse effect, leading to higher global temperatures.

Global Temperature Increase

• Since the late 19th century, the Earth’s surface temperature has risen by about 1°C, primarily due to human activities.
• The period from May 2023 to April 2024 was the warmest 12-month stretch, with global temperatures approximately 1.61°C above pre-industrial levels.
• The past decade has recorded many of the hottest years on record, with 2023-2024 showing significant increases.

India’s Warming Compared to Global Trends

• India’s warming (0.7°C since 1900) is lower than the global average (1.59°C).
• Indian temperatures are rising slower than the global average when oceans are included, with global temperatures now at least 1.1°C higher than pre-industrial levels.

Global Warming and Heatwaves

• Global warming is causing more frequent and intense heatwaves worldwide.
• In India, heatwaves typically occur from March to June, with an average of 5-6 events annually in northern regions.
• Heatwaves are becoming more severe in India, even occurring in winter months like February.
• Future temperatures of 45°C and above may become the norm, with 50°C no longer seen as unusual.

Conclusion
Global warming is reshaping weather forecasting, making it harder to predict natural events with precision. While technological advancements offer hope, the unpredictability of climate change necessitates ongoing research and innovation.

INDIA’S PARTICIPATION IN US-LED MINERALS SECURITY FINANCE NETWORK (MSFN)

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

India joined the Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN), led by the United States, on September 23, 2024. The initiative focuses on enhancing cooperation among nations to secure critical mineral supply chains, particularly for clean energy transition. This move comes amid concerns over the global dependence on China for rare earth elements and other critical minerals.

Importance of Critical Minerals:

• Critical minerals like cobalt, nickel, and lithium are essential for manufacturing renewable energy technologies such as batteries and electric vehicles.
• Global demand for these minerals has significantly increased due to the growing focus on clean energy solutions.
• Ensuring a stable supply of critical minerals is vital for energy security, particularly for countries transitioning to clean energy.

Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN):

• The MSFN is an offshoot of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), which India joined in June 2023.
• The MSP aims to facilitate public and private sector investments in critical mineral supply chains, enhancing collaboration among 14 member countries and the European Union.
• MSFN aims to address financial investments and technical support for expanding the extraction, production, and supply of these minerals.

Addressing China’s Dominance:

• China currently holds a dominant position in the global supply of rare earth minerals, creating vulnerabilities for other nations reliant on these resources.
• The partnership intends to reduce dependence on China by diversifying supply chains and boosting production in other countries.

Collaboration and Investments:

• The MSFN will bring together Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) and Export Credit Agencies (ECAs) to support infrastructure and mining projects.
• Collaboration between the public and private sectors will help develop projects to meet growing demand and secure future supply chains.

Focus on Clean Energy Transition:

• The partnership aligns with India’s ambitious goal to electrify transport and promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs).
• This initiative supports India’s broader efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable growth in its energy sector.

MINERALS SECURITY PARTNERSHIP (MSP)

• Definition: MSP is a US-led alliance of 14 developed countries, launched in June 2022, focused on ensuring secure, sustainable supply chains for critical minerals.
• Objective: To ensure critical minerals are produced, processed, and recycled in a way that secures supply chains and weakens China’s dominance over global critical mineral supplies.
• Members: Includes the US, Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, UK, European Commission, Italy, and India.
• India’s Role: India is the only developing country in the MSP, providing balance to the group.

India’s Status of Critical Minerals

• India is endowed with over 85 minerals.
• Some of India’s critical mineral resources are not yet developed for mining.
• India relies on imports, especially from China, to meet its demand for critical minerals, including Rare Earth Elements (REE).
• Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) leads India’s efforts to secure critical minerals through global collaborations and mine acquisitions.

Importance of MSP for India

• Knowledge Sharing: India gains access to advanced technologies and expertise in mineral exploration and extraction.
• Currently, only 10-20% of India’s critical minerals have been explored.
• Geological Potential: Membership encourages India to utilize its untapped geological resources.
• Self-Reliance: MSP helps strengthen India’s mineral supply chains and reduces vulnerabilities, aiding in energy security and economic development.
• Supports India’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs), which rely heavily on critical minerals like lithium.
• India recently discovered large lithium reserves, crucial for EV batteries.

China’s Dominance

• China controls 60% of global rare earth production and leads in refining critical minerals, even those it doesn’t mine.

·       India’s membership in MSP is key to enhancing supply chain security in light of China’s dominance.

What Should India Do Further?

• Critical Mineral List: India identified a list of 30 critical minerals essential for its economic growth and national security, based on a report by the Ministry of Mines.
• Specialized Agency: India should establish a National Institute or Centre of Excellence focused on critical minerals.
• Partnerships: Beyond MSP, India should strengthen collaborations with countries like Japan, US, and Australia.

• India has already partnered with Australia for joint investments in 5 critical minerals exploration projects.

Conclusion:

India’s participation in the MSFN strengthens its position in the global effort to secure critical minerals, ensuring a smooth transition to clean energy. By joining the initiative, India aims to boost collaboration, reduce dependency on specific nations for essential resources, and create a robust supply chain network for critical minerals necessary for technological and economic progress.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

Consider the following statements regarding Rare Earth Elements (REEs):

1. Rare Earth Elements are essential for the production of electric vehicles and wind turbines.
2. China is the largest producer of Rare Earth Elements in the world.
3. India has abundant reserves of Rare Earth Elements and is self-sufficient in meeting its domestic demand.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: REEs are crucial for the production of high-tech equipment such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, and smartphones.
• Statement 2 is correct: China dominates the global production and supply of REEs, producing more than 60% of the world’s supply.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While India has some reserves of REEs, it is not self-sufficient and relies on imports, especially from China, to meet its demand.

ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: BUSINESS STANDARD

The concept of ‘One Nation, One Election’ refers to conducting simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, State Assemblies, and local bodies. Initially proposed by the Prime Minister, this idea has sparked discussions regarding its potential impact on India’s electoral process, governance, and federal structure.

Key Developments:

• A high-level committee, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, was formed to examine the feasibility of this proposal.
• The committee included prominent figures like Home Minister Amit Shah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and other experts.
• The idea was part of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s manifesto in the 2024 general elections.
• The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for further consideration, and amendments to the Constitution are being planned.

Constitutional Implications:

• Amendments Required: Several articles of the Constitution, including those related to the tenure of State Assemblies, will need amendments. Under Article 172, State Assemblies currently enjoy a fixed tenure of five years.
• Special Majority Requirement: Passing a Constitution amendment Bill requires a special majority in Parliament (two-thirds of members present and voting). The government will need Opposition support, which may be challenging.

Arguments for One Nation, One Election:

1. Cost Reduction: A key argument is the potential savings in election-related expenses, as frequent elections incur significant costs for the government and political parties.
2. Reducing Disruptions: Supporters argue that frequent elections disrupt governance and development projects due to the Model Code of Conduct being in place for extended periods.

Counterarguments:

1. Impact on Federalism: The proposal challenges India’s federal structure, as State Assemblies would lose their independent tenure, which is crucial for the autonomy of states.
2. Questionable Cost Savings: While elections do incur expenses, the overall amount spent by the government is not enormous. Moreover, savings from political party spending may not translate into development benefits.
3. Frequent Accountability: Regular elections enhance the accountability of representatives and keep them connected with the public. Simultaneous elections could result in political disengagement over time.

Federalism and Basic Structure:

• Kesavananda Bharati Case: The Supreme Court ruled that Parliament cannot alter the basic structure of the Constitution, which includes federalism. Curtailing the tenure of State Assemblies would undermine this principle.

Conclusion: While the idea of simultaneous elections may seem efficient, it has significant implications for India’s federal structure, governance, and political accountability. The move requires careful deliberation, as it may not serve the priorities of the general public and could disrupt the federal balance of the Constitution.

“PACT FOR THE FUTURE” BY UNGA

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) recently adopted the “Pact for the Future” to reshape global governance in the 21st century. This landmark agreement emphasizes the importance of sustainable development, peace, science, technology, and the involvement of youth in global decisions. The pact is a renewed commitment by UN member states to address global challenges in a comprehensive manner.

Key Focus Areas of the Pact:

Sustainable Development:

• Commitment to accelerate efforts towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Reaffirms promises to uphold the Paris Agreement’s climate change objectives.

International Peace and Security:

• Prioritizes peaceful and inclusive societies.
• Aims to address conflict root causes and ensure civilian protection during armed conflicts.

Science, Technology, and Digital Revolution:

• Recognizes the potential of science, technology, and innovation in advancing the UN’s goals.

Youth and Future Generations:

• Calls for youth participation in national and global decision-making processes.

Transforming Global Governance:

• Focus on building partnerships with civil society, private sectors, and regional authorities for effective global governance.

The “Pact for the Future” seeks to ensure a sustainable, peaceful, and inclusive world by focusing on these broad areas.

COMMISSION FOR AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT (CAQM)

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: DOWN TO EARTH

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is a statutory body created to address and manage air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby areas. Established under the CAQM Act, 2021, it aims to improve coordination between states and authorities to tackle air pollution, especially in Delhi-NCR.

Mandate:

• The CAQM is responsible for coordinating, researching, identifying, and resolving air quality issues in the NCR and surrounding areas.
• Its goal is to improve the Air Quality Index (AQI) and prevent air pollution that affects Delhi-NCR.

Powers and Functions:

• Restrict activities that negatively influence air quality.
• Investigate and conduct research on environmental pollution.
• Issue binding directions on air pollution control, inspections, and regulations.
• It can take strict actions to prevent incidents like stubble-burning, which significantly impact air quality.

Composition:

• Chaired by a government official of Secretary or Chief Secretary rank.
• Includes five ex-officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
• Three technical members and three representatives from non-governmental organizations.
• Technical support from CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.

Conclusion:

The CAQM is a critical authority in addressing the persistent issue of air pollution in NCR and aims for better coordination and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.

AUSTRALASIAN NARROW-NOSED SPOOKFISH AND GHOST SHARKS

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Researchers have discovered a new species of ghost shark called the Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish in the Chatham Rise region near New Zealand. Ghost sharks, or chimaeras, are fascinating creatures closely related to sharks and rays.

About Ghost Sharks:

Classification:

• Ghost sharks belong to a group of cartilaginous fish.
• They diverged from sharks about 400 million years ago.

Physical Features:

• They have long, slender bodies and large heads.
• Their maximum length can reach up to 49 inches, with some potentially growing over six feet.
• Their skin color varies from black to pale blue to brownish grey, and they have smooth, scale-free skin.
• They are known for their haunting black eyes and a reflective tissue layer behind their eyes, giving them a glowing appearance in the dark.

Habitat and Diet:

• Ghost sharks live at depths of 200 to 2,600 meters, often near the seafloor.
• Their diet mainly consists of shellfish, mollusks, and worms found on or beneath the ocean floor.

Behavior:

• They are generally solitary and glide gracefully through the water using their large pectoral fins, earning them the nickname “ocean’s butterflies.”

MAPCIS CRATER

TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU

Australian researchers have recently discovered a significant impact crater known as the Massive Australian Precambrian-Cambrian Impact Structure (MAPCIS). This discovery could transform our understanding of Earth’s geological history and evolution.

About MAPCIS Crater:

• Classification: MAPCIS is categorized as a nonconcentric complex crater, which can offer essential insights into geological and biological processes on Earth.
• Size: The crater measures an impressive 600 kilometers across, located in central Australia.
• Impact Timing: The impact is estimated to have occurred at the end of the Ediacaran period, a crucial time in Earth’s history.

Geological Features:

• The center of the crater contains significant deposits of pseudotachylite breccia (melt rock), which is formed from intense heat during impacts.
• Researchers have found shocked minerals like lonsdaleite (a type of shocked diamond) and high concentrations of iridium, which are indicative of impact events.

Key Facts about the Ediacaran Period:

• Time Frame: The Ediacaran period lasted from 635 to 541 million years ago, marking the last phase of the Precambrian.
• Biological Evolution: This period witnessed the emergence of some of the earliest multicellular organisms.
• Geological Changes: It was a time of profound geological and biological transitions, leading to the Cambrian explosion where diverse animal life began to flourish.